#Just_in: #UN’s #WHO Chief, staff safe after airport bombing in #Yemen

The World Health Organization (WHO) Chief Tedros Adhanom and staff safe after #Israel’s aerial bombardment of the Sana’a Airport, in Yemen, earlier today.

According to Dr Tedros, the UN mission was in Yemen “to negotiate the release of detained UN staff and assess Yemen’s humanitarian situation,” which concluded today.

But as the delegation prepared to depart Sana’a, the airport came under aerial bombardment, leaving one plane crew member injured and at least two people dead. “The air traffic control tower, departure lounge - just a few meters from where were - and the runway were damaged”, Tedros said, delaying the delegation’s departure.

The WHO staff extended condolences to the families of the victims, reiterating calls for the immediate release of the detainees.

Al-Shabab commander killed in drone strike in #Somalia, group confirms

Al-Shabab has confirmed the death of Mohamed Mire, one of its senior commanders, in a drone strike near Kunyo Barrow in Somalia's Lower Shabelle region. The militant group attributed the attack to the United States but did not specify the date of the incident.

The United States Africa Command (#AFRICOM) reported conducting an airstrike on December 24, targeting al-Shabab militants approximately 10 kilometers southwest of Kunyo Barrow. While AFRICOM did not disclose the names of those targeted, it stated, “The command will continue to assess the results of the operation and provide additional information as appropriate.” Somalia’s Ministry of Information described the strike as “well-planned” and executed in collaboration with international partners.

Mire, a designated global terrorist by U.S. officials in 2022, served as the head of al-Shabab's regions department and held multiple roles within the organization. He was reportedly targeted while traveling between Jilib and Kunyo Barrow. In July, Mire was included in Somalia’s anti-money laundering sanctions list along with other key al-Shabab figures.

https://www.voanews.com/a/al-shabab-says-one-of-its-commanders-killed-in-drone-strike/7914910.html

#Ethiopia: #Harari regional gov’t refutes reports of business closures over 'corridor development levy,' cites building code violations

The Harari Regional State has dismissed reports that businesses in Harar City were shut down over their failure to contribute financially to the “ongoing corridor development.” The regional government clarified that the closures were limited to “all businesses operating within unfinished buildings,” citing violations of Harar City’s Building Proclamation 624/2001 and Investment Proclamation 1180/2014.

According to Ismail Yusuf, Head of the Regional Enterprise and Industry Development Bureau, “commercial establishments operating in buildings that meet the standards have been allowed to resume operations.” Meanwhile, Demsew Kassa, Secretary-General of the Ethiopian Bankers Association, stated that 43 bank branches were closed for nine days because “they failed to contribute the requested two million birr for the corridor development.”

https://addisstandard.com/?p=47655

#UN Security Council to vote on upcoming #Somalia mission, #Ethiopia and Somalia to participate

The United Nations Security Council will vote today on a draft resolution to establish the African Union Support and Stabilisation Mission in Somalia (#AUSSOM), replacing the African Union Transition Mission in Somalia (#ATMIS), whose mandate ends on December 31, 2024. The draft, led by the United Kingdom, proposes deploying up to 12,626 personnel, including 1,040 police officers, for one year starting January 1, 2025. The transition from ATMIS to AUSSOM is expected to conclude by June 30, 2025.

Somalia and Ethiopia will participate in the session under Rule 37 of the Council’s provisional rules. The draft resolution endorses a hybrid financing model, with 75% funded by the UN and the remaining 25% mobilized by the African Union and other UN contributions. The plan has sparked debate, with some favoring immediate implementation while others propose a transitional mechanism to address funding gaps. If approved, the resolution will require the Secretary-General to finalize the financing model by mid-2025.

https://addisstandard.com/?p=47659

#Nigeria Civil Aviation Authority sanctions #Ethiopian_Airlines, others for passenger rights breaches

The Nigeria Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA) has taken enforcement action against five airlines, including Ethiopian Airlines, for breaching passenger rights under Part 19 of its regulations.

Michael Achimugu, Director of Public Affairs and Consumer Protection at the Authority, explained that the violations included “not paying refunds within the stipulated time frame,” “missing luggage,” “manhandled luggage,” “short-landed baggage,” and “delayed and cancelled flights.” He noted, “The enforcement we are initiating today is on cases where the airline is deemed to have been at fault. More will come.”

