#Ethiopia, #Somalia agree to restore full diplomatic ties, enhance regional security cooperation

The governments of Ethiopia and Somalia have agreed to “restore and enhance their bilateral relations through full diplomatic representation in their respective capitals” following discussions between Ethiopian Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed and Somalia’s President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud during the latter’s working visit to Ethiopia.

Hassan Sheikh Mohamud arrived in #Addis_Abeba earlier today, marking the end of a year-long diplomatic hiatus between the two countries. The joint communiqué emphasized that “the stability of the region requires strong cooperation between the two countries” and noted agreements to “bolster cooperation in promoting peace and stability” while intensifying efforts to “expand infrastructure linkages to facilitate trade and shared prosperity.”

https://addisstandard.com/?p=47895

Three men to appear in #Johannesburg court for alleged trafficking of #Ethiopian nationals

Three men are set to appear in the Johannesburg magistrate's court today following their arrest in connection with the rescue of 26 Ethiopian nationals from a house in Sandringham, Johannesburg. The operation was conducted by the Hawks, supported by local authorities, home affairs, social development, and an Ethiopian interpreter.

Hawks spokesperson Col. Philani Nkwalase said, “Officers discovered 15 individuals, believed to be Ethiopian nationals, held captive inside the house. Another 11 victims, who had escaped and were found nearby, were taken to hospital for medical treatment.” He added that a preliminary investigation revealed the victims had broken through a window and burglar bars to escape, with some still unaccounted for. One of the individuals was linked to a kidnapping case reported in Benoni last November.

The suspects face charges of human trafficking, kidnapping, extortion, and immigration violations. “The investigation continues, and additional charges will be determined once all interviews are completed with the help of interpreters from the Ethiopian Embassy,” Nkwalase stated. Maj-Gen Ebrahim Kadwa of the Hawks described the operation as “a strong example of teamwork in tackling trafficking and related crimes.”

https://www.timeslive.co.za/news/south-africa/2025-01-12-three-men-to-appear-in-court-for-human-trafficking-after-26-ethiopians-rescued-from-joburg-home/

#Ethiopia: Persistent earthquakes leave two seriously injured; over 2,250 displaced households in #Afar remain without aid

Continued seismic activity in parts of the #Afar and #Oromia regions has caused widespread displacement and infrastructure damage, with the United Nations Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (#OCHA) confirming two serious injuries. OCHA reports that homes, schools, health centers, and roads have been extensively damaged. Over 58,000 individuals, including 4,000 workers from the Kesem Sugar Factory, have sought refuge in temporary shelters.

OCHA, working with government-led Zonal Incident Command Posts in Awash and Metehara, noted that “significant gaps remain” in assistance. While 6,780 households in Afar have received food aid, 2,250 remain without support despite efforts by the Disaster Risk Management Commission and its partners.

https://addisstandard.com/?p=47902

#Egypt, #Eritrea stress ‘no unilateral interference’ in #Somalia, pledge ‘all possible support’

Egypt and Eritrea reaffirmed their stance against “any unilateral interference” in Somalia’s internal affairs during a joint press conference held in Cairo on Saturday. The event involved Egyptian Foreign Minister Badr Abdelatty, Eritrean Foreign Minister Osman Saleh Mohammed, and Somali Foreign Minister Ahmed Moalim Fiqi.

“Egypt and Eritrea will provide all possible support for Somalia to regain control of its entire territory,” Abdelatty stated. The ministers discussed plans to enhance Somalia’s military capabilities, with a focus on combating terrorism and preserving national unity.

On the issue of #Red_Sea security, Abdelatty highlighted, “Security in the Red Sea should remain the responsibility of the bordering countries,” adding, “We do not accept any foreign military presence in the region.”


https://english.news.cn/africa/20250112/d31312f78ab9495085bfb0dd1066c7cc/c.html

#Ethiopia: Dual Faces of #Addis_Abeba’s Corridor Project: Tales of transformation, displacement

Addis Abeba’s ambitious Corridor Development Project, now in its second phase, is transforming the capital’s infrastructure and public spaces. Covering 132 kilometers and 2,817 hectares, the project aims to ease traffic congestion and enhance aesthetics, but it has also drawn criticism for its impact on residents and businesses.

