#Ethiopia's Health Minister Reports High Stunting Rates Among Children

At a national forum convened to evaluate the progress of the Seqota Declaration, aimed at reducing undernutrition in Ethiopia, Dr. Liya Tadesse presented data indicating a stunting prevalence of 39% among children under the age of five, with an additional 11% suffering from thinness. The Ethiopian Press Agency reported on the forum's emphasis on the country's initiatives to combat malnutrition and its detrimental impact on child development.

The forum was attended by Deputy Prime Minister Demeke Mekonen and other high-ranking officials, who examined the progress of programs initiated since 2022 under the Declaration, including the expansion of the country's food system. An assessment indicated that over 59,000 children have benefited from food assistance through the program.

Read more at: https://twitter.com/addisstandard/status/1741761493316579377?t=gG-0Lh_18AWjQStnl8KZ9g&s=19

#Ethiopia: Manufacturing makeover: With introduction of new policy, gov’t takes steps to fuel industrial growth

Ethiopia is set to revamp its manufacturing sector with a new policy that aims to balance export promotion and #import_substitution. This strategic shift, supported by the Minister of Industry, Melaku Alebel, underscores the critical need to bolster small to large enterprises for economic growth.

However, the sector has been grappling with macroeconomic and security challenges, affecting productivity and capacity utilization. Companies like Kality Metal Products Factory face high demand but struggle with production and delivery due to foreign currency shortages, which also hampers raw material imports.

Contraband goods further strain the industry, with many firms operating below capacity, leading to a dip in the manufacturing sector's GDP contribution. The #UNDP reveals that out of 5,000 firms, 446 closed amid these challenges. Yet, the government, under Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed, remains optimistic, with 376 factories resuming operations and a notable $131 million from recent exports.

The Prime Minister reported a 7% growth in the sector and improved production capacity utilization. The nation also achieved self-sufficiency in coal and beer barley, reflecting efforts to reduce foreign currency usage. Despite only 20% of firms seeing government support benefits, addressing financial challenges remains crucial for the sector's success.

https://addisstandard.com/analysis-manufacturing-makeover-with-introduction-of-new-policy-govt-takes-steps-to-fuel-industrial-growth/

#Eritrean community tensions lead to violent clash with police in South #London

On Saturday, a protest in #Camberwell, south London, escalated into a violent confrontation with the Metropolitan police, reportedly due to tensions within the Eritrean community. Videos shared on social media showed demonstrators, some armed with sticks, clashing with police officers and disrupting traffic.

The Metropolitan Police Service stated that eight individuals were detained on charges that included violent disorder, criminal damage, carrying an offensive weapon, and assaulting an emergency worker. Of the four officers who sustained injuries during the incident, one required hospital treatment but was subsequently released.

In the aftermath, a significant police force remained in the area along Camberwell Road well into Saturday evening. The disturbance began when around 50 individuals gathered outside a private establishment and violence ensued, with the incident occurring near the Lighthouse Theatre.

To manage the situation, Scotland Yard deployed additional officers and enacted a dispersal order effective until 7 am on Sunday. This order granted the police authority to remove individuals from the vicinity to restore order.

https://www.independent.co.uk/news/uk/crime/camberwell-road-protest-police-london-b2471328.html

#Sudan’s al-Burhan warns countries supporting #RSF

Lt. Gen. Abdel Fattah Al-Burhan, Head of the Sovereign Council of Sudan, has denounced the ongoing atrocities committed by the Rapid Support Forces (RSF) and urged nations harbouring their leader to cease interfering in Sudan’s affairs.

In his Independence Day address, al-Burhan lamented the destruction wreaked by the militia under Mohamed Hamdan Daglo “Hemetti’s” command, describing their actions as “assassinating civilians, plundering their possessions, occupying their homes, violating their dignity, displacing them, and committing ethnic cleansing.”

This is the first time al-Burhan has addressed foreign aid to the RSF. He has been criticized for his silence on this matter.

Read more at https://x.com/addisstandard/status/1741808031451557991?s=46&t=ofAzVW8-64dDK-xsjodCGA?

