#Ethiopia: #UK Military Attaché to Ethiopia visits #Bilate Commando Airborne Training Center, observes training, infrastructure and related activities
Colonel Mark Bavan, United Kingdom's military attaché in Ethiopia, and others visited the Bilate Commando Airborne Training Center where they observed training, infrastructure and related activities of the center, Ethiopian National Defense Forces (ENDF) said.
ENDF quoted Colonel Mark as saying that the ongoing commando, airborne, special forces and anti-terrorist training process at the Center is capable of fulfilling complex missions. He added that the existence of such modern training facilities and infrastructure is helpful in providing the trainees with effective and efficient military capabilities.
Read more at: https://x.com/addisstandard/status/1734921925116244257?s=20
Colonel Mark Bavan, United Kingdom's military attaché in Ethiopia, and others visited the Bilate Commando Airborne Training Center where they observed training, infrastructure and related activities of the center, Ethiopian National Defense Forces (ENDF) said.
ENDF quoted Colonel Mark as saying that the ongoing commando, airborne, special forces and anti-terrorist training process at the Center is capable of fulfilling complex missions. He added that the existence of such modern training facilities and infrastructure is helpful in providing the trainees with effective and efficient military capabilities.
Read more at: https://x.com/addisstandard/status/1734921925116244257?s=20
#Ethiopia: Echoes of Tigray: Stories of #Tigrayan children struggling for survival on the streets of Addis
Despite the Tigray war’s conclusion in November 2022, the humanitarian crisis persists as displaced families disperse across Ethiopia. A stark reality unfolds on #Addis_Ababa’s bustling streets where growing numbers of Tigrayan children seek refuge, driven by conflict and poverty.
Nine-year-old Wegen fled eastern Tigray when violence erupted in 2020, hindering his education. He traverses 10 kilometers daily, selling items to aid his financially constrained family. Similarly, seven-year-old Bri’s family fled southern Tigray when drought ravaged 20% of the region’s farmland. The boys sell goods so parents can hawk wares, yearning to resume their disrupted schooling.
Fourteen-year-old Bisrat endured a grueling 1,000 kilometer exodus from southern Tigray after her village’s ruthless invasion, struggling to reconcile horrendous memories. Compelled to prematurely discontinue 4th grade, Bisrat sells items with a displaced friend to assist her family, nurturing aspirations to resume learning and epitomizing migrant resilience.
Facing tenure insecurity and devoid of a support network, the displaced Tigrayan children epitomize the human toll inflicted by the conflict. Their childhoods, meant for schoolyard games and acquiring classroom knowledge, are now consumed with securing their families’ survival.
https://addisstandard.com/echoes-of-tigray-stories-of-tigrayan-children-struggling-for-survival-on-the-streets-of-addis/?amp=1
Despite the Tigray war’s conclusion in November 2022, the humanitarian crisis persists as displaced families disperse across Ethiopia. A stark reality unfolds on #Addis_Ababa’s bustling streets where growing numbers of Tigrayan children seek refuge, driven by conflict and poverty.
Nine-year-old Wegen fled eastern Tigray when violence erupted in 2020, hindering his education. He traverses 10 kilometers daily, selling items to aid his financially constrained family. Similarly, seven-year-old Bri’s family fled southern Tigray when drought ravaged 20% of the region’s farmland. The boys sell goods so parents can hawk wares, yearning to resume their disrupted schooling.
Fourteen-year-old Bisrat endured a grueling 1,000 kilometer exodus from southern Tigray after her village’s ruthless invasion, struggling to reconcile horrendous memories. Compelled to prematurely discontinue 4th grade, Bisrat sells items with a displaced friend to assist her family, nurturing aspirations to resume learning and epitomizing migrant resilience.
Facing tenure insecurity and devoid of a support network, the displaced Tigrayan children epitomize the human toll inflicted by the conflict. Their childhoods, meant for schoolyard games and acquiring classroom knowledge, are now consumed with securing their families’ survival.
https://addisstandard.com/echoes-of-tigray-stories-of-tigrayan-children-struggling-for-survival-on-the-streets-of-addis/?amp=1
Addis Standard
Echoes of Tigray: Stories of Tigrayan children struggling for survival on the streets of Addis - Addis Standard
Echoes of Tigray: Stories of Tigrayan children struggling for survival on the streets of Addis Addis Standard Social Affairs -
#Somalia Secures $4.5 Billion Debt Relief Package from #IMF and World Bank
The International Monetary Fund and World Bank have approved a major debt relief package for Somalia under the Heavily Indebted Poor Countries (HIPC) Initiative. This will unlock $4.5 billion in debt service relief for Somalia from multilateral, bilateral and commercial creditors.