Although the Authority did not officially name the airlines, sources identified Ethiopian Airlines, Royal Air Maroc, Arik Air, Aero Contractors, and Air Peace as those affected.

https://leadership.ng/rights-breach-ncaa-sanctions-ethiopian-airlines-air-peace-aero-others/

#Ethiopia: Commission cautions against silencing rights organizations under dubious claims

The Ethiopian Human Rights Commission (#EHRC) has expressed concern about the recent suspension of five Civil Society Organizations (CSOs) by the Authority for Civil Society Organizations (#ACSO) within two weeks. EHRC noted that the CSOs were accused of engaging in activities “beyond their stated objectives, in violation of their obligation to operate independently from political involvement, and in ways that harm national interests,” prompting the Commission to launch an inquiry based on “complaints and information submitted.”

EHRC described it as “troubling” that additional notices were issued to organizations, including the Ethiopian Human Rights Council (#EHRCO) and the Ethiopian Human Rights Defenders Center (#EHRDC), accusing them of “legal violations” without “substantiating the claims.” The Commission urged ACSO to “expedite its investigations” and to ensure the process avoids “undue interference with their organizational and associational rights, in accordance with civic freedoms.”

https://addisstandard.com/?p=47674

#Ethiopia: Muslim students in #Axum town protest hijab ban, citing violations of religious and educational rights

Muslim students in Axum, located in the Central Zone of #Tigray, are protesting a hijab ban they describe as a violation of their constitutional rights to education and religious freedom. One student explained, "The schools are denying our right to education because we wear the hijab, which is required by our religion." Efforts to compromise by matching hijab colors with uniforms were reportedly rejected.

The Islamic Affairs Office in Axum highlighted that the ban impacts four secondary schools and approximately 140 students, including those preparing for national exams. Haji Mohammed Kahsay of the Islamic Affairs Council in Tigray stated, "The hijab is a deeply significant expression of faith and identity for Muslim women. Denying students the right to wear it violates their religious freedoms." He called for stakeholders to safeguard individual freedoms and promote inclusivity.

https://addisstandard.com/?p=47676

#Ghana becomes 5th #African country to implement #visa_free travel for African countries including #Ethiopia

Ghana joins #Rwanda, #Seychelles, #The_Gambia, and #Benin in offering visa-free entry to all African passport holders.

Previously, Ghana provided visa-free access to citizens of 26 African nations, while travelers from 25 other African countries could obtain a visa upon arrival.
This initiative follows the administration's annual year-end tradition of offering visas on arrival for all travelers.

Ghana's Tourism Authority in November, announced that from December 1, 2024, to January 15, 2025, visitors can benefit from a Non-Pre-Approval Visa policy as part of the transformative 10-year “Beyond the Return” initiative.

The program is a 10-year initiative launched by the Ghanaian government to boost tourism, encourage the return of Africans and Ghanaians living abroad, and strengthen economic ties with the diaspora.
https://africa.businessinsider.com/local/lifestyle/ghana-becomes-5th-african-country-to-implement-visa-free-travel-for-africans/4rk8xbt

#UN approves new #AU force to take on al-Shabab in #Somalia

The United Nations Security Council has approved the establishment of the African Union Support and Stabilization Mission in Somalia (#AUSSOM), which will replace the African Union Transition Mission in Somalia (#ATMIS) when its mandate expires on December 31.

The resolution, adopted by 14 of the Council's 15 members, saw the United States abstain due to concerns over funding mechanisms. U.S. representative Dorothy Shea stated, "The conditions have not been met for immediate transition" to a U.N.-supported financing mechanism that could cover up to 75% of the force’s expenses.

Somalia’s representative emphasized the collaborative efforts underpinning the mission, noting, "Current AUSSOM troop allocations are completed through bilateral agreements," with 11,000 troops pledged so far.

https://www.voanews.com/amp/un-approves-new-au-force-to-take-on-al-shabab-in-somalia-/7916486.html

#Sudan: first aid convoy reaches besieged #Khartoum area since start of civil war

An aid convoy has reached southern Khartoum for the first time since the outbreak of Sudan’s civil war in April 2023, delivering food and medical supplies. The World Food Programme (#WFP) reported that 28 trucks arrived on 25 December, including 22 loaded with 750 tonnes of food, five from #UNICEF with medical and nutrition kits, and one from Médecins Sans Frontières (#MSF) carrying medical supplies.

