#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
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
Addis Standard
Over 58,000 displaced by series of earthquakes in Afar receiving aid; Kesem Sugar Factory among damaged sites - Addis Standard
Over 58,000 displaced by series of earthquakes in Afar receiving aid; Kesem Sugar Factory among damaged sites Addis Standard News -
👍1
#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’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
Addis Standard
Parliament approves asset recovery bill with retroactive seizures up to ten years - Addis Standard
Parliament approves asset recovery bill with retroactive seizures up to ten years Addis Standard News -
👍1
Media is too big
VIEW IN TELEGRAM
#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.”
“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.”
👍6
#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
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
Addis Standard
Over 200 Fincha Sugar Factory workers detained for over a month without court appearance - Addis Standard
Over 200 Fincha Sugar Factory workers detained for over a month without court appearance Addis Standard News -
👍6
#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/
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/
Sudan Tribune
Sudan Hopeful of AU Suspension Review, Slams Sanctions Impact
Janury 9, 2025 (ADDIS ABABA) – Sudan’s government expressed optimism Thursday regarding a potential reassessment of its suspended membership in the African Union (AU), while criticizing the ongoing sanctions for hindering humanitarian assistance in the country.…
Space Society probes ‘meteorite cluster’ sighted over Southern #Ethiopia
The Ethiopian Space Science Society announced yesterday that the cluster of objects observed moving rapidly across the sky in southern and southwestern parts of Ethiopia “could be space debris or meteorites.” The institution reported that the observed cluster was seen streaking across the southern part of the country at a high speed.
“As we were able to observe in the moving images, these clusters of objects appear to be space debris or meteorites,” the organization stated. “We are closely monitoring the situation to definitively explain the nature of the event.”
Recently, in Mukuku village, Makuni County, Kenya, a large metallic object measuring 2.5 meters in diameter and weighing approximately 500 kilograms reportedly fell from the sky.
The Ethiopian Space Science Society announced yesterday that the cluster of objects observed moving rapidly across the sky in southern and southwestern parts of Ethiopia “could be space debris or meteorites.” The institution reported that the observed cluster was seen streaking across the southern part of the country at a high speed.
“As we were able to observe in the moving images, these clusters of objects appear to be space debris or meteorites,” the organization stated. “We are closely monitoring the situation to definitively explain the nature of the event.”
Recently, in Mukuku village, Makuni County, Kenya, a large metallic object measuring 2.5 meters in diameter and weighing approximately 500 kilograms reportedly fell from the sky.
👍4
#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/
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/
Addis Standard
Seismic shockwaves in Afar leave 16 schools destroyed, 21 damaged - Addis Standard
Seismic shockwaves in Afar leave 16 schools destroyed, 21 damaged Addis Standard DailyScoop -
#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
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
UNICEF USA
The Dream of an Education in Ethiopia: Investments in Tigray
Education investments in Tigray delivered by UNICEF with funding from Education Cannot Wait are sowing the seeds of peace and prosperity.
👍4
#Op_ed: Seismic Shocks, Systemic Challenges: Can #Ethiopia’s health system withstand escalating earthquake threats?
Ethiopia has witnessed an increasing frequency of earthquakes, with a recent 5.8 magnitude tremor striking the southern Afar region near the #Oromia border. The aftershocks were felt in #Addis_Abeba, underscoring the earthquake's strength. The author of this article notes that earthquakes, when combined with human vulnerabilities, can lead to devastating disasters that impact both populations and ecosystems. He emphasize that stronger quakes could amplify public health risks, making it crucial to enhance emergency preparedness and response systems.
The author also points out that the immediate effects of earthquakes include life-threatening injuries from tremors and falling debris, necessitating urgent medical attention. Secondary hazards, such as fires caused by damaged electrical systems and ruptured gas lines, can further complicate recovery efforts. Mental health challenges, such as PTSD and anxiety, often follow.
According to the author, health systems can become overwhelmed during disasters, further stressed by disruptions in infrastructure and limited access to food, water, and sanitation. The spread of chronic and infectious diseases, alongside hindered recovery efforts, further complicates the situation. Given Ethiopia’s ongoing health system challenges, including conflicts and economic difficulties, the author stresses the need to strengthen disaster preparedness.
https://addisstandard.com/?p=47872
Ethiopia has witnessed an increasing frequency of earthquakes, with a recent 5.8 magnitude tremor striking the southern Afar region near the #Oromia border. The aftershocks were felt in #Addis_Abeba, underscoring the earthquake's strength. The author of this article notes that earthquakes, when combined with human vulnerabilities, can lead to devastating disasters that impact both populations and ecosystems. He emphasize that stronger quakes could amplify public health risks, making it crucial to enhance emergency preparedness and response systems.