At Koye Square, one of the transformed areas, residents praised visible changes such as “streetlights, benches, and a zigzagging fountain display,” which has become a major attraction. Filimon Yohannes, a resident of the Koye Fechie Sub-city, noted, “Traffic congestion, which used to take hours to navigate, has eased considerably, though rush hours remain challenging.” He added, “If you adjust your departure time, you won’t face much trouble now.”

However, the project has faced criticism from displaced residents and business owners. A bar and restaurant owner from Yerer Sefer, whose property was demolished, described the impact: “About five businesses, including a clinic, were removed, and I was given just three days to pack.” He explained that his replacement land measures only 150 square meters, significantly less than the original 221 square meters. “Authorities assessed compensation, but I have not received any payments yet,” he said, expressing concern over transparency in the process.

The Addis Abeba City Administration has promised measures to address displacement, including the construction of over 4,000 homes and rent payments for affected residents. “A budget of five billion birr has been allocated for compensation,” said Mayor Adanech Abiebie, adding that relocation housing has been arranged for those living in government-owned rental units. Despite these assurances, a resident emphasized, “No one is against development, but a well-planned project from the start would have been better.”

https://addisstandard.com/?p=47899

#Sudan's military recaptures strategic city of Wad Medani

Sudan's military announced it had retaken the strategic city of Wad Medani, capital of Gezira province, from the Rapid Support Forces (#RSF) on Saturday. The city, which lies 60 miles southeast of Khartoum, had been under RSF control for more than a year. Culture and Information Minister Kahlid Aleiser said the military and its allies had "liberated" the city, calling it a victory for security and stability.

In a statement, the military said its forces entered the city early on Saturday and were working to "clear the rebel remnants inside the city." It praised the armed forces and their supporters for helping "reclaim dignity, security, and stability." The RSF has not yet issued a response.

The war, which began in April 2023 after tensions between the military and RSF leadership escalated, has resulted in over 28,000 deaths and displaced more than 14 million people, according to the United Nations. The conflict has been marked by allegations of "gross atrocities," including ethnically motivated killings and sexual violence, with the International Criminal Court investigating possible war crimes.

https://morningstaronline.co.uk/article/sudans-military-recaptures-strategic-city-wad-medani

#Ethiopia: #Tigray IDPs rally for return to homeland amid mounting hardships; three-day protest demands immediate action

Internally Displaced Persons (#IDPs) in Tigray launched a three-day peaceful demonstration in #Mekelle, rallying for their immediate return to their homes after years of displacement. Organized by the Tsilal Western Tigray Civil Society, the protest, noscriptd Yak’el (“Enough is Enough”), aims to spotlight the severe challenges faced by IDPs, including hunger, lack of medical care, and inadequate humanitarian aid.

Protesters, gathered at Romanat Square, expressed their frustrations with slogans such as “Return us to our homes” and “Living in tents is enough.” Leaders of the movement, like Tsegay Tetemke, emphasized that despite the Pretoria Peace Agreement's promises, the suffering continues unabated. “People are dying from hunger and the absence of aid. We urge leaders to end political games and fully implement the agreement,” he said. Many participants, like Kidan Girmay, shared personal stories of loss and hardship, urging both the Ethiopian government and international actors to act decisively to facilitate their return.

https://addisstandard.com/?p=47914

#Ethiopia: Commission launches rehabilitation Program for former combatants in #Oromia, #Amhara regions

The National Rehabilitation Commission (#NRC) has launched rehabilitation and reintegration programs for former combatants in the Oromia and Amhara regions, according to state media. The initiative in Amhara began on January 13, 2025, at the Burqa Demobilization Center, with the NRC stating it aims to “verify, register, and rehabilitate former combatants” and help them “contribute positively to their communities.”

In Oromia, rehabilitation training started at the Awash Bishola Demobilization Center. NRC Commissioner Temesgen Tilahun highlighted the program’s focus on “verifying participants’ status,” providing psychosocial and civic training, and issuing digital IDs to support reintegration.

https://addisstandard.com/?p=47915

#Ethiopia: Killing of 14-year-old sparks protests in #Borana zone, #Moyale town; residents blame police for death

The killing of a 14-year-old in Moyale town, Borana Zone, #Oromia Region, has ignited widespread protests. Local accounts allege that the teenager was fatally shot on 11 January 2025 by “bullets fired by police forces” in Shewa Ber kebele. Residents took to the streets the following day, demanding justice, with claims that police “opened fire to disperse” the demonstrations, injuring several people.

