#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

#Ethiopia: Since late September 2024, Ethiopia has experienced increased seismic activity, particularly near the #Fentale volcano in the Main Ethiopian Rift Valley region. Over the past few days, multiple earthquakes have been recorded with magnitudes ranging from 4.4 to 5.1. The most significant event was a magnitude 5.1 earthquake on 29 December, 2024, located approximately 42 km north of #Awash.

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.

Dr. Elias further explained that tectonic activity in the area, particularly movements within basaltic rock formations, continues to drive these recurring earthquakes.

#Ethiopia: "The current course is disastrous for everybody" - Jawar Mohammed

Watch the second part of the conversation between Tsedale Lemma, founder and former editor-in-chief of Addis Standard, and Jawar Mohammed in Nairobi, #Kenya, where they explore various issues related to his book Hin Gaabbu (No Regrets).

Their discussion covers a range of topics, including the dynamics of the armed conflict in #Oromia, the impact of Hachalu Hundessa's assassination on the Oromo political landscape, high-profile killings, the war in the #Tigray region, and other pressing issues.

https://youtu.be/kqJwDq1k8uI?si=22s5RvyO8XIl8_us

#South_Sudan says It plans to resume oil production

South Sudan has announced plans to restart oil production after fighting in neighboring #Sudan disrupted a vital pipeline earlier this year. A letter from Kon John Akot, Director General of the Petroleum Authority, dated December 19, declared December 30, 2024, as the official resumption date for production in blocks three and seven.

The pipeline, critical for exporting South Sudan's oil via Port Sudan, was damaged in February during clashes between Sudan's army and the Rapid Support Forces. While production had exceeded 150,000 barrels per day before the rupture, challenges remain. Dar Petroleum Operating Company (DPOC), part of the consortium managing the oilfields, stated in a December 23 letter that unresolved issues require further discussions before operations can fully resume.

https://www.barrons.com/news/south-sudan-says-it-plans-to-resume-oil-production-1bd2f644

#Ethiopia: Civil servants in #Amhara's #Quarit district face three-month salary delay, cite “collapse of local administration”

Civil servants in Quarit district, West Gojjam Zone, Amhara region, have reported not receiving their salaries for three months, citing a "collapse of local administration." A civil servant, speaking on condition of anonymity, said, "The local administration has now collapsed," attributing the situation to "recurrent clashes between government security forces and #Fano fighters." The source added, "I haven't been paid my salary for the past three months."

A health professional from Quarit, who also requested anonymity, linked the salary delays to the "absence of a local administrative structure," adding, "The situation is so dangerous that our only option is to give up and stay put, as it's risky not just for collecting salaries but for our lives."

https://addisstandard.com/?p=47744

#Ethiopia: Banks get more lending room as central bank loosens annual credit limit

The National Bank of Ethiopia (#NBE) has announced an increase in the annual credit growth ceiling for commercial banks, raising the limit from 14% to 18%. In a statement issued on 31 December 2024, the NBE explained that the adjustment aims to “enhance financial institutions’ capacity to meet borrowers’ demands” while maintaining overall economic stability.

The previous cap, introduced in August 2023, was part of a broader effort to reduce inflation to below 20% by June 2024. In its statement, the NBE reported that year-on-year inflation reached a five-year low of 16.9% in November 2024, attributing the improvement to a “tightened stance of monetary policy.” It also noted that while “food inflation remains elevated at 18.5%,” it has shown a consistent moderating trend, whereas non-food inflation increased slightly to 14.4%.

https://addisstandard.com/?p=47751

#Somalia security forces repulse suicide attack by Islamic State

Security forces in #Puntland, Somalia, thwarted an attack by Islamic State suicide bombers targeting a military base near Dharjaale in the Bari region on Tuesday. Captain Yusuf Mohamed, an officer in Puntland's counter-terrorism forces, said, "Nine suicide bombers had been killed, and several soldiers had been injured." Puntland State TV confirmed on Facebook that eight suicide bombers were among those killed.

The attack occurred during a visit by the deputy speaker of Puntland's parliament to the base. The assault is considered the most sophisticated operation by Islamic State in Somalia, coming weeks after Puntland announced a major offensive against both Islamic State and al Shabaab.

https://www.reuters.com/world/africa/somalia-security-forces-repulse-suicide-attack-by-islamic-state-2024-12-31/

#Ethiopia: Electoral board says #TPLF shows ‘no indication’ of planning mandatory assembly as deadline nears

The National Electoral Board of Ethiopia (#NEBE) has stated that the Tigray People’s Liberation Front (TPLF) has “shown no indication” of preparing for its mandatory general assembly, which must be held by February 10, 2025. In a letter dated December 31, 2024, NEBE reminded the TPLF of its registration under “special circumstances” on August 9, 2024, and the requirement to hold the assembly “within six months” as per Proclamation No. 1332/2016.