#ASDailyScoop: #Ethiopia tops ICG’s list of potential 2024 conflict zones

The International Crisis Group's latest report, “10 Conflicts to Watch in 2024,” has cast a spotlight on Ethiopia as a nation on the precipice of potential conflict. Despite the Pretoria Peace Agreement's success, tensions simmer in the #Amhara region over territorial disputes and governance issues, threatening to unravel the fragile peace.

The report highlights the challenges facing Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed in reconciling nationalist movements, particularly in the #Oromia region, where the quest for autonomy continues to challenge the central government's authority. Ethiopia's economic struggles and the contentious presence of #Eritrean troops add layers of complexity to the already volatile situation.With the country's claim to the #Red_Sea coast stirring regional unease, fears of an inadvertent military clash with Eritrea loom large. The ICG cautions that the existing mistrust and military readiness could trigger severe repercussions.

Beyond Ethiopia, the report also sheds light on the dire situations in #Sudan and #Gaza, where ongoing conflicts and humanitarian crises demand the world's attention. Immediate diplomatic action is imperative to prevent these sparks from igniting a larger blaze.

https://addisstandard.com/asdailyscoop-ethiopia-tops-icgs-list-of-potential-2024-conflict-zones/

#News_Update: ‘Historic’ MoU with #Somaliland sees #Ethiopia secure access to Sea, diversify seaport

The MoU will "pave the way to realize the aspiration of Ethiopia to secure access to the sea and diversify its access to seaports."

Redwan Hussien, National Security Advisor to PM Abiy, said the MoU will also include "accessing a leased #Military_Base on Red sea."

In August last year, an Ethiopian delegation led by the transport and logistics minister Alemu Sime traveled to Hargeisa, the capital of Somaliland, to look at more port options for Ethiopia.

The delegation has met and discussed with the Somaliland government officials about making Berbera Port an additional option for Ethiopian import export trade activities.

In November, Alemu Sime said that Ethiopia was negotiating with Somaliland government to secure direct access to seaport.

A deal that was signed in March 2018 was expected to enable Ethiopia own a 19% shareholder of the Port of Berbera following the signing of an agreement with DP World and the Somaliland Port Authority in Dubai. The agreement saw DP World own a 51% stake in the project, but the deal to enable Ethiopia’s share has since failed to materialize. https://addisstandard.com/update-historic-mou-with-somaliland-see-ethiopia-secure-access-to-red-sea-diversify-seaport/

Update: According to the translation summary of #Somaliland President Muse Bihi Abdi’s speech at the signing of the MoU with #Ethiopia’s PM Abiy Ahmed this afternoon, Somaliland will lease 20 KM of sea to Ethiopia in return for recognition.

Quote:

“The Federal Republic of Ethiopia is set to become the first African nation to officially recognize the Republic of Somaliland. Additionally, the Republic of Somaliland will lease 20 KM of sea to Ethiopia. Furthermore, Ethiopia will utilize the Berbera Port."

Translation credit: Abdirashid Ibrahim, Director General of Somaliland’s Ministry of Trade and Tourism.

#Breaking: #Somalia’s “cabinet will convene an emergency meeting tomorrow (Tuesday) to discuss and make decisions regarding the agreement” that was reported to have been reached between #Ethiopia and #Somaliland today.

@SONNALIVE reported about the emergency meeting late this evening following news that the MoU signed between #Ethiopia’s PM Abiy Ahmed and Somaliland President Muse Bihi Abdi this afternoon includes a lease for 20 KM of sea to Ethiopia in return for recognition.

Somalia considers Somaliland, which has been a breakaway state for three decades, as part of
its northern region.

Last week the two sides reached at a landmark agreement to resume talks aimed at achieving peace and mutual understanding to resolve long-standing issues.

Under the mediation of #Djibouti’s President, Ismaïl Omar Guelleh, the discussion took place on December 28th and 29th and was attended by Somalia’s President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud, Somaliland’s President Muse Bihi Abdi. AS.

Breaking: #Somaliland formally acknowledges giving #Ethiopia sea access for #Naval_Forces in exchange for recognition

Somaliland’s statement quoted President Muse Bihi as saying that in his address after the signing of the MoU, he “emphasized the conscientious responsibility of every President to act in the best interest of his people.”

