#Ethiopia faced ‘dire’ human rights situation in 2024, #HRW reports

Human Rights Watch (HRW) has described Ethiopia's 2024 human rights situation as “dire,” citing “widespread conflict, restrictions on civil society, and impunity for abuses.” The organization’s annual report documented “war crimes” in the #Amhara region, including “extrajudicial executions, sexual violence, torture, and ill-treatment against civilians” by Ethiopian military forces, as well as “killings of civilians, attacks on civilian objects, and unlawful arrests” by #Fano militias. In #Tigray, #Eritrean forces were accused of “rape, sexual violence against women and girls, and looting of civilian property.”

HRW criticized Ethiopia’s state of emergency for enabling mass arrests and restricting civil liberties, stating that “media remained under a government stranglehold,” forcing journalists into “self-censorship, harassment and arrest, or exile.” The report also called the government’s transitional justice policy “inadequate,” citing a lack of “transparency and independent oversight.”

https://addisstandard.com/?p=48007

#Ethiopian Federal Police launch drone simulation training center

The Ethiopian Federal Police Commission has inaugurated a new Unmanned Aerial Vehicle (#UAV) Simulation Training Center at its headquarters. Speaking at the inauguration on January 16, 2025, Commissioner General Demelash Gebremichael said, “The newly acquired drones will facilitate effective management of urban security, border protection, contraband control, and the prevention of illegal human trafficking.” He also explained that integrating drone patrols with foot patrol units in cities like #Addis_Abeba “enhances the capacity to combat crime” and enables the police to respond to emergencies more efficiently.

The announcement follows a recent statement from the Addis Abeba City Peace and Security Bureau regarding security measures for the upcoming Timket (#Epiphany) holiday. Lidya Girma, head of the Bureau, confirmed that “drone-assisted peacekeeping operations” will be implemented to ensure a peaceful celebration and prevent “anti-peace elements” from exploiting the event to disrupt public safety.

https://addisstandard.com/?p=48014

Former #US Assistant Secretary of State Tibor Nagy returns to State Department

Tibor Peter Nagy, the former U.S. Assistant Secretary of State for African Affairs, has announced his return to the U.S. State Department in a temporary capacity.

In a social media post, Nagy stated, “Looks like I’m going back to the U.S. State Department on Monday in a position which will be beyond just Africa.” He continued, “I’m stopping expressing my personal views until my temporary position finishes (probably a few months).” Nagy, who previously served as U.S. Ambassador to #Ethiopia and Guinea, brings decades of diplomatic experience.

https://addisstandard.com/?p=48019

#Ethiopia: Hub of #Africa Fashion Week returns to Addis; aims to celebrate creativity, innovation

The 14th edition of the Hub of Africa Fashion Week (#HAFW) is set to take place in #Addis_Abeba from January 22 to 26, bringing together designers, industry experts, and fashion enthusiasts to celebrate African creativity and innovation. The event will kick off with a three-day exhibition at the Hyatt Regency Hotel, where collections by talented African designers will be showcased to an international audience. Alongside the exhibition, panel discussions will explore topics such as expanding African textile and clothing exports, leveraging technology to transform the fashion industry, and insights from industry experts.

The runway shows, scheduled for January 23 and 24 at Millennium Hall, will feature the latest collections from renowned African designers, showcasing the diversity and innovation of the continent’s fashion. The event will conclude with a two-day pop-up marketplace on January 25 and 26 at the Hyatt Regency, where attendees can purchase unique designs directly from creators.

https://addisstandard.com/?p=48023

#Somaliland eyes #US recognition, pins hopes on Trump administration

"Donald is our saviour. He is a wise and practical man. God bless America," says Aisha Ismail, a university student from #Hargeisa, Somaliland. Her voice brims with hope as she envisions the possibility of US recognition for Somaliland under Donald Trump's incoming presidency. Declaring independence 33 years ago, Somaliland has functioned as a de facto state, but remains unrecognized internationally. For many Somalilanders, Trump's reputation as a dealmaker sparks optimism for a breakthrough.

