Ethiopia is intensifying its efforts to build a shared national narrative—a critical step aimed at securing lasting national consensus.
The truth is, Ethiopians are connected by far more values that unite us, bind us together, and draw us closer than those that divide us. So, the question on many people's minds is, why has building that common story proven so difficult?
In a time when the nation has been deeply polarized by competing political narratives, scholars and peace advocates often highlight that Ethiopia's rich, unifying values and shared historical experiences should easily outweigh the forces of division.
During his stay with ETV, Dr. Alemayehu Areda, a history and political expert, underscored this point. He noted that the centuries-old values that bring Ethiopians together are best seen in our struggles for sovereignty and moments of shared victory. The Battle of Adwa, he pointed out, is a perfect example: a triumph that was the direct result of collective sacrifice by all of Ethiopia’s nations and peoples.
He also cited the construction of the Grand Ethiopian Renaissance Dam (GERD) as a potent symbol of the unified, national thirst for peace, development, justice, and prosperity shared by every Ethiopian.
So, what is the main hurdle preventing a country so rich in shared values from truly owning a common narrative? Dr. Alemayehu suggested the core issue is the conflict among political elites over the nation's past and future. This internal struggle, he implied, is exacerbated by external forces—enemies who fear a prosperous Ethiopian future.
Ustaz Jemal Beshir, a community organizer and founder of King’s of Abay Media, reinforced this, stating that national projects like the GERD vividly demonstrate the power of unity that emerges when a shared goal is achieved.
He called for the nation to use these common narratives as a launchpad for higher, more constructive national goals.
Ustaz Jemal also emphasized that the ongoing National Dialogue is a vital process for honestly confronting past mistakes and pinpointing those shared national objectives.
He delivered a strong message to political leaders and elites: they must put aside their narrow, parochial interests for the greater good of the country. Their duty, he stressed, is to focus on work that champions shared citizenship and constitutional values, rather than magnifying divisive issues.
In conclusion, the experts agreed on a clear path forward: Ethiopia will secure a firm and lasting peace not by entertaining divisive narratives, but by publicly and powerfully celebrating the common truths that bond its people, allowing the nation to march forward toward its unified purpose.