The author also points out that the immediate effects of earthquakes include life-threatening injuries from tremors and falling debris, necessitating urgent medical attention. Secondary hazards, such as fires caused by damaged electrical systems and ruptured gas lines, can further complicate recovery efforts. Mental health challenges, such as PTSD and anxiety, often follow.
According to the author, health systems can become overwhelmed during disasters, further stressed by disruptions in infrastructure and limited access to food, water, and sanitation. The spread of chronic and infectious diseases, alongside hindered recovery efforts, further complicates the situation. Given Ethiopia’s ongoing health system challenges, including conflicts and economic difficulties, the author stresses the need to strengthen disaster preparedness.
https://addisstandard.com/?p=47872
Addis Standard
Seismic Shocks, Systemic Challenges: Can Ethiopia’s health system withstand escalating earthquake threats? - Addis Standard
Seismic Shocks, Systemic Challenges: Can Ethiopia’s health system withstand escalating earthquake threats? Addis Standard Op/Ed -
👍5
#South_African police rescue 26 #Ethiopian nationals from human traffickers
South African police have rescued 26 undocumented Ethiopian nationals who were being held captive in a suburban Johannesburg house, allegedly by human traffickers. The men were found without clothes or identification, with up to 30 others possibly escaping through a smashed window before police arrived late Thursday.
The operation took place in Sandringham, a northern Johannesburg suburb, where officers discovered 15 men trapped inside the house. Eleven others were hospitalized due to injuries sustained while attempting to flee, including deep cuts. Authorities also arrested three suspects connected to the trafficking and illegal possession of a firearm.
This case follows a similar incident in August, where more than 80 Ethiopian nationals were found in harsh conditions in the same area. While details remain unclear, police suggest that as many as 60 men may have been detained in the house, with some not receiving clothing until their release.
https://www.bssnews.net/international/237359
South African police have rescued 26 undocumented Ethiopian nationals who were being held captive in a suburban Johannesburg house, allegedly by human traffickers. The men were found without clothes or identification, with up to 30 others possibly escaping through a smashed window before police arrived late Thursday.
The operation took place in Sandringham, a northern Johannesburg suburb, where officers discovered 15 men trapped inside the house. Eleven others were hospitalized due to injuries sustained while attempting to flee, including deep cuts. Authorities also arrested three suspects connected to the trafficking and illegal possession of a firearm.
This case follows a similar incident in August, where more than 80 Ethiopian nationals were found in harsh conditions in the same area. While details remain unclear, police suggest that as many as 60 men may have been detained in the house, with some not receiving clothing until their release.
https://www.bssnews.net/international/237359
BSS
SAfrica police rescue 26 Ethiopians held captive naked | International
JOHANNESBURG, Jan 10, 2025 (BSS/AFP) - South African police said Friday that
they had rescued 26 undocumented Ethiopian nationals who were
they had rescued 26 undocumented Ethiopian nationals who were
👍2
#Ethiopia: #Somalia seeks #AU Peace and Security Council seat
Somalia has announced its candidacy for a seat on the African Union Peace and Security Council (AU PSC) for the 2025–2028 term. In a 9 January 2024 press release, Somalia emphasized its leadership in regional and continental priorities.
Key reasons for its bid include the need for “fair representation,” its absence from the AU PSC since 2004, and its future role on the #UN Security Council (2025–2026), which would "allow it to advance African priorities globally." Somalia also highlighted its “legacy of leadership” in Pan-Africanism and aims to contribute to enhancing AU peacekeeping missions.
This follows Ethiopia’s announcement of AU PSC candidacy for the 2025–2027 term.
https://addisstandard.com/?p=47880
Somalia has announced its candidacy for a seat on the African Union Peace and Security Council (AU PSC) for the 2025–2028 term. In a 9 January 2024 press release, Somalia emphasized its leadership in regional and continental priorities.
Key reasons for its bid include the need for “fair representation,” its absence from the AU PSC since 2004, and its future role on the #UN Security Council (2025–2026), which would "allow it to advance African priorities globally." Somalia also highlighted its “legacy of leadership” in Pan-Africanism and aims to contribute to enhancing AU peacekeeping missions.