Somalia implemented numerous reforms across fiscal policies, revenue collection, public financial management and governance over the last decade. This paved the pathway for debt relief, despite challenges like droughts and terrorism that the country faced.
The debt relief will substantially reduce Somalia’s debt levels from 64% to under 6% of GDP. It facilitates access to additional financing to invest in strengthening the economy, reducing poverty and boosting job creation.
https://www.imf.org/en/News/Articles/2023/12/13/pr23438-imf-and-world-bank-announce-us-4-5-billion-in-debt-relief-for-somalia
The International Monetary Fund and World Bank have approved a major debt relief package for Somalia under the Heavily Indebted Poor Countries (HIPC) Initiative. This will unlock $4.5 billion in debt service relief for Somalia from multilateral, bilateral and commercial creditors.
Somalia implemented numerous reforms across fiscal policies, revenue collection, public financial management and governance over the last decade. This paved the pathway for debt relief, despite challenges like droughts and terrorism that the country faced.
The debt relief will substantially reduce Somalia’s debt levels from 64% to under 6% of GDP. It facilitates access to additional financing to invest in strengthening the economy, reducing poverty and boosting job creation.
https://www.imf.org/en/News/Articles/2023/12/13/pr23438-imf-and-world-bank-announce-us-4-5-billion-in-debt-relief-for-somalia
#Ethiopia: Echoes of Tigray: Stories of #Tigrayan children struggling for survival on the streets of Addis
Meet Wegen Desta and Bri Yisfaw, two courageous boys from Tigray who now work as street vendors in Ethiopia's capital city, Addis Ababa. Despite their young age of 9 and 7 years old respectively, Wegen and Bri wake before dawn each morning to traverse up to 10 kilometers selling small items to support their financially strained families.
After fleeing violence in Tigray, these displaced youths now confront adversity in Addis Ababa. By hawking goods for long hours, they strive to aid parents similarly grappling with loss of livelihoods back home.
To learn more about the journeys of Wegen, Bri and other youths exhibiting inspirational perseverance and determination amidst hardship, please follow the link:
https://addisstandard.com/echoes-of-tigray-stories-of-tigrayan-children-struggling-for-survival-on-the-streets-of-addis/?amp=1
Meet Wegen Desta and Bri Yisfaw, two courageous boys from Tigray who now work as street vendors in Ethiopia's capital city, Addis Ababa. Despite their young age of 9 and 7 years old respectively, Wegen and Bri wake before dawn each morning to traverse up to 10 kilometers selling small items to support their financially strained families.
After fleeing violence in Tigray, these displaced youths now confront adversity in Addis Ababa. By hawking goods for long hours, they strive to aid parents similarly grappling with loss of livelihoods back home.
To learn more about the journeys of Wegen, Bri and other youths exhibiting inspirational perseverance and determination amidst hardship, please follow the link:
https://addisstandard.com/echoes-of-tigray-stories-of-tigrayan-children-struggling-for-survival-on-the-streets-of-addis/?amp=1
#Ethiopia to lead Eurobond Investor talks today after missed payment
Officials from Ethiopia's Ministry of Finance will lead a global investor call today to discuss proposals for revising the country's outstanding eurobond terms. The call comes after Ethiopia missed a coupon payment deadline last week, placing it at risk of default.
During the discussions, the government is expected to provide further details on its debt restructuring framework in an effort to restore sustainability and offer moderate upside from current distressed bond price levels. However, risks remain if negotiations extend in length or non-current securities face opportunity costs.
Ethiopia's eurobond price rose over 2% yesterday ahead of today's call, its largest single-day increase in almost a year, on cautious optimism around the debt overhaul plans. The nation had announced intentions for relief under the Common Framework in 2021 after public finances were strained by COVID-19 and conflict impacts.
https://www.bloomberg.com/news/articles/2023-12-12/ethiopian-eurobond-surges-as-investors-await-bondholder-call
Officials from Ethiopia's Ministry of Finance will lead a global investor call today to discuss proposals for revising the country's outstanding eurobond terms. The call comes after Ethiopia missed a coupon payment deadline last week, placing it at risk of default.
During the discussions, the government is expected to provide further details on its debt restructuring framework in an effort to restore sustainability and offer moderate upside from current distressed bond price levels. However, risks remain if negotiations extend in length or non-current securities face opportunity costs.
