Summary of the UN High Commissioner’s Visit to Ethiopia
Recently, the UN High Commissioner for Refugees Mr. Barham Salih visited Ethiopia, where he took part in a series of high-level and impactful events. His mission was marked by moments of engagement, solidarity and renewed commitment to the cause of refugee protection.
1. The Makatet Roadmap Launch
A key highlight of the visit was Mr. Salih’s participation in the official launch of the Makatet Roadmap, held in the presence of senior government officials and policy leaders, donors and partners. This milestone initiative underscores Ethiopia’s commitment to advancing innovative refugee responses and shaping a future grounded on inclusion, resilience and durable solutions.
2. World Refugee Day at Ura Settlement
The High Commissioner’s engagements continued at the Ura Refugee Settlement, the venue for this year’s World Refugee Day commemoration. Accompanied by Benishangul-Gumuz Regional State Chief #AshadliHassen and the Director General of Refugees and Returnees Service (RRS) Teyiba Hassen, Mr. Salih joined a day full of vibrant celebrations, infused with energy, solidarity and hope. The spirit of the occasion was beautifully encapsulated in the rallying call: #UntilEveryoneIsSafe.
3. Mission to Gambella
The High Commissioner was also to Gambella, where he was warmly received by State Chief #Alemitu_Umod and her leadership team. In their discussions, the importance of collaborative governance and shared responsibility in refugee affairs was top on the agenda.
During his visit to the Jewi Refugee Center, Mr. Salih witnessed firsthand the extraordinary resilience of refugees and the unwavering compassion of host communities, who continue to extend their resources and hospitality in the spirit of humanity.
4. Visit to Refugee Art Exhibition
The High Commissioner has got an insight into an art exhibition organized by refugee-led organizations as part of the 2026 World refugee Day celebrations.
5. Meeting with Ethiopia’s President
A formal reception to the High Commissioner was hosted by Ethiopia’s President Taye Atskeselassie. In his remarks, the High Commissioner thanked the people and government of Ethiopia for their longstanding generosity and hospitality toward refugees, praising Ethiopia’s role as a pillar of solidarity and a beacon of hope in the region.
6. Meeting with RRS Senior Management
Mr. Salih and his delegation were also welcomed at the Head Office of Refugees and Returnees Service. In his discussions with RRS Director General Teyiba Hassen and her team, he reaffirmed the shared commitment to refugee protection, inclusion and the pursuit of durable solutions. He emphasized the vital importance of strengthening partnerships, nurturing trust and sustaining collective solidarity to uphold the resilience of refugees and the generosity of hosting communities.
The High Commissioner’s visit became more than a diplomatic mission — it was a celebration of human dignity, a recognition of shared responsibility and a call to action for continued collaboration until refugees are safe, included and empowered and their gracious host communities get the support they deserve.
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Below is the summary of the visit composed with selected photos — explore the details by clicking the #LINK provided.
