#Ethiopia: Over 20 million in need amid converging climate and conflict shocks in Ethiopia
Over 20 million people currently require humanitarian assistance in Ethiopia, including 4.5 million internally displaced, according to figures from the UN Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (#OCHA). Extreme weather events have exacerbated needs among conflict-stricken communities grappling with prior drought, crop failure, malnutrition and disease.
Recent floods and mudslides have affected 1.5 million people over the past months, displacing over 630 thousand individuals. The UN warns this is the worst flooding witnessed in recent years, impacting vulnerable groups in 7 regions, with the #Somali region hardest hit, accounting for 80% of those affected. Livelihoods lie shattered alongside growing health and safety risks.
Read more at: https://x.com/addisstandard/status/1737712168139628964?s=20
Over 20 million people currently require humanitarian assistance in Ethiopia, including 4.5 million internally displaced, according to figures from the UN Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (#OCHA). Extreme weather events have exacerbated needs among conflict-stricken communities grappling with prior drought, crop failure, malnutrition and disease.
Recent floods and mudslides have affected 1.5 million people over the past months, displacing over 630 thousand individuals. The UN warns this is the worst flooding witnessed in recent years, impacting vulnerable groups in 7 regions, with the #Somali region hardest hit, accounting for 80% of those affected. Livelihoods lie shattered alongside growing health and safety risks.
Read more at: https://x.com/addisstandard/status/1737712168139628964?s=20
#Ethiopia: Safaricom's Ethiopia Struggles Dent Investor Confidence in Telecom Sector
Foreign investor interest in Ethiopia's telecom sector is waning, with Safaricom, the first private license recipient, facing regulatory hurdles and inconsistent policies. The company's struggle with customs delays and a lack of anticipated tax incentives has stirred doubts about the government's commitment to opening up the market, currently dominated by state-owned Ethio Telecom.
In its initial two years, Safaricom swiftly grew its customer base to 7 million users since launching in October 2022. However, challenges in equipment importation and customs clearance have led to early financial losses. Despite setbacks, analysts believe Safaricom's performance aligns with market expectations.
The suspension of the third telecom license bidding, driven by investor concerns over offered terms, raises questions about Ethiopia's competitive landscape. While Ethio Telecom prospers, discussions about potential state protectionism emerge. Ethiopian officials, however, attribute the delay in license issuance to the country's broader economic challenges, maintaining that investor interest will persist despite these temporary obstacles.
https://www.reuters.com/business/media-telecom/safaricoms-ethiopia-struggle-deters-potential-telecoms-investors-2023-12-19/
Foreign investor interest in Ethiopia's telecom sector is waning, with Safaricom, the first private license recipient, facing regulatory hurdles and inconsistent policies. The company's struggle with customs delays and a lack of anticipated tax incentives has stirred doubts about the government's commitment to opening up the market, currently dominated by state-owned Ethio Telecom.
In its initial two years, Safaricom swiftly grew its customer base to 7 million users since launching in October 2022. However, challenges in equipment importation and customs clearance have led to early financial losses. Despite setbacks, analysts believe Safaricom's performance aligns with market expectations.
The suspension of the third telecom license bidding, driven by investor concerns over offered terms, raises questions about Ethiopia's competitive landscape. While Ethio Telecom prospers, discussions about potential state protectionism emerge. Ethiopian officials, however, attribute the delay in license issuance to the country's broader economic challenges, maintaining that investor interest will persist despite these temporary obstacles.
https://www.reuters.com/business/media-telecom/safaricoms-ethiopia-struggle-deters-potential-telecoms-investors-2023-12-19/
Reuters
Safaricom's Ethiopia struggle deters potential telecoms investors
Foreign investor interest in Ethiopia's telecoms sector is cooling, sector experts and those with knowledge of the licencing process say, pointing to a bumpy first two years operating in the country for Safaricom, the only company so far granted a licence…
#Ethiopia: City admin gears up for large-scale workforce evaluation
Over 14,000 employees of the #Addis_Abeba city administration are slated to undergo an evaluative assessment examination on Friday, 22 December, 2023. This examination is intended to serve as the basis for a forthcoming reshuffling initiative that the city administration intends to enact.
The BBC reports that in the initial phase, 16 city administration institutions have been selected for the implementation of this reshuffling program.
Among these institutions are the Addis Abeba City Land Development and Management Bureau, Housing Development and Management Bureau, Transport Bureau, Public Service and Human Resource Development Bureau, Planning and Development Bureau, Employment and Skills Bureau, and Industrial Development Bureau.