Acknowledging PM Abiy’s “request for seaport access for their naval forces, President Muse Bihi Abdi expressed that Somaliland endured a long quest for official recognition from Ethiopia,” it said.

It is recalled that addressing lawmakers at the 3rd year 4th regular session of the House of People’s Representatives (HoPR) on 14 Nov. 2023, Pm Abiy Ahmed said that Ethiopia was building a Navy and was seeking a sea outlet. He has referred to Ethiopia’s less talked about preparations of a Naval force. In June last year, the Ethiopian Navy has graduated several members trained in various professional fields, including in Navigation, Engineering, and Electricity .https://wp.me/p7BpQh-axF

#Ethiopia: Manufacturing makeover: With introduction of new policy, gov’t takes steps to fuel industrial growth

The Ethiopian government, led by Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed, has recently secured the endorsement of a new manufacturing policy aimed at revitalizing the country's economy. With a strategic goal of increasing the manufacturing sector's GDP contribution to 17.2% by 2030, the policy focuses on adjusting national priorities, promoting both exports and import substitution, and fostering a more balanced industrial approach.

Despite past efforts, the manufacturing sector in Ethiopia has faced challenges such as macroeconomic instability, security issues, and restricted access to finance and foreign currency. Despite these hurdles, the government remains optimistic, emphasizing the importance of supporting small, medium, and large enterprises. The policy aims to address these challenges through a comprehensive legal framework and coordinated efforts involving various government entities, the private sector, and stakeholders.

While the government highlights positive outcomes, including the resumption of operations by 376 out of 446 manufacturing industries under the "Ethiopia Tamrit" initiative, industry experts express skepticism. They point out the complexities of implementing the policy on the ground and emphasize the critical role of government commitment and effective monitoring mechanisms in achieving success. The success of the policy also hinges on strategies to overcome financial challenges, including potential creation of a specialized bank for the manufacturing sector.

https://addisstandard.com/analysis-manufacturing-makeover-with-introduction-of-new-policy-govt-takes-steps-to-fuel-industrial-growth/

#Sudanese Civilian and RSF Leaders Agree on Framework for Peaceful Resolution

Following a critical meeting in Addis Ababa, the Coordination of Democratic Civilian Forces (#Taqaddam) and the head of the Rapid Support Forces (#RSF), Mohamed Hamdan Daglo, have reached an agreement on a framework to seek a peaceful resolution to the conflict in Sudan. This meeting, which will continue on Tuesday, represents the first direct talks since the conflict's escalation in April.

Facilitated by Gaafar Hassan Osman from the Forces for Freedom and Change coalition, the discussions prioritized an immediate cessation of hostilities to protect civilians and ensure the delivery of humanitarian aid. Additionally, emphasis was placed on the need for a comprehensive political vision to end the war and stabilize the Sudanese state, including the restructuring of the armed forces.

Rasha Awad, speaking for the Coordination of Civil Democratic Forces, highlighted the agreement to form fact-finding committees. These committees are tasked with investigating human rights violations and developing strategies to protect civilians.

The meeting concluded with the creation of a joint technical committee to review the roadmap and declaration of principles presented by the civilian coalition. This committee is essential in laying the groundwork for future dialogue and potential peace agreements. The continuation of talks on Tuesday is expected to build on the positive momentum generated by this inaugural meeting.

https://sudantribune.com/article280873/

#Ethiopia: Eight killed, another 10 abducted as civilians return from St. Gabriel celebration in #Kulubi

Tragic news follows the annual St. Gabriel festival in Kulubi town, as at least eight civilians were killed in a massacre while returning from the vibrant celebration on 28 December, 2023. The attack unfolded at the entrance to #Metehara, a town in the #Oromia region, where eyewitnesses also report the abduction of 10 individuals by an armed group.

The festival, a significant religious event in Kulubi, draws worshippers nationwide, but this year's observance was marred by violence. Among the victims was Desalegn Deme, a seasoned driver from #Addis_Abeba, whose life was cut short in the attack. A relative of Desalegn, speaking to Addis Standard, revealed the harrowing details of the incident involving a group of 19 in an Isuzu vehicle. Local authorities have since stated that the victims were buried en masse, with the remains unable to be returned to their families.

