Conflict in #Sudan Threatens Famine, Agriculture in Crisis
Sudan's Al-Jazira state faces a looming famine as ongoing clashes between the army and paramilitary forces devastate the region's agriculture. The United Nations (#UN) reports over half a million people have sought refuge in the area, which until recently was a peaceful hub for farming.
Local farmer Ahmed al-Amin laments his inability to tend to his wheat due to the conflict, which has also forced hundreds of thousands to flee. The #RSF's occupation of land has left vital crops unattended, raising the specter of widespread hunger in a country where most food is imported.
The World Food Programme (#WFP) warns that nearly 18 million Sudanese are experiencing acute hunger, with the situation escalating towards "emergency levels." Despite no official declaration, experts like William Carter of the Norwegian Refugee Council predict an impending famine unless peace is restored.
The fighting has already claimed more than 12,190 lives, with additional casualties likely from the breakdown of essential services. The RSF's actions, including looting and land seizures, have disrupted local markets and agricultural operations, further endangering the country's food security.
https://www.theafricareport.com/332463/famine-threatens-sudan-after-war-claims-harvest/
Sudan's Al-Jazira state faces a looming famine as ongoing clashes between the army and paramilitary forces devastate the region's agriculture. The United Nations (#UN) reports over half a million people have sought refuge in the area, which until recently was a peaceful hub for farming.
Local farmer Ahmed al-Amin laments his inability to tend to his wheat due to the conflict, which has also forced hundreds of thousands to flee. The #RSF's occupation of land has left vital crops unattended, raising the specter of widespread hunger in a country where most food is imported.
The World Food Programme (#WFP) warns that nearly 18 million Sudanese are experiencing acute hunger, with the situation escalating towards "emergency levels." Despite no official declaration, experts like William Carter of the Norwegian Refugee Council predict an impending famine unless peace is restored.
The fighting has already claimed more than 12,190 lives, with additional casualties likely from the breakdown of essential services. The RSF's actions, including looting and land seizures, have disrupted local markets and agricultural operations, further endangering the country's food security.
https://www.theafricareport.com/332463/famine-threatens-sudan-after-war-claims-harvest/
The Africa Report
Famine threatens Sudan after war claims harvest
Since Sudan’s war spread to Al-Jazira state south of Khartoum, farmers have watched their livelihoods wither away after fighting between paramilitary forces battling the army wreaked havoc on once-bountiful lands.
#Ethiopia: CETU revises constitution, eyes establishment of regional advisory boards
Upon concluding discussions regarding the addition of new articles to its constitution, the Ethiopian Confederation of Trade Unions (#CETU) has sanctioned the newly revised constitution of the confederation.
Addressing the necessity for constitutional amendments, Kasahun Follo, President of CETU, articulated that the initiative is designed to facilitate the creation of an advisory board at the regional level, as stipulated by the amended labor proclamation ratified in 2019. Despite the proclamation's provision for a regional advisory board, its establishment has not yet come to fruition.
Moreover, Kasahun elucidated that the integration of new articles into the constitution permits CETU to enhance its organizational presence through the establishment of additional branch offices and the reinforcement of the existing ones.
Upon concluding discussions regarding the addition of new articles to its constitution, the Ethiopian Confederation of Trade Unions (#CETU) has sanctioned the newly revised constitution of the confederation.
Addressing the necessity for constitutional amendments, Kasahun Follo, President of CETU, articulated that the initiative is designed to facilitate the creation of an advisory board at the regional level, as stipulated by the amended labor proclamation ratified in 2019. Despite the proclamation's provision for a regional advisory board, its establishment has not yet come to fruition.
Moreover, Kasahun elucidated that the integration of new articles into the constitution permits CETU to enhance its organizational presence through the establishment of additional branch offices and the reinforcement of the existing ones.
#Ethiopia: Four million Ethiopians on the brink as food crises escalate
The Ethiopian Disaster Risk Management Commission (#DRMC) and the #UN have issued a joint statement addressing a severe humanitarian crisis impacting around four million people in drought-stricken areas. Over the past year, repeated droughts have devastated agriculture and food accessibility in regions like# Afar, #Amhara, #Tigray, #Oromia, #Southern, and #Southwest Ethiopia.