Read more at: https://twitter.com/addisstandard/status/1737763545876463905
Over 14,000 employees of the #Addis_Abeba city administration are slated to undergo an evaluative assessment examination on Friday, 22 December, 2023. This examination is intended to serve as the basis for a forthcoming reshuffling initiative that the city administration intends to enact.
The BBC reports that in the initial phase, 16 city administration institutions have been selected for the implementation of this reshuffling program.
Among these institutions are the Addis Abeba City Land Development and Management Bureau, Housing Development and Management Bureau, Transport Bureau, Public Service and Human Resource Development Bureau, Planning and Development Bureau, Employment and Skills Bureau, and Industrial Development Bureau.
Read more at: https://twitter.com/addisstandard/status/1737763545876463905
#EU pledges to join #US-led #Red_Sea patrol effort
The European Union said yesterday that member countries will contribute to the U.S.-led Operation Prosperity Guardian aimed at protecting commercial shipping in the Red Sea from attacks by Iran-backed #Houthi rebels from #Yemen.
"Irresponsible Houthi actions are a threat to freedom of navigation in the Red Sea," tweeted Josep Borrell, the EU's foreign policy chief, after an emergency meeting of the bloc's Political and Security Committee.
The EU's endorsement will make it easier for countries to join the American effort.
The #UK has joined, while Italy is sending a warship. #France, which has a destroyer in the area, said on Tuesday it was interested but had not yet committed to joining the operation.
Other countries were waiting for the EU to move. The bloc is already running the Atalanta anti-piracy mission off the coast of #Somalia, which is led by Spain and has included vessels from countries like Germany, the Netherlands, Sweden and Italy. https://www.politico.eu/article/eu-pledges-to-join-us-led-red-sea-patrol-effort/
The European Union said yesterday that member countries will contribute to the U.S.-led Operation Prosperity Guardian aimed at protecting commercial shipping in the Red Sea from attacks by Iran-backed #Houthi rebels from #Yemen.
"Irresponsible Houthi actions are a threat to freedom of navigation in the Red Sea," tweeted Josep Borrell, the EU's foreign policy chief, after an emergency meeting of the bloc's Political and Security Committee.
The EU's endorsement will make it easier for countries to join the American effort.
The #UK has joined, while Italy is sending a warship. #France, which has a destroyer in the area, said on Tuesday it was interested but had not yet committed to joining the operation.
Other countries were waiting for the EU to move. The bloc is already running the Atalanta anti-piracy mission off the coast of #Somalia, which is led by Spain and has included vessels from countries like Germany, the Netherlands, Sweden and Italy. https://www.politico.eu/article/eu-pledges-to-join-us-led-red-sea-patrol-effort/
POLITICO
EU pledges to join US-led Red Sea patrol effort
The EU’s endorsement will make it easier for countries to commit to the operation.
#Ethiopia: “Those who are pressuring Israel for a ceasefire are asking for #Hamas to win” – #Israel diplomat
The Israel-#Gaza conflict has captivated global attention since Hamas launched an unprecedented attack on Israel on 07 October, 2023, resulting in 1,200 deaths and the capture of 240 hostages, some of whom have since been released. The Hamas-run health ministry in Gaza reports that, as of 21 October, 2021, over 20,000 Palestinians, including more than 7,000 children, have been killed by Israeli actions.
Israel faces accusations of "indiscriminate bombing" and utilizing "starvation as a weapon" in Gaza. In an exclusive interview with Addis Standard, Ambassador Aleligne Admasu, Israel's Ambassador to Ethiopia, and Tomer Bar-Lavi, the Deputy Chief of Mission, stated that “international law recognizes Israel's right to self-defense.” Emphasizing that Israel remains committed to its principles, they strongly refute allegations of intentional destruction and indiscriminate harm to civilians.
Ambassador Aleligne detailed that the Israeli military has employed various strategies "to reduce civilian harm throughout the conflict." “These measures include broadcasting informational messages and distributing flyers to Gaza Strip residents.” Nonetheless, the Ambassador highlighted that “Hamas strategically employs educational institutions, places of worship, international organizations’ premises, and other sanctuaries to shield itself from Israeli military assaults.”
Bar-Lavi, articulating the guiding principles of military necessity, distinction, and proportionality in Israel's operations in Gaza, acknowledged the extreme difficulty in avoiding civilian casualties "when Hamas intentionally places women and children in harm's way as human shields."