However, in #Mogadishu, the reaction is starkly different. "I doubt Donald Trump knows what Somaliland is, never mind where it is," laments Abdi Mohamud, a data analyst, with frustration. #Somalia's government views Somaliland as an indivisible part of the nation, and fears that US recognition could destabilize the region. Somalia's State Minister Ali Mohamed Omar warns, "Any move towards recognizing Somaliland’s independence would not only contravene Somalia’s sovereignty but also destabilize the region by setting a dangerous precedent."

Republican efforts to push Somaliland recognition are gaining traction, with influential figures like Congressman Scott Perry introducing bills for formal recognition. The Heritage Foundation's "Project 2025" recommends acknowledging Somaliland as a strategic ally amid concerns over China's growing influence in the region. "The case for Somaliland in US terms is very compelling," argues Joshua Meservey, a key proponent of the cause, who views it as a transactional opportunity aligning with US interests.

https://www.bbc.com/news/articles/cp3j1qn0499o.amp

#Ethiopia among worst jailers of journalists in #Africa, #CPJ says; six detained, five face terrorism charges

Ethiopia has been listed among the worst jailers of journalists in Africa, with six journalists detained, five of whom face "terrorism charges that could carry death sentences," according to the 2024 prison census by the Committee to Protect Journalists (CPJ). The report highlighted that one journalist, Yeshihasab Abera, was arrested during a "law enforcement operation" in the #Amhara region amidst "escalating tensions" and "mass arrests." Authorities have not disclosed the reason for his detention or filed charges against him.

Across Africa, #Eritrea ranked as the worst offender, with 16 journalists imprisoned since the early 2000s without formal charges.

https://addisstandard.com/?p=48027

#Ethiopia: Preserving a 400-year-old farming legacy, #Konso elders pass down terrace-building knowledge

In the rugged highlands of southern Ethiopia, the Konso people have cultivated their land for centuries using a sophisticated stone terracing system, a #UNESCO World Heritage Site. The terraces, essential for preventing soil erosion and conserving water, have enabled this Indigenous community to thrive in a semiarid environment.

For 97-year-old elder Gehano Guchiro Nekayto, the terraces are "not just farming tools," but a gift from ancestors that represent a profound connection to the land and culture. Gehano explains, “The terraces prevent the rains from washing away our crops; without them, farming here would be impossible.” He emphasizes that regular maintenance, such as replacing displaced stones and reinforcing foundations, is vital to their longevity.

However, population growth and climate change are putting pressure on this ancient practice. Gehano notes that younger generations are increasingly drawn to urban opportunities, which risks severing the transmission of knowledge. “The skills needed to build and maintain terraces are learned by doing,” he says. “Without this experience, the terraces won’t survive.”

Despite these challenges, community leaders remain committed to preserving the system. Gehano believes the terraces are not just a local treasure but a model of sustainable agriculture for the world. “Our terraces are a symbol of resilience,” he says. “It’s our duty to protect them for future generations.”

https://news.mongabay.com/2025/01/the-elder-sustaining-a-400-year-old-ethiopian-farming-tradition-interview-with-gehano-nekayto/

#IMF approves $248 million disbursement for #Ethiopia under $3.4 billion #ECF arrangement

The International Monetary Fund (IMF) has approved a $248 million disbursement to Ethiopia following the completion of the second review of its $3.4 billion Extended Credit Facility (ECF) arrangement. The IMF stated that “implementation of ECF-supported reforms is advancing well” but noted challenges, including a “lower-than-targeted contribution” to social safety nets and delays in auditing the National Bank of Ethiopia’s accounts, with the deadline extended to March 2025.

IMF Deputy Managing Director Nigel Clarke praised Ethiopia’s progress, saying, “The transition to a flexible exchange rate has advanced further,” stabilizing the parallel market premium to single digits. However, Clarke called for “continued tight monetary policy” and stressed the importance of “carefully sequencing credit growth cap removals with policy rate changes” to maintain stability.

https://addisstandard.com/?p=48032

#Ethiopia: #TPLF rejects #NEBE deadline for general assembly; accuses federal gov’t of hindering Pretoria Agreement implementation

The Tigray People’s Liberation Front (TPLF) Central Committee, led by Debretsion Gebremichael (PhD), has announced its refusal to comply with the National Election Board of Ethiopia’s (NEBE) February 10, 2025, deadline to hold the party’s general assembly. In a statement released on Friday, January 17, 2025, the TPLF declared, “TPLF will not accept the unilateral decision of the National Election Board of Ethiopia, whether today or tomorrow.”

