This archive report was first published on 11 December 2019.
On December 11, 2019, the Norwegian Nobel Committee announced Ethiopian Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed as the winner of the Nobel Peace Prize for his efforts to bring peace to the Horn of Africa.
Abiy's journey to the Nobel Peace Prize began on April 2, 2018, when he became the 15th Prime Minister of Ethiopia and chairman of the ruling Ethiopian People’s Revolutionary Democratic Front (EPRDF) and the Oromo Democratic Party (ODP).
During his acceptance speech, Prime Minister Abiy promised to promote the unity of Ethiopians, resolve the long-standing border dispute with Eritrea, and ensure political reforms in Ethiopia.
Within his first 100 days in office, Abiy lifted the country's state of emergency, granted amnesty to thousands of political prisoners, discontinued media censorship, and legalized outlawed opposition groups.
These reforms were well-considered by the Nobel Peace Committee, which cited Abiy's work to bring an end to the border dispute between Ethiopia and Eritrea, restore freedom, and release thousands of political prisoners.
Abiy's government boasts a 50% female cabinet, making Ethiopia the only African country with a woman president and a female head of the National Electoral Board.
Prime Minister Abiy noted that having women in leadership would continue to help Ethiopia achieve peace and stability.
Abiy's vision is grounded on the belief that opinions, whether anti or pro-government, should never be causes of division in Ethiopia.
This vision is well-documented in his recently launched book, Medemer.
Abiy's leadership has been characterized by honesty, humility, passion, strength, vision, and courage, which are essential qualities of a true leader.
While receiving her Nobel Peace Prize in 2011, Liberian President Ellen Sirleaf Johnson said,
