#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

#Ethiopia: Thousands protest in #Mekelle against hijab ban in #Axum schools, demand enforcement of court ruling

Thousands of Muslims gathered at Romanat Square in Mekelle today, January 21, 2025, to protest the refusal of schools in Axum to comply with court rulings and directives from the Tigray Regional Education Bureau guaranteeing Muslim female students the right to wear hijabs in classrooms. Organized by the Tigray Islamic Affairs Supreme Council, the rally was held under the slogan: “She will learn while wearing her hijab.”

“Our daughters are still being denied access to education despite clear rulings from the court and directives from the education bureau,” said Sheikh Adam Abdulkadir, President of the Tigray Islamic Affairs Supreme Council, during the rally. He emphasized, “The demonstrators have voiced their opposition peacefully, and we are managing this rally in a calm and respectful manner.”

The protests come after months of unresolved grievances, including Muslim grade 12 students being excluded from registering for national exams in Axum due to their refusal to remove hijabs, . “There is no legal justification for forcing them to choose between their religious beliefs and their education,” said Mustefa Abdu, a lawyer at the rally, adding, “They have the right to attend school while wearing their hijabs.”

https://addisstandard.com/?p=48063

#Op_ed: #Tigray and the pain that has lost the memory of hope

In this op-ed, the author, a survivor of the war in Tigray region and now a graduate student in the United States, reflects on the enduring trauma faced by Tigrayans despite the official end of the war. "I thought leaving Tigray would help me breathe," the author writes, describing the struggle of navigating a new life in America while being haunted by the memories of home. Despite the physical distance, the author says, the pain remains ever-present. "Even in this safe, unfamiliar environment, I feel displaced. I came directly from war – a place where every moment demanded survival – to a world that seems oblivious to that reality."

The op-ed critiques the "Pretoria Peace Agreement," signed in November 2022, which the author describes as "a facade, a cruel silence of our pain." The piece recounts atrocities such as mass killings, sexual violence, starvation, and forced displacement, with the writer stating, "We are survivors of betrayal… and the most painful part is that we thought our politicians cared about us."

“Even here in Boston, in safety, I am haunted by these questions,” the author continues, describing how the ongoing suffering of loved ones in Tigray reverberates even from afar. Amidst despair, the author declares, "One thing is certain: our pain will not be forgotten, and our resistance will echo louder than the silence dictated upon us."

https://addisstandard.com/?p=48070

#Ethiopia: #WFP advances cash-based aid model, decreasing reliance on in-kind food assistance

The World Food Program (WFP) is transitioning to a cash-based aid model to reduce dependency on in-kind food assistance, according to Carl Skau, Deputy Executive Director of the WFP, during a recent briefing in Ethiopia. The move, aimed at empowering beneficiaries and strengthening local markets, follows allegations of systemic food aid diversion and operational challenges in Ethiopia.

“Where markets are functioning, [cash-based modality] is a better approach because it allows beneficiaries to determine their most pressing needs. It also supports local markets,” said Skau, encouraging donors to adopt this model. In 2024, the WFP provided cash assistance of over $1.3 million to vulnerable populations in Ethiopia as part of its humanitarian efforts.

https://addisstandard.com/?p=48047

At least 76 people killed in a hotel fire at a ski resort in #Turkey

A fire at the 12-story Grand Kartal Hotel in the popular ski resort of Kartalkaya, Bolu province, northwest Turkey, claimed the lives of at least 76 people early Tuesday, according to officials. Among the fatalities, two people died after jumping from the building in an attempt to escape the flames. Interior Minister Ali Yerlikaya confirmed that at least 51 others sustained injuries.

“Our hearts are broken. We are in mourning,” Yerlikaya said. “But you should know that whoever is responsible for causing this pain will not escape justice.” Officials reported that 45 victims have been identified and handed over to their families, while efforts to identify the remaining victims are ongoing.

The fire reportedly started in the hotel's restaurant area at 3:27 a.m., with fire crews arriving nearly an hour later. Nine individuals, including the hotel's owner, were detained as part of the investigation, and six prosecutors have been appointed to lead the probe. Witnesses suggested the hotel's fire detection system did not operate during the incident.

Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan declared a national day of mourning to honor the victims. “All necessary steps will be taken to shed light on all aspects of the incident and to hold those responsible accountable,” he said.

https://apnews.com/article/turkey-ski-resort-hotel-fire-dead-ec925fbe132455d4bf13e470aca79f0d

20 #Ethiopian migrants killed as boat capsizes off #Yemen, #IOM reports

The International Organization for Migration (IOM) has reported the death of 20 Ethiopian migrants, including nine women and 11 men, after their boat capsized off Yemen's southern coast over the weekend. The incident occurred on Saturday night near Al-Hajjajah in Taiz Governorate, with survivors managing to reach shore, IOM said in a statement on Tuesday.

The vessel, carrying 35 Ethiopian migrants along with a Yemeni captain and his assistant, departed from Djibouti's Hammarta area before capsizing "amid strong seasonal winds," according to IOM. Describing the incident as "a grim reminder of the treacherous conditions migrants endure," Abdusattor Esoev, IOM’s Chief of Mission in Yemen, urged the international community to address "the root causes of irregular migration" and protect the dignity of migrants.

https://english.news.cn/africa/20250122/e1dd9ee7cce24880a03b2226ecb0004c/c.html

#commentary: Traditionalism vs. Innovation: Opposing forces shaping #Ethiopia’s constitutional path

In this commentary, Beneal Walker, a technological revolutionist and economist, examines Ethiopia’s constitutional evolution, emphasizing the interplay between traditionalism and innovation. Beneal argues that Ethiopia’s historical and political trajectory has been shaped by the balance—or lack thereof—between these opposing forces, which he sees as critical for stability and progress.

Beneal outlines how traditionalism, characterized by continuity, identity, and stability, often conflicts with innovation, which prioritizes adaptation, progress, and modernization. "When these two forces are misaligned," he writes, "political instability and societal discord are inevitable." Citing examples such as Emperor Menelik II’s modernization efforts and Emperor Haile Selassie I’s constitutional reforms, the commentary illustrates how Ethiopia has benefited from attempts to bridge traditionalist and innovative approaches.

Turning to the 1994 Constitution, Beneal critiques its emphasis on innovation at the expense of traditionalist values, particularly its institutionalization of ethnic federalism. He argues that this system has exacerbated divisions. "The dissolution of ethnic federalism," Beneal asserts, "is an essential step in correcting the flaws of the 1994 Constitution and fostering national unity." Additionally, he calls for reforms such as incorporating judicial principles and creating effective checks and balances to restore equilibrium in Ethiopia’s governance.

https://addisstandard.com/?p=48086

Over 20 killed in clash between security forces, Islamic State fighters in #Somalia

More than 20 people were killed, and over 10 others injured during two days of fighting between security forces from Somalia’s #Puntland region and Islamic State (#IS) militants. Puntland officials said the clashes occurred Sunday and Monday near the Ufeyn area in the Bari region.

Brigadier General Mohamud Mohamed Ahmed, spokesperson for Puntland security operations, told VOA Somali that the fighting left "15 Islamic State militants and seven Puntland soldiers" dead. He added that IS fighters used "improvised explosive devices to protect their hideouts," with one device killing six soldiers and injuring three others during demining efforts. Security forces reportedly killed eight militants in the operation, which continued Monday.

"On Monday, our soldiers encountered the terrorist fighters around Laba-Afle area, killing seven of them," Ahmed said. He noted that one Puntland soldier was also killed, with four others injured. Residents in the Cal Miskat mountains, where the operation took place, described seeing "the bodies of militants strewn along the roads" after the clashes.

https://www.voanews.com/a/over-20-killed-in-clash-between-security-forces-islamic-state-fighters-in-somalia/7944791.html

#Ethiopia’s Tamrit Initiative revives 625 industries, boosts capacity utilization to 61%: Ministry of Industry

The "Ethiopia Tamrit" campaign has revived over 625 previously non-operational industries since its launch two years ago, according to Industry Minister Melaku Alebel. Speaking at a forum on 21 January 2025, Melaku said the initiative has increased the average capacity utilization of manufacturing industries from 46% to "61%."