"In any armed conflict, collateral damage is unfortunately inevitable," Bar-Lavi said.
https://addisstandard.com/the-interview-those-who-are-pressuring-israel-for-a-ceasefire-are-asking-for-hamas-to-win-israel-ambassador/
The Israel-#Gaza conflict has captivated global attention since Hamas launched an unprecedented attack on Israel on 07 October, 2023, resulting in 1,200 deaths and the capture of 240 hostages, some of whom have since been released. The Hamas-run health ministry in Gaza reports that, as of 21 October, 2021, over 20,000 Palestinians, including more than 7,000 children, have been killed by Israeli actions.
Israel faces accusations of "indiscriminate bombing" and utilizing "starvation as a weapon" in Gaza. In an exclusive interview with Addis Standard, Ambassador Aleligne Admasu, Israel's Ambassador to Ethiopia, and Tomer Bar-Lavi, the Deputy Chief of Mission, stated that “international law recognizes Israel's right to self-defense.” Emphasizing that Israel remains committed to its principles, they strongly refute allegations of intentional destruction and indiscriminate harm to civilians.
Ambassador Aleligne detailed that the Israeli military has employed various strategies "to reduce civilian harm throughout the conflict." “These measures include broadcasting informational messages and distributing flyers to Gaza Strip residents.” Nonetheless, the Ambassador highlighted that “Hamas strategically employs educational institutions, places of worship, international organizations’ premises, and other sanctuaries to shield itself from Israeli military assaults.”
Bar-Lavi, articulating the guiding principles of military necessity, distinction, and proportionality in Israel's operations in Gaza, acknowledged the extreme difficulty in avoiding civilian casualties "when Hamas intentionally places women and children in harm's way as human shields."
"In any armed conflict, collateral damage is unfortunately inevitable," Bar-Lavi said.
https://addisstandard.com/the-interview-those-who-are-pressuring-israel-for-a-ceasefire-are-asking-for-hamas-to-win-israel-ambassador/
Addis Standard
The Interview: “Those who are pressuring Israel for a ceasefire are asking for Hamas to win” - Israeli diplomat - Addis Standard
The Interview: “Those who are pressuring Israel for a ceasefire are asking for Hamas to win” - Israeli diplomat Addis Standard Politics -
‘Remove him’: #Sudan army chief al-Burhan faces calls to go after #RSF gains
The paramilitary Rapid Support Forces (RSF) has captured Sudan’s second-largest city, just a day after the army and its supporters prematurely celebrated repelling an attack.
As army soldiers retreated from #Wad_Madani – once a hub for hundreds of thousands of displaced people – they left civilians behind. The army has released a rare statement acknowledging that its troops withdrew too quickly and promising an investigation, yet their supporters are calling for accountability.
***
Since the RSF captured Wad Madani, many of the army’s supporters have taken to social media to call on generals to replace al-Burhan. The sentiment is widely shared among civilians who are terrified that the RSF could attack their towns and cities next.
The RSF tends to loot homes, markets and banks in every city it conquers, as well as subject women to sexual violence. https://www.aljazeera.com/news/2023/12/20/remove-him-sudan-army-chief-al-burhan-faces-calls-to-go-after-rsf-gains
The paramilitary Rapid Support Forces (RSF) has captured Sudan’s second-largest city, just a day after the army and its supporters prematurely celebrated repelling an attack.
As army soldiers retreated from #Wad_Madani – once a hub for hundreds of thousands of displaced people – they left civilians behind. The army has released a rare statement acknowledging that its troops withdrew too quickly and promising an investigation, yet their supporters are calling for accountability.
***
Since the RSF captured Wad Madani, many of the army’s supporters have taken to social media to call on generals to replace al-Burhan. The sentiment is widely shared among civilians who are terrified that the RSF could attack their towns and cities next.
The RSF tends to loot homes, markets and banks in every city it conquers, as well as subject women to sexual violence. https://www.aljazeera.com/news/2023/12/20/remove-him-sudan-army-chief-al-burhan-faces-calls-to-go-after-rsf-gains
Al Jazeera
‘Remove him’: Sudan’s army chief al-Burhan faces backlash after RSF gains
After losing another big city in Sudan’s civil war, the army faces growing pressure to remove army chief al-Burhan.
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#Ethiopia: Dam diplomacy deadlock
Ethiopia has recently stated that the trilateral negotiations with Egypt and Sudan concerning the Grand Ethiopian Renaissance Dam (#GERD) has failed, attributing the failure to Egypt "maintaining a colonial-era mentality" and "erecting roadblocks against efforts toward convergence."
The fourth and latest round of talks, concluded on 19 December, 2023, joins a series of unsuccessful attempts that began after an agreement was made by the leaders of Ethiopia and Egypt.