The prolonged absence of rainfall has led to crop and livestock loss, exacerbating acute food insecurity. Malnutrition rates have surged due to a lack of nutritious food, and critical water shortages pose a threat of waterborne diseases like #malaria, #measles, and #cholera.
Despite government efforts and aid distributions, the crisis persists. From July to December 2023, 7.3 million received aid, with additional assistance reaching 6.5 million since mid-December. However, the DRMC and UN warn that without increased relief and donor support, the situation may worsen.
Famine Early Warning Systems Network (FEWS NET) predicts a dramatic rise in food insecurity, with four million at risk by mid-2024 without intervention. The interim administration of Tigray has urgently pleaded for aid, citing a humanitarian disaster from war and drought, evoking memories of the devastating 1984/85 famine.
https://addisstandard.com/news-four-million-ethiopians-on-the-brink-as-food-crises-escalate/
The Ethiopian Disaster Risk Management Commission (#DRMC) and the #UN have issued a joint statement addressing a severe humanitarian crisis impacting around four million people in drought-stricken areas. Over the past year, repeated droughts have devastated agriculture and food accessibility in regions like# Afar, #Amhara, #Tigray, #Oromia, #Southern, and #Southwest Ethiopia.
The prolonged absence of rainfall has led to crop and livestock loss, exacerbating acute food insecurity. Malnutrition rates have surged due to a lack of nutritious food, and critical water shortages pose a threat of waterborne diseases like #malaria, #measles, and #cholera.
Despite government efforts and aid distributions, the crisis persists. From July to December 2023, 7.3 million received aid, with additional assistance reaching 6.5 million since mid-December. However, the DRMC and UN warn that without increased relief and donor support, the situation may worsen.
Famine Early Warning Systems Network (FEWS NET) predicts a dramatic rise in food insecurity, with four million at risk by mid-2024 without intervention. The interim administration of Tigray has urgently pleaded for aid, citing a humanitarian disaster from war and drought, evoking memories of the devastating 1984/85 famine.
https://addisstandard.com/news-four-million-ethiopians-on-the-brink-as-food-crises-escalate/
Addis Standard
News: Four million Ethiopians on the brink as food crises escalates - Addis Standard
News: Four million Ethiopians on the brink as food crises escalates Addis Standard Social Affairs -
#Ethiopian Parliamentary Committee Visits Navy Headquarters to Review Modernization Progress
Members of the Standing Committee on Foreign Relations and Peace Affairs from the House of People's Representatives recently conducted a visit to the Ethiopian Navy headquarters located in Bahir Dar.
During the visit, the Deputy Commander of the Navy, Rear Admiral Nasir Aba Diga, briefed the committee on the navy's modernization efforts, which are part of the broader national transformation initiatives. He detailed the successful strides made in enhancing manpower and developing naval infrastructure.
The Standing Committee, drawing from the insights gained during their visit, discussed the Navy's execution of its duties as mandated by the government and the people of Ethiopia.
Members of the Standing Committee on Foreign Relations and Peace Affairs from the House of People's Representatives recently conducted a visit to the Ethiopian Navy headquarters located in Bahir Dar.
During the visit, the Deputy Commander of the Navy, Rear Admiral Nasir Aba Diga, briefed the committee on the navy's modernization efforts, which are part of the broader national transformation initiatives. He detailed the successful strides made in enhancing manpower and developing naval infrastructure.
The Standing Committee, drawing from the insights gained during their visit, discussed the Navy's execution of its duties as mandated by the government and the people of Ethiopia.
#Ethiopia: Customs officials confiscate contraband goods worth over 800 million birr in a single week
In a swift seven-day operation, the Ethiopian Customs Commission has confiscated contraband valued at 803 million birr. The goods confiscated during this operation are among the most significant seizures recorded by the commission in the specified period.