Ayana Zewdie (PhD), Coordinator of the Ethiopia Manufacturing Project Office, highlighted that the sector's contribution to the economy has improved significantly, rising from "4.8% to 10.1%." Last year, Addis Standard reported that the manufacturing sector's share of GDP had declined from 5.9% in 2019 to "4.4% in 2022," largely due to instability, foreign currency shortages, and limited access to finance.

https://addisstandard.com/?p=48091

#Ethiopia: Parliamentary team finds earthquake response in #Afar 'insufficient', urges regional leadership to address gaps

A parliamentary oversight team has reported that efforts to support earthquake-affected communities in Ethiopia's Afar region remain "insufficient." Following a visit to the affected areas, the House of People’s Representatives stated, “The efforts being made to rehabilitate citizens affected by the earthquake in the region are insufficient.” They identified significant gaps in “shelter provision, food and water supply, and healthcare services delivery.”

Regional officials claimed, “While the damage was sudden, work is being done to help citizens affected by the disaster.” However, parliamentary representatives emphasized that “regional leadership at all levels must focus on and work on these issues.” Despite ongoing evacuations of over 60,000 people, the Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (#OCHA) previously revealed that while food assistance has reached 6,780 households, 2,250 households remain without support.

https://addisstandard.com/?p=48098

‘It was almost a relief when someone died’: former prisoners on the torture and terror of #Eritrea’s secret prisons

Eritrea, often described as the "North Korea of #Africa," harbors a vast system of secret prisons that enforce terror and control over its population. Former detainees, now living in neighboring #Ethiopia, have shared harrowing accounts of torture, inhumane conditions, and fear.

A preacher, who fled Eritrea in 2020 after eight years in detention, recounted being tortured. “Guards would put a wooden pole behind bent knees, suspend upside down from the ceiling and beat the soles of the feet with rubber pipes” he said. His “crimes” included preaching clandestinely and resisting military connoscription. Like others interviewed, he requested anonymity for fear of reprisal.

Another former detainee described conditions as “designed to spread terror.” Inmates are often crammed into underground cells or sweltering shipping containers. “Five people died in the cell. It was almost a relief when someone died—it gave you a chance to stretch your legs,” one prisoner said.

The regime under President Isaias Afwerki has banned opposition parties, media, and independent organizations. Many Eritreans risk their lives to escape, despite border guards ordered to shoot on sight. “Being a soldier in Eritrea is terrible. There is no freedom,” said a former connoscript, now a refugee.

https://www.theguardian.com/global-development/2025/jan/20/eritrea-torture-terror-prisons-former-prisoners

#Ethiopia: Yaya Gulele district court in #Oromia suspends operations after judges report assault, intimidation by security forces

The Yaya Gulele District Court in North Shewa Zone, Oromia region, has suspended its operations after two judges reported being “assaulted” and “intimidated” by government security forces, according to Zenebe Negash, the court’s president. Judges Jinenus Negasa and Kenenisa Kebebew detailed facing threats in separate incidents, which prompted their departure from the district.

Jinenus stated that he was detained and physically abused at a military camp, where six individuals “knocked me to the ground and beat my body,” hitting him in the face with a metal belt and leaving him “struggling to breathe.” Kenenisa, who avoided physical harm due to the “intervention of the district administrator,” said he was detained after discussing his colleague’s case with local officials. The court, which had only two judges due to ongoing security concerns, suspended its operations as a result. Zenebe condemned the actions as a “violation of judicial rights” and called for accountability.

https://addisstandard.com/?p=48104

#Ethiopia: Finance State Minister calls price hikes 'unfortunate coincidence,' outlines relief measures

Eyob Tekalign, State Minister at the Ministry of Finance, described recent price increases as an "unfortunate coincidence" during an interview with a local TV station, emphasizing that the government had not planned to implement reforms across the board simultaneously.

According to Eyob, the price increases occurred as a result of institutions independently adjusting service fees during their reform efforts, coinciding with amendments to the excise tax and value-added tax (VAT). "The timing was not ideal, but it was not a deliberate plan," he said, adding that greater harmonization is needed when introducing such reforms.