On 13 July, 2023, Ethiopian Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed and Egyptian President Abdel Fattah el-Sisi had committed to finalizing the rules and guidelines for the initial filling and annual operation of the GERD within a four-month period.
For more details on the agreement between the two leaders, watch the video.
Ethiopia has recently stated that the trilateral negotiations with Egypt and Sudan concerning the Grand Ethiopian Renaissance Dam (#GERD) has failed, attributing the failure to Egypt "maintaining a colonial-era mentality" and "erecting roadblocks against efforts toward convergence."
The fourth and latest round of talks, concluded on 19 December, 2023, joins a series of unsuccessful attempts that began after an agreement was made by the leaders of Ethiopia and Egypt.
On 13 July, 2023, Ethiopian Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed and Egyptian President Abdel Fattah el-Sisi had committed to finalizing the rules and guidelines for the initial filling and annual operation of the GERD within a four-month period.
For more details on the agreement between the two leaders, watch the video.
#Ethiopia: #Russian manufacturing titan sets sights on industrial park expansion
The #AGROGROUPINVEST, a consortium of 17 prominent Russian manufacturing enterprises with an investment capital exceeding 10 billion rubles, has declared its intention to channel funds into the development of industrial parks.
During a meeting at the Industrial Parks Development Corporation (#IPDC), the corporation's CEO, Aklilu Tadesse, lauded the investment group for its timely and judicious decision, outlining the investment opportunities curated by the IPDC, particularly within the agro-processing sector.
Katkov Denis, the Director of AGROGROUPINVEST, conveyed that the conglomerate is actively compiling pre-investment studies and gathering pertinent information. The dialogue also encompassed potential strategies for manufacturing companies within the industrial parks to tap into the expansive garment and textile market in Russia.
Read more at: https://twitter.com/addisstandard/status/1737821006247391518
The #AGROGROUPINVEST, a consortium of 17 prominent Russian manufacturing enterprises with an investment capital exceeding 10 billion rubles, has declared its intention to channel funds into the development of industrial parks.
During a meeting at the Industrial Parks Development Corporation (#IPDC), the corporation's CEO, Aklilu Tadesse, lauded the investment group for its timely and judicious decision, outlining the investment opportunities curated by the IPDC, particularly within the agro-processing sector.
Katkov Denis, the Director of AGROGROUPINVEST, conveyed that the conglomerate is actively compiling pre-investment studies and gathering pertinent information. The dialogue also encompassed potential strategies for manufacturing companies within the industrial parks to tap into the expansive garment and textile market in Russia.
Read more at: https://twitter.com/addisstandard/status/1737821006247391518
Op-ed: #Tigray’s strategic dilemma in midst of unraveling polycrisis in the Horn and #US policy shift toward #Eritrea: Scenarios for transitional admin.
#Ethiopia's multifaceted crisis has already threatened the integrity of the state. To make matters complicated for Tigray, at the moment, the sole thread connecting it to Ethiopia is the Pretoria Agreement that ended the war in Tigray. But it is an agreement opposed by #Amhara regional forces and the #Eritrean regime, resulting in former allies turning against the Government of Ethiopia.
Coupled with the impact of #America’s shift in policy towards Eritrea, Horn of Africa's tectonic shift in alliance presents a strategic policy dilemma for Tigray, especially if a war between Ethiopia and Eritrea were to break out, potentially leading to significant change in regional balance of -military, diplomatic and economic- power.
There is also the ongoing war in Amhara and Oromia regions by forces seeking radical changes in Ethiopia, and a looming famine threatening millions in Tigray.
This must read op-ed by Dr Mehari Taddele Maru navigates through these complexities and discusses the three transitional scenarios for Tigray. https://addisstandard.com/?p=40212
#Ethiopia's multifaceted crisis has already threatened the integrity of the state. To make matters complicated for Tigray, at the moment, the sole thread connecting it to Ethiopia is the Pretoria Agreement that ended the war in Tigray. But it is an agreement opposed by #Amhara regional forces and the #Eritrean regime, resulting in former allies turning against the Government of Ethiopia.
Coupled with the impact of #America’s shift in policy towards Eritrea, Horn of Africa's tectonic shift in alliance presents a strategic policy dilemma for Tigray, especially if a war between Ethiopia and Eritrea were to break out, potentially leading to significant change in regional balance of -military, diplomatic and economic- power.
There is also the ongoing war in Amhara and Oromia regions by forces seeking radical changes in Ethiopia, and a looming famine threatening millions in Tigray.