This follows Ethiopia’s announcement of AU PSC candidacy for the 2025–2027 term.
https://addisstandard.com/?p=47880
Addis Standard
Somalia seeks AU Peace and Security Council seat - Addis Standard
Somalia seeks AU Peace and Security Council seat Addis Standard News -
#Ethiopia launches first stock market exchange
The Ethiopian Securities Exchange (#ESX) was officially launched today, 10 January, 2025, after years of preparations, according to state media reports.
"We have rung the bell for Ethiopia's first stock market exchange — a historic milestone for our economic and financial landscape," said Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed during the inauguration. He urged investors to "invest your capital in Ethiopia, a country with rapid economic growth and vast potential for prosperity, where a favorable path is being paved."
Officials report that the ESX has already attracted significant interest from both domestic and international investors.
Major state-owned enterprises, including the Ethiopian Shipping and Logistics Services Enterprise, Berhanena Selam Printing Enterprise, Ethiopian Insurance Corporation, and Ethio Telecom, have collectively acquired a 25% stake in the exchange.
The Ethiopian Securities Exchange (#ESX) was officially launched today, 10 January, 2025, after years of preparations, according to state media reports.
"We have rung the bell for Ethiopia's first stock market exchange — a historic milestone for our economic and financial landscape," said Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed during the inauguration. He urged investors to "invest your capital in Ethiopia, a country with rapid economic growth and vast potential for prosperity, where a favorable path is being paved."
Officials report that the ESX has already attracted significant interest from both domestic and international investors.
Major state-owned enterprises, including the Ethiopian Shipping and Logistics Services Enterprise, Berhanena Selam Printing Enterprise, Ethiopian Insurance Corporation, and Ethio Telecom, have collectively acquired a 25% stake in the exchange.
👍5👎1
#Ethiopia: Muslim students in #Axum report missing online national exam registration, blame schools for barring them over hijab
Muslim grade 12 students in Axum, #Tigray Region, reported that they were unable to meet the deadline for the national exam's online registration today, January 10, citing a requirement by schools to remove their hijabs for enrollment. The students alleged that they were barred from completing their registration unless they removed the hijab, a demand they say contradicts their religious beliefs.
Speaking anonymously to Addis Standard, one student stated, “We cannot remove our hijabs to register for the national exam, as our religion forbids it. We would rather forgo our education than violate our religious obligation.” A teacher from Axum confirmed that in-person registration for regular students ended last week but noted that online registration officially closed at 4:00 p.m. today, with a separate deadline for extension students.
https://addisstandard.com/?p=47883
Muslim grade 12 students in Axum, #Tigray Region, reported that they were unable to meet the deadline for the national exam's online registration today, January 10, citing a requirement by schools to remove their hijabs for enrollment. The students alleged that they were barred from completing their registration unless they removed the hijab, a demand they say contradicts their religious beliefs.
Speaking anonymously to Addis Standard, one student stated, “We cannot remove our hijabs to register for the national exam, as our religion forbids it. We would rather forgo our education than violate our religious obligation.” A teacher from Axum confirmed that in-person registration for regular students ended last week but noted that online registration officially closed at 4:00 p.m. today, with a separate deadline for extension students.
https://addisstandard.com/?p=47883
Addis Standard
Muslim students in Axum report missing online national exam registration, blame schools for barring them over hijab - Addis Standard
Muslim students in Axum report missing online national exam registration, blame schools for barring them over hijab Addis Standard News -
👍6
#Ethiopia: Land acquisition challenges threaten #Ethio_Telecom’s expansion plans
Frehiwot Tamiru, CEO of Ethio telecom, said land acquisition challenges, particularly in Addis Ababa, are the "primary obstacle" to the company’s infrastructure expansion plans. Speaking to the parliamentary committee on Public Enterprises and Institutions Affairs, Frehiwot described Addis Ababa as the “most challenging city for tower installation” due to "exorbitant compensation demands and bureaucratic delays."
Frehiwot outlined additional challenges, including financial constraints, vandalism, and limited access to electricity and roads. She noted that "land acquisition and compensation demands" remain the most significant hurdles in urban areas, adding that rural areas face fewer challenges. She urged lawmakers to implement "practical land policies" to support infrastructure development.
Balcha Reba, director-general of the Ethiopian Communication Authority, supported Frehiwot’s remarks, calling for "streamlined land allocation processes" to facilitate expansion. Balcha said legislation is being drafted to address infrastructure needs and asked lawmakers to support affordable land acquisition.
https://techafricanews.com/2025/01/10/land-acquisition-challenges-threaten-ethio-telecoms-expansion-plans/
Frehiwot Tamiru, CEO of Ethio telecom, said land acquisition challenges, particularly in Addis Ababa, are the "primary obstacle" to the company’s infrastructure expansion plans. Speaking to the parliamentary committee on Public Enterprises and Institutions Affairs, Frehiwot described Addis Ababa as the “most challenging city for tower installation” due to "exorbitant compensation demands and bureaucratic delays."
