Ethiopia's PM Abiy Ahmed Sends Ministers to Military Training Amid Security Focus

Ethiopian Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed has directed his cabinet ministers to undergo military training, underscoring his administration's emphasis on defense readiness. The move aligns with Abiy's repeated statements that military preparedness is central to his government's strategic ambitions. By putting civilian leaders through basic military drills, the PM aims to foster a disciplined, security-conscious leadership culture. The decision comes as Ethiopia faces internal conflicts and regional tensions, making national resilience a top priority. This unusual step signals a shift toward integrating defense thinking across all levels of government. Observers note that such training may also serve to consolidate loyalty and project strength domestically. The initiative highlights Abiy's hands-on approach to governance and his belief in a unified civil-military front. Whether this will translate into tangible policy outcomes remains to be seen, but it clearly reinforces the government's security-first narrative. The training is expected to continue in phases, with ministers participating in physical fitness, drills, and strategic exercises.