#Sudan army-aligned foreign ministry sets path to elections amid civil war

Sudan’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs, aligned with the army, has outlined a plan for a transitional government as part of a roadmap toward elections. In a Sunday post on X, the ministry said the proposal includes “forming a transitional government, appointing a civilian prime minister, and initiating a national dialogue” with political and civil society groups. It also highlighted the military’s advances against the paramilitary Rapid Support Forces (#RSF).

The ministry called on RSF forces to lay down their arms if they wish to take part in the political process. It said this includes the withdrawal of RSF fighters from Khartoum, West Kordofan, and Darfur. The statement comes as the army has recently taken control of several areas, including parts of the greater Khartoum area, Sennar, Gezira, and the city of Umm Ruwaba in North Kordofan. The RSF, however, continues to hold positions in West Kordofan and Darfur.

The Foreign Ministry urged international organizations, including the UN, African Union, and Arab League, to support its post-war transition plan. It described the proposal as “a national consensus for restoring peace and stability” and ensuring a democratic transition.

https://www.aljazeera.com/news/2025/2/10/sudan-army-aligned-foreign-ministry-sets-path-to-elections-amid-civil-war

#Ethiopia: #US, #EU, and other envoys arrive in Mekelle for talks on Pretoria Agreement, #Tigray’s current situation

A delegation of envoys from the US, UK, Italy, Germany, France, and the European Union arrived in #Mekelle today, February 11, 2025, to discuss the Pretoria Agreement and the current situation in Tigray. Tigray Television reported that the talks will focus on “the implementation of the Pretoria peace agreement,” the region’s condition, and efforts toward “lasting peace.” The delegation was received at Mekelle Alula Aba Nega Airport by Getachew Reda, President of the Tigray Interim Administration.

The visit comes amid internal tensions within the TPLF, particularly between factions led by Debretsion Gebremichael and Getachew Reda. Following the TPLF’s 14th Congress, the divide widened after Debretsion’s group removed Getachew and others from their positions, while the interim administration accused Debretsion’s faction of attempting to “destabilize” the region through a “coup d’état.” Meanwhile, some senior Tigray military officials have called for dissolving and restructuring the interim administration, further complicating the region’s political landscape.

https://addisstandard.com/?p=48427

#South_Sudan:.Kiir fires two VPs, spy chief in major reshuffle

South Sudan’s President, Salva Kiir Mayardit, has dismissed two vice presidents and the country’s intelligence chief in a government reshuffle. The decrees, announced late Monday on state broadcaster SSBC, did not specify reasons for the changes.

Dr. Benjamin Bol Bel, a businessman and close ally of Kiir, was appointed vice president for the economic cluster, replacing long-serving VP Dr. James Wani Igga. Bol Bel, who previously served as the presidential envoy for special programs, has been “involved in many of the country’s major decisions,” according to reports. His appointment comes amid growing speculation about his political influence.

Kiir also removed Hussein Abdelbagi Akol, the vice president for the services cluster, replacing him with Josephine Joseph Lagu, a former agriculture minister. Abdelbagi was instead appointed minister of agriculture. Additionally, Gen. Akec Tong Aleu, the intelligence chief, was dismissed just a week after signing a peace deal with the rebel SPLA-IO Kitgwang faction. Civil society activist Edmund Yakani described the reshuffle as a “shift in power” ahead of the 2026 elections, cautioning that “such unilateral decisions” could impact the peace agreement.

https://www.radiotamazuj.org/en/news/article/kiir-fires-two-vps-spy-chief-in-major-reshuffle

#Somaliland President eyes key trade agreement with #Ethiopia, calls on #US to recognize Somaliland

During his address at the World Government Summit in the United Arab Emirates (UAE), Somaliland President Abdirahman Mohamed Abdillahi (Irro) highlighted Somaliland’s commitment to regional cooperation, especially with its neighboring country, Ethiopia, with whom President Irro states plans to finalize a crucial trade and transit agreement by the end of the year.

A key theme of President Irro’s address was the urgent need to strengthen regional trade and cooperation, particularly with Ethiopia.

Beyond regional trade, President Irro also touched on the ongoing efforts to secure international recognition for Somaliland and called on the United States to re-recognize Somaliland’s sovereignty. The President stressed that international recognition is not just a political formality but a crucial step toward securing long-term stability and peace in the region.

He stressed the importance of Somaliland’s role in the Horn of Africa and the potential for future growth through enhanced trade and strategic partnerships.

