Uhuru Kenyatta Urges Unity and Dialogue at Ethiopian National Dialogue Conference

Former Kenyan President Uhuru Kenyatta delivered a powerful call for peace, dialogue, and inclusivity at the closing ceremony of the Ethiopian National Dialogue Conference held at the Addis International Convention Centre on August 22, 2026.

Addressing delegates, Kenyatta emphasized Ethiopia’s rich diversity as a foundation for national strength rather than division. He urged communities to engage in open conversations and mutual understanding, stressing that sustainable peace depends on such inclusive dialogue.

Celebrating Ethiopia’s Diverse Heritage

Kenyatta highlighted the importance of recognizing all Ethiopian communities, regardless of size or international prominence, as integral to the nation’s identity. He stated, “There is no peripheral Ethiopian culture,” affirming that every culture contributes to the country’s collective story.

He referenced various regions and traditions, including Oromia, the southwest, and Gambela, noting indigenous knowledge, agricultural and pastoral practices, commerce, and unique community systems like the Oromo Gadaa system, which he believes deserves wider global recognition.

Unity Through Diversity

Summarizing his vision of Ethiopia’s national narrative, Kenyatta remarked, “Ethiopia’s greatness was never written by one hand; it was written by many hands.” This statement encapsulated his message that unity does not require uniformity but thrives on embracing differences.

He also challenged narrow perceptions of Ethiopia, pointing out that the country’s identity extends beyond its famous highlands and ancient churches to include rivers, forests, wetlands, pastoral plains, and Nilotic cultures. He likened Ethiopia’s cultural mosaic to a tapestry, where the interplay of diverse threads creates its unique beauty.

A Final Call for Dialogue and Peace

Throughout his address, Kenyatta repeatedly emphasized the necessity of communities sitting together to listen and understand one another. He called dialogue the simplest yet most effective tool for resolving differences and building a shared future.

As the conference concluded, Kenyatta left delegates with a lasting message of collective responsibility and hope: Ethiopia’s strength lies in its many peoples and their willingness to engage in peaceful coexistence.