#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

#Ethiopia: Authorities announce relocation of pastoralists near Kesem Dam amid rising seismic threats in Awash Fentale

Local authorities in #Awash_Fentale have commenced the relocation of pastoralists living near the Kesem Dam due to increased seismic activity in the region. Ahmed Ibrahim, the zone’s command post coordinator, confirmed that humanitarian assistance is being provided to affected families.

The #Afar region has recently experienced significant earthquakes, including a 5.8-magnitude tremor on January 4, 2025, which caused extensive damage to infrastructure, including the Kesem Sugar Factory. Highlighting the dam's resilience, Binyam Wubshat, a representative of the Kesem Dam administration, noted, “The Kesem Dam, constructed to mitigate land erosion, is designed to withstand earthquakes up to a magnitude of seven on the Richter scale.”

https://addisstandard.com/?p=47843

#Jubaland lawmakers accuse #Somalia's federal government of border destabilization, allege militia recruitment

Federal lawmakers from Jubaland State have accused Somalia's federal government of orchestrating activities near the #Kenya-Somalia border to destabilize the region. In a statement released Tuesday, they claimed that "federal authorities and former army officers previously stationed in Jubbaland are recruiting forces near the border."

The statement further alleged that the federal government is "deliberately preparing and financing militias" to disrupt security in Jubbaland and neighboring Kenya. The Somali federal government has not yet responded to these claims.

Tensions between Jubbaland's administration and Somalia's federal government have persisted since November 2024, following the federal government's refusal to recognize the reelection of Ahmed Madobe as Jubbaland's president. The strained relations have contributed to ongoing political and security challenges in the region.

https://www.hiiraan.com/news4/2025/Jan/199717/lawmakers_accuse_federal_government_of_recruiting_forces_near_kenya_border.aspx

#US accuses #RSF of #Sudan genocide and sanctions its leader

The United States has accused Sudan's paramilitary Rapid Support Forces (RSF) of committing genocide during the country’s ongoing conflict and has imposed sanctions on its leader, Mohamed Hamdan Dagalo, known as Hemedti.

US Secretary of State Antony Blinken announced the measures, citing systematic atrocities, including the killing of men, boys, and infants, as well as sexual violence against women, primarily targeting ethnic groups. "Based on this information, I have now concluded that members of the RSF and allied militias have committed genocide in Sudan," Blinken stated.

In response, the RSF dismissed the US's actions as an example of double standards, accusing Washington of failing to address the root causes of the crisis. Hemedti’s adviser, El-Basha Tbaeq, wrote on social media, "The decision… expresses the failure of the [US President Joe] Biden administration to deal with the Sudanese crisis." The sanctions block Hemedti’s assets in the US, restrict his entry, and target RSF-linked companies and individuals, particularly those involved in the gold trade.

https://www.bbc.com/news/articles/c8j9j72lvdvo

#Ethiopia: Death toll climbs in #Tigray’s IDP centers amid aid shortages, political strife

The Tigray region faces a worsening humanitarian crisis as political strife between Tigray People's Liberation Front (#TPLF) factions hinders aid efforts for nearly one million internally displaced persons (IDPs). Coordinators report dire conditions in IDP centers across the region, where hunger and lack of medical care have led to a sharp rise in deaths, particularly among children, women, and the elderly.

In Shire town, Wolay Berhe, coordinator for IDPs, revealed to Addis Standard that nearly 300 displaced individuals in the Hintsad center have died over the past three months. "At least one death is recorded daily," Wolay said, adding that hunger and inadequate medical care are the primary causes. Only 40% of the 500,000 IDPs in Shire and its surroundings are receiving assistance, leaving the majority without support.

Similar challenges persist in other camps. Berhane Kahssay, the coordinator for IDPs in Western Tigray in Adigrat, reported that food insecurity and overcrowding have caused the deaths of at least 40 individuals in recent months, including 14 mothers and 18 children. "Even those listed for aid face irregular and insufficient distributions," he explained, noting that healthcare access is limited to those who can afford private services. Berhane highlighted the critical need for food, medical care, and sanitation to prevent further loss of life.

https://addisstandard.com/?p=47848

#Azerbaijan protests to #Eritrea over detention of three vessels and crews

Azerbaijan has protested Eritrea's detention of three Azerbaijani-flagged vessels and their 18 crew members since November 2024, Azerbaijani Foreign Ministry spokesperson Ayxan Hajizada said. The vessels were detained on November 7 after entering Eritrean waters due to adverse weather while en route to Abu Dhabi via the Suez Canal.

The vessels—CMS Pahlian, CMS İgid, and CMS-3—are operated by the Azerbaijani branch of Caspian Marine Services B.V. Hajizada noted they "failed to provide all the necessary details" when contacting Eritrean authorities. Azerbaijan sent a diplomatic note through its embassies in #Ethiopia and #Russia to resolve the matter.

"Efforts are underway to resolve the issue, secure the release of the vessels and crews, and provide necessary consular legal assistance," Hajizada stated.

https://www.reuters.com/world/azerbaijan-protests-eritrea-over-detention-three-vessels-crews-2025-01-08/

#Ethiopia: Over 58,000 displaced by series of earthquakes in #Afar receiving aid; Kesem Sugar Factory among damaged sites

The Afar Region Command Post reported that over 58,000 people, including 4,000 workers from Kesem Sugar Factory, have sought temporary shelters and are receiving humanitarian aid after a series of earthquakes in the Dulesa and Awash Fentale districts of Gabi Rasu Zone. Ahmed Ibrahim, the Command Post Coordinator, said, “Many displaced people are now in shelters, but others have moved to mountainous areas in the Amhara Region with their livestock.”