The operation, which took place from 28 December, 2023, to 04 January, 2024, revealed over 404 million birr in illegally imported goods. The crackdown extended beyond imports, with an additional 398.9 million birr in merchandise intended for illicit export also being seized.
The range of contraband items seized was extensive, encompassing clothing, fuel, electronics, live animals, coffee, medical supplies, vehicle parts, cosmetics, weapons, narcotics, khat, cooking oil, and various foreign currencies.
In a swift seven-day operation, the Ethiopian Customs Commission has confiscated contraband valued at 803 million birr. The goods confiscated during this operation are among the most significant seizures recorded by the commission in the specified period.
The operation, which took place from 28 December, 2023, to 04 January, 2024, revealed over 404 million birr in illegally imported goods. The crackdown extended beyond imports, with an additional 398.9 million birr in merchandise intended for illicit export also being seized.
The range of contraband items seized was extensive, encompassing clothing, fuel, electronics, live animals, coffee, medical supplies, vehicle parts, cosmetics, weapons, narcotics, khat, cooking oil, and various foreign currencies.
#Ethiopia: Modjo Craftsman Turns Entrepreneur with #UNIDO Training
In Modjo, the hub of Ethiopia's leather production, Abay Girma Kefene has taken a significant step towards realizing his childhood dream of becoming a skilled craftsman. Despite the challenges of early family responsibilities and financial pressures, Abay found a new path forward through the Leather Initiative for Sustainable Employment Creation (LISEC).
LISEC, an initiative funded by the European Union and implemented by UNIDO in cooperation with the Ethiopian government, provided Abay with specialized training in leather craftsmanship and entrepreneurship. The program aims to bolster Ethiopia's leather industry and create employment opportunities for its youth, tackling the underlying causes of migration.
Read more at: https://twitter.com/addisstandard/status/1745058632041898139?t=YghFDe4Khce3ymeuX1DjVw&s=19
In Modjo, the hub of Ethiopia's leather production, Abay Girma Kefene has taken a significant step towards realizing his childhood dream of becoming a skilled craftsman. Despite the challenges of early family responsibilities and financial pressures, Abay found a new path forward through the Leather Initiative for Sustainable Employment Creation (LISEC).
LISEC, an initiative funded by the European Union and implemented by UNIDO in cooperation with the Ethiopian government, provided Abay with specialized training in leather craftsmanship and entrepreneurship. The program aims to bolster Ethiopia's leather industry and create employment opportunities for its youth, tackling the underlying causes of migration.
Read more at: https://twitter.com/addisstandard/status/1745058632041898139?t=YghFDe4Khce3ymeuX1DjVw&s=19
#Sudan: Military Tensions Intensify in Omdurman Amidst Ongoing Conflict
Conflict in Sudan continues to escalate as the Sudanese army and the Rapid Support Forces (#RSF) engage in fierce battles near the Corps of Engineers in Omdurman. The army's efforts to break the RSF's siege and establish a link with the Karari military region have intensified the conflict, which has been ongoing for nearly nine months.
Recent reports from pro-army social media accounts detail the army's territorial gains in key areas of Omdurman, including Al-Arbaeen Street and central locations previously under RSF control. The military has also secured portions of the local markets amid reports of escalating violence.
Eyewitness accounts to Sudan Tribune describe aerial bombardments by the army on RSF positions in various Khartoum neighborhoods. In retaliation, the RSF has targeted military installations with artillery and missile fire. Despite international pressure to negotiate, both factions continue to pursue a military resolution to the conflict.
https://sudantribune.com/article281133/
Conflict in Sudan continues to escalate as the Sudanese army and the Rapid Support Forces (#RSF) engage in fierce battles near the Corps of Engineers in Omdurman. The army's efforts to break the RSF's siege and establish a link with the Karari military region have intensified the conflict, which has been ongoing for nearly nine months.
Recent reports from pro-army social media accounts detail the army's territorial gains in key areas of Omdurman, including Al-Arbaeen Street and central locations previously under RSF control. The military has also secured portions of the local markets amid reports of escalating violence.