In a statement, the Moyale town Communication Office confirmed the teenager’s death, referring to it as “the loss of a teenage child’s life” and condemning the killing, stating, “No human life should be lost in any circumstance.” The office assured the public that an investigation is underway to “identify and bring to justice any individual involved in or responsible for the act.” However, it also criticized actions during the protests, such as vandalism and arson, labeling them as “inappropriate” and allegedly driven by individuals with “political and hidden agendas.”

https://addisstandard.com/?p=47935

#Somalia seeks #Ethiopia’s inclusion in #AUSSOM troop quota after diplomatic breakthrough

Somalia is working to include Ethiopia in the troop quota for the African Union's new mission in Somalia (AUSSOM), Deputy Foreign Minister Ali Omar Balcad announced. He emphasized that while some progress had been made, challenges remain in ensuring Ethiopia’s participation due to already allocated quotas.

"The main hurdle preventing Ethiopia's involvement in AUSSOM was related to the MOU agreement. That issue has been resolved," Balcad stated. However, he noted, "The challenge now lies in the fact that most of the troop quotas have already been assigned, and there is little left to distribute. We are actively working to find a solution."

This development follows a recent meeting in #Addis_Abeba between Somalia's President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud and Ethiopia's Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed, where both leaders agreed to restore full diplomatic ties. Relations had been strained by Ethiopia's 2024 Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with #Somaliland, which aims to grant Ethiopia access to the sea in exchange for the recognition of Somaliland, which Somalia opposes.

A delegation from Somalia is set to visit Ethiopia to finalize technical details, including troop numbers and ensuring alignment with Somalia's national interests. Additionally, Balcad confirmed that Ethiopia is expected to appoint its ambassador to Somalia, while Somalia’s ambassador to Ethiopia will soon assume official duties, signaling a broader effort to strengthen bilateral ties.

https://www.hiiraan.com/news4/2025/Jan/199796/somalia_seeks_ethiopia_s_inclusion_in_aussom_troop_quota_after_diplomatic_breakthrough.aspx

#Ethiopia-#Djibouti Railway achieves first profit milestone since launch, says CEO

Takele Uma, CEO of Ethiopia-Djibouti Railway S.C., announced that the railway achieved profitability for the first time in the last quarter of 2024. “This achievement sets the stage for our upcoming three-year strategic plan aimed at transforming the company into a profitable venture,” Takele said, adding that the milestone provides a "solid foundation" for further successes.

This marks significant progress for the 750-kilometer railway connecting #Addis_Abeba to Djibouti's port. In August 2024, Takele disclosed operational challenges, noting that only 15 of 32 freight locomotives were functional, limiting annual freight capacity to 2.4 million tons, "just 38% of its full potential." Five months ago, he pledged to address these challenges through a three-year strategy and organizational restructuring.

https://addisstandard.com/?p=47942

#US sanctioned #RSF cancels #Nairobi press conference, unease over presence cited

Sudan’s Rapid Support Forces (RSF), a US-sanctioned paramilitary group, abruptly cancelled a scheduled press briefing in Nairobi on Monday, reportedly due to pressure from #Kenyan authorities. The event, which was to take place at the Radisson Blu hotel, was called off minutes after RSF officials were summoned to a private meeting with Kenyan officials, sources indicated.

Omar Hamdam Ahmed, head of the RSF delegation, described the cancellation as reflective of “the problem of Africa, the dictatorship” but offered no clarification. It was later revealed that Kenyan authorities feared backlash from the US, which had sanctioned RSF leader Mohamed Hamdan Daglo ‘Hemedti’ for alleged atrocities in Darfur.

https://www.theeastafrican.co.ke/tea/news/north-africa/sanctioned-rsf-cancels-nairobi-briefing-amid-unease--4887960

#AU mission hails #Ethiopia-#Somalia agreement to restore diplomatic ties after year-long hiatus

The African Union Mission in Somalia (#AUSSOM) has welcomed the decision by Ethiopia and Somalia to fully restore diplomatic ties after a year-long hiatus. The agreement, reached during discussions in Addis Abeba on January 11, 2025, between Somalia’s President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud and Ethiopia’s Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed, was described by Ambassador Mohamed El-Amine Souef as “an important milestone in bilateral relations” and a reaffirmation of commitments under the #Ankara Declaration.