This must read op-ed by Dr Mehari Taddele Maru navigates through these complexities and discusses the three transitional scenarios for Tigray. https://addisstandard.com/?p=40212
Addis Standard
Op-ed: Tigray's strategic dilemma in midst of unraveling polycrisis in the Horn and US policy shift toward Eritrea: Scenarios for…
Op-ed: Tigray's strategic dilemma in midst of unraveling polycrisis in the Horn and US policy shift toward Eritrea: Scenarios for transitional admin. Addis Standard Ethiopia -
#Ethiopia: Ethio Telecom unveils platforms for digital share trading, inclusive finance
#Ethio_Telecom has unveiled a digital share sell/buy platform designed to enable licensed business entities to streamline their share transaction processes through digitization, enhancing efficiency and reducing costs. This innovative solution is integrated with the #Telebirr digital payment system.
Ethio Telecom has also launched a digital financial marketplace. This initiative seeks to bolster the financial sector by providing banks, microfinance entities, and insurance companies with a mechanism to deliver accessible and inclusive financial services.
The company's statement elaborated that the digital financial marketplace, accessible via Telebirr, constitutes a digital ecosystem where financial institutions can extend economical microfinance services to their clientele. These services encompass credit, savings, and insurance.
Road more at: https://twitter.com/addisstandard/status/1738073313618846017
#Ethio_Telecom has unveiled a digital share sell/buy platform designed to enable licensed business entities to streamline their share transaction processes through digitization, enhancing efficiency and reducing costs. This innovative solution is integrated with the #Telebirr digital payment system.
Ethio Telecom has also launched a digital financial marketplace. This initiative seeks to bolster the financial sector by providing banks, microfinance entities, and insurance companies with a mechanism to deliver accessible and inclusive financial services.
The company's statement elaborated that the digital financial marketplace, accessible via Telebirr, constitutes a digital ecosystem where financial institutions can extend economical microfinance services to their clientele. These services encompass credit, savings, and insurance.
Road more at: https://twitter.com/addisstandard/status/1738073313618846017
#Ethiopia: Ministry cracks down on 790 illegal brokers to curb inflation, stabilize market
The Ministry of Trade and Regional Cooperation has taken decisive administrative measures against 790 brokers operating unlawfully, who have been identified as contributing to market disruptions and exacerbating inflation over the past five months.
The ministry has disclosed that the distortion of the marketing chain, the undue influence of brokers, and unnecessary trade checkpoints have been significant factors driving price inflation. In response, the ministry has revoked the licenses of those brokers engaged in the marketing of essential goods such as agricultural products, vegetables, fruits, livestock, and crops, effectively barring them from trade practices.
In a concerted effort to mitigate price volatility, the ministry has underscored its commitment to market stabilization.
Read more at: https://twitter.com/addisstandard/status/1738094889265447141
The Ministry of Trade and Regional Cooperation has taken decisive administrative measures against 790 brokers operating unlawfully, who have been identified as contributing to market disruptions and exacerbating inflation over the past five months.
The ministry has disclosed that the distortion of the marketing chain, the undue influence of brokers, and unnecessary trade checkpoints have been significant factors driving price inflation. In response, the ministry has revoked the licenses of those brokers engaged in the marketing of essential goods such as agricultural products, vegetables, fruits, livestock, and crops, effectively barring them from trade practices.
In a concerted effort to mitigate price volatility, the ministry has underscored its commitment to market stabilization.
Read more at: https://twitter.com/addisstandard/status/1738094889265447141
#Somalia - Key #al_Shabaab terror group leader killed in #US airstrike in Somalia: Gov't
Maalim Ayman, a key leader of al-Shabaab terror group, was killed earlier this week in an airstrike by the US African Command in Somalia, the government said Thursday.
Information Minister Daud Aweis wrote on X that Ayman was killed Dec, 17 in an operation by the Somali national army with assistance from US forces.
“Ayman was accountable for planning multiple lethal terrorist attacks in Somalia and nearby countries,” said Aweis.
The US Department of State’s Rewards for Justice (RFJ) program offered a reward of up to $10 million for information leading to the arrest or conviction in any country of Ayman earlier this year.
Ayman was the mastermind of the Jan. 5, 2020, terror attack on US and Kenyan personnel at the Manda Bay Airfield in Kenya’s coastal region of Lamu.
The US said Ayman is the leader of Jaysh Ayman, an al-Shabaab unit conducting terror attacks and operations in Kenya and Somalia. https://www.aa.com.tr/en/africa/key-al-shabaab-terror-group-leader-killed-in-us-airstrike-in-somalia-government/3089499
Maalim Ayman, a key leader of al-Shabaab terror group, was killed earlier this week in an airstrike by the US African Command in Somalia, the government said Thursday.
