#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/
Op-Ed: #Somaliland’s resilience deserves international recognition
In an op-ed, Shukri Haji Ismael, Minister of Environmental and Climate Change for Somaliland, highlights the nation's substantial progress since 1991, alongside escalating environmental challenges that now pose existential risks to its development gains. The piece emphasizes the adverse impact of recurrent droughts and extreme weather on agrarian communities dependent on natural resources.
While ambitious sustainability policies and initiatives are in progress to align with international frameworks such as the #UN Sustainable Development Goals, the author asserts that current resource constraints hinder adequate adaptation responses.
The op-ed welcomes transformative partnerships, citing DP World's investment in port infrastructure as a model for collaborative solutions. It underscores Somaliland's commendable perseverance in advancing national priorities despite limitations. Accordingly, the official appeals for elevated global solidarity and engagement to support ongoing climate resilience efforts.
https://addisstandard.com/op-ed-somalilands-resilience-deserves-international-recognition/?amp=1
In an op-ed, Shukri Haji Ismael, Minister of Environmental and Climate Change for Somaliland, highlights the nation's substantial progress since 1991, alongside escalating environmental challenges that now pose existential risks to its development gains. The piece emphasizes the adverse impact of recurrent droughts and extreme weather on agrarian communities dependent on natural resources.
While ambitious sustainability policies and initiatives are in progress to align with international frameworks such as the #UN Sustainable Development Goals, the author asserts that current resource constraints hinder adequate adaptation responses.
The op-ed welcomes transformative partnerships, citing DP World's investment in port infrastructure as a model for collaborative solutions. It underscores Somaliland's commendable perseverance in advancing national priorities despite limitations. Accordingly, the official appeals for elevated global solidarity and engagement to support ongoing climate resilience efforts.
https://addisstandard.com/op-ed-somalilands-resilience-deserves-international-recognition/?amp=1
Addis Standard
Op-ed: Somaliland's resilience deserves international recognition - Addis Standard
During a parade in Hargeisa to celebrate Somaliland’s self-declared independence (Photo:Reuters) By Shukri H. Ismail Mohamoud Addis Abeba – In a world brimming with headlines of conflict and chaos, one often overlooked success story is Somaliland, which has…
#Ethiopia: Gov’t proposes mitigants to compensate holders of its $1 billion Eurobond
The Ethiopian Ministry of Finance has signaled willingness to engage bondholders on potential debt relief measures for the $1 billion Eurobond maturing in 2024. Proposed solutions reportedly include reinstating losses within two years should terms require renegotiation, restoring investors to their prior position
#Addis_Abeba emphasizes the importance of equitable and consistent treatment by pursuing comparable agreements across all external creditors, such as Eurobond holders. Suspending the December coupon payment ensured uniform approach during negotiations, according to the ministry.
Bondholders can provide feedback on outlined parameters balancing stakeholder interests while minimizing revisiting agreements. This addresses concerns over fair treatment and debt sustainability standards. The goal, according to the government, is minimal concessions from bondholders as Ethiopia works with lenders.
https://addisstandard.com/news-govt-proposes-mitigants-to-compensate-holders-of-its-1-billion-eurobond/?amp=1
The Ethiopian Ministry of Finance has signaled willingness to engage bondholders on potential debt relief measures for the $1 billion Eurobond maturing in 2024. Proposed solutions reportedly include reinstating losses within two years should terms require renegotiation, restoring investors to their prior position
#Addis_Abeba emphasizes the importance of equitable and consistent treatment by pursuing comparable agreements across all external creditors, such as Eurobond holders. Suspending the December coupon payment ensured uniform approach during negotiations, according to the ministry.
