Ethiopia celebrated the 65th anniversary of its Special Operations Command on Sunday, February 22, 2026, with Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed praising the military’s modernization efforts during a ceremony in Hawassa.
National Celebration in Hawassa
The event, held at Hawassa International Stadium, drew senior military leaders including Chief of General Staff Field Marshal Birhanu Jula and Deputy Chief General Abebaw Tadesse. Elders from the Sidama community performed the traditional Qeetala ceremony, symbolizing honor and unity.
Troops showcased precision drills, water-borne exercises, and coordinated airborne operations, underscoring the command’s enhanced capabilities.
Military Modernization
Prime Minister Abiy emphasized that defense reforms have transformed the Special Operations Command into a modern force integrating airborne, commando, and counter-terrorism divisions.
“Ethiopia is a nation built by generations of heroes,” he said.
The anniversary highlighted Ethiopia’s ongoing efforts to strengthen its military institutions and adapt to evolving security challenges.
Celebration Amid Regional Tensions
The commemoration comes as renewed tensions simmer along the Tigray border, a region devastated by civil war between 2020 and 2022 that claimed hundreds of thousands of lives.
The show of force signals Ethiopia’s determination to maintain military readiness while honoring six decades of service safeguarding national sovereignty.
Conclusion
The 65th anniversary of Ethiopia’s Special Operations Command served both as a celebration of military heritage and a demonstration of modernized strength. Against the backdrop of lingering regional tensions, the event reinforced the government’s message of resilience and preparedness.