Sheldon Yett, UNICEF’s Sudan representative, explained the challenges: “Access to the area has been essentially cut off due to the conflict dynamics. It took three months of daily negotiations with government authorities and other parties. The trucks were detained on more than one occasion, and drivers faced significant risks.” Despite these hurdles, the convoy brought relief to areas facing severe food insecurity.

However, humanitarian workers caution that much more aid is needed. Claire San Filippo of MSF highlighted obstacles created by warring factions: “There is a real pattern of deliberately blocking or restricting access to life-saving aid. While the convoy is a positive step, many more are needed.” Food distribution in Jebel Aulia, a famine-risk area, is set to begin on 29 December, marking the first such delivery since the conflict began.

https://www.theguardian.com/world/2024/dec/27/sudan-first-aid-convoy-reaches-besieged-khartoum-area-since-start-of-civil-war#:~:text=An%20aid%20convoy%20has%20reached,are%20at%20risk%20of%20starvation

#Ethiopia, #Somaliland agree to end hostilities in #Dacawaley after deadly land dispute claims dozens in Somali region

Somaliland and Ethiopian officials have reached an agreement to end hostilities in Dacawalay kebele, Harshin district, Somali Regional State, resolving a deadly land dispute through what both sides described as “peaceful and sustainable means.” The agreement follows violent clashes that claimed over 35 lives and left many injured.

The negotiations, held in Jigjiga, the Somali Regional State's capital, included Somaliland’s Minister of Internal Security Abdalle Mohamed Arab and Ethiopian military and civilian leaders. A statement from Somaliland’s Ministry of Interior described the discussions as addressing “pressing security concerns,” with both sides committing to prevent further escalation and ensure “peace and stability in the area.”

https://addisstandard.com/?p=47680

#Op-ed: Initiatives for cooperation in the #Red_Sea and #Gulf_ of _Aden must be regionally-led

In this Op-ed, Nuur Mohamud Sheekh, a diplomatic and geopolitical analyst based in London, who is a former Spokesperson of the #IGAD Executive Secretary, argues supporting the necessity of regionally owned initiatives and leadership in shaping the future of the Red Sea and Gulf of Aden, highlighting the importance of cooperation, inclusivity, and multilateralism among regional states.

“External actors should support, not dictate, the region’s path forward. External solutions imposed without the consent and leadership of regional states risk exacerbating tensions and undermining the sustainability of progress,” writes Nuur.

He highlights how external interventions by actors such as the #UAE, #Russia, and #Iran has at times amplified tensions and rivalries. He notes that to prevent the Red Sea from becoming a battleground for proxy conflicts, the region must assert its authority, prioritising collective interests over external agendas. #Ethiopia #Somalia #HoA

https://addisstandard.com/initiatives-for-cooperation-in-the-red-sea-and-gulf-of-aden-must-be-regionally-led/

#Ethiopia warns against 'reckless pursuit' of extra-regional actors; #Somalia assures 'security vacuum' filled in post-#ATMIS transition

Ambassador Tesfaye Yilma, Ethiopia’s permanent representative to the United Nations, criticized "extra-regional actors that have no constructive role in the region" during the United Nations Security Council (#UNSC) vote on transitioning from ATMIS to #AUSSOM, calling such involvement a "reckless pursuit."

Speaking at the UNSC session on 27 December, Ambassador Tesfaye emphasized Ethiopia’s readiness to play a role in the post-ATMIS mission, stating, “Ethiopia stands ready to continue its role in the post-ATMIS mission.” He added that the country looks forward to “working closely with the federal government of Somalia, which we trust will remain a committed partner in counter-terrorism efforts.”

Read more at: https://x.com/addisstandard/status/1873283509952847966

#Egypt follows #Ethiopia-#Somalia agreement, hopes for stability: President al-Sisi

Egyptian President Abdel Fattah al-Sisi said Saturday that he is “closely following” the agreement between Ethiopia and Somalia, mediated by Türkiye, and expressed his “hope that this agreement would contribute to achieving security and stability in the Horn of Africa,” according to a statement from the Egyptian presidency.

