The 100th edition of the Nobel Peace Prize was held on Friday in Oslo by the Norwegian Nobel Committee. During this event, Ethiopia’s Prime Minister qualified for the award for his efforts in sealing the peace with Eritrea. The country and its neighbor, Ethiopia, have been in strife for 20 years because of cross-border issues. The leader was delighted receiving this recognition. “I am so humbled and thrilled… thank you very much. It is a prize given to Ethiopia, given to Africa, and I can imagine how the rest of Africa’s leaders will take it positively to work on a peace-building process in our continent,” he said. Ahmed Abey wins the 100th Nobel Peace Prize at the right time when Africa needs peace and harmony.
Ahmed Abey Reached Out to Eritrea’s President
One and a half years since entering into power, Abey managed to hold talks with Eritrea’s President, Afwerki. They both pushed reforms that brought to an end the division that has existed between the two nations. In spite of criticisms on the reforms, this champion could not relent.
Ahmed Abey’s efforts in reconciling both countries are an example to African leaders to work for peace in their countries as well as their neighbors. Candidates in this year’s Nobel Peace Prize included: 16-year old Swedish activist Greta Thunberg, Angela Merkel, the German Chancellor, and Hong Kong pro-democracy activists. Ahmed Abey, a former military officer in cyber intelligence beat them all because of his bold steps in bringing peace in the continent.
The costs and results of the reconciliation
The war that has existed for two decades has led to slow economic development in both countries. However, Eritrea, a 4-million populated country suffered a bigger share of economic regression. The 30- years guerilla warfare left the country with scarce resources due to damages. On top of that, the war brought untold suffering as many lives were lost during the process. Ahmed Abey wins the 100th Nobel Peace Prize since he has ensured that these vices have stopped and peace has prevailed. Now Eritrea and Ethiopia can do business in peace as political stability is key in development. Security and harmony have prevailed in the two regions since last year when the peace treaty was signed.
Ahmed Abey made power-sharing possible
This iconic leader deserved this award because he has helped bring peace to Sudan too. Through his leadership, Sudan agreed to power-sharing. As a result, the 3-decade regime of Omar-Al-Bashir ended and led to his arrest. It is such responsibilities that have led to the recognition of this powerful leader. Abey has been at the forefront of fostering social justice, reconciliation, solidarity, and democracy in Ethiopia. He ordered the release of jailed journalists and political prisoners. Boldness in decision making is another character trait to be emulated by African leaders.
Bottom Line
Ahmed Abey wins the 10th Nobel Peace Prize at a time when critical matters in Africa need to be addressed. Political strife, ethnic wars, injustices among other vices need to be eradicated in Ethiopia. This charismatic leader is ready to fight for the neighbors whose economic development has been hindered by political issues. For instance, releasing the oppressed prisoners brings freedom, peace, and reconciliation among members of the state.
