The conference was organized under the theme: “Hydropower, Nuclear Energy, and Sea Access for the Development of the Horn of Africa: Experiences, Challenges, and Opportunities.” The conference lasted from 7-8 May 2026.
This International Research Conference was opened with the blessing of the Abbaa Gadaas. Participants included distinguished professors, teachers, researchers, leaders from various universities, representatives of different institutions, the university management, as well as invited leaders and representatives from the administrations of East Wollega, West Wollega, and Horro Guduru zones.
Honorable Dr. Dima Nogo, Member of the Ethiopian Parliament and Chairperson of the Standing Committee on International Relations and Peace Affairs, was also present.
Vice President for Research and Technology Transfer, Dr. Diriba Diba, stated in his speech that the gathering of participants around this research concept and the invitation of stakeholders had great significance. He further said that scholars and the wider community should contribute their expected roles in Ethiopia’s efforts to gain sea access.
At the conference, Dr. Michael Mehari, Senior Advisor and Representative of the Ministry of Water and Energy, Honorable Dr. Engineer Habtamu Itefa, in his opening remarks and messages, stated that Ethiopia is working intensively to secure sea access through peaceful means and dialogue.
He also mentioned that many countries around the world have begun showing understanding and support for Ethiopia’s legitimate request.
Additionally, he stated that Ethiopia has begun preparations and initiatives to utilize nuclear energy for development purposes while respecting international law.
He further called upon the government, institutions, and the public to provide the necessary cooperation for the initiatives Ethiopia has started.
President of Wollega University, Dr. Tesfaye Lemma, welcomed all participants including the Abbaa Gadaa, religious leaders, guests from various universities, governmental and non-governmental institutions, and other organizations. In his welcoming speech, he stated that although Ethiopia is one of the African countries with abundant water resources, it had been unable for many centuries to properly utilize these resources for its economy.
However, he explained that in recent years Ethiopia has begun properly utilizing its water resources, resulting in visible governmental transformation and awakening within the Horn of African countries.
One of the keynote speeches at the conference was delivered by Honorable Dr. Dima Negewo, Member of the Ethiopian House of Peoples’ Representatives and Chairperson of the Standing Committee on International Relations and Security Affairs, on the topic: “The Dynamics of Regional Security and Ethiopia’s Quest for Sea Access.” In his presentation, he discussed the historical formation and border demarcation of Horn of African countries, reminding participants that relations among countries in the Horn of Africa had long been affected by the colonial system and migration-related issues.
Another keynote speech was presented by Dr. Federico Donelli from University of Trieste on the topic “The Geopolitical Dynamics of Sea Access in the Horn of Africa.” He explained that Ethiopia’s quest for sea access is supported by natural rights and international maritime laws. He also noted that through agreements and integrated development strategies among Horn of Africa countries, mutual benefits could be ensured.
The third keynote address was presented by Professor Yacob Arsano on the topic: “Prospects and Challenges of Hydro-diplomacy in Northeastern Africa.”
[09/05/2026 09:10] Dr.Geleta: The purpose of the conference was to bring together scholars, researchers, and political leaders to conduct broad discussions on development and cooperation issues in the Horn of Africa. It was also stated that the research findings and generated policy ideas would provide possible solutions.
This International Research Conference was concluded successfully and enthusiastically on May 8, 2026.