On May 12, 2025, a high-level Ethiopian delegation, including Governors, Vice-Governors, and Ministers, met with Dr. Jitendra Singh, Union Minister of State for Science and Technology, in India. This visit marks a significant milestone in strengthening the bilateral relationship between India and Ethiopia, focusing on governance, technology, and capacity building.
Capacity Building for Effective Governance
Training at NCGG
The Ethiopian delegation is participating in a week-long training program at the National Centre for Good Governance (NCGG), organized under the Indian Technical and Economic Cooperation (ITEC) Division of the Ministry of External Affairs. This initiative aims to equip senior Ethiopian policymakers with strategic insights and best practices for effective policy formulation. The program fosters knowledge exchange, enabling leaders to address global challenges through innovative governance models.
Deepening India-Ethiopia Ties
Historical and Economic Bonds
India and Ethiopia share a rich history, with India being among the first nations to establish a diplomatic mission in Ethiopia post-independence. Dr. Jitendra Singh highlighted Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s vision of “Vishwa Bandhu” (Friend of the World), emphasizing inclusivity and mutual development. The liberalization of Ethiopia’s economy has boosted trade and investment, particularly in manufacturing, agriculture, and ICT. Over 650 Indian companies have invested more than USD 5 billion in Ethiopia, creating significant employment opportunities.
Recent Engagements
The recent meeting between Prime Minister Modi and Ethiopian Prime Minister Dr. Abiy Ahmed at the BRICS Summit in Johannesburg in August 2023 underscored growing cooperation in areas like youth skilling and people-to-people exchanges. Additionally, a 50-member Ethiopian parliamentary delegation attended a capacity-building program at PRIDE in February 2024, further strengthening institutional linkages.
India’s Governance Innovations
Technology-Driven Reforms
Dr. Jitendra Singh showcased India’s transformative governance initiatives, such as the CPGRAMS AI-enabled grievance redressal system, which resolves 95% of complaints within a week. The SWAMITVA scheme uses drone technology to create digital land records, enhancing transparency in rural areas. The Direct Benefit Transfer (DBT) system ensures public funds reach beneficiaries directly, while the Digital Life Certificate (DLC) initiative simplifies processes for senior citizens using facial recognition technology. The iGOTKarmayogi platform supports continuous learning for civil servants, fostering a skilled workforce.
Global Knowledge Sharing
The NCGG has trained over 5,000 civil servants from 47 countries, including Ethiopia, sharing India’s expertise in grassroots governance and inclusive development. The Ethiopian delegation, led by Ambassador Molalign Asfaw and Mrs. Zahra Humed Ali, expressed gratitude for India’s hospitality and institutional knowledge, praising its inclusive approach.
A Vision for the Future
The Ethiopia-India partnership exemplifies the power of collaboration in addressing global challenges, from environmental concerns to geopolitical shifts. By fostering shared innovation and cultural exchange, both nations are paving the way for a more inclusive and sustainable future. This visit reinforces the commitment to deepen ties and promote good governance worldwide.