By Asma Mohamud - Reporter
Ethiopia (Dawan Africa) 2 May 2026
Ethiopia’s Somali Regional State and China have launched a grant-funded programme to support youth and rural development through sport, state media SRTV reported on Friday.
The initiative was announced after Somali Regional State President Mustafe Mohamed Omar met a Chinese delegation led by China’s ambassador to Ethiopia, Chen Hai, according to the report.
The programme, funded by the China Foundation for Rural Development, aims to promote physical activity, expand access to sport and support social development, particularly among pastoral communities.
Officials said the initiative forms part of broader cooperation between China and Ethiopia, with a focus on development efforts in the Somali region.
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During the meeting, Mustafe briefed the delegation on the region’s situation, while the Chinese side reaffirmed its commitment to strengthening cooperation and supporting local development.
The launch reflects a wider trend of China-backed programmes in Africa targeting rural livelihoods and youth engagement.