Ethiopia has reaffirmed its role as a key regional security actor, saying its counterterrorism efforts remain central to promoting stability in the Horn of Africa and East Africa through intelligence cooperation, border security, and regional military coordination.
Positioned at the heart of the Horn of Africa, Ethiopia said its national security is closely linked to the stability of neighboring countries.
Authorities stated that security institutions continue to focus on preventing cross-border terrorist threats, dismantling extremist networks, and supporting regional initiatives aimed at combating violent extremism.
A major focus of Ethiopia’s security strategy remains Somalia, where Ethiopian forces have long supported operations against Al-Shabab.
Addis Ababa says its military contribution has helped contain the group’s expansion, strengthen Somalia’s security institutions, and enhance broader regional counterterrorism efforts.
Beyond military operations, Ethiopia said it has increasingly relied on intelligence-led policing and close cooperation with regional and international partners.
The National Intelligence and Security Service (NISS) continues to work with domestic and foreign agencies to identify and disrupt terrorist networks through enhanced intelligence sharing.
The government also highlighted growing concerns over the use of digital platforms by extremist groups for recruitment, propaganda, and fundraising.
Ethiopia’s Information Network Security Administration (INSA) said it is strengthening cybersecurity capabilities to counter online extremist activities and protect critical digital infrastructure.
Officials emphasized that counterterrorism efforts also depend on community engagement, noting that cooperation between citizens and security agencies plays an important role in identifying and preventing potential threats before they escalate.
Speaking during the 1,354th ministerial session of the African Union Peace and Security Council (AUPSC), Ethiopian State Minister for Foreign Affairs Ambassador Hadera Abera called for stronger continental cooperation against terrorism.
She urged African states to strengthen intelligence sharing, operational coordination, and accelerate the activation of the African Standby Force to address emerging security challenges.
Ethiopia maintains that sustainable peace, economic integration, and regional development cannot be achieved without addressing terrorism and strengthening collective security mechanisms across Africa.