NEBE, which registered the TPLF under “special circumstances” on August 9, 2024, mandated the party to conduct its general congress by the stipulated deadline, citing Proclamation No. 1332/2016. The board warned that the party’s failure to comply would result in “measures being taken in accordance with the law.” In response, the TPLF Central Committee called on NEBE to “focus on continuing efforts to resolve differences through political dialogue” rather than imposing deadlines.

https://addisstandard.com/?p=48037

#Ethiopia: Displaced families from #Afar earthquakes struggle with dire conditions, thousands face food and water shortages

Since late September 2024, the United States Geological Survey (#USGS) has recorded around 168 earthquakes, with particularly intense activity in the Awash Fentale and Dulecha districts. The frequency of these earthquakes has increased, with 69 recorded in December and 88 as of January 18, 2025.

The frequent earthquakes have caused the collapse of over 30 homes, forcing thousands of residents to flee. Over 58,000 people displaced by recent earthquakes in the Afar region are struggling to survive in overcrowded shelters, facing critical shortages of food, water, and basic supplies.

Displaced families endure dire conditions amid overwhelmed shelters, raising concerns about disease outbreaks due to inadequate aid.

Watch!

#US House committee calls for #Somaliland office to counter #China

An influential US-China subcommittee in the US House of Representatives is calling for the State Department to open a representative office in Somaliland, the breakaway state in Somalia, to counter rising Chinese influence in the region.

“Such a move is critical for advancing US strategic interests in the Horn of Africa and countering the growing influence” of China, wrote John Moolenaar, chairman of the House Select Committee on the Chinese Communist Party, in a letter dated Jan. 15 and addressed to outgoing Secretary of State Antony Blinken. “Without US engagement, [China] may succeed in shifting Somaliland’s interests in its favor, further consolidating its influence in the Red Sea and beyond,” it said.

The committee chair stressed that the establishment of an office in Somaliland’s capital city of Hargeisa “need not conflict with the United States’ current recognition of the government of Somalia”. It pointed to other nations, “including the United Kingdom, Denmark, Kenya, and Taiwan,” who maintain offices there without formally recognizing Somaliland’s sovereignty.

https://www.semafor.com/article/01/17/2025/us-house-committee-calls-for-somaliland-office-to-counter-china

#Ethiopians in #UK mark #Timkat, Birmingham hosts religious celebration

Hundreds of people gathered at New Bingley Hall in #Birmingham, England, to celebrate Timkat, the Ethiopian Epiphany. Observed annually on 19 January, the festival commemorates the baptism of Jesus in the River Jordan and is considered one of Ethiopia’s most significant religious events.

The celebration, which dates back to the 4th Century, began the evening before with night-long prayers and hymns. Crowds included people from across the UK who gathered to mark the occasion.

Timkat is recognized by #UNESCO as an intangible cultural heritage.

https://www.bbc.com/news/articles/cevexp8er9lo

#Ethiopia: Pastoralist communities in #Afar reluctant to evacuate amid earthquakes, citing livestock concerns; authorities consider mandatory relocation

Pastoralist communities in the Afar region are hesitant to evacuate areas impacted by seismic activities, with the United Nations Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (#OCHA) stating that “some residents in Awash and Dulecha districts remain reluctant to evacuate.” The agency added that this reluctance stems from concerns over “livestock and property,” as evacuation sites lack suitable conditions for pastoral livelihoods. Authorities, through the Incident Command Post (ICP), are considering “mandatory relocations in high-risk areas” to ensure public safety.

OCHA reported that 18 earthquakes, with magnitudes ranging from 4.3 to 5.2, have been recorded in the past week, linked to the Fentale volcanic complex. Over 60,000 people are being evacuated from areas experiencing ongoing tremors, rockfalls, and ash emissions. Highlighting the challenges, OCHA said, “many evacuees are living in open spaces with makeshift shelters,” leaving them exposed to harsh weather. The agency warned that “the absence of proper shelter increases vulnerability, especially for women, girls, and children,” and noted that inadequate mosquito net distribution raises the risk of malaria outbreaks.

https://addisstandard.com/?p=48041

#Sudan’s FM criticizes #US sanctions on Burhan, says impact limited

Sudan's Foreign Minister Ali Youssif criticized the U.S. decision to impose sanctions on army chief General Abdel Fattah al-Burhan, describing it as "morally unjust" and ineffective. Speaking to Sudan Tribune on Saturday, Youssif claimed the sanctions had "increased Burhan's popularity" and would not affect his "military and civilian duties."

