#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/

#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/

#Sudan war: General Burhan blames fall of Wad Madani on 'negligence'

Sudan's army chief has sharply criticized commanders for their role in the fall of #Wad_Madani to the Rapid Support Forces (#RSF), a rival paramilitary group. The strategic city, previously considered a safe haven amidst the eight-month civil war, was abandoned by the army without resistance, prompting over 300,000 people to flee.

Gen Abdel Fattah al-Burhan has vowed to hold those responsible for the "surprise withdrawal" accountable. The RSF claims to have taken the entire Gezira state, a statement that remains unconfirmed. Amidst the uncertainty, aid workers are withdrawing from the area, fearing further conflict.

The RSF's growing influence, believed to control a significant portion of the capital, #Khartoum, and the western #Darfur region, has caused widespread displacement. Civilians, still reeling from previous upheavals, face renewed panic and uncertainty. Wad Madani, once a bustling hub for aid operations, now stands as a "ghost town," with essential services halted and residents in despair.

Many who have fled are seeking refuge in other states, with concerns mounting that the RSF may extend their reach further. The #UN has identified Sudan as experiencing the world's largest displacement crisis, with an estimated seven million people forced from their homes.

https://www.bbc.com/news/world-africa-67801561

#Ethiopia: Legacy of Fierce Advocacy and Decency, Humanitarianism and Professional Eminence: A Tribute to Urge Dinagde

Respected #Oromo activist and educator Urge Dinagde recently passed away, leaving a profound legacy of empowering youth through community-driven learning initiatives. In a moving tribute, Dr. Henok Gabisa commemorates Urge's life. Born to persecuted Oromo parents, she defied expectations, symbolizing triumph over intergenerational trauma. Dr. Henok delves into Urge's formative years, professional accomplishments, and her role in the #OromoProtest movement.

Urge's legacy extends beyond advocacy to humanitarian efforts, as exemplified by her Village School Project. Dr. Henok details Urge's dedication to increasing access to quality education in remote communities. She consistently demonstrated kindness, integrity, and a commitment to empowering others.

Although no longer able to parent directly, Urge leaves behind a rich heritage passed down through family and friends who knew her exemplary character and commitment to empowering Oromo youth. Urge's inspiring legacy of empowering communities 'one village and one school at a time' will live on through the students she touched.

https://addisstandard.com/legacy-of-fierce-advocacy-and-decency-humanitarianism-and-professional-eminence-a-tribute-to-urge-dinagde/

#Ethiopia: Thousands of #IDPs in #Amhara region grapple with forced return to unstable areas

Over 1,725 IDPs in the Amhara region are facing a forced return to their original homes in the #Oromia region, despite ongoing conflicts. This move is part of an agreement between regional authorities, aiming to gradually resettle displaced individuals.

However, many IDPs express fears about returning to potentially unstable areas and prefer to wait until safety is assured. The #Farta district, currently hosting around 345 households, along with other zones, is struggling to support the displaced, with over 54,000 IDPs relying on limited aid amidst conflict and drought.

The situation is critical, with directives forcing thousands from temporary shelters, raising concerns over their future security and well-being.

https://addisstandard.com/news-thousands-of-idps-in-amhara-region-grapple-with-forced-return-to-unstable-areas/

#Sudan: Burhan, Hemetti set for historic summit to end Sudan’s turmoil

A high-ranking Sudanese official disclosed that Abdel Fattah al-Burhan, the Chairman of the Sovereign Council and Commander-in-Chief of the Sudanese Army, has agreed to meet with Mohamed Hamdan Dagalo, known as “Hemetti,” the Commander of the Rapid Support Forces (RSF).

The announcement follows al-Burhan’s address to Sudanese army officers in the Red Sea military region just 24 hours earlier, where he evoked the possibility of negotiating with the paramilitary forces. However, he emphasized his unwillingness to sign a peace agreement that involves any form of humiliation or insult towards the people and the armed forces.

Read more at https://x.com/addisstandard/status/1738541548445286726?s=46&t=ofAzVW8-64dDK-xsjodCGA

#Ethiopia says payment default on $1 billion #Eurobond was not due to its inability to pay but a decision to adhere to its request for debt relief treatment under the G20 Common Framework, Fitsum Assefa, Minister of Plan and Development, told state-affiliated media.