During a phone call with French President Emmanuel Macron, al-Sisi reiterated that he is “closely following the agreement recently reached between Ethiopia and Somalia through Turkish mediation.” He emphasized his “hope that this agreement would contribute to achieving security and stability in the Horn of Africa region, and that it would be in line with the principles of international law.”

The Egyptian presidency noted that the two leaders stressed “the importance of further enhancing cooperation across various fields, especially economic and investment, while emphasizing the need to attract more French companies to invest in development projects in Egypt.”

The #Ankara Declaration, signed on Dec. 12, marked what the Somali and Ethiopian leaders described as a “reaffirmation of their respect and commitment to one another’s sovereignty, unity, independence, and territorial integrity.”

https://www.aa.com.tr/en/africa/egypt-follows-ethiopia-somalia-agreement-hopes-for-stability-president-al-sisi/3436963

#Ethiopia: Awash Fentale hit by series of earthquakes, including a 5.0-magnitude tremor felt in #Addis_Abeba

A 5.0-magnitude earthquake struck near Awash Fentale on the evening of 29 December, marking one of seven tremors recorded that day. The epicenter, located approximately 14 kilometers from Awash town, highlights ongoing seismic activity in the region. The quake was reportedly felt in Addis Abeba, drawing attention to the area’s increasing tectonic instability.

Elias Lewi (PhD), Director of Geophysics and Space Science at Addis Ababa University (#AAU), noted in an interview with state media that the region has experienced recurrent seismic activity over the past week. He attributed these events to movements within basaltic rock formations, suggesting that such tectonic processes are likely to persist. The region has experienced a series of earthquakes since late September 2024, with vibrations extending to #Afar, #Dire_Dawa, and surrounding areas.

https://addisstandard.com/?p=47692

#Egypt, #Sudan discuss water security, support for #Somalia

The foreign ministers of Egypt and Sudan met in Cairo on Sunday, December 29, to discuss water security and regional support for Somalia. In a statement, Egypt’s Foreign Ministry said the talks between Egyptian Foreign Minister Badr Abdelatty and Sudanese Foreign Minister Ali Al-Sharif highlighted “the necessity of maintaining coordination and cooperation between the two countries to protect their water security.”

The discussions centered on the Grand Ethiopian Renaissance Dam (#GERD). Egypt regards the Nile as its "only source of freshwater," while #Ethiopia asserts that the dam is "vital for development and electricity generation." Despite years of negotiations, no breakthrough has been achieved.

On Somalia, the two sides reaffirmed their support for the country’s "sovereignty, unity, and territorial integrity" and urged continued efforts to combat terrorism. The talks follow recent diplomatic developments in the region, including the Ankara agreement between Somalia and Ethiopia, which seeks to address longstanding tensions.

https://www.aa.com.tr/en/middle-east/egypt-sudan-discuss-water-security-support-for-somalia/3437298

#Ethiopia: Deprived of economic opportunities, thousands of #Tigray’s youth migrate abroad only to face exploitation, torture by traffickers

Thousands of Tigrayan youth, facing unemployment and economic hardship in their post-war homeland, continue to migrate abroad, often through irregular and dangerous routes. Among them are Alexander Kidu, 29, and Mareg Abreha, 28, whose families now report they are detained and "savagely beaten" by traffickers in Libya.

Alexander’s mother, Letegeorgis Michael, said she received "videos of him being savagely beaten" by traffickers demanding a ransom of 1.3 million birr. “Since his departure, basic necessities have become scarce, and poverty weighs heavily upon me,” she said, adding that she cannot afford the ransom. Mareg’s uncle, Tekeste Tesfamariam, said traffickers also sent videos of Mareg’s mistreatment, demanding the same amount.

