By Emeka Nze
Ethiopia has concluded plans to close 30 of its embassies across the world as part of measures to save cost.
In a briefing to Ethiopian lawmakers, Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed said the country will shut down several embassies, including one in Kenya, to manage costs, with most diplomats working as non-resident ambassadors.
“Ethiopia shouldn’t have 60 or so embassies and consulates in the present moment. Instead of throwing US dollars everywhere … at least 30 of the embassies should be closed. The ambassadors should instead be here,” he said.
He said the Ethiopian ambassador to Kenya, for example, could be based in Addis Ababa and only make field trips to meet with officials, while following events in Nairobi through the media.
“The Ethiopian ambassador in Kenya probably meets the foreign minister once a year or in two years” he said.
Abiy stressed the need for the Ethiopian Ministry of Foreign Affairs to undergo serious reforms.
“With the current situation Ethiopia is in, the country doesn’t need to have as many as 60 or so embassies and consulates,” he said.
Instead of hiring drivers, the Prime Minister further said, government ministers will be required to drive themselves.
“What we want is a person who gets wet in the mud and runs while reforming the country,” he said.
-Theeastafrican