Survivors of the assault are currently receiving medical treatment, while the police disclosed that the Oromo Liberation Army's (#OLA) involvement in the attacks. The police cited challenges in releasing the bodies to families due to difficulties in recovery. This event has sent shockwaves through the community, highlighting the dire security situation in the region.

https://addisstandard.com/news-eight-killed-another-10-abducted-as-civilians-return-from-st-gabriel-celebration-in-kulubi/

News: #Somalia rejects #Ethiopia-#Somaliland MoU, recalls ambassador to Ethiopia

Somalia has rejected the MoU signed between Ethiopia and Somaliland granting Ethiopia access to the sea in return for international recognition for Somaliland. It has also recalled its Ambassador to Addis Abeba, Abdullahi Warfa “for consultations.”

Following an emergency meeting on Tuesday morning, Somalia’s Cabinet, led by Prime Minister Hamza Abdi Barre, issued a statement condemning Ethiopia’s decision to sign the MoU as a breach of Somalia’s territorial integrity, and labeled the actions “null and void”. Somalia considers Somaliland as one of its regions.

In addition to the emergency cabinet meeting, Somalia’s President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud has also addressed the Federal Parliament where he spoke Somalia’s “territory is inviolable and non-negotiable, and that no one can or will surrender any part of it,” state media further said. https://wp.me/p7BpQh-axS

#Ethiopia- #Somalia

Verbatim

“As a Government, we have condemned and rejected the illegal infringement of Ethiopia into our national sovereignty and territorial integrity yesterday. Not an inch of Somalia can or will be signed away by anybody. Somalia belongs to the Somali people. This is final.”

Somalia’s President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud

#Ethiopia ascends to #BRICS stage with key appointments amid alliance expansion

The Ethiopian Ministry of Foreign Affairs has recently announced the appointment of Mamo Mihretu, the governor of the National Bank of Ethiopia, as the country's main representative, or Sherpa, to the BRICS. Additionally, Mesganu Arga, the State Minister of Foreign Affairs, will serve as the Sous Sherpa, or deputy representative.

The Ministry has also announced the establishment of a dedicated coordination committee composed of national ministers and senior officials to ensure Ethiopia's proactive engagement within the alliance.

The BRICS alliance has welcomed Ethiopia, #Egypt, #Saudi_Arabia, #Iran, and the United Arab Emirates (#UAE) as its newest members, starting 01 January, 2024.

Read more at: https://twitter.com/addisstandard/status/1742149562171551785

#Somaliland is set to obtain a stake in either Ethio Telecom or #Ethiopian Airlines in exchange for granting Ethiopia access to its port.


While Somaliland formally acknowledges providing sea access to Ethiopia for Naval Forces in return for recognition, Ethiopia has not publicly corroborated this agreement.

In a briefing, Redwan Hussien, National Security Advisor to PM Abiy, stated that stakes would be given to Somaliland from Ethio Telecom or Ethiopian Airlines, yet he did not mention recognizing Somaliland in his explanation.

#Ethiopia: Rights group reports surge in violence over governance in Gamo Zone

The Ethiopian Human Rights Commission (#EHRC) reported renewed violence linked to a long-running administrative disagreement in parts of the #Gamo Zone. According to EHRC statement, clashes have intensified in recent months within four kebeles of the Arba Minch Zuria district over their governance under the Zone.

Residents of the area have advocated for recognition as a special district, alleging facing rights violations and discrimination under the current structure. Meanwhile, authorities maintain acceding to the demands could undermine stability. Violence escalated in October following a detainee's death in police custody, resulting in casualties on both sides.

EHRC Chief Commissioner Daniel Bekele urged all parties to de-escalate tensions through respectful dialogue and lawful, non-violent actions. The Commission stands ready to facilitate a peaceful resolution and will issue a public report with investigation findings.

https://addisstandard.com/news-rights-group-reports-surge-in-violence-over-governance-in-gamo-zone/