Ethiopia's eurobond price rose over 2% yesterday ahead of today's call, its largest single-day increase in almost a year, on cautious optimism around the debt overhaul plans. The nation had announced intentions for relief under the Common Framework in 2021 after public finances were strained by COVID-19 and conflict impacts.
https://www.bloomberg.com/news/articles/2023-12-12/ethiopian-eurobond-surges-as-investors-await-bondholder-call
Bloomberg.com
Ethiopian Eurobond Surges as Investors Await Bondholder Call
Ethiopia’s eurobond jumped the most in almost a year before officials hold an investor call later this week to discuss its proposals for restructuring the loan.
#Ethiopia: #Eritrean forces allegedly abduct 26 individuals in Gulomekeda, #Tigray region
Eritrean forces have reportedly abducted 26 individuals in #Gulomekeda, Eastern Tigray, over the past seven months. Haftom Baraki, the district head, exposed the dire situation in an interview with Addis Standard, disclosing that Eritrean soldiers maintain control over six kebeles, including #Addis_Tesfa, #Addis_Alem, and #Sebeya.
This occupation traces back to the conflict's onset in November 2020, creating an ongoing humanitarian crisis. Security challenges persist in Gulomekeda, hindering movement, while Eritrean forces compel residents to adhere strictly to directives.
#Fasti town, the administrative seat, serves as the sole source of information, with residents facing human rights violations, restricted movement, and a lack of basic services under Eritrean control.
The distress extends to #Irob in northeastern Tigray, where over 28 youths were reportedly abducted over ten months. Despite peace agreements, Eritrean forces remain in Irob, covering four kebeles against the Pretoria Peace Agreement.
https://addisstandard.com/news-eritrean-forces-allegedly-abduct-26-individuals-in-gulomekeda-tigray-region/
Eritrean forces have reportedly abducted 26 individuals in #Gulomekeda, Eastern Tigray, over the past seven months. Haftom Baraki, the district head, exposed the dire situation in an interview with Addis Standard, disclosing that Eritrean soldiers maintain control over six kebeles, including #Addis_Tesfa, #Addis_Alem, and #Sebeya.
This occupation traces back to the conflict's onset in November 2020, creating an ongoing humanitarian crisis. Security challenges persist in Gulomekeda, hindering movement, while Eritrean forces compel residents to adhere strictly to directives.
#Fasti town, the administrative seat, serves as the sole source of information, with residents facing human rights violations, restricted movement, and a lack of basic services under Eritrean control.
The distress extends to #Irob in northeastern Tigray, where over 28 youths were reportedly abducted over ten months. Despite peace agreements, Eritrean forces remain in Irob, covering four kebeles against the Pretoria Peace Agreement.
https://addisstandard.com/news-eritrean-forces-allegedly-abduct-26-individuals-in-gulomekeda-tigray-region/
Addis Standard
News: Eritrean forces allegedly abduct 26 individuals in Gulomekeda, Tigray region - Addis Standard
News: Eritrean forces allegedly abduct 26 individuals in Gulomekeda, Tigray region Addis Standard Politics -
#Ethiopia: IOM resumes voluntary return flights for Stranded Ethiopians in #Yemen
The International Organization for Migration (#IOM) has resumed its voluntary repatriation flight from Yemen to Ethiopia since September, transporting 118 stranded migrants and families on Monday. This resumption of flights provides critical assistance to thousands of Ethiopian nationals facing immense hardship in Yemen.
Prolonged conflict and insecurity in Yemen have left many cut off from basic services and support networks. One such individual is 29-year-old Hayat, who embarked on a perilous journey from Ethiopia three years ago seeking better opportunities. She moved to Sana'a six months ago with her children to seek help, explaining: "I have been waiting to finally reunite with my family."
This year alone, nearly 95,000 migrants have arrived in Yemen. IOM estimates that over 200,000 urgently require humanitarian assistance, exceeding available capacities. 'The international community must swiftly intervene to ensure migrants’ safety and well-being,' said IOM’s Acting Chief of Mission Matt Huber.
These flights are lifelines for migrants lacking safe return routes, left exposed to risks without safe passage home. Prior to recent interruptions, over 6,000 migrants safely returned this year through IOM’s program. Upon arrival, returnees receive essential post-arrival assistance.
https://www.iom.int/news/iom-resumes-voluntary-return-flights-stranded-ethiopian-migrants-yemen
The International Organization for Migration (#IOM) has resumed its voluntary repatriation flight from Yemen to Ethiopia since September, transporting 118 stranded migrants and families on Monday. This resumption of flights provides critical assistance to thousands of Ethiopian nationals facing immense hardship in Yemen.
