In honor of the 2017 Ethiopian New Year, which begins tomorrow, Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed (PhD) has sent warm wishes to all Ethiopians.
The Prime Minister stressed in his New Year's speech that although time offers many opportunities, how we use it ultimately determines the results of our efforts. He said that everyone has been given the same amount of time by the Creator and that effort and hard work, not indolence, are what lead to progress. He recounted proud and happy moments from the country's past, attributing these positive experiences to the wise use of the opportunities the country was given.
“Time will continue to change, regardless of our preferences,” he stated, likening time to a relentless force that moves forward without pause or alteration. He underscored the importance of leveraging time to one’s advantage.
The Premier raised important questions regarding the preparations made for 2017 and encouraged contemplation on past accomplishments since the previous Ethiopian New Year. He proposed that the answers to these questions might change the meaning of starting this new era.
"2017 will be a year of transformation for us, rather than a year that changes us," he said in expressing his hope. He expects plans to be carried out, projects to be finished on time and with quality, and a dedication to using discussion and negotiation to settle disputes. He continued, hoping for a year of successful changes, "Let 2017 be the year where we mend historical divides through national dialogue and transitional justice, and strive towards complete self-sufficiency."