Hayish Subagadis, head of Tigray’s Youth Affairs Bureau, noted that around "32,000 young people migrate illegally annually" due to a lack of employment opportunities. He described the situation as dire, stating, "The chances of securing employment in Tigray are extremely limited, as the region is still grappling with the economic devastation caused by the war."

https://addisstandard.com/?p=47696

#Burundi withdraws from #Somalia mission, cites "betrayal" over troop allocation

Burundi has announced its withdrawal from the African Union Support Mission in Somalia (#AUSSOM), citing "betrayal and ingratitude" over disagreements regarding troop allocation for the 2025 operation. The Burundian government communicated its decision to the African Union Peace and Security Council, chaired by Djibouti, after Somalia allocated only 1,041 soldiers out of the 2,000 requested by Burundi.

A Burundian official, speaking to ChimpReports, said the reduced allocation would "jeopardize operational safety," accusing Somalia of showing "ingratitude" despite Burundi’s sacrifices. As one of the largest contributors to peacekeeping in Somalia, Burundi’s exit raises concerns about the mission’s ability to maintain security, particularly in areas under Al-Shabaab’s influence.

Since its initial deployment in 2007, Burundi has been pivotal in operations like the recapture of Mogadishu's Defense Ministry compound. Somali Defense Minister Abdulkadir Mohamed Nur acknowledged the sacrifices of Burundian troops, expressing "deep gratitude" for their role in combating terrorism and restoring stability.

https://chimpreports.com/burundi-senses-betrayal-quits-somalia-mission/

#Sudan rejects #UN-backed famine declaration

The Sudanese government has dismissed a UN report labeling the country’s food security crisis as a famine, citing concerns over the accuracy of data and methodology employed in the Integrated Food Security Phase Classification (IPC) assessment.

Speaking at a press briefing in Port Sudan, Agriculture Minister Abubakar Omar El-Bushra criticized the IPC report, stating, “The figures are unrealistic.” He added that the surveys conducted included 15 states, 11 of which are conflict zones, with seven under siege by the Rapid Support Forces (#RSF), complicating fieldwork. As a result, Sudan has decided to withdraw from further association with the IPC framework.

The IPC Famine Review Committee’s recent report revealed that nearly half of Sudan’s population—24.6 million people—are facing food insecurity, with five areas currently experiencing famine. The Sudanese Foreign Ministry, however, called the findings “flawed,” emphasizing that they were based on outdated data. Meanwhile, UN Under-Secretary-General for Humanitarian Affairs Tom Fletcher has urged the international community to address the looming humanitarian catastrophe.

https://www.aa.com.tr/en/middle-east/sudan-rejects-un-backed-famine-declaration/3437411

#Ethiopia: Fuel scarcity in #Adama city sparks black market boom, price hikes

Adama City, located in Ethiopia's Oromia region, is grappling with a severe fuel shortage, disrupting daily life and triggering a surge in black-market sales. Drivers report enduring long queues at gas stations, with many resorting to purchasing fuel at inflated prices from unauthorized vendors.

A local heavy truck driver described the situation as dire, stating that fuel deliveries to stations are irregular, often arriving after days or even weeks of delays. "Fuel is being extensively distributed through the black market outside of the stations," he said. Similarly, a Bajaj driver shared that some stations receive fuel late at night, forcing drivers to queue for hours or even overnight to secure a limited supply. On the black market, prices have soared to as high as 300 birr per liter, doubling transportation costs for residents.

https://addisstandard.com/?p=47711

#Ethiopia: Tragic truck accident kills 71 in #Sidama region, over 50 relatives among victims en route to wedding

Authorities reported that over 50 of the 71 individuals who perished in a tragic accident on Sunday, December 29, were relatives from the same family traveling to attend a wedding ceremony. The incident occurred around 5:00 p.m. in the Bona Zuria district of Eastern Sidama when a truck transporting wedding guests veered off a bridge and plunged into the Gelana River. Deputy Inspector Shumete Tuncha, police head of Bona Zuria district, stated that the accident was caused by "overloading," as the truck was carrying passengers "beyond its capacity."

Dr. Lemma Legide, medical director of Bona General Hospital, confirmed that 66 people lost their lives, with 64 dying at the scene or en route to the hospital, and two succumbing after receiving treatment. He noted that among the deceased, 61 were men, including the groom, and four were women. "This is not just a tragedy for one family but for the Sidama people and Ethiopia as a whole," Dr. Lemma remarked

https://addisstandard.com/?p=47719