With official creditors' debt service suspension to a tune of $2.2 billion, Ethiopia is now "seeking to ensure consistency and fairness by requesting other external creditors, including bondholders, to participate in similar debt arrangements."

However, Minister Fitsum also admitted Ethiopia was facing a decline in foreign currency reserve due mainly to "conflicts" and "geopolitical" factors, among others.

#Ethiopia: #Tigray’s tug of war: The quest for recovery amidst power struggles

Tigray faces a perilous crossroads post-peace agreement. The #TPLF battles the interim administration, risking fragile stability. Ongoing dismissals, political tensions, and defiance of orders threaten peace in a region already scarred by war. As power struggles intensify, humanitarian crises deepen. Aid cessation leads to fatalities, a drought affecting 20% of agricultural land, and over two million people in dire need. Internal displacements compound, leaving millions without basic resources.

Dori Asgedom, Chairman of the Asimba Party, urges swift resolution. Tigray's people, still recovering from conflict, face dire consequences if political conflicts persist. The urgency lies in addressing the humanitarian crisis and ensuring governance for the well-being of citizens.

Persistent restrictions on political freedoms echo the past. Opposition leaders face arrests, hindering democratic processes. The international community must unite to condemn these oppressive measures. Experts highlight the need for inclusive political transitions, acknowledging the challenges of dismantling single-party dominance. Assefa Leake (PhD) emphasizes the difficulty of establishing representative systems due to entrenched habits.

Despite uncertainties, there's hope for positive change. Getachew Argawi, a journalist, sees a shift in power structures, granting authority to non-TPLF officials and opposition parties. "As Tigray rebuilds, unity and collaboration are paramount."

https://addisstandard.com/tigrays-tug-of-war-the-quest-for-recovery-amidst-power-struggles/

130 al-Shabaab terrorists killed in military operations in central, southern #Somalia

In a major victory against #al_Shabaab, Somalia's Defense Ministry announced the elimination of at least 130 militants in simultaneous operations across central and southern Somalia. The Somali National Army, supported by local forces, conducted three days of strategic campaigns in #Mudug province and #Jubaland state, liberating significant territories.

The military also seized weapons from terrorist hideouts, dealing a blow to the al-Qaeda-affiliated group. The ministry referred to the operation as a fight against the "Khawarijs," denoting the first Islamic sect rebelling against early Islamic rule. Notable areas like Caadley, Buurta Yagoos, and the vicinity of Baraag Ismaaciil in Mudug were successfully freed from al-Shabaab.

Somalia, grappling with persistent insecurity, faces threats from al-Shabaab and ISIS. The intensified conflict follows the Somali president's declaration of an "all-out war" against al-Shabaab last year, with the terrorist group having targeted the government and African Union forces since 2007.

https://www.aa.com.tr/en/africa/130-al-shabaab-terrorists-killed-in-military-operations-in-central-southern-somalia/3091281

#Ethiopia: Public Service Transport to introduce 150,000 contactless digital IDs in trial implementation

The Public Service Transport Service has recently announced the importation of 150,000 #digital_IDs, which are set to undergo a trial implementation in the coming two months. Kalkidan Gebeyehu, the IT director of the Public Service Transport Service, revealed to the Ethiopian Press Agency that these digital IDs utilize NFC technology and operate through sensor-based contactless systems.

Kalkidan emphasized that this new digital card will effectively address the issues associated with the current paper IDs in use. According to him, the digital ID is designed to be comprehensive, containing all necessary personal information.

He further explained that the buses will be equipped with software to facilitate card verification. This verification process, known as the "validator," will enable customers to simply approach the bus with their digital card for validation.

#Ethiopia: Restoring a sight: The fight against Corneal Blindness in Ethiopia

In Ethiopia, the battle against corneal blindness is both a challenge and an inspiration. Without comprehensive national data, the scale of this vision impairment crisis is hard to quantify, but it's believed to affect hundreds of thousands. Despite this, between 2013 and 2022, the Eye Bank of Ethiopia has facilitated over 2,177 corneal transplants, offering new hope and a chance to reconnect with the world.

