#Ethiopia: Families of detained #Eritrean refugees allege ransom demands of up to half a million Birr, prolonged detention in #Amhara

Families of Eritrean refugees detained in North Gondar Zone of the Amhara region allege they are being pressured to pay ransoms of up to 500,000 Ethiopian Birr. The detainees, held for over two months, were reportedly arrested from Alemwach Refugee Camp in Dabat town, with no charges filed against them.

One family member stated her husband was detained under false pretenses and has since been held without a court appearance. "I’ve received calls from unidentified individuals demanding 500,000 Birr for his release," she said. The families claim authorities have taken no action despite being informed of the alleged ransom demands. The Ethiopian Refugees and Returnees Service (#RRS) confirmed the detentions but denied knowledge of ransom claims, adding that investigations are ongoing.

https://addisstandard.com/?p=47791

Massive ‘space object’ fragment crashes into remote village in #Kenya

A metallic object measuring about 2.5 meters in diameter and weighing 500 kg fell into the remote village of Mukuku, Kenya, on Monday afternoon, local residents told the Kenya Broadcasting Corporation (KBC). The Kenya Space Agency (KSA) later identified it as “a fragment of a space object,” describing it as apparent space debris likely from a rocket, according to a statement released Wednesday.

“The Agency wishes to clarify that the object, a metallic ring...is a fragment of a space object,” the KSA said, adding that preliminary assessments suggest it could be a separation ring. The agency noted that space debris typically burns up in the atmosphere or falls into oceans but stressed that investigations into the incident are ongoing.

Julius Rotich, Mbooni Sub County Police Commander, told KBC the object was still hot when officers arrived at the scene and that the area was cordoned off until it cooled. Images aired by the broadcaster showed the object lodged in trees and surrounded by police tape, with residents observing from a distance. The KSA said it is working to confirm the debris's origin.

https://edition.cnn.com/2025/01/02/africa/kenya-space-object-intl-latam/index.html

#Ethiopia: Over nine million Ethiopian children out of school amid conflict, displacement: Report

A new United Nations (#UN) report reveals that over nine million children in Ethiopia are out of school due to conflict, violence, natural disasters, and displacement, with more than 6,000 schools currently closed. According to UNICEF’s latest Humanitarian Situation Report, over 10,000 schools—18% of the country’s total—have been damaged by conflict and climate shocks, further reducing safe and functional learning spaces.

The report highlights that the highest numbers of out-of-school children are in the #Amhara (4.4 million), #Oromia (3.2 million), and #Tigray (1.2 million) regions. In the Amhara region alone, 4,870 schools, nearly half the total, remain closed due to conflict and insecurity, and over 1,500 schools have been destroyed.

https://addisstandard.com/over-nine-million-ethiopian-children-out-of-school-amid-conflict-displacement-report/

#Ethiopia, #Somalia agree to strengthen cooperation on #AUSSOM mission after high-level talks

Ethiopia and Somalia have agreed to "collaborate on the AUSSOM mission and strengthen bilateral relations" following high-level discussions in Mogadishu led by Ethiopian Defense Minister Aisha Mohammed, according to Ethiopia's Ministry of Foreign Affairs. The talks emphasized mutual commitment to ensuring "peace and stability in Somalia and the region," as both countries align efforts to address security challenges.

Somalia’s Defense Minister Abdulkadir Mohamed Nur Jama expressed "appreciation and gratitude for the Ethiopian Defense Forces' sacrifices and contributions to ensuring peace in Somalia." Ambassador Mesganu Arga, Ethiopia's State Minister of Foreign Affairs, underscored that "peace in Somalia directly impacts Ethiopia," adding that enhanced cooperation would allow both nations to "focus on development by addressing security challenges promptly."

https://addisstandard.com/?p=47802

#Ethiopia: Volcanic eruption in #Dulecha district, #Afar region, following months of seismic activity

A volcano has erupted in the Dulecha district of the Afar region after months of heightened seismic activity. Since late September, the United States Geological Survey (USGS) recorded over 67 earthquakes in the area, primarily concentrated in the Fantale region, part of the Main Ethiopian Rift Valley.

Some of the tremors have been felt as far away as #Addis_Abeba, the capital city. According to Samara University, an earthquake on October 6, 2024, caused structural damage to homes and ground fissures. The seismic activity intensified in late December, culminating in a 5.0-magnitude earthquake near Awash Fentale on December 29, one of seven tremors recorded that day.

