Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed of Ethiopia has arranged for his cabinet ministers and other high-ranking government officials to undergo military training at the Hurso military training centre. Photographs distributed on social media depict the prime minister participating in military exercises alongside various ministers, deputy ministers, and heads of government institutions.
Participants in the training include Speaker of the House of Federation Muferiat Kamil, Finance Minister Fitsum Assefa, and Health Minister Mekdes Daba. The exact timing of when the training commenced and its expected duration have not been disclosed.
In communications about the initiative, Abiy stated that achieving Ethiopia’s goal of universal prosperity requires leadership that is physically fit, morally strong, and intellectually capable. He characterized military institutions as sources of instruction in discipline, patriotism, teamwork, accountability, and leadership practices. He differentiated between military targets and civilian goals, suggesting that integrating military and civilian discipline could develop leaders equipped to achieve both objectives.
The training initiative is uncommon in Ethiopia’s political context, as senior civilian government officials typically do not participate in formal military training programs. According to Abiy, such training could cultivate leaders possessing a strong sense of purpose, responsibility, and collaborative capacity.
The move occurs amid Ethiopia’s ongoing confrontation with multiple security threats, including active conflict in parts of the northern Tigray region, violence in Amhara, and security concerns in Oromia. The training also takes place during a period of elevated tensions with neighboring Eritrea, where the possibility of renewed hostilities has drawn international attention.
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