Addis ababa: Africans must stand together to confront cross-border crimes that threaten our sovereignty, wealth, and future, Deputy Prime Minister of Ethiopia, Temesgen Tiruneh remarked.
According to Ethiopian News Agency, the 25th Eastern, Southern Africa Anti-Money Laundering Ministerial conference kicked off in Addis Ababa today. The Deputy PM emphasized that the continent is facing fast-evolving threats such as illicit financial flows, money laundering, and terrorist financing. He noted that these crimes undermine opportunities for citizens, obstruct continental aspirations, and hinder progress. Temesgen stressed that due to the cross-border nature of these challenges, no single nation can tackle them independently.
Temesgen also highlighted Ethiopia’s proactive stance in addressing these issues by establishing a national committee dedicated to combating them. He stated that Ethiopia is committed to strengthening efforts by collaborating with its citizens, fellow nations, and international partners to safeguard the future and ensure the progress of Africa.
The conference in Addis Ababa saw participation from ministers representing 21 countries, including the Vice President and Minister of Finance of Botswana. Stakeholders from prominent international and continental institutions also attended the East and Southern Africa Anti-Money Laundering Conference.