Personal triumphs in this fight, like those of Tariku Hussien, who regained his sight and future through transplantation, and Wegayehu Fetene, who overcame a failed transplant to continue his education, highlight the life-changing impact of these medical interventions. Dr. Eden Teferi, despite her struggle with keratoconus, achieved her medical degree and regained her vision in 2022, illustrating the resilience and determination prevalent among those affected.

The demand for corneas, however, far exceeds the supply, with only 11 corneal transplant ophthalmologists nationwide and significant bureaucratic obstacles. Dr. Mulugeta Demisse emphasizes the need for a multifaceted approach to address these issues, including improving infrastructure, investing in training, and enhancing the Eye Bank's autonomy.

https://addisstandard.com/feature-restoring-a-sight-the-fight-against-corneal-blindness-in-ethiopia/

#Ethiopia: Teachers in #Hadiya Zone endure arrests, intimidation as wage fight intensifies

Teachers in Ethiopia's Hadiya zone are facing arrests as they demand overdue salaries amid a crackdown by regional security forces. Sources tell Addis Standard that educators in the #Central_Ethiopia region are under threat, creating a climate of fear. Despite partial salary disbursements, the issue persists, with some teachers and civil servants still unpaid. Social media has become a platform for teachers to voice their grievances, particularly in #Hossana town.

The problem is acute in rural areas like East and West #Badwacho districts, where schools have shut down due to unpaid educators. Harassment and salary withholding are reported as punitive measures against those who question the delays. The Ethiopian Human Rights Commission (#EHRC) has noted that since 2019, salary delays affecting 9,000 teachers have been routine. The situation worsened in August 2023 with wage cuts for government employees, leading to public service disruptions and forcing residents to seek healthcare elsewhere.

The EHRC is calling on the government to address these salary issues, uphold labor laws, and protect fundamental rights, ensuring that wages are paid timely as mandated.

https://addisstandard.com/news-teachers-in-hadiya-zone-endure-arrests-intimidation-as-wage-fight-intensifies/

#Ethiopia: #Addis_Abeba city administration employees' evaluative assessment examination rescheduled

The Addis Abeba city administration has announced the revised date for the Evaluative Assessment Examination for civil servants, now scheduled for Saturday, 30 December, following a technical glitch that necessitated the postponement of the original date last Friday.

Originally intended to conduct a comprehensive evaluation of over 16,000 employees, assessing both competence and behavior, the examination faced cancellation due to unforeseen "technical complications". The identified challenges were rooted in the systems employed by Addis Ababa University and Kotebe Metropolitan University, institutions entrusted with overseeing the assessments.

Following the cancellation, Addis Ababa University issued a formal apology, expressing regret for any inconvenience caused by the unexpected technical challenges that led to the rescheduling of the Evaluative Assessment Examination for city civil servants.

#Ethiopia joins ranks of defaulters, skips $33M Eurobond interest amid debt talks

Ethiopia has become the latest African nation to default after failing to make a $33 million interest payment on its Eurobond before the grace period expired on Monday. Officials from the Ministry of Finance explained the decision not to pay was made to ensure equitable treatment of all creditors as the government seeks debt relief.

The default places Ethiopia among other developing countries like #Zambia, #Ghana, and #Sri_Lanka that have recently defaulted on Eurobonds. Ethiopia had reached an agreement with bilateral creditors last month to suspend debt payments as part of its debt restructuring efforts.

Ethiopia seeks extended maturity and reduced interest rates in counterproposals to bondholders, who find the missed payment "unnecessary and unfortunate."

https://www.bloomberg.com/news/articles/2023-12-25/ethiopia-fails-to-pay-coupon-becoming-latest-african-defaulter?cmpid%3D=socialflow-twitter-africa

#Ethiopia: Sheger City Administration Terminates Investment Contracts with 604 Investors

The Sheger city administration, in a press statement yesterday, announced the revocation of investment contracts with 604 investors. Teshome Adugna, the Mayor of Sheger City Administration, stated that the cancellation affects investment license agreements associated with land ownership in the name of investment since the establishment of Sheger City.

Mayor Teshome indicated that the cancelled agreements involve land parcels totaling 510 hectares. These areas had been allocated to investors but had not been developed. In response, the city has also issued warnings to 1,602 investors to initiate development to avoid future cancellations.

Furthermore, the administration plans to take legal action against 1,062 investors who hold surplus land. Additionally, 395 land leases will be rescinded to reclaim undeveloped land.