Videos shared on social media depict cracks in the ground and damaged asphalt roads caused by the earthquakes.

#Ethiopia: #Tigray Islamic Affairs Supreme Council warns of ‘peaceful measures’ over #Axum school hijab Ban, sets three-day deadline

The Tigray Islamic Affairs Supreme Council has warned that it will take “further peaceful measures in consultation with believers” if the ongoing ban on Muslim students wearing the hijab in schools in Axum town is not addressed within three days.

“We request that the law issued by the Federal Ministry of Education regarding Muslim students' dress code be respected,” the Council said in a statement released on January 3, 2025, in Mekelle. “This hijab ban violates citizens' human rights, the constitution, Ministry of Education guidelines, and our regional laws,” the Council emphasized, adding, “School regulations should not contradict the constitution. Our hijab-wearing request should be addressed according to Ministry of Education regulation number 6.3.”

https://addisstandard.com/?p=47805

#Ethiopia: Volcanic eruption forces evacuations in #Afar's #Dulecha district; region records highest quake at 5.8 magnitude

Following a volcanic eruption on Dofan Mountain in the Dulecha district on 03 December, 2024, local authorities have reported that efforts are underway to relocate residents to temporary shelters.

In a statement to Fana Digital, Abdulla Ali, the chief administrator of the Gabi Rasu Zone in the Afar region, confirmed that preventive measures are being implemented to ensure the safety of local residents. The official further noted that the volcanic eruption followed a series of recurring earthquakes in the area, stating that the intensity of the tremors has increased significantly this week.

On January 04, 2025, the region experienced its most powerful seismic event in recent memory—a magnitude 5.8 earthquake, recorded 56 km south-southeast of Abomsa. Earlier in the day, a 5.5 magnitude earthquake also struck 44 km northeast of Āwash at a shallow depth of 10 km.

Earlier this week, Addis Standard reported that frequent earthquakes in Awash Fentale, located in Ethiopia's Afar region, have resulted in the collapse of over 30 homes, forcing thousands of residents to flee to neighboring areas. Affected communities in Segento Kebele of the Dulecha district, near the Kessem Dam and Kessem Sugar Factory, have reported extensive damage to homes and schools, including Ungaytu School in Sabure Kebele.

Residents have described deteriorating conditions, with asphalt cracking and water seeping through fissures in the ground.

Follow the link to read the full article.
https://addisstandard.com/?p=47773

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

Alexander Kidu, 29, and Mareg Abreha, 28, symbolize the plight of Tigray’s youth, forced to migrate due to limited economic opportunities in their war-torn homeland. Their families, already struggling with poverty, now face anguish as both endure mistreatment by human traffickers in #Libya, who are demanding a ransom of 1.3 million birr each—an impossible sum for their impoverished relatives.

Alexander’s mother, Letegeorgis Micheal, shared her despair: “They have called and demanded a ransom of 1.3 million birr. This leaves me with nothing but despair.” Similarly, Mareg’s uncle, Tekeste Tesfamariam, said, "They sent me videos of him being brutally beaten and demanded a ransom—a sum I cannot afford."

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

#Ethiopia: Over nine million Ethiopian children out of school amid conflict, displacement: Report

A new United Nations (#UN) report reveals that over nine million children in Ethiopia are out of school due to conflict, violence, natural disasters, and displacement, with more than 6,000 schools currently closed. According to UNICEF’s latest Humanitarian Situation Report, over 10,000 schools—18% of the country’s total—have been damaged by conflict and climate shocks, further reducing safe and functional learning spaces.

The report highlights that the highest numbers of out-of-school children are in the #Amhara (4.4 million), #Oromia (3.2 million), and #Tigray (1.2 million) regions.

https://addisstandard.com/over-nine-million-ethiopian-children-out-of-school-amid-conflict-displacement-report/

#Ethiopia: Gov’t cracks down on fuel hoarders; tankers found ‘hiding’ in #Afar region

The Ethiopian Petroleum and Energy Authority announced that fuel tankers destined for #Addis_Abeba and other regions were discovered “hiding” in Serdo Admas, Afar region, over the weekend. The Authority accused drivers of hoarding fuel based on “unfounded expectations of a price increase,” creating artificial shortages in cities and depriving gas stations of supplies.

