Ethiopia Profile

An Ethiopia country profile including a social and economic profile together with details of daily life in Ethiopia, news and video. Ethiopia is a vast country with a population of 135 million (2025) people whose history stretches back into the mists of time. Unlike many other African nations, Ethiopia has always been independent (apart from a brief period of occupation by Italy.) Despite not being a former colony, Ethiopia still suffered from poor governance and dictatorships for decades. It was ruled for over forty years by the Emperor Hailie Selassis, then a military junta until 1991. Wars with neighbours continued over boundary disputes, although now seemingly resolved, however Ethiopia faces significant economic challenges, including high levels of debt, inflation, and a cost-of-living crisis.

Ethiopia's diverse ethnic makeup has historically led to conflict and political instability. Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed introduced an ethno-federalist setlement for the governance of the country, with many Ethiopians seeing it as a guarantee of local autonomy, while others view it as an obstacle to effective central government. These tensions erupted into open conflict in 2020 between the federal and Tigray governments in the northern region of Ethiopia.

Complete Ethiopia Profile
 
 
 
 
 
 
 

Ethiopia Profile

Ethiopia Profile

Ethiopia Profile

Ethiopia Profile

 


Ethiopia History

Ethiopia History

A video about the history of Ethiopia detailing its rich history and customs as well as border conflicts.
More >

 


Volunteer in Ethiopia

African Volunteer Work: Ethiopia

Check out all the latest fee paying and free volunteer work placements with local projects in Ethiopia.
More >

 


Ethiopian Quiz

Ethiopia Quiz

Take our Ethiopia country quiz and find out how much you really know about the country.
More >

 
 
 

Ethiopia Country Profile

Ethiopia Profile

Ethiopia Profile

Previous

Auto

Next

Politically, Ethiopia has been working to consolidate peace and stability following the this evastating conflict in the Tigray region, which formally ended with a peace agreement in November 2022. While this marked a significant step forward, challenges persist, including lingering tensions in other regional states like Oromia and Amhara, and efforts towards national reconciliation. Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed's government is focused on implementing the peace accord, fostering national dialogue, and preparing for future electoral processes. The Horn of Africa's geopolitical landscape, including relations with neighbouring Sudan and Egypt over the Grand Ethiopian Renaissance Dam (GERD), also remains a significant external factor influencing Ethiopia's political trajectory.

Economically, Ethiopia possesses immense potential, driven by its large population, fertile land, and strategic location. The government has embarked on ambitious reform programs aimed at liberalising key sectors, privatising state-owned enterprises, and attracting foreign investment. Agriculture remains the backbone of the economy, employing a vast majority of the population, though the country is striving to diversify into manufacturing and services. However, the economy faces considerable headwinds, including high inflation, foreign currency shortages, and a substantial national debt. The recent conflicts have also had a detrimental impact, disrupting trade, displacing communities, and diverting resources from development. Despite these challenges, there's a concerted effort to reignite growth and enhance productivity across various sectors.

On the social front, Ethiopia is a mosaic of over 80 ethnic groups, each with its unique language and traditions. This rich diversity is both a source of strength and, at times, a factor in internal tensions. The conflicts have unfortunately led to significant humanitarian crises, resulting in widespread displacement and a pressing need for aid, particularly in conflict-affected areas. Rebuilding social cohesion, ensuring equitable access to basic services like education and healthcare, and addressing youth unemployment are critical priorities.

The vast majority of its population live in poor rural areas dependent on subsistence farming however the country remains drought prone making for widespread food insecurity. Ethiopia is in 180th place out of 193 countries and territories in 2025 when ranked in terms of life expectancy, literacy, access to knowledge and the living standards of a country. Ethiopia is reported to have the highest number of orphans in East Africa, with estimates suggesting over 4.5 million and this high number is attributed to various factors including poverty, HIV/AIDS, and ethnic conflicts. Find out more about the nation of Ethiopia in our profile pages above and get further insights watching the video (left.)

 
 


Volunteer
by Country

African Volunteer Work


Sponsor
a Child

Sponsor a Child in Africa


All About
Africa

About Africa


African
Resources

African Resources