Prolonged conflict and insecurity in Yemen have left many cut off from basic services and support networks. One such individual is 29-year-old Hayat, who embarked on a perilous journey from Ethiopia three years ago seeking better opportunities. She moved to Sana'a six months ago with her children to seek help, explaining: "I have been waiting to finally reunite with my family."
This year alone, nearly 95,000 migrants have arrived in Yemen. IOM estimates that over 200,000 urgently require humanitarian assistance, exceeding available capacities. 'The international community must swiftly intervene to ensure migrants’ safety and well-being,' said IOM’s Acting Chief of Mission Matt Huber.
These flights are lifelines for migrants lacking safe return routes, left exposed to risks without safe passage home. Prior to recent interruptions, over 6,000 migrants safely returned this year through IOM’s program. Upon arrival, returnees receive essential post-arrival assistance.
https://www.iom.int/news/iom-resumes-voluntary-return-flights-stranded-ethiopian-migrants-yemen
International Organization for Migration
IOM Resumes Voluntary Return Flights for Stranded Ethiopian Migrants in Yemen
Sana’a/Addis Ababa – On Monday (11/12), the International Organization for Migration (IOM) resumed its voluntary humanitarian return (VHR) flights from Yemen to Ethiopia, the first movement since September. The charter flight carrying 118 migrants, including…
Celebrations in #Somalia after $4.5bn debt relief
Somalia's government on Wednesday held celebrations in the capital, Mogadishu, after the IMF and the World Bank announced $4.5bn ($3.5bn) in debt relief for the country.
Prime Minister Hamza Abdi Barre says that the relief is "equivalent to relieving every Somali person of a debt of more than $300".
"This is a testament that our country and our people are financially viable, attracting foreign investment, and we are no longer debt-ridden,” he adds.
The organizations pardoned Somalia's debt under the Heavily Indebted Poor Countries (HIPC) program, which was created in 1996 to help poor countries facing an unmanageable debt burden.
The $4.5bn debt relief also includes pardons by other multilateral, bilateral and commercial creditors.
"Somalia’s external debt has fallen from 64% of GDP in 2018 to less than 6 percent of GDP by end 2023," the institutions said in a joint statement.
BBC Africa
Somalia's government on Wednesday held celebrations in the capital, Mogadishu, after the IMF and the World Bank announced $4.5bn ($3.5bn) in debt relief for the country.
Prime Minister Hamza Abdi Barre says that the relief is "equivalent to relieving every Somali person of a debt of more than $300".
"This is a testament that our country and our people are financially viable, attracting foreign investment, and we are no longer debt-ridden,” he adds.
The organizations pardoned Somalia's debt under the Heavily Indebted Poor Countries (HIPC) program, which was created in 1996 to help poor countries facing an unmanageable debt burden.
The $4.5bn debt relief also includes pardons by other multilateral, bilateral and commercial creditors.
"Somalia’s external debt has fallen from 64% of GDP in 2018 to less than 6 percent of GDP by end 2023," the institutions said in a joint statement.
BBC Africa
#Ethiopia-#Russia military cooperation gains momentum as parliament approves crucial intellectual property protection decree
The House of Peoples’ Representatives gave its nod today to the draft decree aimed at safeguarding intellectual property and assets arising from the bilateral military technical cooperation between Ethiopia and Russia. The approval follows a detailed discussion of the report and resolution presented by the Standing Committee on Foreign Relations and Peace.
This approval comes two years after the signing of the military cooperation agreement between the two nations in July 2021. The primary focus of the accord revolves around elevating the capabilities of the Ethiopian National Defense Force (#ENDF) across knowledge, skill, and technology domains.
Dima Nego, Chairman of the Foreign Relations and Peace Standing Committee, emphasized during the parliamentary session that the approved bill opens avenues for Ethiopia to procure weapons from Russia.
The House of Peoples’ Representatives gave its nod today to the draft decree aimed at safeguarding intellectual property and assets arising from the bilateral military technical cooperation between Ethiopia and Russia. The approval follows a detailed discussion of the report and resolution presented by the Standing Committee on Foreign Relations and Peace.
This approval comes two years after the signing of the military cooperation agreement between the two nations in July 2021. The primary focus of the accord revolves around elevating the capabilities of the Ethiopian National Defense Force (#ENDF) across knowledge, skill, and technology domains.