The U.S. imposed the sanctions on Thursday, accusing Burhan of prioritizing "war over negotiations" to end Sudan's war and overseeing tactics such as "indiscriminate bombing of civilian infrastructure, attacks on schools, markets and hospitals," as well as "extrajudicial killings." The Sudanese foreign ministry denounced the measures, stating they lacked "justice and objectivity."

The U.S. has also sanctioned Mohamed Hamdan Dagalo, known as "Hemetti," leader of the Rapid Support Forces (#RSF), accusing his forces of committing "genocide in Darfur." The measures against both leaders underscore Washington's frustration with the war between the army and RSF, which has killed thousands and displaced millions since its outbreak in April. Outgoing U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken expressed disappointment with failed peace efforts, saying, "It is, for me, yes, another real regret that ... we haven't been able on our watch to get to that day of success."

https://sudantribune.com/article296204/#google_vignette

#Ethiopia: #EOTC Patriarch warns of ‘growing divisions’ within #TPLF leadership, states it undermines ‘glimmer of peace’

His Holiness Abune Mathias I, Patriarch of the Ethiopian Orthodox Tewahedo Church (EOTC), has expressed concern over the increasing divisions within the leadership of the Tigray People’s Liberation Front (TPLF), cautioning that the internal discord could endanger the fragile peace in Tigray.

In letters addressed to TPLF Chairman Debretsion Gebremichael (PhD) and Tigray Interim Administration President Getachew Reda, the Patriarch stated, “The widening differences are destroying the glimmer of peace we’ve found.” He warned, “Choosing silence would make us accountable before both man and Creator, which is why I am compelled to write this advisory letter.”

https://addisstandard.com/?p=48044

#Kenya deploys more than 200 additional police officers to #Haiti for #UN mission

Kenya has sent 217 more police officers to Haiti as part of a UN-backed mission to combat gang violence and restore order in the Caribbean nation, the Kenyan presidency confirmed on Saturday.

The officers, who arrived the same day, were welcomed by Haitian President Fritz Alphonse Jean and other senior officials. According to the Kenyan presidency, the officers “arrived Saturday in Haiti … to battle violent gangs that have taken over parts of the troubled Caribbean country.” Their mandate includes “protecting civilians, upholding public order, and assisting in the reform and strengthening of Haiti’s law enforcement organizations.”

Kenya’s first deployment to Haiti in June 2024 involved 400 officers. At the time, President William Ruto emphasized their role in fostering peace, stating, “Our officers will contribute to lasting peace in Haiti with their professionalism, integrity, and expertise.”

Haiti has been grappling with widespread gang violence and political instability for years. In response to the crisis, international actors such as the US and Canada have pledged substantial support, with the US committing $300 million and Canada providing $123 million to the UN-led initiative.

https://www.aa.com.tr/en/africa/kenya-deploys-more-than-200-additional-police-officers-to-haiti-for-un-mission/3455083

#Ethiopia: Lieutenant General Alemshet Degife, Military Advisor to the Chief of Staff of the Ethiopian National Defense Force (#ENDF) and Chief of the Fire Command, announced plans to reduce the military’s involvement in policing and transfer these responsibilities to regional police forces and local militias. Speaking in a two-part interview with ENDF Media, he emphasized, “It is not sustainable for the national defense force to be deployed in every village, woreda, kebele, and city.”

General Alemshet reflected on the challenges posed by prolonged military deployments over the past five to six years, particularly in the Tigray, Oromia, and Amhara regions. He outlined a strategy to withdraw troops to their camps and prioritize training, stating, “We are planning to return the military to its camp and focus on training. In this regard, we believe we will succeed, and our forces will get the necessary rest.”

Watch!

