#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/

#Ethiopia-#Somaliland MoU - UK MP hails Somaliland recognition by Ethiopia, calls on #UK government to follow suit

Sir Gavin Williamson, Conservative Member of the UK Parliament for South Staffordshire, hailed the news of Ethiopia's recognition of Somaliland and called on the UK government "to show leadership and ensure Somaliland is recognized..."

"I am delighted that Ethiopia is set to become the first country in Africa to recognize Somaliland. For far too long the UK has not done enough. Now we need to show leadership and ensure Somaliland is recognized by the UK," Sir Gavin Williamson, who is known for his role in advocating for Somaliland's recognition, wrote in his X (formerly twitter) account.

Read more at: https://x.com/addisstandard/status/1742194100529447051?s=20

Accusations fly as #Tigray decries federal dismissal of famine emergency

The interim administration of Tigray has issued a strong denunciation of the recent statement made by the Federal Ministry of Communication, which pertains to the severe drought-induced famine conditions in the Tigray region.

Last week, the Communication Minister of the federal government, Legesse Tulu, conducted a press briefing to counter the assertions made by Getachew Reda, the regional president of Tigray. Getachew had previously drawn attention to the impending humanitarian disaster, likening it to the devastating famine of 1984/85. Minister Legesse categorically rejected the regional president's report, dismissing it as lacking factual correctness.

Read more at: https://x.com/addisstandard/status/1742214167380066534?s=20

#Sudan's paramilitary #RSF say it is open to immediate ceasefire via talks

Sudan's paramilitary Rapid Support Forces said in a statement it signed with the #Taqadum civilian coalition that it was open to an immediate, unconditional ceasefire through negotiations with the Sudanese army.

The army was also invited to sign the same declaration, RSF chief Mohamed Hamdan Dagalo said, adding the document could lay the basis for peace negotiations to end a more than nine-month war.

https://www.reuters.com/world/africa/sudans-paramilitary-rsf-say-it-is-open-immediate-ceasefire-via-talks-2024-01-02/

#Ethiopia- #Somaliland: Berbera Port and its potential benefits for Ethiopia

In a significant move, Ethiopia has recently signed a ''historic'' Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Somaliland to secure sea access and diversify seaport options. According to Redwan Hussien, National Security Advisor to PM Abiy, the MoU also involves gaining access to a leased military base on the Red Sea.

In a viewpoint article published in October, Abdirashid Ibrahim, Director-General of the Ministry of Trade and Tourism of Somaliland, presented a thorough analysis of the potential benefits of #Berbera_Port to Ethiopia's economy. Stressing its direct and efficient transportation route, Ibrahim suggested that the port could significantly reduce shipping times and costs for Ethiopian traders.

The article further advocated for the development of the Berbera Corridor, including road expansions from the port to the Ethiopian border, as essential for expanding trade opportunities. Anticipated improvements in port infrastructure, such as expanded container terminals and increased handling capacity, aim to accommodate the growing volume of trade.

Ibrahim also highlighted the potential establishment of a Special Economic Zone (SEZ) near Berbera Port to attract investments in manufacturing and processing sectors, leveraging the port's logistical advantages. This strategic development not only benefits Ethiopia but also contributes to the economic growth of Somaliland and the broader region, fostering shared prosperity and economic integration

https://addisstandard.com/viewpoint-berbera-port-and-its-potential-benefits-for-ethiopia/

#Ethiopia: Kesem Sugar Factory Requires 5 Billion Birr for Full Capacity Operations

The Kesem Sugar Factory is operating at only 23% of its full capacity, the Ethiopia News Agency reported today. The facility is actively seeking a 5 billion birr investment to address supply constraints and overcome sugarcane shortages affecting production.


The operation department manager, Ato Fiten Daba, highlighted that the factory's infrastructure, designed to process 60,000 quintals of sugarcane daily, is underutilized. The associated Kesem Dam can irrigate 20,000 hectares, yet only 3,000 hectares are actively cultivated for sugarcane.

To address this shortfall and elevate production to its intended level, the factory requires an expansion of its sugarcane cultivation to at least 12,000 hectares.

Read more at: https://x.com/addisstandard/status/1742452930916061348?s=20

#Sudan's RSF and Taqaddum Sign "Addis Ababa Declaration", Agree to Release Detainees

The Rapid Support Forces (#RSF) have reached an agreement with the Coordination of Civil Democratic Forces (#Taqaddum), culminating in the signing of the "Addis Ababa Declaration". The agreement includes a commitment to release over 450 detainees and establish an immediate ceasefire, aiming to bring an end to the conflict that has persisted for more than eight months.

Signed on January 2nd, 2024, the declaration was brokered with the involvement of former Prime Minister Abdallah Hamdok, representing Taqaddum, and RSF leader Mohamed Hamdan Daglo, also known as "Hemetti". The agreement is a significant step towards de-escalation and sets the stage for a peaceful resolution in Sudan.

As part of the key provisions, the Addis Ababa Declaration stipulates the release of 451 prisoners of war and detainees, to be facilitated by the International Committee of the Red Cross (#ICRC). It also mandates the establishment of safe corridors to ensure that humanitarian aid can reach those affected by the conflict, alongside the formation of a National Committee for the Protection of Civilians.

The RSF has committed to an immediate halt of all military activities and will engage in direct negotiations with the Sudanese army. Parallel efforts by the Taqaddum to secure similar commitments from the army are underway. This collaborative approach is expected to lead to a comprehensive cessation of hostilities, with oversight from national and international monitors.

https://sudantribune.com/article280911/

#Ethiopia: Displaced Tigrayans face starvation, plead for assistance

In #Abergelle_Yechila, #Tigray region, a cry for help rises from over 800 internally displaced persons (#IDPs), who have been suffering since fleeing the war in Western Tigray in November 2020. These individuals have faced three years of hardship without receiving enough aid.

During an interview with Tigray TV, Abaynesh Trfneh, one of the displaced, recounted the distress of homelessness and the acute hunger resulting from ongoing food shortages. Her experiences reflect the struggles of many IDPs in the region, who are desperately trying to satisfy their fundamental needs.

Zeferu Gebrehaweriyat, who coordinates volunteer efforts, highlighted the grim reality that the IDP community has been enduring neglect for over three years. He issued an urgent plea: "We urgently call on all relevant organizations to take action to avert further loss of life among our IDPs."