The High-Level Forum (HLF) is the highest level of engagement between the Government of Ethiopia and Development Partners. It takes place twice a year in the form of a High-Level Development Forum (HLDF) and a High-Level Business Forum. The HLDF focuses on a pre agreed theme linked with the Ten-Year Development Plan (TYDP) and Global Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) encompassing development effectiveness agendas. The HLFs are organized by MoF with the support of the DPG Secretariat. A Preparatory Task Force is normally set up for the preparations.

DPG and the Government of Ethiopia (GoE) have convened for the 2024 High-Level Development Forum (HLDF) on 14th March 2024 at the Sheraton Addis Hotel. The HLDF, the highest level of engagement between the Government of Ethiopia and Development Partners, convened at a pivotal moment for Ethiopia, focusing on the nation’s journey towards stability, recovery, reconstruction, and sustainable development. Notably, the HLDF resumed for the first time since the onset of the Covid pandemic.

The Forum reaffirmed the commitment to establish a renewed partnership aimed at strengthening a democratic and peaceful Ethiopia on a path to prosperity. Discussions centered around three strategic focus areas: peace building, resilience, and macro-economic development. The event highlighted the implementation of the Cessation of Hostilities Agreement (CoHA) and the Homegrown Economic Reform (HGER) 2.0, emphasizing the intrinsic link between peace, economic reforms, and human development.

Recognizing the challenges posed by climate change, conflict, and global economic downturns, participants expressed readiness to support Ethiopia’s climate resilience and sustainable development initiatives. The Forum also highlighted the ongoing discussions with international financial institutions to restore macro-economic stability by supporting substantial debt relief and external financing.

Furthermore, the Forum welcomed progress made and acknowledged the challenges encountered in the implementation of the Ten-Year Development Plan and the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development, reaffirming mutual accountability in supporting national efforts.