#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/

#Ethiopia: Russian firm BitCluster plans Bitcoin mining data center in Ethiopia

BitCluster, a Russian provider of Bitcoin mining solutions, has revealed plans to construct a 120-megawatt Bitcoin mining data center in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia. The facility, expected to operationalize in January 2024, will span 30,000 square meters within the Kilinto high voltage substation area.

The data center's energy supply will be entirely sourced from the Grand Ethiopian Renaissance Dam, aligning with Ethiopia's renewable energy initiatives. This positions the East African nation as an attractive location for Bitcoin mining operations seeking access to cost-effective zero-carbon power.

Officials expect the large-scale mining center to provide meaningful economic benefits to Ethiopia by establishing the country as a hub for cryptocurrency mining in Africa.

https://bitcoinworld.co.in/russian-btc-mining-firm-bitcluster-plans-to-build-120-mw-bitcoin-mining-data-center-in-ethiopia/

Conflict, drought drive millions from homes in #Ethiopia

The International Organization for Migration (#IOM) estimates that there are 3,459,881 internally displaced persons (#IDPs) across Ethiopia, comprising 701,449 households, located in 2,544 assessed and accessible sites.

Conflict emerges as the predominant driver of displacement, affecting 2.2 million IDPs, which is 64.66% of these cases. Drought is the second leading cause, resulting in the displacement of approximately 612,250 IDPs, or 17.7% of the total.

Within Ethiopia, the #Somali region has the largest number of IDPs displaced due to drought, with an estimated 410,749 individuals, making up 67.1% of the national drought-displaced population.

Conversely, the #Tigray region has the most significant number of conflict-displaced IDPs, with an estimated 943,285 individuals, which accounts for 42.2% of the national total for conflict-induced displacements.

Tourists to #Kenya can go visa-free in 2024

Starting 01 January, 2024, international travelers will no longer need a visa to enter Kenya, announced President William Ruto on 12 December, 2023. In a move to streamline entry procedures, President Ruto unveiled a new digital system that will provide electronic travel authorizations to visitors prior to their arrival, eliminating the need for traditional visa applications.

During a speech in #Nairobi commemorating Kenya's 60 years of independence from Britain, President Ruto stated, "It shall no longer be necessary for any person from any corner of the globe to carry the burden of applying for a visa to come to Kenya."

A proponent of visa-free travel across #Africa, President Ruto had previously declared at a conference in the Republic of Congo in October that by the end of 2023, African nationals would also enjoy visa-free access to Kenya.

Kenya's economy heavily relies on the tourism sector, which attracts travelers with its pristine Indian Ocean beaches and renowned wildlife safaris throughout the country's interior. This policy change is expected to further boost the tourism industry by simplifying access for international visitors.

https://edition.cnn.com/travel/kenya-visa-free-travel-2024/index.html

#Ethiopia: ongoing conflict disrupts Lake Tana conservation efforts, posing ecological threat

The Amhara Regional Communication Bureau has disclosed that the persistent conflict in the region is significantly impeding conservation efforts for Lake Tana, Ethiopia's largest lake. A surge in invasive water hyacinth, exacerbated by disrupted management activities during the ongoing unrest, now poses a substantial ecological threat.

For the past four months, the conflict in Amhara has hindered initiatives to control the invasive weed, resulting in uncontrolled proliferation. Conservation agencies, grappling with operational challenges in the conflict-ridden environment, are unable to conduct crucial monitoring and weed removal. The bureau also notes that vital equipment, essential for effective conservation, has been rendered non-operational.

Recognizing the urgency of the situation, the region has called on all stakeholders to work cooperatively and prioritize the restoration of stability.

#Sudan: Uncertainty Surrounds IGAD-Backed Sudanese Ceasefire Talks

Conflicting reports have surfaced about the IGAD-backed meeting between Sudanese military leaders to discuss a ceasefire and humanitarian aid resumption. A senior Sudanese Ministry of Foreign Affairs official has cast doubt on the occurrence of direct talks between Army Commander Abdel Fattah al-Burhan and RSF Commander Mohamed Hamdan Daglo Hemetti, contradicting claims of a scheduled meeting in Djibouti.


Amidst international pressure to address the Sudanese crisis, former Prime Minister Abdullah Hamdok has also extended invitations to the leaders to convene urgently. Despite the discrepancies, sources affirm the meeting is scheduled for December 28, with RSF Commander Hemetti expressing readiness to participate and a commitment to peace.