Ambassador Souef highlighted the importance of “enhancing diplomatic ties” as well as “strengthening security cooperation and promoting economic integration,” calling these steps essential for achieving “regional peace, stability, and shared prosperity.” He also stated that AUSSOM “remains committed to supporting Somalia’s stabilization efforts and regional partnerships.”

https://addisstandard.com/?p=47945

#Ethiopia: Parliament approves Property Tax bill amid concerns over its impact on fixed-income citizens

The House of Peoples’ Representatives has approved the draft Property Tax Proclamation, introducing a new levy on urban land, land improvements, and buildings. The taxable amount is set at 25% of either the market or replacement value, with tax rates ranging from 0.2% to 1% for land usage rights and 0.1% to 1% for land improvements.

Desalegn Wedaje, Chairperson of the Standing Committee on Planning, Budget, and Finance Affairs, argued that the tax addresses a “significant gap” in revenue generation caused by inadequate taxation of rising urban property values. However, MPs expressed concerns over its fairness, with Bartuma Fikadu warning that it “favors the tax collector” and risks overburdening low-income earners and civil servants.

Read more below.

https://addisstandard.com/?p=47947

#Ethiopia: Samson Mekonnen takes helm of Broadcasting Authority after legislators’ endorsement

Samson Mekonnen (PhD), a 32-year-old communications expert and former Vice President for Strategic Communication and Internationalization at Addis Ababa University, has been appointed as the new Director General of the Ethiopian Broadcasting Authority (#EBA) following lawmakers' approval earlier today. His appointment makes him the youngest individual to lead the Authority, succeeding Mohammed Idris, who now serves as Minister of Peace.

Samson's appointment comes amid deliberations on controversial amendments to the Media Proclamation. The draft amendments, currently under review by the Standing Committee on Democracy Affairs, propose shifting the authority to appoint the EBA Director General from parliament to the Prime Minister’s office. A coalition of 14 civil society organizations warned in November 2024 that the changes could place the media authority “under the influence of the executive” and remove provisions mandating “transparency in the nomination and approval of board members.”

https://addisstandard.com/?p=47957

#China says hijacked fishing vessel freed off #Somalia, 18 crew rescued

Chinese-owned fishing vessel hijacked off the Somali coast in November has been freed, along with its 18-member crew, according to a statement by the Chinese Embassy in Somalia on Monday.

The embassy announced on X that the crew was rescued following "unremitting efforts" by the Chinese government. The statement condemned the hijacking as a "vicious action" threatening international navigation and pledged continued efforts to protect the rights of Chinese citizens and businesses abroad.

The vessel was hijacked in late November and taken to the Xaafuun district in Somalia's #Puntland region. Pirates had demanded a $10 million ransom, but it remains unclear whether any payment was made to secure the release.

https://apnews.com/article/somalia-piracy-chinese-fishing-vessel-bd3f39cc51d2fc0b34382885dd37d5d3

#Ethiopia: #Tigray Interim Administration acknowledge IDPs grievances as three-day protest continues in #Mekelle

The Tigray Interim Administration (#TIRA) has addressed grievances raised by Internally Displaced Persons (#IDPs) during ongoing peaceful protests in Mekelle, which began on January 13 under the theme “Yak’el” (“Enough is Enough”). In a statement, the interim administration acknowledged that “The failure to implement key provisions of the Pretoria Peace Agreement has deepened political instability in the region,” and described the protests as a “constructive effort to bring attention to the urgent situation facing the people of Tigray.”

The protests, organized by Tsilal Western Tigray Civil Society, are still ongoing at Romanat Square in Mekelle. Demonstrators have chanted demands such as “Return us to our homes” and “Living in tents is enough.” Many IDPs continue to endure harsh conditions, with a recent report revealing nearly 300 deaths at the Hintsad center in Shire over the past three months due to hunger, inadequate medical care, and insufficient aid.

https://addisstandard.com/?p=47960

#Sudan shelling claims over 100 lives near #Khartoum

At least 120 people were reported killed on Monday following shelling in the Dar-Salam area of Omdurman, near Sudan's capital, Khartoum. The Ombada Emergency Response Room noted that the toll is provisional and could increase. Health workers have warned of dwindling medical supplies as they struggle to treat the injured.

