11 April 2024
Addis Ababa, Ethiopia – The Council of Ministers convened for its 29th regular session today. The Council discussed and passed resolutions on a variety of issues critical to national development.
Key Resolutions:
Public Service Administration Policy: The Council unanimously approved a draft policy on government service administration. This policy outlines seven key themes to strengthen civil service, including establishing an independent and impartial system, improving service delivery, and leveraging digital technologies.
Small and Medium Enterprise (SME) Development Policy: Recognizing the importance of SMEs for economic growth, the Council endorsed a draft policy for their development. This policy focuses on creating favorable conditions for establishing, growing, and expanding SMEs, and integrating informal businesses into the formal economy.
Environmental Protection Authority and Organization Regulations: The Council reviewed and approved draft regulations defining the powers and functions of the Environmental Protection Authority. These regulations aim to ensure the authority’s effectiveness in implementing environmental policies, laws, and international agreements.
Ethiopian Standards Draft Proclamation: The Council unanimously passed a draft proclamation for establishing and maintaining quality standards for goods, services, and processes produced, imported, and exported in Ethiopia. This proclamation promotes transparency and accountability in standardization practices.
Legal Ethics Draft Proclamation: The Council voted to send a draft proclamation on legal ethics to the House of Representatives for consideration. This proclamation aims to strengthen international trade by establishing legal frameworks consistent with international legal principles.
Research and Development Initiatives: The Council approved draft regulations for establishing:
The Ethiopian Institute of Astronomy to conduct research, training, and consulting activities in astronomy and related sciences.
The Ethiopian National Accreditation Office to facilitate domestic and international trade and enhance public health and environmental protection through a nationally recognized accreditation system.
Refugee and Returnee Service Regulations: The Council endorsed a draft regulation defining the authority and functions of the Refugee and Returnee Service. This regulation strengthens the institution’s ability to identify, support, and protect refugees and returnees in accordance with international agreements.