Bondholders can provide feedback on outlined parameters balancing stakeholder interests while minimizing revisiting agreements. This addresses concerns over fair treatment and debt sustainability standards. The goal, according to the government, is minimal concessions from bondholders as Ethiopia works with lenders.
https://addisstandard.com/news-govt-proposes-mitigants-to-compensate-holders-of-its-1-billion-eurobond/?amp=1
Addis Standard
News: Gov’t proposes mitigants to compensate holders of its $1 billion Eurobond - Addis Standard
On 14 December, 2023, State Minister of Finance Eyob Tekalign led the one-hour session with Ethiopia’s bondholders (Photo: Ministry of Finance/Facebook) Addis Abeba – The Ethiopian government conveyed its readiness to discuss possible mitigants with its bondholders…
#Ethiopia: Family raises concern over ex-state minister’s detention without charge, denial of access to family and lawyers
The family of Taye Dendea, recently removed Deputy Minister of Peace, has expressed frustration with his ongoing detention without appearing in court and denial of access to his family and legal counsel. Taye was removed from office on December 11th and arrested the following day on allegations of terrorism links during his tenure.
According to Taye’s wife Sintayehu, brief supervised visits show Taye in detention but allow no communication. Lawyers have also been denied meaningful access. After Taye's arrest, his family was given three days to vacate provided housing, now seeking refuge with few belongings after their remaining property was looted.
The traumatic chain of events has taken a major emotional toll on Taye’s two children now withdrawn from school over severe distress from their father’s absence and the family’s uncertain future. “They constantly ask about their father,” notes Sintayehu.
While officials claim pre-arrest findings showed Taye’s terrorism role while serving, Sintayehu remains hopeful authorities will judiciously grant Taye a fair legal review of accusations and evidence to bring clarity and closure.
https://addisstandard.com/news-family-raises-concern-over-ex-state-ministers-detention-without-charge-denial-of-access-to-family-and-lawyers/?amp=1
The family of Taye Dendea, recently removed Deputy Minister of Peace, has expressed frustration with his ongoing detention without appearing in court and denial of access to his family and legal counsel. Taye was removed from office on December 11th and arrested the following day on allegations of terrorism links during his tenure.
According to Taye’s wife Sintayehu, brief supervised visits show Taye in detention but allow no communication. Lawyers have also been denied meaningful access. After Taye's arrest, his family was given three days to vacate provided housing, now seeking refuge with few belongings after their remaining property was looted.
The traumatic chain of events has taken a major emotional toll on Taye’s two children now withdrawn from school over severe distress from their father’s absence and the family’s uncertain future. “They constantly ask about their father,” notes Sintayehu.
While officials claim pre-arrest findings showed Taye’s terrorism role while serving, Sintayehu remains hopeful authorities will judiciously grant Taye a fair legal review of accusations and evidence to bring clarity and closure.
https://addisstandard.com/news-family-raises-concern-over-ex-state-ministers-detention-without-charge-denial-of-access-to-family-and-lawyers/?amp=1
Addis Standard
News: Family raises concern over ex-state minister’s detention without charge, denial of access to family and lawyers - Addis Standard
News: Family raises concern over ex-state minister’s detention without charge, denial of access to family and lawyers Addis Standard Politics -
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#Ethiopia: Dive into the discourse on economic development in Africa with renowned economist Professor Jeffrey Sachs!
In an enlightening public lecture hosted by the Office of the Prime Minister, Professor Jeffrey Sachs delves into the promising landscape of economic development across #Africa.
With a focus on key pillars such as quality education, robust infrastructure, prudent long-term loans, and the imperative of steering clear of conflicts, Professor Sachs shares valuable insights.
“To avoid wars and calamities critical for economic development,” he said.
Don't miss out—watch now!
In an enlightening public lecture hosted by the Office of the Prime Minister, Professor Jeffrey Sachs delves into the promising landscape of economic development across #Africa.
With a focus on key pillars such as quality education, robust infrastructure, prudent long-term loans, and the imperative of steering clear of conflicts, Professor Sachs shares valuable insights.
“To avoid wars and calamities critical for economic development,” he said.
Don't miss out—watch now!
