Until today, all most of us had seen of Ethiopia was the conference centre and the hotel - oh, and the airport of course.  So this afternoon we took a well-earned break from workshops and went to explore a bit more of this ancient and unique country with expert tour-guiding from MRDF's Ethiopian partners. 

First we passed through the centre of Addis Abeba.  Here, the main square was festooned with flags, bunting and signboards in the red, gold and green of the Ethiopian flag, all celebrating the start of the year 2000.  Strange - but these weren't left over from seven years ago.  Because of Ethiopia's different calendar, the new millennium only began here this September.  The new millennium appears to have been a good opportunity for renewing hope and making resolutions - "In the new millennium, let us unite to end poverty and HIV/AIDS" read one banner in the sqaure.  A hope we can all share, and not just for Ethiopia.

As well looking to the future, Ethiopia is very proud of her past.  After all, everything started here.  After airport style security (including frisking!) we were able to visit the national museum - and view the remains of Lucy, the oldest discovered human being - or visit the museum of the Orthodox Church - and find out how Christianity came to Ethiopia hundreds of years before it reached the UK.

Most participants certainly seem refreshed and relaxed after an afternoon out.  And perhaps today's glimpse of Ethiopia's future and reflection on her past, will remind us of the importance of learning from the past and looking forward with hope to the future as we take part in tomorrow's workshops.