Dima Nego, Chairman of the Foreign Relations and Peace Standing Committee, emphasized during the parliamentary session that the approved bill opens avenues for Ethiopia to procure weapons from Russia.
#Fitch downgrades #Ethiopia further into junk territory as default looms
Ethiopia's credit rating was downgraded further into junk territory on Thursday by the Fitch Ratings agency, which cited an "increased likelihood" of default.
The east African country failed to pay a coupon on its single outstanding $1 billion Eurobond which had been due on Dec. 11, saying last week it could not make the payment.
Fitch cut Ethiopia's rating to "C" from the "CC" it downgraded Africa's second most populous country to last month.
The agency does not assign outlooks to sovereigns rated "CCC+" or below but said it would downgrade Ethiopia to "RD", or restricted default, if it did not pay the coupon within a 14-day grace period. https://www.reuters.com/world/africa/fitch-downgrades-ethiopia-further-into-junk-territory-default-looms-2023-12-14/
Ethiopia's credit rating was downgraded further into junk territory on Thursday by the Fitch Ratings agency, which cited an "increased likelihood" of default.
The east African country failed to pay a coupon on its single outstanding $1 billion Eurobond which had been due on Dec. 11, saying last week it could not make the payment.
Fitch cut Ethiopia's rating to "C" from the "CC" it downgraded Africa's second most populous country to last month.
The agency does not assign outlooks to sovereigns rated "CCC+" or below but said it would downgrade Ethiopia to "RD", or restricted default, if it did not pay the coupon within a 14-day grace period. https://www.reuters.com/world/africa/fitch-downgrades-ethiopia-further-into-junk-territory-default-looms-2023-12-14/
#Ethiopia: Parliament approves labor agreement with #Lebanon, but Rights concerns remain
The House of People's Representatives ratified a draft decree yesterday, focused on a bilateral labor agreement between Ethiopia and Lebanon for the deployment of Ethiopian workers. The decree passed by majority vote, though some dissenting voices were raised.
Negeri Lencho, presenting on behalf of the Standing Committee on Human Resource Development, Employment, and Technology Affairs, introduced the bill to establish a cooperative framework for recruiting and placing Ethiopian workers in Lebanon.
However, rights advocates have recently voiced reservations about the agreement's ability to protect Ethiopian migrant workers in Lebanon.
A recent article published in Addis Standard explored the challenges faced by Ethiopian migrant workers in Lebanon and other Gulf countries.
For further details, please refer to the full article accessible at this link.
http://addisstandard.com/in-depth-ethio
The House of People's Representatives ratified a draft decree yesterday, focused on a bilateral labor agreement between Ethiopia and Lebanon for the deployment of Ethiopian workers. The decree passed by majority vote, though some dissenting voices were raised.
Negeri Lencho, presenting on behalf of the Standing Committee on Human Resource Development, Employment, and Technology Affairs, introduced the bill to establish a cooperative framework for recruiting and placing Ethiopian workers in Lebanon.
However, rights advocates have recently voiced reservations about the agreement's ability to protect Ethiopian migrant workers in Lebanon.
A recent article published in Addis Standard explored the challenges faced by Ethiopian migrant workers in Lebanon and other Gulf countries.
For further details, please refer to the full article accessible at this link.
http://addisstandard.com/in-depth-ethio
#Ethiopia floats "loss reinstatement" provision in bond rework –sources
In an effort to swiftly renegotiate its $1 billion Eurobond, Ethiopia's government is in talks with bondholders, introducing a "loss reinstatement" provision for investors. Facing potential default after failing to pay a $33 million coupon on 11 December, Ethiopia's proposal mirrors recent ones but includes the added provision, compensating bondholders in case of another default affecting post-rework bonds.
Despite challenges such as high inflation and external debt, Ethiopia seeks bondholder support for debt relief that aligns with #China's demands for "comparability of treatment." The government argued that paying the coupon would complicate relations with other creditors.
As discussions unfold, Ethiopia emphasizes the importance of satisfying official creditors for comprehensive debt relief. The nation had earlier requested debt relief through the G20's Common Framework in 2021, with subsequent delays due to ongoing conflicts. Stay tuned for updates on this critical economic situation.
https://www.reuters.com/world/africa/ethiopia-floats-loss-reinstatement-provision-bond-rework-sources-2023-12-14/
In an effort to swiftly renegotiate its $1 billion Eurobond, Ethiopia's government is in talks with bondholders, introducing a "loss reinstatement" provision for investors. Facing potential default after failing to pay a $33 million coupon on 11 December, Ethiopia's proposal mirrors recent ones but includes the added provision, compensating bondholders in case of another default affecting post-rework bonds.