Ali Hussein, General Manager of Kesem Sugar Factory, said the facility sustained “moderate to severe” damage, including the collapse of the power distribution building, cracks across sugarcane fields, and harm to warehouses and residential areas. He added, “Around 4,000 factory employees and their families have been evacuated to safe locations.”

https://addisstandard.com/?p=47853

#Ethiopia: Parliament approves asset recovery bill with retroactive seizures up to ten years

Ethiopia’s House of Peoples’ Representatives has approved a new asset recovery law designed to target assets acquired through undeclared income. The proclamation, endorsed on January 9, 2025, aims to “establish comprehensive legal frameworks for asset recovery pertaining to all crimes that generate proceeds.”

The law allows for retroactive seizure of assets obtained within the past ten years, provided their value exceeds 10 million birr. It also authorizes freezing orders for up to three working days without court approval if there is “reasonable belief” that the assets may be dissipated or lose economic value.

https://addisstandard.com/?p=47856

#Ethiopia: Abdulhakim Mulu (PhD), State Minister for Trade and Regional Integration, addressed concerns about Ethiopia’s fuel price adjustments. He explained that the government aligns price changes with global market trends while carefully considering their impact on the economy.

“The government currently subsidizes 75% of diesel costs and 67% of benzene costs,” he stated. “This keeps fuel prices in Ethiopia significantly lower than in neighboring countries like Djibouti, Kenya, Uganda, and Tanzania.”

Abdulhakim noted that the government plans to phase out these subsidies within a year, transitioning to a market-driven pricing system.

Addressing public debates about the price adjustments, he said, “Some rumors are spreading regarding the fuel price adjustment, either intentionally to confuse people or to gain political advantage.”

#Ethiopia: Over 200 #Fincha Sugar Factory workers detained for over a month without court appearance

More than 200 workers of Finchaa Sugar Factory in Horo Guduru Wollega Zone, #Oromia Region, have been detained for over a month without court appearances under accusations of “illegal farming activities” on factory land, a family member of one detainee told Addis Standard. The detainees, who relied on farming crops like corn and sesame to supplement low wages, are accused of activities the source claims were long known and tolerated by factory management.

“The workers have been farming manually within the factory compound for more than a decade,” the source, who requested anonymity, said, adding that “low-income workers were supporting their families through this work.” He described the detention as arbitrary and alleged it took place at a former Defense Force compound in Sulula Finchaa town. Another worker accused authorities of confiscating approximately 5,000 quintals of crops grown by the detainees, saying, “The crops were taken without clear procedures, and no one knows who has them now.”

https://addisstandard.com/?p=47867

#Sudan hopeful of #AU suspension review, slams sanction impacts

Sudan's government voiced optimism on Thursday over a possible reassessment of its suspended African Union (AU) membership, while condemning sanctions for worsening the humanitarian situation. The AU suspended Sudan in 2021 after a military coup, maintaining that restoration of civilian authority is required for reinstatement.

Sudan's Ambassador to #Ethiopia, Al-Zain Ibrahim, said the AU's Peace and Security Council (PSC) visit to Port Sudan provided "positive indicators" and expressed hope for "a new evaluation of the country's status." He argued that the suspension "weakened the AU's role" in Sudan and strengthened destabilizing forces.

Ibrahim also criticized the sanctions' impact on healthcare, agriculture, and child welfare programs, saying, "The state is being punished." He questioned why Sudanese health officials are excluded from technical meetings, stating, "This exclusion even affects communities that need support."

https://sudantribune.com/article295695/

#Ethiopia: Seismic shockwaves in #Afar leave 16 schools destroyed, 21 damaged

A series of strong earthquakes has severely damaged 37 schools in the Afar region of Ethiopia. 16 schools were completely destroyed, while 21 others suffered partial damage.

The affected districts include #Awash_Fantale, #Dulasa, and #Hanruka.

The recent seismic activity, including a 5.8 magnitude earthquake, has also caused significant damage to the #Kesem Sugar Factory in Dulasa.

https://addisstandard.com/seismic-shockwaves-in-afar-leave-16-schools-destroyed-21-damaged/

#Ethiopia: #Tigray’s young dreamers forge a path beyond war

In Ethiopia's Tigray Region, education is fueling hope and transformation for children affected by the war. With support from #UNICEF and funding from Education Cannot Wait (#ECW), school programs are revitalizing the lives of students and laying the groundwork for a peaceful future. Merhawit, a 12-year-old student at Frekalsi Primary School, exemplifies this hope. "I want to become a doctor to help others," she shares, as her dreams of healing and learning grow stronger each day.

Through ECW’s efforts, over 700 classrooms have been built or rehabilitated, and nearly 4,000 teachers have been trained. This initiative has reached nearly half a million children, including those displaced by conflict. Despite challenges, such as climate-induced droughts, the resilience of students like 13-year-old Rahow, who believes school will make her dreams come true, shines through.

While the journey is far from easy—9 million children in Ethiopia remain out of school—the impact of these education investments cannot be overstated. "When you see the success of your students, you know your hard work has meaning," says Memher Beray Nigussie, a teacher at Frekalsi Primary. With support from global donors, these children are not just surviving—they’re thriving, with their futures brighter than ever.

https://www.unicefusa.org/stories/dream-education-ethiopia-investments-tigray