NEBE noted that the assembly must be conducted “in the presence of Board observers” and that the party is required to notify the Board of the assembly date “at least 21 days in advance” as outlined in Directive No. 25/2016. The Board stated that it had sent reminders on August 9, August 26, and October 31, 2024.

https://addisstandard.com/?p=47763

#Commentary: Decoding the #Ankara Declaration: Implications for diplomatic, security affairs past and future

In this commentary, Tilahun Zewudie, a legal and human rights expert with extensive experience in diplomacy and international relations, examines the Ankara Declaration and its implications for #Ethiopia-#Somalia relations. According to Tilahun, the declaration, brokered by Türkiye, serves as a temporary measure to reduce diplomatic tensions but leaves unresolved issues that could resurface in the future.

He notes that while the declaration emphasizes cooperation, it does not explicitly nullify the controversial Memorandum of Understanding (#MoU) signed in January 2024 between Ethiopia and Somaliland, which granted Ethiopia maritime access in exchange for recognizing Somaliland’s sovereignty.

Tilahun argues that the ambiguity within the Ankara Declaration was a deliberate strategy by Türkiye to avoid reopening contentious issues, such as the MoU, that could have jeopardized the dialogue. While the declaration reaffirms Ethiopia’s recognition of Somalia’s territorial integrity, Tilahun contends that this does not amount to a formal withdrawal from the MoU.

The commentary also critiques Ethiopia’s foreign policy under Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed, emphasizing the need for strategic foresight and caution in pursuing sea access and port services.

https://addisstandard.com/?p=47755

#Ethiopian #Red_Cross condemns ‘horrific’ attacks on two ambulances in #Amhara and #Oromia, reports severe driver injuries

The Ethiopian Red Cross Society (#ERCS) has denounced what it described as a “horrific” attack on two ambulances last week in the Sibu Sire district, East Wollega Zone, Oromia Region, and the Tach Armachiho district, North Gondar Zone, Amhara Region. Both ambulance drivers sustained “severe injuries” during the incidents and are currently receiving hospital treatment, according to the Society’s statement issued on January 1, 2025.

The attacks reportedly occurred while the ambulances were engaged in emergency operations. “Unidentified forces” opened fire on the vehicles, causing significant damage and endangering the lives of humanitarian workers. Mesfin Dereje, the Society’s Communications Head, emphasized the gravity of the situation, stating, “We call on conflicting forces to refrain from such actions and ensure the safety of humanitarian workers, vehicles, and operations.”

https://addisstandard.com/?p=47768

#Puntland exempts import taxes for #Ethiopian trucks, easing trade disruptions after #Dacawaley conflict

Puntland’s regional administration has announced a temporary exemption from import taxes for trucks originating from the Somali Regional State in Ethiopia. The decision comes in response to recent clashes in Dacawaley, a border kebele between the Somali Region and #Somaliland, which claimed dozens of lives and significantly disrupted trade routes in the area.

In a statement issued on Monday, the Puntland Ministry of Finance announced that customs duties and license plate taxes for Ethiopian trucks had been waived. The ministry also instructed all checkpoints in Puntland to facilitate the smooth passage of these trucks, ensuring unhindered access to the ports of Garacad and Bosaso.

The conflict in Dacawaley, which escalated on 25 December, has caused severe disruptions to trade routes for trucks transporting goods from Somaliland's Berbera port. As a result, many of these vehicles have redirected their operations to Puntland's Bosaso and Garacad ports to maintain business activities.

https://www.hiiraan.com/news4/2024/Dec/199611/puntland_exempts_import_taxes_for_ethiopian_trucks_after_dawacaley_conflict.aspx

#Ethiopia: Over 30 homes collapse in #Afar as earthquakes intensify in Awash Fentale; thousands flee to neighboring areas seeking refuge

Frequent earthquakes in #Awash_Fentale, located in Ethiopia's Afar region, have caused the collapse of over 30 homes, prompting thousands of residents to flee to neighboring areas. Affected communities in Segento Kebele of Dulecha district, near the Kessem Dam and Kessem Sugar Factory, have reported severe damage to homes and schools, including Ungaytu School in Sabure Kebele.

Residents describe worsening conditions, with asphalt cracking and water seeping through fissures in the ground. A resident told Addis Standard, “The community near the Kessem Sugar Factory has entirely abandoned their homes. Some are fleeing on foot, others with vehicles, and rural communities are using camels to transport their belongings.” Officials, including Awash Fentale's chief administrator, confirm that efforts are underway with NGOs and disaster prevention commissions to assist affected communities. Experts link the seismic activity to the East African Rift System, emphasizing the region's vulnerability to such events.

https://addisstandard.com/?p=47773

#Ethiopian Islamic Affairs Supreme Council reports “no resolution” on hijab ban affecting Muslim students in #Axum

The Ethiopian Islamic Affairs Supreme Council stated that “no resolution has been reached” regarding Muslim students in Axum, #Tigray Regional State, who were barred from attending classes for wearing hijabs. In its statement, the council said, “Muslim students have been prevented from attending classes for more than a month due to their religious dress code” and alleged that “some students and their families have been detained.”

The council noted that discussions with the Tigray Regional Islamic Affairs Supreme Council had revealed that “no resolution has been reached.” It urged authorities to take “immediate action” and described the situation as “contrary to the values of a country where different faiths coexist respectfully.”

https://addisstandard.com/?p=47783