‘The national flag represents the country’s shared history, sovereignty, and strength in diversity.’
By: Fistum Getachew
On Monday, 12th October 2026, Ethiopia has marked the 19th National Flag Day with celebrations carried out underway across the country and at Ethiopian diplomatic missions abroad under the theme “Our Flag for National Consensus and Unity.”
In Addis Ababa, President Taye Atske-Selassie presided over the central observance in the presence of various high-level government officials, including Ahmed Shide, newly elected Speaker of the House of Peoples Representatives; Mufariat Kamil, Speaker of the House of Federation; and Tewodros Mihret, President of the Federal Supreme Court.
On the occasion, President Taye said that the Ethiopian flag stands as a profound symbol of national unity, patriotism, and the psychological bond uniting citizens across generations, adding that the flag represents the measure of the nation's sacrifice, freedom, sovereignty, and territorial integrity. He noted that the historic sacrifices made by patriotic citizens serve as an enduring testament to Ethiopia's resilience and enduring strength.
Highlighting that the current celebration follows the successful conclusion of the seventh general election and the formation of a newly mandated Medemer government, Taye called upon members of the House of Peoples’ Representatives and the House of Federation to fulfill their national responsibilities with diligence.
He stressed that enacting laws that foster national consensus, safeguard the rule of law, and reinforce citizens' equality is critical for the country's continued survival and prosperity. The president said that Ethiopia has demonstrated its capacity to overcome complex trials by successfully completing major development projects, achieving food security milestones, and advancing in defense, technological, and social sectors. He highlighted the major objective of the government today is to free the country from dependency, ensuring economic sovereignty. He said among the major diplomatic priorities of the country is the realization of access to sea through dialogue and discussions in diplomatic means so that all parties taking part in the process benefit mutually.
The president appreciated the members of the Ethiopian National Defense Force, federal and regional police, as well as security forces for their steadfast dedication to protect and conserve the sovereignty, territorial integrity, and unity of the country against any threats, both internal and external.
In a similar note, Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed (PhD) on his part has called on Ethiopians to strengthen national unity, embrace their diversity, and take collective responsibility for the country’s prosperity as Ethiopia marks its National Flag Day for National Consensus and Unity.”
In his message marking the occasion, the prime minister described national unity as the foundation of Ethiopia’s journey toward prosperity, emphasizing that the national flag represents the country’s shared history, sovereignty, and strength in diversity.
He reflected on how Ethiopians from every corner of the land gathered in unity to counter the common enemy that came from abroad to colonize it referring to the huge historical event of the Adwa Victory.
The premier said, “Medemer,” Ethiopia’s philosophy of synergy and collective progress, challenges citizens to move beyond passive observation and become active participants in shaping their country’s destiny.
Ethiopia’s languages, religions, and identities are integral threads of a common national fabric woven through centuries of shared history, the premier noted. Genuine commitment to the nation begins with individual acts of courage, solidarity, and service, guided by a vision that transcends personal interests and serves the common good.
The prime minister urged the current generation to emulate what forefathers did in unison to preserve the country with immense sacrifices. He challenged every Ethiopian to reflect on their personal contribution to national unity and development.
Similarly, Deputy Premier Temesgen Tiruneh wrote on his social media post X, “Our national flag embodies the values of Medemer, the strength of our unity, and Ethiopia’s unwavering ascent toward greatness.” The deputy prime minister described the flag as a symbol that connects generations, honoring the sacrifices of those who came before while reflecting the determination of present-day citizens and their aspirations for a prosperous future.
“We may differ in ethnicity, language, culture, and faith, but we are bound together by our common Ethiopian identity, shared destiny, and collective aspiration for national progress,” he said. “Our national flag must always unite us, never divide us.” Temesgen concluded by urging citizens to renew their commitment to defending Ethiopia’s sovereignty, consolidating national unity, preserving peace, and building a prosperous country that honors the sacrifices of previous generations while fulfilling the hopes of those to come.
By the same token, speaking at the same occasion of marking the National Flag Day at the premises of the Parliament, House Speaker Ahmed Shide said the national flag embodies shared values that strengthen patriotism and reinforce citizens’ commitment to the country’s progress. Ahmed noted that the House has the legal mandate to lead preparations for and oversee the celebration of National Flag Day.
He emphasized that the values represented by the flag should translate into renewed commitment to Ethiopia’s development and civilization, adding that patriotism should be reflected in citizens’ willingness to make sacrifices for their country and demonstrate wholehearted dedication to its progress.
The Speaker also said Ethiopia’s diverse languages and cultures are built on a shared history and common values, adding that the national flag symbolizes a nation united through diversity and enriched by its differences.
The annual observance, he noted, provides an opportunity to reaffirm solidarity among Ethiopia’s diverse communities and strengthen their commitment to the country’s collective advancement.
The celebration was preceded by an oath-taking ceremony led by Federal Supreme Court President Tewodros Mihret, followed by the raising of the national flag led by President Taye Atske-Selassie.
It is to be noted that the National Flag Day is observed annually on the first Monday of Tikimt (corresponding to October), in accordance with the National Flag Proclamation. The celebration is held across regional states, city administrations, public institutions, educational centers, and Ethiopian diplomatic missions abroad to promote patriotism, national consensus, and respect for the country’s sovereign symbol.
The celebrations have taken place simultaneously across all regional states and city administrations, government institutions, schools, and Ethiopian embassies and consulates worldwide, coordinated by the House of Peoples’ Representatives.
