Initiative Africa and AACSA Organize Platform to Discuss Role of Private Sector in National Dialogue and Ethiopia Global Compact

Addis Ababa, Ethiopia – Initiative Africa and the Addis Ababa Chamber of Sectoral Associations (AACSA) organized a platform on August 1, 2023, to discuss the Role of the Private Sector in the upcoming National Dialogue and the Ethiopia Global Compact.

The event featured a panel discussion on the role of the private sector in the upcoming National Dialogue, led by Mrs. Asma Redi from the Ministry of Peace. Panelists included Dr. Abdeta Dribssa from the Center for Dialogue Research and Cooperation, Mr. Geressu Tufa from Initiative for Change, and Mr. Yohannes Woldegebriel from the Private Sector representing AACSA.

The discussion focused on how the private sector can contribute to the National Dialogue by sharing its expertise and resources, and by supporting the implementation of the dialogue’s recommendations.

The event also featured the launch of a digital resource center for the National Dialogue. The resource center, which was developed by Initiative Africa, provides information on the dialogue, its goals, and its process. It also includes a collection of resources on a variety of topics related to the dialogue, such as human rights, sustainable development, and good governance.

The Ethiopia Global Compact was also launched at the event. The Ethiopia Global Compact is a new initiative to promote responsible business practices in Ethiopia. The initiative is open to all businesses in Ethiopia, regardless of size or sector. By joining the Ethiopia Global Compact, businesses can demonstrate their commitment to upholding the ten principles of the Global Compact, which cover areas such as human rights, labor standards, environmental sustainability, and anti-corruption.

The event was well-attended by representatives from the private sector, government, and civil society. The speakers and participants all agreed that the private sector has a critical role to play in the National Dialogue and in the development of Ethiopia.