Eyewitness accounts to Sudan Tribune describe aerial bombardments by the army on RSF positions in various Khartoum neighborhoods. In retaliation, the RSF has targeted military installations with artillery and missile fire. Despite international pressure to negotiate, both factions continue to pursue a military resolution to the conflict.
https://sudantribune.com/article281133/
Sudan Tribune
Fierce fighting erupts between Sudanese army, RSF in Omdurman
January 9, 2024 (KHARTOUM) – Fierce battles erupted Tuesday between the Sudanese army and the Rapid Support Forces (RSF) in the areas surrounding the Corps of Engineers in Omdurman, intensifying the ongoing conflict that has gripped the country for nearly…
#Ethiopia: Kefi Gold moves closer to secure crucial funding for Ethiopia’s Tulu Kapi Gold project
Kefi Gold & Copper PLC has secured a lead lender's nod for a $320 million financial package, a crucial step in launching the Tulu Kapi gold project in Ethiopia. The Cyprus-based firm is gearing up to propel its "shovel-ready" project, expected to rejuvenate the nation's mining industry after a 30-year hiatus.
Situated 28km east of Ayra-Gulliso in West Wollega, #Oromia, Tulu Kapi is set to be Ethiopia's inaugural industrial-scale mine of the modern era. With approvals from syndicate members and positive signals from the government, Kefi is engaging local communities, addressing health concerns, and preparing for a 2024 launch.
Last year's stakeholder discussions in #Addis_Abeba resolved regulatory and legal hurdles, setting a solid foundation for the project. Tulu Kapi's operation is poised to create 1,000 jobs and significantly boost Ethiopia's exports, with foreign investment anticipated to top $400 million by 2025.
https://addisstandard.com/news-kefi-gold-moves-closer-to-secure-crucial-funding-for-ethiopias-tulu-kapi-gold-project/
Kefi Gold & Copper PLC has secured a lead lender's nod for a $320 million financial package, a crucial step in launching the Tulu Kapi gold project in Ethiopia. The Cyprus-based firm is gearing up to propel its "shovel-ready" project, expected to rejuvenate the nation's mining industry after a 30-year hiatus.
Situated 28km east of Ayra-Gulliso in West Wollega, #Oromia, Tulu Kapi is set to be Ethiopia's inaugural industrial-scale mine of the modern era. With approvals from syndicate members and positive signals from the government, Kefi is engaging local communities, addressing health concerns, and preparing for a 2024 launch.
Last year's stakeholder discussions in #Addis_Abeba resolved regulatory and legal hurdles, setting a solid foundation for the project. Tulu Kapi's operation is poised to create 1,000 jobs and significantly boost Ethiopia's exports, with foreign investment anticipated to top $400 million by 2025.
https://addisstandard.com/news-kefi-gold-moves-closer-to-secure-crucial-funding-for-ethiopias-tulu-kapi-gold-project/
Addis Standard
News: Kefi Gold moves closer to secure crucial funding for Ethiopia's Tulu Kapi Gold project - Addis Standard
News: Kefi Gold moves closer to secure crucial funding for Ethiopia's Tulu Kapi Gold project Addis Standard Business -
Update: Parliamentary Committee pledges support for #Ethiopian #Navy “in every possible capacity”
Members of the Standing Committee on Foreign Relations and Peace Affairs of the House of People's Representatives (HoPR) pledged to support Ethiopia’s newly established Navy “in every possible capacity,” according to HoPR.
Earlier today Members of the Standing Committee on Foreign Relations and Peace visited the Ethiopian Navy headquarters located in #Bahir_Dar, the capital of #Amhara state.
Read more at: https://x.com/addisstandard/status/1745108681958543376?s=46&t=ofAzVW8-64dDK-xsjodCGA
Members of the Standing Committee on Foreign Relations and Peace Affairs of the House of People's Representatives (HoPR) pledged to support Ethiopia’s newly established Navy “in every possible capacity,” according to HoPR.