#IATA warns of potential Airline exits from Nigeria due to trapped revenues

The International Air Transport Association (IATA) has raised alarms that foreign airlines, including Ethiopian Airlines and British Airways, risk suspending operations in Nigeria due to unresolved ticket revenue issues. IATA Regional VP Kamil Alawadhi said the situation is putting financial strain on airlines.

Alawadhi criticized the high operational costs at Lagos and Abuja airports, which are not commensurate with the level of services provided. He warned that continued inaction could lead to airlines withdrawing from Nigeria, negatively impacting the country's economy and reducing its hard currency earnings from aviation.

To find a solution, Alawadhi stressed the need for constructive engagement between the airlines and Nigerian authorities.

https://www.legit.ng/business-economy/industry/1570409-iata-confirms-british-airways-ethiopian-airlines-foreign-airlines-leave-nigeria-soon/

#Ethiopia: Economic turmoil, instability curtail Ethiopia’s FDI inflows: Ernst & Young report

Ethiopia's foreign direct investment (#FDI) has seen a significant decline amid global economic shifts and domestic challenges, as Ernst & Young's recent report reveals. The 2022 analysis shows Ethiopia at its lowest investment level in years, securing just six projects, a $600 million investment, and creating only 600 jobs. This is a stark contrast to the pre-pandemic period when Ethiopia was among the world's fastest-growing economies.

Neighboring East African countries, on the other hand, have fared much better, with #Kenya and #Uganda attracting substantial investments and job creation. Despite Ethiopia's government claiming a robust FDI of $3.4 billion for the fiscal year 2022/23, Ernst & Young's findings indicate a significant downturn from 34 projects in 2019 to merely six in 2022.

Key investments include #Safaricom's decade-long $300 million annual commitment and the UK's #Marriott_Drilling Group's financing for geothermal power stations. However, the country grapples with balance of payment issues, risk of sovereign default, and high inflation, which have dampened the investment climate. The National Bank of Ethiopia reports some success in combating inflation, but the Ethiopian birr's depreciation continues to undermine investor confidence.

https://addisstandard.com/news-economic-turmoil-instability-curtail-ethiopias-fdi-inflows-ernst-young-report/

#Ethiopia: Ezema Queries Addis Ababa Administration on Postponed Civil Servants' Exam and Ethnic Quotas

The Ethiopian Citizens for Social Justice (#EZEMA) party has formally demanded an explanation from the Addis Ababa city administration regarding the delayed civil servants' evaluative assessment examination and the introduction of "ethnic-based" quotas for leadership positions. The postponed assessment, meant to address service complaints involving over 16,000 workers across 16 customer-facing institutions, faced technical issues leading to an unforeseen delay.

In a statement, the party expressed support for the assessment's objective to enhance quality service and efficiency. However, concerns were raised about the ethnic quota policy, specifying that no more than 40% of team leaders and directors should share the same nationality.

Read more at: https://twitter.com/addisstandard/status/1739626557998571611?t=BNe9zRLIIH21SSI1hWvFNQ&s=19

#Ethiopia: Drone strike in #Oromia’s #Kombolcha district results in eight deaths, three injuries

In a tragic event on 25 December, 2023, an aerial #drone_strike on the Full Gospel Church in #Baro village, Kombolcha district, claimed eight lives, leaving three severely injured. Church members gathered for an activity were unexpectedly caught in the attack. The injured are now in critical condition at Kombolcha City Hospital, with a grim prognosis. Among the deceased were young artists Damena Lika and Dugasa Wakene.

The local community, already tense from ongoing clashes between government forces and the Oromo Liberation Army (#OLA), is now shrouded in silence, with movement restricted. Residents, including the bereaved church congregation, were barred from attending the funerals of the victims.

This incident underscores the escalating violence in the#Oromia region, where drone strikes have become more frequent since peace talks with the OLA stalled two months ago. Addis Standard had previously reported over a dozen deaths from drone strikes in October, coinciding with #Irreechaa celebrations. The growing conflict has led to numerous civilian deaths and displacements, particularly in Kombolcha and #Hababo_Guduru districts.

https://addisstandard.com/news-drone-strike-in-oromias-kombolcha-district-results-in-eight-deaths-three-injuries/