Frehiwot outlined additional challenges, including financial constraints, vandalism, and limited access to electricity and roads. She noted that "land acquisition and compensation demands" remain the most significant hurdles in urban areas, adding that rural areas face fewer challenges. She urged lawmakers to implement "practical land policies" to support infrastructure development.
Balcha Reba, director-general of the Ethiopian Communication Authority, supported Frehiwot’s remarks, calling for "streamlined land allocation processes" to facilitate expansion. Balcha said legislation is being drafted to address infrastructure needs and asked lawmakers to support affordable land acquisition.
https://techafricanews.com/2025/01/10/land-acquisition-challenges-threaten-ethio-telecoms-expansion-plans/
TechAfrica News
Land Acquisition Challenges Threaten Ethio Telecom’s Expansion Plans - TechAfrica News
Ethio telecom’s Chief Executive Officer, Frehiwot Tamiru, has identified unsuitable land acquisition procedures, especially in Ethiopia’s urban centers, as the primary roadblock to the company’s ......
👍5
Media is too big
VIEW IN TELEGRAM
#Ethiopia, #Somalia to discuss sea access; Ambassador dismisses sovereignty concerns
Ethiopia and Somalia are preparing to discuss the technical aspects of Ethiopia's access to the sea, according to Ambassador Dina Mufti. Speaking to state-affiliated media, Dina stated that Somalia has expressed an understanding of Ethiopia's request, and the planned discussions will focus on defining conditions and implementation mechanisms.
The ambassador also addressed what he described as "propaganda" aimed at misrepresenting Ethiopia's request as an attempt to undermine Somalia's sovereignty. Dina characterized these claims as "unfounded" and noted they were promptly clarified.
According to Dina, some countries now recognize Ethiopia's legal right to sea access, emphasizing the importance of sustained diplomatic engagement to build broader support and awareness.
Ethiopia and Somalia are preparing to discuss the technical aspects of Ethiopia's access to the sea, according to Ambassador Dina Mufti. Speaking to state-affiliated media, Dina stated that Somalia has expressed an understanding of Ethiopia's request, and the planned discussions will focus on defining conditions and implementation mechanisms.
The ambassador also addressed what he described as "propaganda" aimed at misrepresenting Ethiopia's request as an attempt to undermine Somalia's sovereignty. Dina characterized these claims as "unfounded" and noted they were promptly clarified.
According to Dina, some countries now recognize Ethiopia's legal right to sea access, emphasizing the importance of sustained diplomatic engagement to build broader support and awareness.
👍3
#Ethiopia: #EHRC urges immediate end to forced detentions of individuals from streets, cites rights violations
The Ethiopian Human Rights Commission (EHRC) has called for an immediate halt to the detention of individuals removed from the streets, describing the practice as an infringement on “freedom and other fundamental human rights.” In a statement released on January 10, 2025, the commission said, “Many people removed from streets are being held in a large warehouse in the Kaliti area near the drivers’ training center in Addis Abeba.”
The EHRC added that detainees are “made to choose between staying at the center or working in agriculture,” with those opting for agricultural work sent to farming stations. Acting Chief Commissioner Rakeb Messele stressed, “The practice of forcefully detaining people living on streets or moving them to other areas without their consent must stop immediately.” She also urged that rehabilitation centers for voluntary entrants must be “adequately equipped, safe, and hygienic to avoid health and security risks.”
https://addisstandard.com/?p=47892
The Ethiopian Human Rights Commission (EHRC) has called for an immediate halt to the detention of individuals removed from the streets, describing the practice as an infringement on “freedom and other fundamental human rights.” In a statement released on January 10, 2025, the commission said, “Many people removed from streets are being held in a large warehouse in the Kaliti area near the drivers’ training center in Addis Abeba.”