President Irro’s speech also addressed Somaliland’s unique strategic location along the Red Sea, a crucial global trade route. The availability of deep-sea ports, including Berbera Port, combined with the entrepreneurial spirit of Somaliland’s citizens, makes the nation an attractive destination for business and investment, the President said, adding that this strategic advantage provides a solid foundation for economic growth, not just for Somaliland but for the broader Horn of Africa region.


https://www.horndiplomat.com/2025/02/somaliland-presidents-visit-to-the-uae-and-engagement-at-the-world-government-summit/

#Ethiopia: Earthquake-displaced pastoralists in #Afar region reject relocation, cite unsuitable conditions at proposed site

Pastoralists displaced by recurring earthquakes in Awash Fentale district, Afar region, and sheltering at the Daido site in Amibara district, have rejected government plans to relocate them to the “New Vision” site in Awash Arba. They argue that the new location is “not livable,” citing a lack of water, grazing land, and essential resources for their livestock and daily needs. While authorities warn that Daido remains at risk, residents insist that the new site is barren and unsuitable for their way of life.

A recent assessment by Semera University and Addis Ababa University, conducted with the United Nations Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (OCHA), classified the current evacuation sites as high-risk and recommended their decommissioning. While some displaced individuals have moved, those remaining in Daido report a decline in aid deliveries, saying “nothing has come” since they refused relocation.

https://addisstandard.com/?p=48436

#Ethiopia: Gold Rush Gone Toxic: Illegal mining in #Tigray endangers lives, environment as authorities turn a blind eye to cyanide and mercury use

Illegal gold mining in Tigray’s Northwestern Zone, particularly in Asgede district, is raising alarms over the use of toxic chemicals such as mercury and cyanide, with local residents accusing authorities of turning a blind eye to the environmental and health crisis. Farmers in the area say the chemicals are contaminating water sources, killing livestock, and causing serious health problems. “The water we have been using for drinking is contaminated,” one resident told Addis Standard, adding that “more than 800 goats have died due to the chemicals.”

Protests against toxic mining practices have been met with repression, locals allege. A resident of #Asgede recalled that in January, more than 20 people were detained after demonstrating against illegal mining and were released only after being warned to “remain silent.” Tesfaye Gebremedhin, a lecturer at Mekelle University, said protests in Ksad Gaba Kebele on January 13 reflected growing frustration, with demonstrators chanting “Stop illegal mining” and “Justice for the youth.”

Tadele Mengistu, a cabinet member of the Tigray Interim Administration, acknowledged the environmental damage, stating that “mercury is being dumped into rivers, causing long-term health risks.” He said he has submitted a report to the World Health Organization urging an investigation. Meanwhile, researchers at Mekelle University warn of worsening contamination, with one study linking mercury exposure to “widespread pollution” and health issues such as skin conditions in children. Despite a regional directive to suspend mining, enforcement remains weak, with political instability further complicating efforts to curb illegal operations.

https://addisstandard.com/?p=48334

Scores killed as Islamic State attacks #Puntland military base, officials say

Nearly 100 people were killed, and up to 60 others wounded, when fighters linked to the Islamic State (#IS) launched an attack on a Puntland security forces base, #Somalia officials said Tuesday.

A Puntland security spokesperson, Brigadier General Mohamud Mohamed Ahmed—known as Fadhigo—told VOA’s Somali Service that the attack involved “suicide bombings” and was followed by heavy fighting around Togga Jacel in the Cal Miskaad mountains. “We have confirmed that at least 27 Puntland soldiers and 70 Islamic State militants were killed during the attack and subsequent gun battle,” he said.

Ahmed described the assault as the deadliest since Puntland launched an offensive against IS fighters last month. He noted that the actual death toll “could be significantly higher” as militants were “killed in caves” and assessments were ongoing.

According to Puntland officials, the attack began with car bombs and explosives-laden motorbikes before a firefight ensued. “We knew they were coming as we had prior intelligence,” Ahmed said, adding that Puntland forces “successfully repelled the enemy attack” and remained in control of the base.

https://www.voanews.com/a/scores-dead-as-islamic-state-attacks-military-base-in-somalia/7970838.html

#EU allocates €200,000 to aid #Ethiopia’s quake-hit communities as thousands face dire conditions

The European Union (EU) has allocated €200,000 in humanitarian aid to assist communities impacted by recent earthquakes in the #Afar, #Amhara, and #Oromia regions. The funding, announced on February 11, 2025, will support the Ethiopian Red Cross Society (#ERCS) in providing cash assistance, clean water, shelter, healthcare, sanitation, and emergency referrals. The four-month project, running until May 2025, aims to benefit 10,000 people in the hardest-hit areas and is part of the Disaster Response Emergency Fund (DREF) under the International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies (IFRC).