#Ethiopia: 344 exporters meet new criteria for legal #Khat operations
Following the December 10 deadline for the registration of Khat exporters, the Ministry of Trade and Regional Integration has announced that 344 exporters, who have successfully completed a new and rigorous registration process, are now qualified to operate legally.
Recently, officials from the ministry, including Minister Gebremeskel Chala and State Minister Kassahun Gofe, convened a meeting in Dire Dawa with exporters who meet the newly established Khat export eligibility criteria.
During the discussion, Gebremeskel addressed the prevalent issues of illegality and smuggling within the sector. He underscored the government's commitment to addressing these challenges with a focus on enhancing Ethiopia's foreign exchange earnings derived from the cash crop.
Read more at: https://twitter.com/addisstandard/status/1735898595201622492
Following the December 10 deadline for the registration of Khat exporters, the Ministry of Trade and Regional Integration has announced that 344 exporters, who have successfully completed a new and rigorous registration process, are now qualified to operate legally.
Recently, officials from the ministry, including Minister Gebremeskel Chala and State Minister Kassahun Gofe, convened a meeting in Dire Dawa with exporters who meet the newly established Khat export eligibility criteria.
During the discussion, Gebremeskel addressed the prevalent issues of illegality and smuggling within the sector. He underscored the government's commitment to addressing these challenges with a focus on enhancing Ethiopia's foreign exchange earnings derived from the cash crop.
Read more at: https://twitter.com/addisstandard/status/1735898595201622492
Long Island Republicans Tap #Ethiopian-Born Mazi Melesa Pilip for NY House Seat Amidst #Israel-#Hamas Tensions
In a bold move, Long Island Republicans have selected Mazi Melesa Pilip, a 44-year-old Ethiopian-born legislator, to run for the vacant #New_York House seat. Pilip, a mother of seven, served as a paratrooper in the Israel Defense Forces and has a compelling biography, vowing to combat antisemitism.
While lacking traditional political credentials, Republicans believe Pilip's diverse background and advocacy for Israel make her a potential breakout star, especially amid the ongoing Israel-Hamas conflict. The special election is set for 13 February, with analysts labeling it a tossup.
Pilip's nomination contrasts with her Democratic opponent, Tom Suozzi, a former congressman with a lengthy political history. Notably, both candidates are registered Democrats. Pilip's relative anonymity prompts questions, but Republicans emphasize her unique life story and commitment to service.
The race unfolds against the backdrop of national issues, with Pilip criticizing President Biden's policies on immigration and foreign affairs. Republicans endorse Pilip, highlighting her life of service, while Democrats label her a "MAGA extremist."
https://www.nytimes.com/2023/12/14/nyregion/pilip-santos-special-election.html
In a bold move, Long Island Republicans have selected Mazi Melesa Pilip, a 44-year-old Ethiopian-born legislator, to run for the vacant #New_York House seat. Pilip, a mother of seven, served as a paratrooper in the Israel Defense Forces and has a compelling biography, vowing to combat antisemitism.
While lacking traditional political credentials, Republicans believe Pilip's diverse background and advocacy for Israel make her a potential breakout star, especially amid the ongoing Israel-Hamas conflict. The special election is set for 13 February, with analysts labeling it a tossup.
Pilip's nomination contrasts with her Democratic opponent, Tom Suozzi, a former congressman with a lengthy political history. Notably, both candidates are registered Democrats. Pilip's relative anonymity prompts questions, but Republicans emphasize her unique life story and commitment to service.
The race unfolds against the backdrop of national issues, with Pilip criticizing President Biden's policies on immigration and foreign affairs. Republicans endorse Pilip, highlighting her life of service, while Democrats label her a "MAGA extremist."
https://www.nytimes.com/2023/12/14/nyregion/pilip-santos-special-election.html
NY Times
Republicans Tap Israeli Military Veteran to Run for Santos’s Seat
Party leaders believe Mazi Melesa Pilip has the potential to be a breakout star. But she has little political experience and her policy views are largely unknown.