Hawassa, Ethiopia — March 14, 2026

The Ethiopian Economics Association (EEA), in collaboration with Hawassa University, held the First Annual Conference on Sidama Regional State Economic Development in Hawassa. The conference brought together policymakers, researchers, and development experts to discuss economic progress and development priorities in Sidama Regional State.

The event opened with welcoming remarks from Dr. Wogene Markos, Dean of the College of Business and Economics at Hawassa University. He emphasized the importance of such conferences in creating a platform for dialogue among policymakers, academics, and researchers to address regional development challenges and promote evidence-based solutions.

Opening remarks were delivered by Dr. Yohannes Yona, who highlighted the importance of informed policymaking and stronger collaboration between government institutions, academia, and research organizations to support sustainable economic development.

A message from the Ethiopian Economics Association was delivered by Dr. Worku Gebeyehu, Member of the Executive Committee of the EEA and Editor-in-Chief of the Ethiopian Journal of Economics. He underlined the role of research and policy dialogue in strengthening regional economic development.

The conference also featured presentations and discussions on regional economic performance and development initiatives, including activities related to the Yirgalem Agro-Industrial Park. Participants stressed the need for continued collaboration between academic institutions and government bodies to promote sustainable economic growth in the region.