Officials from the Forces for Freedom and Change (FFC) express hope that the meeting, facilitated by IGAD, will lead to a ceasefire.

https://sudantribune.com/article280692/

#Somaliland Calls for Diplomacy Amid Escalating #Red_Sea Tensions

The government of Somaliland has voiced concern over the growing tension in the Red Sea and appealed to all parties involved to prioritize diplomatic solutions. In an official statement, Somaliland underscored the importance of de-escalating tensions to safeguard maritime security and regional stability, upon which numerous livelihoods rely.

Somaliland advocates for a cooperative approach to address the root causes of conflict and political instability in the region. The statement urges both regional and international actors to play a constructive mediating role in finding peaceful resolutions.

The statement from Somaliland does not specify the particular crisis prompting these concerns. However, recent developments, including #Ethiopia's strategic interest in Red Sea access and #Houthi_rebel attacks, have heightened tensions in the region.

https://rb.gy/egh7jt

#Somali National Army Successfully Targets Extremist Stronghold, Over 80 Insurgents Neutralized

More than 80 al-Shabaab insurgents have allegedly been killed in recent military operations conducted by the Somali National Army (SNA) in coordination with local forces in the Mudug region, according to a senior commander. The operation, which took place in a forest near the town of Caad, was part of a larger effort by the Somali National Army, supported by local forces, to combat the al-Qaeda-affiliated group.

Brigadier General Dayah Abdi Abdulle, a senior commander overseeing the operation, confirmed the success of the operation and indicated that efforts against al-Shabaab would persist. This announcement follows a statement from the Defense Ministry two days prior, detailing the deaths of over 130 al-Shabaab members in central and southern Somalia, and the liberation of significant territories.

Somalia has faced endemic insecurity issues for years due to threats from al-Shabaab and Islamic State forces. Al-Shabaab has been engaged in an insurgency against the federal government and African Union peacekeeping forces since 2007. The group has ramped up attacks after the Somali president launched an "all-out war" following his re-election last year.

https://www.aa.com.tr/en/africa/at-least-80-al-shabaab-terrorists-killed-in-military-operation-in-somalia-army-commander/3093053

From spotlight to the shadows: #Ethiopia’s tourism odyssey hangs in the balance

Since Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed assumed power in 2018, Ethiopia is gradually becoming a global tourist hotspot, championing its rich cultural tapestry and breathtaking landscapes. The current administration is steering the hospitality and tourism sector into the limelight, paving the way for both international and local economic opportunities.

Last year's inauguration of the #Halala_Kela Resort marked a crucial step in optimizing natural resources for nationwide greenery attraction sites. The recent unveiling of the #Chebera_Churchura Elephant Paw Lodge, part of the 'Dine for Ethiopia' mega project, showcases Ethiopia's rich natural endowments in the heart of the #Dawuro Zone.

Despite significant investment and government-led initiatives, Ethiopia faces challenges in its tourism sector. Ongoing conflicts pose a risk to the nation's emergence as a leading travel destination, acting as a handbrake on progress. The sector, once pivotal for economic growth, has also encountered volatility due to the COVID-19 pandemic and internal strife.

Tourism industry experts highlight the grim state of affairs, attributing the downturn to persistent conflicts. The resurgence of conflict involving non-state militia #Fano has drained optimism from once-bustling locales. A local tour guide emphasizes the importance of peace, stating, “Peace is the lifeline of the tourism industry.”

https://addisstandard.com/from-spotlight-to-the-shadows-ethiopias-tourism-odyssey-hangs-in-the-balance/

#Ethiopia: #US calls for accountability in assault against two #AfDB staff in #Addis_Abeba

The U.S. government has called for accountability in the assault against two international staff of the African Development Bank (AfDB) in Addis Abeba, forcing the bank to withdraw its international staff from Ethiopia

Through a short statement issued via the its Embassy in Addis Abeba, the U.S. government highlighted “the importance of all nations observing and protecting the Vienna Convention on Diplomatic Relations to ensure diplomats around the world can carry out their missions in safety,” and added that the U.S. is “concerned by the assault and detention of African Development Bank personnel and call for those responsible to be held accountable.”

It is recalled that on 16 November, the bank admitted that two of its staff members “were unlawfully arrested, physically assaulted, and detained for many hours by elements of the security forces without any official explanation” on 31 October 2023. https://wp.me/p7BpQh-auQ