Earlier today Members of the Standing Committee on Foreign Relations and Peace visited the Ethiopian Navy headquarters located in #Bahir_Dar, the capital of #Amhara state.
Read more at: https://x.com/addisstandard/status/1745108681958543376?s=46&t=ofAzVW8-64dDK-xsjodCGA
#Just_In: #UN helicopter crew seized by al-Shabab militant group in #Somalia
The al-Qaeda-linked Islamist insurgent group #al_Shabab has seized the crew of a United Nations helicopter that made an emergency landing Wednesday, said two Mogadishu-based sources with international organizations.
Al-Shabab set the helicopter on fire and seized an unknown number of crew after the aircraft was forced to make an emergency landing on its way to the town of Wisil in the central Galguduud region, a Western official told The Washington Post. All three spoke on the condition of anonymity because of the sensitivity of the situation.
A spokeswoman for the United Nations Assistance Mission in Somalia said a statement would be issued shortly.
https://www.washingtonpost.com/world/2024/01/10/somalia-shabab-un-helicopter/
The al-Qaeda-linked Islamist insurgent group #al_Shabab has seized the crew of a United Nations helicopter that made an emergency landing Wednesday, said two Mogadishu-based sources with international organizations.
Al-Shabab set the helicopter on fire and seized an unknown number of crew after the aircraft was forced to make an emergency landing on its way to the town of Wisil in the central Galguduud region, a Western official told The Washington Post. All three spoke on the condition of anonymity because of the sensitivity of the situation.
A spokeswoman for the United Nations Assistance Mission in Somalia said a statement would be issued shortly.
https://www.washingtonpost.com/world/2024/01/10/somalia-shabab-un-helicopter/
#Ethiopia: Aspirations to return home for Tigrayan IDPs left hanging in the air despite promises
Over a year since the #Pretoria_Peace_Agreement was signed in November 2022, bringing peace to much of #Tigray, the challenge of repatriating internally displaced persons (IDPs) remains daunting. The insufficient delivery of humanitarian aid has left many #IDPs without crucial support, and there are disturbing reports of sexual violence and exploitation in the camps that shelter them.
Kiros Assefa, an IDP, recounts her harrowing experience fleeing her home in #Humera during the outbreak of war in November 2020. After a perilous two-week journey, she and her family settled in the #Abyi_Adi IDP camp, where over 54,000 displaced civilians currently reside, awaiting a safe return to their homes. The situation remains critical, with the international community closely observing the plight of Tigray's IDPs, who continue to suffer as they wait for a chance to return to their homes and rebuild their lives.
Despite the presence of #Amhara and #Eritrean forces, some residents in Tigray's contested town of Humera, like Abrehet Tesfu, choose to stay amidst the ruins of war. Abrehet, a mother of five, faces a daily threat to her family and property. She shares with Addis Standard her harrowing experiences of unlawful detentions and her husband's unjust imprisonment, all while being unable to sell her goods or property due to restrictions by armed groups.
The political analyst Tsegaze’ab highlights the grim reality of ethnic Tigrayans being forcibly displaced and replaced by others, a process he describes as genocidal. He criticizes the lack of adherence to the Pretoria peace agreement and the indifference of the interim administration to the plight of Tigrayans.
https://addisstandard.com/feature-aspirations-to-return-home-for-tigrayan-idps-left-hanging-in-the-air-despite-promises/
Over a year since the #Pretoria_Peace_Agreement was signed in November 2022, bringing peace to much of #Tigray, the challenge of repatriating internally displaced persons (IDPs) remains daunting. The insufficient delivery of humanitarian aid has left many #IDPs without crucial support, and there are disturbing reports of sexual violence and exploitation in the camps that shelter them.
Kiros Assefa, an IDP, recounts her harrowing experience fleeing her home in #Humera during the outbreak of war in November 2020. After a perilous two-week journey, she and her family settled in the #Abyi_Adi IDP camp, where over 54,000 displaced civilians currently reside, awaiting a safe return to their homes. The situation remains critical, with the international community closely observing the plight of Tigray's IDPs, who continue to suffer as they wait for a chance to return to their homes and rebuild their lives.
