The Abiy Project: God, Power and War in the New Ethiopia

In 2018, Ethiopia was in the throes of Abiymania, a popular support for the young, charismatic new prime minister, Abiy Ahmed. He promised democratic salvation and national unity but his democratic revolution lurched into a devastating civil war, threatening state collapse. This book traces the fading hope of Ethiopia's transition, unravelling the paradoxes of an enigmatic world leader. Despite everything, Abiy remains in power, embodying the new Ethiopia in all its contradiction, triumph, and tragedy.

Format: Hardback
Length: 368 pages
Publication date: 20 June 2024
Publisher: C Hurst & Co Publishers Ltd

In 2018, Ethiopia and the world were caught up in a fervor of popular support for the young, charismatic new prime minister, Abiy Ahmed. Arriving seemingly out of nowhere, Abiy, a Pentecostal Christian, promised democratic salvation and national unity. His historic peace deal with neighboring Eritrea earned him the 2019 Nobel Peace Prize, hailed at home as a prophet and abroad as a liberal reformer. He was all things to all men. However, the democratic revolution he envisioned was not quite what it seemed. Within two years, Ethiopia plunged into a devastating civil war, threatening the collapse of the state. By 2023, the fighting in the northern Tigray region had escalated to apocalyptic proportions, resulting in the deaths of hundreds of thousands and the spread of famine across the land. Despite these challenges, Abiy appeared stronger than ever.

This book, based on hundreds of interviews with Ethiopians from all walks of life and extensive reporting across the country, delves into the fading hope of Ethiopia's transition. It uncovers the paradoxes of an enigmatic world leader who remains in power, embodying the new Ethiopia in all its contradictions, triumphs, and tragedies. Despite everything, Abiy's attempt to reshape the country in his image nearly broke it and may still do so.

The rise and fall of Abiy Ahmed is a cautionary tale of the complexities of political leadership and the dangers of pursuing ambitious goals without considering the broader societal and economic context. It highlights the importance of inclusivity, dialogue, and compromise in building a sustainable and prosperous nation. As Ethiopia continues to navigate its challenges, it is crucial to learn from the past and work towards a future that is more inclusive, democratic, and prosperous for all its citizens.

Weight: 846g
Dimension: 242 x 169 x 41 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781911723103