Despite challenges such as high inflation and external debt, Ethiopia seeks bondholder support for debt relief that aligns with #China's demands for "comparability of treatment." The government argued that paying the coupon would complicate relations with other creditors.
As discussions unfold, Ethiopia emphasizes the importance of satisfying official creditors for comprehensive debt relief. The nation had earlier requested debt relief through the G20's Common Framework in 2021, with subsequent delays due to ongoing conflicts. Stay tuned for updates on this critical economic situation.
https://www.reuters.com/world/africa/ethiopia-floats-loss-reinstatement-provision-bond-rework-sources-2023-12-14/
Reuters
Ethiopia floats "loss reinstatement" provision in bond rework -sources
Ethiopia's government told bondholders on Thursday it was hoping to negotiate a rework of its single international bond quickly and was set to include a form of "loss reinstatement" provision for investors, three sources attending the call told Reuters.
#Ethiopia: Tragic ambush by armed men claims 13 lives in Horo Guduru Wollega, #Oromia region
On December 12, 2023, a heart-wrenching incident unfolded in the #Horo_Guduru_Wollega Zone of Oromia by individuals identified as “members of the non-state militia, #Fano,” resulting in the loss of at least 13 lives and several injuries.
Reports indicate that the victims, including peasants, entrepreneurs, and farmers, were traveling from #Korkobe in the #Amuru district to the #Bure district in the #Amhara region for crop harvesting.
According to a local teacher, speaking anonymously, the victims fell prey to the militants during their journey. The assailants targeted a truck owned by Nuguse Banja, leading to the tragic deaths.
https://addisstandard.com/news-tragic-ambush-by-armed-men-claims-13-lives-in-horo-guduru-wollega-oromia-region/
On December 12, 2023, a heart-wrenching incident unfolded in the #Horo_Guduru_Wollega Zone of Oromia by individuals identified as “members of the non-state militia, #Fano,” resulting in the loss of at least 13 lives and several injuries.
Reports indicate that the victims, including peasants, entrepreneurs, and farmers, were traveling from #Korkobe in the #Amuru district to the #Bure district in the #Amhara region for crop harvesting.
According to a local teacher, speaking anonymously, the victims fell prey to the militants during their journey. The assailants targeted a truck owned by Nuguse Banja, leading to the tragic deaths.
https://addisstandard.com/news-tragic-ambush-by-armed-men-claims-13-lives-in-horo-guduru-wollega-oromia-region/
Addis Standard
News: Tragic ambush by armed men claims 13 lives in Horo Guduru Wollega, Oromia region - Addis Standard
News: Tragic ambush by armed men claims 13 lives in Horo Guduru Wollega, Oromia region Addis Standard Politics -
#Sudan seizes major arms shipments intended for Rapid Support Forces
Sudan's military intelligence recently intercepted two large shipments of arms that were intended to bolster the capabilities of the Rapid Support Forces (#RSF) paramilitary group. Acting on intelligence, security forces ambushed smugglers transporting over 190 automatic rifles across the #Ethiopian border via the Upper Atbara and Setit dam complex.
The first shipment contained 85 guns captured in Gedaref State's Sedira region. The second larger shipment of over 100 firearms was apprehended after a firefight with traffickers near Jabal Al-Dhara. Sources suggest the illicit arms pipeline received backing from an unnamed Arab nation seeking to expand RSF capabilities.
The weapons seizures come amid escalating tensions between the RSF and official Sudanese security forces over RSF military operations.
https://sudantribune.com/article280311/
Sudan's military intelligence recently intercepted two large shipments of arms that were intended to bolster the capabilities of the Rapid Support Forces (#RSF) paramilitary group. Acting on intelligence, security forces ambushed smugglers transporting over 190 automatic rifles across the #Ethiopian border via the Upper Atbara and Setit dam complex.
The first shipment contained 85 guns captured in Gedaref State's Sedira region. The second larger shipment of over 100 firearms was apprehended after a firefight with traffickers near Jabal Al-Dhara. Sources suggest the illicit arms pipeline received backing from an unnamed Arab nation seeking to expand RSF capabilities.
The weapons seizures come amid escalating tensions between the RSF and official Sudanese security forces over RSF military operations.
https://sudantribune.com/article280311/