Despite the presence of #Amhara and #Eritrean forces, some residents in Tigray's contested town of Humera, like Abrehet Tesfu, choose to stay amidst the ruins of war. Abrehet, a mother of five, faces a daily threat to her family and property. She shares with Addis Standard her harrowing experiences of unlawful detentions and her husband's unjust imprisonment, all while being unable to sell her goods or property due to restrictions by armed groups.
The political analyst Tsegaze’ab highlights the grim reality of ethnic Tigrayans being forcibly displaced and replaced by others, a process he describes as genocidal. He criticizes the lack of adherence to the Pretoria peace agreement and the indifference of the interim administration to the plight of Tigrayans.
https://addisstandard.com/feature-aspirations-to-return-home-for-tigrayan-idps-left-hanging-in-the-air-despite-promises/
Addis Standard
Feature: Aspirations to return home for Tigrayan IDPs left hanging in the air despite promises - Addis Standard
Feature: Aspirations to return home for Tigrayan IDPs left hanging in the air despite promises Addis Standard Social Affairs -
#Somaliland is pressing the #5G button against all odds
Somaliland is surging ahead with the launch of 5G technology, partnering with #Telesom to bring next-generation connectivity to #Hargeisa and 12 other urban areas.
Despite challenges such as security concerns and humanitarian issues, this marks a milestone in the country's tech-driven development. With a GDP of $2.5 billion in 2021, Somaliland continues its pursuit of international recognition by advancing its digital infrastructure.
Telesom's subscribers with 5G-enabled devices can now enjoy faster mobile data, signaling a transformative shift in communication and digital experiences.
https://qz.com/5g-somaliland-telesom-hargeisa-ultra-fast-internet-1851156628
Somaliland is surging ahead with the launch of 5G technology, partnering with #Telesom to bring next-generation connectivity to #Hargeisa and 12 other urban areas.
Despite challenges such as security concerns and humanitarian issues, this marks a milestone in the country's tech-driven development. With a GDP of $2.5 billion in 2021, Somaliland continues its pursuit of international recognition by advancing its digital infrastructure.
Telesom's subscribers with 5G-enabled devices can now enjoy faster mobile data, signaling a transformative shift in communication and digital experiences.
https://qz.com/5g-somaliland-telesom-hargeisa-ultra-fast-internet-1851156628
Quartz
Against all odds, Somaliland has joined the 5G revolution
It's one of the first low-income countries to roll out the high-speed network
#Ethiopia ramps up humanitarian efforts: 6.6 million to receive aid amid drought crisis
The Ethiopian Disaster Risk Management Commission (#DRMC) has announced a comprehensive plan to assist 6.6 million citizens affected by severe drought conditions from January to March 2024.
Shiferau Teklemariam, the commission's head, confirmed the government's commitment to providing 1.1 million quintals of food, valued at 9.2 billion birr, with support from various partners.
The drought has taken a toll on multiple regions across Ethiopia, with eight zones in the #Amhara region, four in #Tigray, three in #Afar, and select areas in #Oromia, South Ethiopia, and Southwest Ethiopia being the hardest hit. This natural calamity has prompted an urgent call to action to address the humanitarian needs of approximately four million individuals.
Read more at: https://twitter.com/addisstandard/status/1745365846522826899
The Ethiopian Disaster Risk Management Commission (#DRMC) has announced a comprehensive plan to assist 6.6 million citizens affected by severe drought conditions from January to March 2024.
Shiferau Teklemariam, the commission's head, confirmed the government's commitment to providing 1.1 million quintals of food, valued at 9.2 billion birr, with support from various partners.
The drought has taken a toll on multiple regions across Ethiopia, with eight zones in the #Amhara region, four in #Tigray, three in #Afar, and select areas in #Oromia, South Ethiopia, and Southwest Ethiopia being the hardest hit. This natural calamity has prompted an urgent call to action to address the humanitarian needs of approximately four million individuals.
Read more at: https://twitter.com/addisstandard/status/1745365846522826899