Information Minister Daud Aweis wrote on X that Ayman was killed Dec, 17 in an operation by the Somali national army with assistance from US forces.
“Ayman was accountable for planning multiple lethal terrorist attacks in Somalia and nearby countries,” said Aweis.
The US Department of State’s Rewards for Justice (RFJ) program offered a reward of up to $10 million for information leading to the arrest or conviction in any country of Ayman earlier this year.
Ayman was the mastermind of the Jan. 5, 2020, terror attack on US and Kenyan personnel at the Manda Bay Airfield in Kenya’s coastal region of Lamu.
The US said Ayman is the leader of Jaysh Ayman, an al-Shabaab unit conducting terror attacks and operations in Kenya and Somalia. https://www.aa.com.tr/en/africa/key-al-shabaab-terror-group-leader-killed-in-us-airstrike-in-somalia-government/3089499
Anadolu Agency
Key al-Shabaab terror group leader killed in US airstrike in Somalia: Government
Maalim Ayman masterminded multiple terror attacks in Somalia, neighboring countries, says Somali government
#Ethiopia: Escalating military conflict in #Sudan threatens displaced Ethiopians
Ethiopian refugees from the #Tigray region are facing new threats in Sudan amidst military escalations. An anonymous refugee from Gedaref city shared with Addis Standard the community's fear as confrontations intensify between the Rapid Support Forces (#RSF) and the Sudanese military.
The situation has forced humanitarian organizations to evacuate, leaving refugees vulnerable.
The Tigray Association in Sudan is urgently calling for protection and aid, reporting that 15 Tigrayans have already died due to medical shortages. With the conflict in #Khartoum threatening to reach refugee camps, the association pleads for immediate charity assistance.
https://addisstandard.com/news-escalating-military-conflict-in-sudan-threatens-displaced-ethiopians/
Ethiopian refugees from the #Tigray region are facing new threats in Sudan amidst military escalations. An anonymous refugee from Gedaref city shared with Addis Standard the community's fear as confrontations intensify between the Rapid Support Forces (#RSF) and the Sudanese military.
The situation has forced humanitarian organizations to evacuate, leaving refugees vulnerable.
The Tigray Association in Sudan is urgently calling for protection and aid, reporting that 15 Tigrayans have already died due to medical shortages. With the conflict in #Khartoum threatening to reach refugee camps, the association pleads for immediate charity assistance.
https://addisstandard.com/news-escalating-military-conflict-in-sudan-threatens-displaced-ethiopians/
Addis Standard
News: Escalating military conflict in Sudan threatens displaced Ethiopians - Addis Standard
News: Escalating military conflict in Sudan threatens displaced Ethiopians Addis Standard News -
#Ethiopia harvests over a quarter of grain crop target
The Ministry of Agriculture has reported that approximately 27% of the targeted 513 million quintals of grain crops have been successfully harvested in the current meher season.
Girma Amente, the Minister of Agriculture, stated that the season's objective was to harvest crops from 17.5 million hectares of land, with 140 million quintals already reaped from 11.9 million hectares.
The ministry previously revealed that the harvest had been hampered by unusual rainfall patterns, an event referred to as the "Illinois Incident," which disrupted the typically predictable crop yields in certain regions. In Ethiopia, the meher crop harvest season traditionally commences in late November and can last until February, varying with the crop type and growth cycle.
The Ministry of Agriculture has reported that approximately 27% of the targeted 513 million quintals of grain crops have been successfully harvested in the current meher season.
Girma Amente, the Minister of Agriculture, stated that the season's objective was to harvest crops from 17.5 million hectares of land, with 140 million quintals already reaped from 11.9 million hectares.
The ministry previously revealed that the harvest had been hampered by unusual rainfall patterns, an event referred to as the "Illinois Incident," which disrupted the typically predictable crop yields in certain regions. In Ethiopia, the meher crop harvest season traditionally commences in late November and can last until February, varying with the crop type and growth cycle.
Sanitary pads changing the everyday lives of women in rural #Ethiopia
In rural Ethiopia, menstrual hygiene is a critical issue. Women like Yibidaya Ayano, who couldn't afford sanitary products, are receiving life-changing 'dignity kits' from People in Need Ethiopia. These kits provide essentials like pads and soap, allowing women to manage their periods with dignity.
Yibidaya, a mother of five, has faced hardships from drought and conflict, losing her livestock and struggling to provide for her family.