The ongoing civil war in Sudan, which began in April 2023, has caused widespread destruction, displacing over 12 million people and creating a severe humanitarian crisis. The conflict stems from a power struggle between the army and the paramilitary Rapid Support Forces (#RSF). Most of Omdurman is under army control, while the RSF holds parts of Khartoum and surrounding areas.

Recent clashes in Omdurman have escalated, with both sides exchanging shellfire. Residents have reported widespread damage to homes and civilian areas. Emergency response teams face difficulties accessing affected zones due to continued fighting, further straining local healthcare services.

https://www.bbc.com/news/articles/cly90w8vjyko

#Ethiopia: Dual Faces of #Addis_Abeba’s Corridor Project: Tales of transformation, displacement

Addis Abeba is undergoing a profound transformation under the ambitious Corridor Development Project, which aims to modernize the city while addressing traffic congestion and urban aesthetics. The project, launched in two phases, spans a total of 172 kilometers and 2,857 hectares. While the initiative promises economic growth and infrastructure improvements, it has also displaced thousands of residents and businesses, sparking mixed reactions.

The project’s redevelopment of the Anbessa Garage to Goro Corridor, featuring aesthetic enhancements like illuminated streetlights and fountains, has drawn admiration. Yet, for displaced business owners, the experience is mixed. Mesud Jamal, a former Goro jewelry shop owner, expressed support, saying, “As long as it is believed to benefit the city, I am in favor of it.” Despite relocating, he admitted, “Business activity has improved at the newly opened shop compared to before.”

However, not everyone shares Mesud’s optimism. A bar owner from Yerer Sefer lamented abrupt demolitions, claiming, “My bar and restaurant were demolished without prior notice… about five businesses, including a private clinic, were removed.” He voiced frustration over insufficient compensation: “I was promised I’d be paid, but so far, we haven’t received anything.”

A study highlighted the project’s dual impact, citing benefits such as a 30% reduction in traffic congestion and GDP growth but warning of social costs, including displacement and cultural loss. Mayor Adanech Abiebie pledged transparency, relocation housing, and a five-billion-birr compensation fund, yet some residents remain skeptical. “No one is against development,” one displaced resident said, “but a well-planned project would have been better.”

https://addisstandard.com/?p=47899

#Ethiopia: #Addis_Abeba Trade Bureau targets fuel stations causing ‘unnecessary queues,’ warns of legal action for noncompliance

The Addis Abeba Trade Bureau announced it would take action against fuel stations causing "unnecessary queues," citing practices such as selling fuel solely for cash, creating artificial shortages, or failing to operate full-time. This follows a recent proclamation by parliament aimed at regulating the petroleum products trade system.

During a press briefing on January 14, Habiba Siraj, head of the Bureau, stated that "there had been no fuel shortages in the city over the past six months," noting that 125 stations received an average daily supply of 3.45 million liters of fuel, including 2 million liters of diesel and 1.45 million liters of gasoline. She disclosed that legal measures had already been taken against nine stations found violating regulations, including smuggling fuel and conducting improper transactions.

https://addisstandard.com/?p=47970

#EU to provide €40 million in humanitarian aid for #Ethiopia

The European Union (EU) has announced plans to allocate €40 million in initial humanitarian aid for Ethiopia in 2025, citing the ongoing impacts of "conflicts, recurrent climate shocks, and outbreaks of infectious diseases." The EU noted that this will bring its total humanitarian assistance to Ethiopia to €436.5 million since 2020.

The funding, according to the EU, will support humanitarian partners in delivering "protection, food aid, access to clean water and hygiene, shelter, and nutritional assistance." It will also cover disease prevention, primary health care, and education for children affected by crises.

The package aims to prioritize support for internally displaced persons and refugees, particularly those newly arriving from neighboring countries such as Sudan. The EU emphasized its continued commitment to addressing Ethiopia's pressing humanitarian needs through targeted aid.

https://civil-protection-humanitarian-aid.ec.europa.eu/news-stories/news/eu-provides-eu40-million-humanitarian-aid-ethiopia-2025-01-14_en