“As their illegal activities have been concretely proven, the government will require them to cover the cost of the fuel, which was provided as a subsidy to the public,” the Authority stated, warning that perpetrators would face “legal consequences for market disruption.” It added that such practices undermine efforts to stabilize the fuel market and vowed stringent measures to address the violations.

https://addisstandard.com/?p=47817

#Sudan's army chief welcomes #Turkish offer to resolve conflict

Sudan’s military leader, General Abdel Fattah al-Burhan, has expressed support for Turkey’s offer to mediate an end to the 20-month conflict between the Sudanese Armed Forces (#SAF) and the Rapid Support Forces (#RSF), Sudan’s Foreign Minister Ali Youssef announced. This follows Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan’s December proposal to assist in establishing "peace and stability" in the war-torn nation.

During a meeting in Port Sudan on Saturday, Burhan conveyed Sudan’s openness to the Turkish initiative through Deputy Foreign Minister Burhanettin Duran. The Sudanese government hopes Turkey's involvement can help end the violence and address regional tensions. "Sudan needs brothers and friends like Turkey," said Youssef, adding that the initiative "can lead to... realising peace in Sudan."

The conflict, which erupted in April 2023, has devastated Sudan, killing tens of thousands and displacing over 12 million people. Accusations of external interference, including claims of UAE support for the RSF, have compounded the crisis.

https://www.newarab.com/news/sudans-army-chief-welcomes-turkish-offer-resolve-conflict

#Ethiopia: Task force established to assess earthquake risks in Addis Abeba; #EDRMC relocates over 20,000 people from #Afar, #Oromia

In the wake of a 5.8-magnitude earthquake in the Afar region, the Addis Abeba City Administration has launched a task force to evaluate the city’s vulnerability to seismic activity and bolster disaster preparedness. Experts from Addis Ababa University’s Institute of Geophysics, Space Science and Astronomy and the Geological Survey of Ethiopia have been engaged to analyze recent seismic patterns and their implications for the capital. During discussions chaired by Mayor Adanech Abebie, experts clarified that while tremors in Addis Abeba linked to the Afar earthquakes pose no immediate threat, residents are urged to remain vigilant and follow expert guidance.

The Ethiopian Disaster Risk Management Commission (EDRMC) has meanwhile relocated over 20,500 people from high-risk areas in the Afar and Oromia regions due to heightened seismic activity. In Afar, districts such as Awash Fentale and Dulecha have been particularly affected, with thousands evacuated and provided with humanitarian aid, including 11,550 quintals of food and non-food items worth 281 million birr. Oromia’s Fentale district also witnessed evacuations, with plans to relocate thousands more.

https://addisstandard.com/?p=47823

#Opinion: Hin Gaabbu: How Jawar Mohammed’s memoir inspires Ethiopian youth amid political divides

In this opinion piece, Hussien Biru Berisso, a professional engineer in British Columbia, Canada, and co-founder of A&H Engineering LTD, reflects on how Jawar Mohammed’s memoir, Hin Gaabbu (translated as “I Will Not Regret”), resonates with Ethiopian youth amidst political divides.

Hussien argues that Jawar Mohammed’s memoir has sparked significant public discourse since its release in November 2024. He describes the book, written in Afaan Oromo and Amharic, as a detailed account of Jawar’s life, chronicling his journey from rural Oromia to becoming a pivotal figure in the #Oromo protests. According to Hussien, the memoir’s first five chapters stand out for their portrayal of Jawar’s struggles to access education in a resource-limited region and his resilience in overcoming societal expectations and early political persecution.

Hussien highlights how the memoir sheds light on Jawar’s academic achievements, which include attending the prestigious United World College of Southeast Asia in Singapore, Stanford University, and Columbia University. He views Jawar’s story as a source of inspiration for Ethiopian youth, particularly those from rural areas, demonstrating that educational and personal success is achievable through determination and purpose. Hussien concludes by encouraging readers to approach the memoir with an open mind, beyond polarized political narratives, and to recognize its broader message of justice and commitment to meaningful causes.

https://addisstandard.com/?p=47809

#Ethiopia’s gasoil price crosses historic 100-birr mark per liter with latest adjustment; diesel, kerosene see 10% hike

For the first time in Ethiopia’s history, the price of a liter of gasoil has exceeded the 100-birr mark, rising to 101.47 birr following the latest government adjustment. Effective 07 January 2025 at 6 p.m., the Ministry of Trade and Regional Integration announced an 11.5% increase in gasoil prices, while diesel and kerosene prices saw a 10% hike, reaching 98.98 birr per liter.