To mitigate the economic burden on citizens, Eyob highlighted several measures undertaken by the government. These include a 93 billion birr salary adjustment, 60 billion birr allocated to the safety net program, and 90 to 100 billion birr in fuel subsidies.

Watch!

#Abu_Dhabi’s Phoenix Group enters #Ethiopia with 80 MW power deal

Abu Dhabi-listed cryptomining conglomerate Phoenix Group (PHX.AD) announced an 80-megawatt (MW) power purchase agreement (PPA) with Ethiopian Electric Power (EEP) to support its bitcoin mining expansion. The company stated energy supplies are expected to begin in the second quarter of the year as it seeks to diversify globally by entering the African market.

Phoenix did not disclose the location of the mining facility or the financial scope of the deal but said the agreement involves a partnership with Abu Dhabi-based cybersecurity firm Data7. "We are aggressively building out our mining capabilities," Phoenix CEO Munaf Ali said, noting that the new capacity would support the firm's growth as it prepares for a dual listing on Nasdaq.

In a statement, the company added that it "is actively engaged in discussions with financial institutions and Nasdaq" to determine the most effective approach for its planned listing.

https://shorturl.at/f4sq3

Nearly 200 passengers stranded at #Nairobi airport as #Somali airlines suspend flights over tax row

Nearly 200 passengers traveling from Nairobi to #Mogadishu were stranded on Wednesday as Somali airlines halted operations between the two capitals due to a dispute over recently increased taxes by the Somali government.

The Somali Airlines Operators Association, representing about 20 carriers, announced the suspension, attributing it to "unresolved differences with the Ministry of Transport and the Somali Civil Aviation Authority." Airlines cited financial burdens from the tax hike, which they described as a challenge to their operational viability.

Aamina Xasan, a businesswoman among the affected passengers, expressed her frustration, stating, “I had important business and meetings scheduled in Mogadishu with people who are traveling abroad, and this sudden cancellation has caused me significant losses.”

Local Kenyan authorities have advised affected travelers to contact airlines for alternative arrangements or refunds. Negotiations on the tax issue continue, but no timeline has been set for the resumption of flights.

https://www.aa.com.tr/en/africa/nearly-200-passengers-stranded-at-nairobi-airport-as-somali-airlines-suspend-flights-over-tax-row/3459514

#Ethiopia: Recent earthquakes displace 10,000 in #Amhara’s North Shewa Zone; affected population across three regions nears 100,000

A series of earthquakes with their epicenter in the Awash Fentale area has displaced nearly 10,000 people in the North Shewa Zone of the Amhara region, which borders the #Afar region. This displacement adds to the 60,000 people impacted in Afar and 20,000 in #Oromia, bringing the total affected population across the three regions to approximately 100,000, according to the International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies (IFRC).

The IFRC reported that over 38 districts in North Shewa, including Tarmaber, Efratana Gidm, and Hageremariam, have suffered "severe damage to property." It stated that “a total of 2,139 households (9,995 people) have been directly affected and displaced,” while "more than 360 houses have been reported as damaged, alongside 908 hectares of farmland and 23 kilometers of roads."


https://addisstandard.com/?p=48108

#South_Sudan orders temporary ban on social media over violence in neighboring #Sudan

South Sudanese authorities have ordered telecom companies to block access to social media for at least 30 days, citing concerns over the spread of "graphic content" related to violence against South Sudanese in neighboring Sudan. The directive, issued by the National Communication Authority (NCA), stated that the ban, effective midnight Thursday, could be extended for up to 90 days.

The NCA emphasized the measure was "necessary to protect the public," adding that the graphic content circulating online "violates our local laws and poses a significant threat to public safety and mental health." The authority noted that the restriction could be lifted earlier "as soon as the situation is contained."

The move comes amid public outrage over footage from Sudan, showing killings of South Sudanese by militia groups.

https://apnews.com/article/sudan-south-sudan-violence-social-media-ban-3ee3235942478fd8f2fa47b14015b84c