#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

#Ethiopia: Tsedale Lemma, founder and former Editor-in-Chief of Addis Standard Publications, had the opportunity to sit down with Jawar Mohammed in Nairobi, #Kenya, to discuss his new book, Hin Gaabbu (No Regrets).

During their conversation, they explored the themes of his book, discussing Jawar's childhood, his involvement with the #OLF, and how these experiences shaped his political outlook.

They also examined the precursors to the #Qeerroo protest movement, including the Young Oromo Leadership Conference and the "ድምፃችን ይሰማ" (Let Our Voices Be Heard) protest.

The discussion touched on how the phrase "I am Oromo first" shifted the narrative of #Oromo politics.

Watch the full interview below.

https://youtu.be/CySIgMVOST0?si=M482GYr0pIbXvq9T

#Ethiopia: Mandatory militia training disrupts transportation, livelihoods in Sendafa town, #Oromia region

A mandatory militia training program in Sendafa town, Oromia Regional State, has restricted bajaj and horse-drawn carriage operations during morning hours, disrupting transportation and livelihoods. The training, running from 27 December 2024 to 9 January 2025, requires drivers to halt operations from 6:30 a.m. to 9:00 a.m.

Lelisa Maru (name changed for safety reasons), a bajaj driver, said, “My livelihood relies on transporting students. I have contracts with 14 students, but due to this militia training, I am unable to meet my commitments. I’m worried that I may lose them.” A resident voiced concerns about the impact, explaining, “We used to rely on a bajaj for the 3- to 4-kilometer commute to school. Now, I have to walk my 11-year-old daughter to school every morning and still make it to #Addis_Abeba for work.”

https://addisstandard.com/?p=47710

#Kenya police crack down on protests over alleged abductions

Kenyans took to the streets in #Nairobi to protest alleged abductions by the country’s national police and intelligence services. The demonstrations escalated on Monday with the arrest of opposition senator Okiya Omtatah, who was among hundreds calling for the release of missing persons.

Protesters condemned "illegal detentions targeting critics of Kenyan President William Ruto." Human rights activist Odhiambo Ojiro declared, "All the abducted people should be released alive. If not so, we are not vacating the streets unless they kill us." The Kenya National Human Rights Commission reported that at least 82 people have gone missing since June, with seven abducted this month.

Kenyan political analyst Nerima Wako-Ojiwa criticized the government’s response to the protests, stating, "It’s a shame that the majority population of this country is young but a lot of them are living in fear." Protester Duncan Irungu added, "You have killed our brothers, our sisters, the future of tomorrow... Respect our taxes (and) we respect your leadership." President Ruto has vowed to address the kidnappings but denies police involvement.

https://www.dw.com/en/kenya-police-crack-down-on-protests-over-alleged-abductions/a-71186824

#Ethiopia: Access restrictions by 'local militia' deepen humanitarian crisis for 77,000 in #Bugna and #Lasta districts: Report

Access restrictions imposed by “local militia” in Bugna and Lasta districts, North Wollo Zone, #Amhara Region, have intensified a humanitarian crisis affecting 77,000 people, including 10,000 displaced, according to the European Civil Protection and Humanitarian Aid Operations (ECHO). The report stated, “telecommunications and banking systems are not functional, and government structures have been absent for three months,” leaving residents without essential services.

ECHO highlighted that “79% of pregnant and lactating women and 70% of children are acutely malnourished,” with 9.2% severely affected. It also reported, “The lack of humanitarian assistance and low crop production, coupled with high food prices, have exacerbated food insecurity.”

https://addisstandard.com/?p=47733

#Ethiopia: Gov’t targets contraband fuel trade as cities face dire shortages, price hikes

Amid worsening fuel shortages and rising prices in Ethiopia, the government has ramped up efforts to combat contraband fuel trade. Kassahun Gofe (PhD), Minister of Trade and Regional Integration, announced measures against illicit activities, including penalties for 34 fuel stations and the seizure of 385,947 liters of illegal fuel, generating 27.9 million birr in revenue.

“Illegal activities observed include selling fuel through manual transactions instead of digital payments, unjustified refusal of service at fuel stations, and underreporting fuel stocks to regulatory bodies,” Kassahun stated. Despite his assurance that there is “no actual shortage of gasoline supply,” reports from cities such as Adama, #Bahir_Dar, and #Hawassa reveal severe shortages and reliance on black-market fuel at inflated prices.

https://addisstandard.com/?p=47738

#Op_ed: Time for Action: Recognizing #Somaliland as an integral ally in countering #China’s growing influence in #East_Africa

In this op-ed, Adam Daud Ahmed, a political and security analyst in the Horn of Africa, argues that the strategic recognition of Somaliland is vital to countering China’s growing influence in East Africa. Ahmed emphasizes that Somaliland, despite lacking formal international recognition, has demonstrated stability and democratic governance since declaring independence in 1991. He contends that recognizing Somaliland is not a symbolic issue but one with significant geopolitical implications for the Horn of Africa and the #Red_Sea corridor.

Ahmed asserts that Somaliland's strategic location on the Gulf of Aden makes it a critical partner in securing sea routes, combating piracy, and improving trade facilitation. He argues that formal recognition would provide opportunities to counterbalance China’s expanding influence, particularly its Belt and Road Initiative investments and military outposts in the region. Moreover, Ahmed highlights the potential for Somaliland to offer alternative trade routes for Ethiopia and strengthen economic partnerships with nations like the UAE, which has substantial investments in the Berbera Port.

The op-ed warns that inaction risks ceding ground to rising powers like China while missing a crucial opportunity to support democracy and stability in the region. Ahmed concludes by calling on countries like the United States, the #UAE, and #Ethiopia to recognize Somaliland’s strategic importance and formalize its status.

https://addisstandard.com/time-for-action-recognizing-somaliland-as-an-integral-ally-in-countering-chinas-growing-influence-in-east-africa/

#UN envoy calls for peace, disavows #Sudan ‘military solution’

Ramtane Lamamra, the UN Secretary-General’s Personal Envoy for Sudan, has urged Sudanese officials to prioritise peace while expressing cautious optimism following visits to Sudan and #Ethiopia. “Our one and only choice is to continue with our endeavours,” he told UN News, highlighting the challenges of addressing the ongoing conflict.

Lamamra met with Lt Gen Abdelfattah El Burhan in Port Sudan and held talks with a Rapid Support Forces delegation in #Addis_Abeba. He emphasised the importance of an inclusive peace process that involves women, youth, and marginalised groups. “Those are the people who continue to suffer from the intolerable toll of this heartbreaking war,” he said, stressing the need for a broader ceasefire.

The envoy reiterated that “there cannot be a military solution for this war” and called for an immediate ceasefire to ease civilian suffering. He urged global and regional actors, including Ethiopia, to exert pressure on the warring factions, adding, “The Sudanese people deserve no less.”

https://www.dabangasudan.org/en/all-news/article/un-envoy-sues-for-peace-disavows-sudan-military-solution