The Ministry stated that the adjustment was made under authority granted by the Council of Ministers, which allows monthly reviews of retail petroleum prices. In October 2024, the government raised fuel prices, setting gasoil at 91 birr and diesel and kerosene at 90 birr per liter. The two adjustments combined reflect a nearly 23% increase in gasoil prices and an 18% rise in diesel and kerosene over three months.

https://addisstandard.com/?p=47826

#Egypt to hold talks on sending peacekeeping troops to #Somalia

Egypt is set to host talks with officials from Somalia from January 15-17 to discuss its potential troop deployment as part of the African Union Support and Stabilization Mission, according to Somalia’s State Minister for Foreign Affairs, Ali Balcad. The discussions follow Somalia’s request for Egypt’s contribution to counter al-Shabaab insurgents in the Horn of Africa.

In December, Egypt’s Foreign Minister announced readiness to provide troops, aligning with Somalia’s efforts to strengthen the regional security mission. The African Union-led force has been central in combating al-Shabaab, which has waged a two-decade-long insurgency in the country.

Meanwhile, Somalia is considering reversing its earlier decision to exclude Ethiopian troops from the mission. The move comes after Turkey-mediated discussions aimed at improving relations between the two neighbors.

Details on the size of Ethiopia’s potential troop contribution remain uncertain, Balcad said. Ethiopia has historically been one of the primary contributors to international forces combating al-Shabaab and supporting Somalia’s stabilization efforts.

https://www.bloomberg.com/news/articles/2025-01-07/egypt-to-hold-talks-on-sending-peacekeeping-troops-to-somalia

#Ethiopia: World Movement for Democracy calls for ‘unconditional’ reinstatement of suspended rights groups, warns of ‘closing civic space’

The World Movement for Democracy has urged Ethiopian authorities to “immediately and unconditionally” lift the suspensions on civil society organizations (CSOs) and unfreeze their bank accounts. In a statement issued on January 7, 2025, the global network described the actions of the Authority for Civil Society Organizations (#ACSO) as part of a “growing crackdown” on human rights groups and the “closing of civic space in Ethiopia.”

The statement highlighted the suspensions of prominent organizations, including the Ethiopian Human Rights Council (#EHRCO) and the Center for Advancement of Rights and Democracy (#CARD). It criticized ACSO for “procedural irregularities,” including “a lack of transparency, insufficient notice, and vague allegations.” It added that the suspended organizations had “responded to ACSO’s claims” by submitting financial reports and “welcoming ACSO staff into their offices,” but that “the suspensions remain in effect, restricting the organizations from operating and freezing their bank accounts.” Without legal reforms, it warned, “independent voices in civil society” would continue to face restrictions.

https://addisstandard.com/?p=47835

War crimes and rebel bishops: Christmas celebrations marred by bitter split in #Ethiopia’s ancient church

As millions of Ethiopia’s Orthodox Christians celebrate Christmas, the 1,700-year-old Ethiopian Orthodox Church faces an escalating internal rift. The division traces back to the #Tigray War, which ended in 2022 but left deep scars, including a breakaway synod formed by Tigrayan clergy in protest against the church’s silence during the war.

“Every fighter came with a mission to destroy our people and culture, but the synod remained silent,” said Menbere Birhanemeskal, a monk from Debre Damo Monastery. The Tigray bishops’ decision to sever ties with the Holy Synod in #Addis_Abeba has polarized opinions, even among the clergy. While some, like Menbere, support the split, others, such as 34-year-old monk Kiros Fisseha, believe the church should work to heal divisions. “Religious leaders should serve all who follow the Orthodox religion, so it is wrong to separate from them,” said Kiros. “I hope they reconcile as one.”

This division reflects the broader fractures afflicting Ethiopia, a war-riven nation of 120 million people. More than two years after a ceasefire ended the Tigray war, fresh unrest has emerged in the neighboring #Amhara region. The church has also faced similar challenges, such as a 2023 schism when bishops in #Oromia sought to hold services in their language. That crisis resulted in security forces killing 30 protesters.

“The Ethiopian Orthodox Church became supporters and leaders of the genocidal war,” said Petros Haileselassie, a rebel bishop. While the original synod apologized in 2023 for failing to call for peace, Petros argued it was insufficient. “They did not condemn the war or acknowledge their role in supporting genocide.” Abune Petros Tibebu, the synod’s general secretary, rejected the claims, stating, “This is not religion. It’s pure politics.”

https://www.theguardian.com/global-development/2025/jan/06/war-crimes-and-rebel-bishops-christmas-celebrations-marred-by-bitter-split-ethiopia-ancient-church