With support from #USAID, People in Need Ethiopia is supplying hygiene and sanitation aid to those in dire need. Yet, challenges remain as women still walk miles for water, risking safety.
https://www.peopleinneed.net/sanitary-pads-changing-the-everyday-lives-of-women-in-rural-ethiopia-10976gp
In rural Ethiopia, menstrual hygiene is a critical issue. Women like Yibidaya Ayano, who couldn't afford sanitary products, are receiving life-changing 'dignity kits' from People in Need Ethiopia. These kits provide essentials like pads and soap, allowing women to manage their periods with dignity.
Yibidaya, a mother of five, has faced hardships from drought and conflict, losing her livestock and struggling to provide for her family.
With support from #USAID, People in Need Ethiopia is supplying hygiene and sanitation aid to those in dire need. Yet, challenges remain as women still walk miles for water, risking safety.
https://www.peopleinneed.net/sanitary-pads-changing-the-everyday-lives-of-women-in-rural-ethiopia-10976gp
People in Need
Sanitary pads changing the lives in Ethiopia
Menstrual hygiene is a challenge in rural Ethiopia. Women cannot buy sanitary pads or underwear. Our team steps in to help.
#Ethiopia: World renowned chef brings new culinary frontier to Addis Abeba
Celebrity chef #Marcus_Samuelsson is set to open his signature restaurant, Marcus Addis, in #Addis_Abeba. The restaurant will be a cultural and culinary landmark, showcasing the rich culinary heritage of Ethiopia while embracing innovation.
The interiors will feature the work of local artists and musicians, providing a vibrant atmosphere for diners.
The restaurant is located on the 47th floor of the Commercial Bank of Ethiopia (#CBE) building, and is a joint venture between #Albwardy_Hospitality and Samuelsson.
https://addisstandard.com/asdailyscoop-world-renowned-chef-brings-new-culinary-frontier-to-addis-abeba/
Celebrity chef #Marcus_Samuelsson is set to open his signature restaurant, Marcus Addis, in #Addis_Abeba. The restaurant will be a cultural and culinary landmark, showcasing the rich culinary heritage of Ethiopia while embracing innovation.
The interiors will feature the work of local artists and musicians, providing a vibrant atmosphere for diners.
The restaurant is located on the 47th floor of the Commercial Bank of Ethiopia (#CBE) building, and is a joint venture between #Albwardy_Hospitality and Samuelsson.
https://addisstandard.com/asdailyscoop-world-renowned-chef-brings-new-culinary-frontier-to-addis-abeba/
Addis Standard
#ASDailyScoop: World renowned chef brings new culinary frontier to Addis Abeba - Addis Standard
#ASDailyScoop: World renowned chef brings new culinary frontier to Addis Abeba Addis Standard
U.S. lawmakers call on #UAE to cease support for #Sudan’s #RSF
Democratic #US Congress members have written a letter to the United Arab Emirates (UAE) Foreign Minister calling on the country to stop supporting Sudan’s Rapid Support Forces (RSF). The lawmakers expressed concern over reports that the UAE is providing arms and supplies to the paramilitary group, which has been accused of war crimes and crimes against humanity.
The call comes amid growing international scrutiny of the RSF’s role in Sudan’s ongoing conflict. The lawmakers urged the UAE to reconsider its policy towards Sudan, citing the conflict that has displaced millions of Sudanese civilians. The letter’s significance marks a departure from the norm of Democratic silence towards UAE policies, particularly regarding its actions in Sudan.
https://sudantribune.com/article280570/
Democratic #US Congress members have written a letter to the United Arab Emirates (UAE) Foreign Minister calling on the country to stop supporting Sudan’s Rapid Support Forces (RSF). The lawmakers expressed concern over reports that the UAE is providing arms and supplies to the paramilitary group, which has been accused of war crimes and crimes against humanity.
The call comes amid growing international scrutiny of the RSF’s role in Sudan’s ongoing conflict. The lawmakers urged the UAE to reconsider its policy towards Sudan, citing the conflict that has displaced millions of Sudanese civilians. The letter’s significance marks a departure from the norm of Democratic silence towards UAE policies, particularly regarding its actions in Sudan.
https://sudantribune.com/article280570/
#Ethiopia: Addis Abeba civil servants stymied by sudden exam cancellation
Thousands of civil servants faced an unexpected hurdle as the evaluative assessment examination at Addis Ababa University (#AAU) and #Kotebe Metropolitan University was abruptly disrupted. AAU extended an apology for the cancellation, citing unforeseen "technical problems" as the reason. Speculation about leaked exam papers was dispelled, and AAU assured officials of rescheduling the exams.
