Addis Ababa, October 20, 2026 (FMC) — Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed has presented the longstanding athletics rivalry between Ethiopia and Kenya as an example of how competition can coexist with partnership, saying the two countries’ sporting achievements demonstrate what Africa can accomplish.
Addressing Kenya’s 63rd Mashujaa Day celebrations in Eldoret on Tuesday, Abiy reflected on the two countries’ record of competing against each other in athletics, describing their performances as a source of pride and a shared demonstration of African potential.
“Our athletes have run side by side. Sometimes Kenya wins, sometimes Ethiopia. Together, they show the world what Africa can achieve,” he said.
The remarks recognized the competitive spirit that has long characterized Ethiopian and Kenyan athletics while emphasizing the broader significance of their achievements beyond national rivalry.
Both countries have established strong reputations in distance running, with their athletes competing at major international events. Abiy’s message placed that competition within a wider perspective, in which sporting excellence can reflect both national achievement and Africa’s capacity to excel on the world stage.
He summarized the relationship between rivalry and cooperation by stating: “We race as rivals, we build as partners.”
The message formed part of his wider address at the Mashujaa Day celebrations, which honored Kenyans who contributed to the country’s struggle for freedom and its development.
PM Abiy drew on the histories of both countries to emphasize the importance of preserving the legacy of earlier generations while creating opportunities for those who follow.
His athletics remarks offered a sporting illustration of that message: competition need not prevent countries from recognizing one another’s achievements or working toward broader goals.
For Ethiopia and Kenya, whose athletes have frequently competed at the highest levels of international distance running, the Prime Minister’s words underscored how a celebrated rivalry can also serve as a platform for mutual respect and a shared African presence on the global stage.