Ethiopia’s Meles wins Africa’s Leadership award

By Tesfa-alem Tekle

June 4, 2008 (ADDIS ABABA) — Ethiopian Prime Minister, Meles Zenawi won the ‘African Political Leadership Award 2008”. The ministry of foreign affairs disclosed.

The African Times, a US-based newspaper, and the Africa Achievement Award Committee honored Meles at ceremony held in Los Angeles, California.

Consul General of Ethiopia in Los Angeles, USA, Ambassador Taye Atskesillassie received the prize on behalf of the premier.

In a message read out by the Ambassador, Prime Minister Meles highlighted the achievements Ethiopia has made over the last few years.

He noted that despite the increased prices of food and energy and the looming drought, Ethiopia’s economy grew well during the current year.

Speaking about Africa’s progress, Meles pointed out that almost half of the African countries have registered more than 5 percent economic growth.

Reminding the Africans about the challenges of the continent the premier said, “Extremism may not be the direct result of poverty, but it is undeniable that there is a relationship”. He also warned that the connection between poverty and intolerance should not be overlooked.

Meles urges Africans in the Diaspora to deploy their ‘immense professional skills and great wisdom’ for the transformation of Africa. “We can make Africa a far better place to live than it has ever been before”.

The prize is not to recognize the performance of individuals, but should inspire all those who are working hard for the development of Africa, according to the premier.

Previous winners of the African Political Leadership Award include Nelson Mandela, Desmond Tutu and President Olusegun Obasanjo, among others.

(ST)