The EHRC added that detainees are “made to choose between staying at the center or working in agriculture,” with those opting for agricultural work sent to farming stations. Acting Chief Commissioner Rakeb Messele stressed, “The practice of forcefully detaining people living on streets or moving them to other areas without their consent must stop immediately.” She also urged that rehabilitation centers for voluntary entrants must be “adequately equipped, safe, and hygienic to avoid health and security risks.”
https://addisstandard.com/?p=47892
Addis Standard
EHRC urges immediate end to forced detentions of individuals from streets, cites rights violations - Addis Standard
EHRC urges immediate end to forced detentions of individuals from streets, cites rights violations Addis Standard News -
👍6
#Op_ed: A Veil of Injustice: Hijab bans in #Ethiopian schools breach religious, women’s rights
In this op-ed, Kamil Abdu Oumer (PhD), assistant professor of business law at Wollo University, highlights ongoing incidents of hijab bans in Ethiopian schools and their adverse effects on Muslim girls' education. The author draws attention to a case in #Axum, where 159 Muslim girls have been prevented from taking the Grade 12 National Examination due to wearing the hijab. The op-ed describes similar cases across the country, including expulsions of students from universities such as #Dire_Dawa and #Bahir_Dar, as well as allegations of psychological abuse in elementary and secondary schools.
The piece argues that such practices violate constitutionally guaranteed rights, including freedom of religion, which protects religious attire. It criticizes the use of hijab bans as a deliberate attempt to distract Muslim girls from their education, citing instances of harassment and obstruction during critical academic moments. The author further notes that these restrictions lack legal basis, as limitations on religious practices must be justified, proportional, and sanctioned by law—criteria that these bans fail to meet.
According to the op-ed, these acts amount to gender-based violence under international and regional legal frameworks. Despite this, the author points to a lack of response from women's rights organizations, human rights groups, and government institutions. The piece calls for collective action from these stakeholders to address the issue, protect young girls from discrimination, and uphold their educational opportunities.
https://addisstandard.com/?p=47887
In this op-ed, Kamil Abdu Oumer (PhD), assistant professor of business law at Wollo University, highlights ongoing incidents of hijab bans in Ethiopian schools and their adverse effects on Muslim girls' education. The author draws attention to a case in #Axum, where 159 Muslim girls have been prevented from taking the Grade 12 National Examination due to wearing the hijab. The op-ed describes similar cases across the country, including expulsions of students from universities such as #Dire_Dawa and #Bahir_Dar, as well as allegations of psychological abuse in elementary and secondary schools.
The piece argues that such practices violate constitutionally guaranteed rights, including freedom of religion, which protects religious attire. It criticizes the use of hijab bans as a deliberate attempt to distract Muslim girls from their education, citing instances of harassment and obstruction during critical academic moments. The author further notes that these restrictions lack legal basis, as limitations on religious practices must be justified, proportional, and sanctioned by law—criteria that these bans fail to meet.
According to the op-ed, these acts amount to gender-based violence under international and regional legal frameworks. Despite this, the author points to a lack of response from women's rights organizations, human rights groups, and government institutions. The piece calls for collective action from these stakeholders to address the issue, protect young girls from discrimination, and uphold their educational opportunities.
https://addisstandard.com/?p=47887
Addis Standard
A Veil of Injustice: Hijab bans in Ethiopian schools breach religious, women’s rights - Addis Standard
A Veil of Injustice: Hijab bans in Ethiopian schools breach religious, women’s rights Addis Standard Op/Ed -
👍2
#Just_In; #Somalia President due in Ethiopia in landmark visit after year-long diplomatic tensions
The President of the Federal Republic of Somalia, Hassan Sheikh Mohamud, is set to arrive in Addis Abeba later today in what his office said was following “invitation of Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed.”
Villa Somalia said the high-level visit aims “to strengthen bilateral relations and advance shared priorities.”
The visit “builds on the recent agreement reached in Ankara”, Villa Somalia said, adding that the “renewed cooperation underscores a new era of collaboration between Somalia and Ethiopia.”
President Mohamud’s visit comes on the heels of the Ankara Agreement, a pivotal accord recently reached between Ethiopia and Somalia in the Turkish capital.
Read more at: https://x.com/addisstandard/status/1878033282132005113?s=46&t=ofAzVW8-64dDK-xsjodCGA
The President of the Federal Republic of Somalia, Hassan Sheikh Mohamud, is set to arrive in Addis Abeba later today in what his office said was following “invitation of Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed.”
Villa Somalia said the high-level visit aims “to strengthen bilateral relations and advance shared priorities.”
The visit “builds on the recent agreement reached in Ankara”, Villa Somalia said, adding that the “renewed cooperation underscores a new era of collaboration between Somalia and Ethiopia.”
President Mohamud’s visit comes on the heels of the Ankara Agreement, a pivotal accord recently reached between Ethiopia and Somalia in the Turkish capital.
Read more at: https://x.com/addisstandard/status/1878033282132005113?s=46&t=ofAzVW8-64dDK-xsjodCGA
👍5