As Ethiopia’s first elections under Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed have taken place, the pivot towards a democratic country was spearheaded by young people, overcoming various challenges along the way. Lapis and KANA TV, in collaboration with the International Republican Institute as grant administrators, have produced a series of competitive TV debates called “Warka” featuring young Ethiopians aged between 21 and 30 years old.

The show brought together youth with opposing views, fostering a healthy culture of debate and promoting the exchange of ideas to advance the peace and prosperity of Ethiopia. Through the show, audiences have enhanced their knowledge of the topics discussed and gained an appreciation for the multitude of factors that need to be considered when engaging in discussions and making policy decisions.

The program has successfully taught participants and viewers how to develop dignified, structured debates about political, economic, and social issues that matter most to them. It has also imparted the importance of actively listening to opposing views, motivating individuals to adopt the same approach in their everyday lives. “Warka” aired in mid-2021 and was funded by the U.S. Embassy in Ethiopia.