The examination, originally slated for over 16,000 civil servants, is part of a reshuffling initiative by the city administration. Sixteen key institutions, including bureaus for land development, housing, transport, planning, employment, and industrial development, are earmarked for the first wave of this program. The Housing Corporation and Cooperative Commission are also set to participate.
Tassew Gebre, head of the Public Service and Human Resource Development Bureau, recently explained that these specific departments were selected due to customer-related issues. Currently, the #Addis_Abeba city administration oversees a workforce comprising more than 163,000 employees.
https://addisstandard.com/news-addis-abeba-civil-servants-stymied-by-sudden-exam-cancellation/
Thousands of civil servants faced an unexpected hurdle as the evaluative assessment examination at Addis Ababa University (#AAU) and #Kotebe Metropolitan University was abruptly disrupted. AAU extended an apology for the cancellation, citing unforeseen "technical problems" as the reason. Speculation about leaked exam papers was dispelled, and AAU assured officials of rescheduling the exams.
The examination, originally slated for over 16,000 civil servants, is part of a reshuffling initiative by the city administration. Sixteen key institutions, including bureaus for land development, housing, transport, planning, employment, and industrial development, are earmarked for the first wave of this program. The Housing Corporation and Cooperative Commission are also set to participate.
Tassew Gebre, head of the Public Service and Human Resource Development Bureau, recently explained that these specific departments were selected due to customer-related issues. Currently, the #Addis_Abeba city administration oversees a workforce comprising more than 163,000 employees.
https://addisstandard.com/news-addis-abeba-civil-servants-stymied-by-sudden-exam-cancellation/
Addis Standard
News: Addis Abeba civil servants stymied by sudden exam cancellation - Addis Standard
News: Addis Abeba civil servants stymied by sudden exam cancellation Addis Standard News -
#Ethiopia's prospects for #AGOA reinstatement uncertain amid ongoing #US hesitation, human rights concerns
Ethiopia's aspiration to rejoin the African Growth and Opportunity Act (AGOA) faces uncertainty as the US remains hesitant due to ongoing concerns. The suspension, initiated in late 2021 amid the civil war with the #Tigray People’s Liberation Front (#TPLF), has left industrialists and analysts skeptical about a swift reinstatement.
The recent peace agreement between the Ethiopian government and the TPLF in 2022 raised hopes, but human rights violations in other regions, such as #Amhara, have complicated the situation. Patrick Heinisch, a Germany-based economist, emphasized the shifting nature of US preconditions, making Ethiopia's reinstatement in 2024 seem unlikely.
The impact of the suspension has been felt in Ethiopia's textile sector, with H&M closing operations in the country. The #UNDP report highlighted the exodus of foreign firms and the lack of global market access, especially in textiles, as a result of the AGOA suspension.
While the Ethiopian government has encouraged seeking alternative markets in #Asia or #Africa, challenges persist due to differing market characteristics. Additionally, Ethiopia's future in AGOA may be influenced by US domestic politics, as AGOA is set to expire in 2025.
https://www.just-style.com/news/pessimism-around-ethiopia-agoa-reinstatement-in-2024/
Ethiopia's aspiration to rejoin the African Growth and Opportunity Act (AGOA) faces uncertainty as the US remains hesitant due to ongoing concerns. The suspension, initiated in late 2021 amid the civil war with the #Tigray People’s Liberation Front (#TPLF), has left industrialists and analysts skeptical about a swift reinstatement.
The recent peace agreement between the Ethiopian government and the TPLF in 2022 raised hopes, but human rights violations in other regions, such as #Amhara, have complicated the situation. Patrick Heinisch, a Germany-based economist, emphasized the shifting nature of US preconditions, making Ethiopia's reinstatement in 2024 seem unlikely.
The impact of the suspension has been felt in Ethiopia's textile sector, with H&M closing operations in the country. The #UNDP report highlighted the exodus of foreign firms and the lack of global market access, especially in textiles, as a result of the AGOA suspension.
While the Ethiopian government has encouraged seeking alternative markets in #Asia or #Africa, challenges persist due to differing market characteristics. Additionally, Ethiopia's future in AGOA may be influenced by US domestic politics, as AGOA is set to expire in 2025.
https://www.just-style.com/news/pessimism-around-ethiopia-agoa-reinstatement-in-2024/
Just Style
Pessimism around Ethiopia AGOA reinstatement in 2024
Ethiopia's government and analysts are pessimistic the US government will reinstate the Horn of Africa country into the African Growth and Opportunity Act (AGOA).