UN Ethiopia strengthens operational efficiency to drive transformative impact

Held on 25–26 May 2026 in Addis Ababa, the meeting brought together operations leaders from across UN agencies to assess progress, align priorities, and define a clear roadmap for 2026. The discussions focused on improving efficiency, deepening collaboration, and advancing common business operations in support of national development priorities.

Repositioning Operations as Strategic Enablers

In his remarks to the meeting, the UN Resident and Humanitarian Coordinator in Ethiopia Ozonnia Ojielo underscored the critical role of operations in delivering results on the ground.

He emphasized that operations are no longer a back-office function, but rather a strategic pillar that underpins every aspect of the UN’s work, from programme implementation to policy impact. 

Efficient, agile, and integrated operational systems are essential to ensure that the UN can respond effectively to Ethiopia’s evolving development and humanitarian landscape. 

“You the structural architects of the United Nations in Ethiopia,” he stated, calling on OMT members to embrace their role as drivers of transformation and enablers of impact. 

The OMT is advancing a set of strategic priorities including an integrated delivery architecture that aims to strengthen collaboration between programme and operations teams to ensure seamless delivery across agencies, including accelerated implementation of the Business Operations Strategy (BOS) and development of a Common Back Office (CBO).

Throughout the strategic meetings, participants engaged in technical sessions, peer learning, and working group discussions covering human resources, procurement, finance, ICT, and administration. They also reflected on lessons learned from 2025 and identified key challenges and opportunities for the year ahead.

The Resident and Humanitarian Coordinator highlighted that meaningful reform requires a shift not only in systems, but also in mindset—urging participants to champion a “One UN” approach within their respective agencies.

The meeting concluded with a strong call to action, with participants expected to deliver: a prioritized and accountability-driven OMT workplan for 2026; clear, time-bound pathways for implementing the Common Back Office; and a joint Programme–Operations roadmap aligned with national and global commitments.

As Ethiopia navigates complex development and humanitarian challenges, the UN is positioning itself to respond with greater coherence and impact.

The OMT meeting marked a significant milestone in this journey, reinforcing a shared commitment to operational excellence and collective delivery.