#Ethiopia’s intelligence chief concludes East Africa trip, holds talks with #Kenya’s Ruto, #Uganda’s Museveni

Redwan Hussien, Ethiopia’s National Intelligence and Security Service (#NISS) Director General, wrapped up his visit to East Africa over the weekend, holding discussions with Kenya’s President William Ruto and Uganda’s President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni. The meetings, described as the first of their kind, took place amid ongoing security challenges in the Horn of Africa, including the resurgence of Al-Shabaab in Somalia and instability in Sudan.

"I am honoured to convey Prime Minister Abiy’s message and confer with Presidents H.E. Yoweri Museveni and H.E. William Ruto," Redwan said. "Appreciated their constructive role in building understanding and cooperation in the HOA rather than driving a wedge between."

President Ruto emphasized the need for joint efforts in addressing regional security issues. “Security challenges such as terrorism and organized crime require collaborative efforts among countries in the Horn of Africa. Kenya undertakes to work with partners and countries in the globe to bring stability,” he noted.

https://www.garoweonline.com/en/world/africa/ethiopia-s-spy-chief-conducts-east-africa-tour-amid-regional-unrest

#AU condemns killing of South Sudanese in #Sudan, calls for investigation

The Chairperson of the African Union Commission (AUC), Moussa Faki Mahamat, has condemned the killing of South Sudanese nationals in Sudan’s Al Jazirah State, calling it a “heinous crime” and urging authorities to “fully investigate the incident and bring perpetrators to justice.” Videos shared on social media last week showed South Sudanese individuals killed in Wad Madani, the capital of Al Jazirah State, after the Sudan Armed Forces (#SAF) took control of the city from the Rapid Support Forces (#RSF). The incident sparked protests in Juba and other parts of South Sudan.

In a statement issued on Sunday, Faki urged Sudanese authorities to ensure “accountability” and prevent further violence. He extended “sincere condolences” to the victims' families and the people of South Sudan. Faki reiterated the African Union’s call for “all relevant actors to urgently continue to work with the AU towards a peaceful resolution of the intolerable conflict in Sudan.”

South Sudan’s President Salva Kiir condemned the killings, describing them as “inhuman barbaric killings of innocent South Sudanese civilians.” He called the acts “unacceptable” and said they were “comparable to terrorism in character.” Kiir urged South Sudanese citizens to “remain calm and refrain from retaliation” and directed the Ministry of Foreign Affairs to demand “an immediate and thorough investigation” from the Sudanese embassy in Juba, with the participation of international human rights organizations.

https://sudantribune.com/article296245/

#Ethiopia’s total public debt soars by a quarter in five years, reaches $68.9 billion by end of 2024

Ethiopia’s total public debt, encompassing external and domestic liabilities, surged by 25.3% over the past five years, amounting to $68.9 billion by the end of June 2024, the Ministry of Finance revealed in its latest Public Sector Debt Portfolio Report. This figure represents 32.9% of the country’s GDP and marks an 8.8% increase compared to the previous year.

The report attributes the sharp rise to exchange rate fluctuations and notes that domestic debt accounted for 59% of the total, while external debt constituted 41%. "Domestic debt saw a 14% increase, whereas external debt recorded a modest 2.5% growth," the report stated, emphasizing that the lower external debt growth was due to "relatively lower disbursements from external loans compared to principal repayments and exchange rate movements."

Read more below.

https://addisstandard.com/?p=48057

#Somaliland's President Irro vows to enhance ties with #Ethiopia, #Djibouti

Somaliland President Abdirahman Mohamed Abdullahi Irro has pledged to bolster ties with Ethiopia and Djibouti, emphasizing their importance in enhancing Somaliland’s economic development, security, and regional cooperation.

Speaking at an event in Hargeisa on Sunday, President Irro lauded Ethiopia as a pivotal neighbor and long-standing ally. "Ethiopia is a long-standing friend and an indispensable partner in economic development, security, and fostering our relationships within Africa," he said. "It is crucial for us to enhance this relationship and its mutual benefits."

Irro also expressed optimism about rebuilding Somaliland's strained relations with Djibouti and advancing cooperation with the United States."We will strengthen our relations with Djibouti and the United States, two nations that have demonstrated significant interest in Somaliland," he added.

https://hiiraan.com/news4/2025/Jan/199893/somaliland_s_president_irro_vows_to_enhance_ties_with_ethiopia_and_djibouti.aspx