Recent seismic activity has affected nearly 100,000 people across the three regions, including 10,000 in North Shewa (Amhara), 55,000 in Afar, and 30,000 in Oromia. Many displaced individuals report living in overcrowded shelters with limited access to food, water, and essential resources. According to a previous report by Addis Standard, those affected have described aid efforts from both the government and humanitarian organizations as “inadequate.”

https://addisstandard.com/?p=48445

#Sudan political groups propose one-year pre-transition period

A roadmap proposed by political forces in Port Sudan suggests a "one-year preparatory period" before initiating a transition in the country. The document, obtained by Sudan Tribune, states that the preparatory period will conclude with a "dialogue conference inside Sudan" to determine the length of the transitional phase.

Political forces presented the roadmap to Sovereign Council head and army chief Abdel Fattah al-Burhan on February 8, proposing a "political process after the end of the war." Following the proposal, Al-Burhan said he would work toward forming a "war government or a caretaker government" to oversee transition tasks and assist the army in ongoing military operations. He also spoke of amending the 2019 constitutional document signed with the Forces for Freedom and Change to serve as a reference for the transition.

The roadmap outlines key tasks for the preparatory period, including "stopping the war, releasing all detainees, holding a dialogue conference, and appointing a government of national competencies." It also calls for integrating various armed movements into a "unified national army" and addressing issues such as governance, civil-military relations, and transitional justice.

https://sudantribune.com/article297194/

#Ethiopia: Visiting envoys urge immediate return of IDPs as “utmost priority” in #Pretoria deal implementation, pledge full support

A delegation of diplomats from the United States, the United Kingdom, France, and other countries visited Tigray on February 11, emphasizing that the return of internally displaced persons (IDPs) should be the “utmost priority” in implementing the Pretoria Peace Agreement. The envoys pledged to “throw their full weight behind this effort” after holding talks with Getachew Reda, President of the Tigray Interim Administration, and leaders of the Tigray People’s Liberation Front (TPLF). They also visited IDP shelters in Mekelle, where displaced people expressed frustration over the slow implementation of the agreement.

According to Getachew, the diplomats acknowledged that the prolonged displacement stemmed from the “failure of the Interim Administration, the federal government, and other stakeholders” to ensure the timely return of IDPs. British Ambassador Darren Welch reaffirmed the international community’s commitment, telling displaced people, “We want to assure you that the international community hasn’t forgotten you.” However, some IDPs voiced concerns over deteriorating conditions, stating that due to the “failure of both the Pretoria Peace Agreement signatories and the international community to fulfill their obligations,” people were “dying of hunger and illness.” Others warned that without security guarantees, returning home remained too dangerous, citing reports that some IDPs from Tselemti were “killed after returning home” while others were “displaced again.”

https://addisstandard.com/?p=48454

#Ethiopia: Registration for #Hajj Pilgrimage begins in Ethiopia as travelers face nearly 90% price hike

The Ethiopian Islamic Affairs Supreme Council has announced the start of Hajj registration, setting the fee at 625,000 birr—an increase of nearly 90% from last year’s 329,000 birr. The council attributed the rise to the depreciation of the local currency, stating that “all service fees are paid in foreign currency,” making cost adjustments necessary.

Sheikh Abdulaziz Sheikh Abdul Woli, Vice President of the Supreme Council, emphasized that the council has worked to “align Hajj travel costs with the financial capacity of the public.” However, the shift to a market-based foreign exchange system in 2024 caused the birr to weaken from 57 to 125 per US dollar, significantly impacting the local currency cost of Hajj. Despite this, he asserted that “the charges imposed by the Supreme Council are lower compared to other service providers.” Ethiopia has secured 43,000 Hajj slots this year, the second-highest allocation in Africa after Nigeria.

https://addisstandard.com/?p=48448

#US aid freeze paralyzes NGOs working to help millions of internally displaced people in #Somalia

Aid organizations in Somalia say the U.S. government's decision to freeze most foreign aid has halted critical support for internally displaced people, leaving many without food, healthcare, and essential services. The freeze, enacted through an executive order by U.S. President Donald Trump on Jan. 20, is set to last for 90 days.

Somalia, which relies heavily on international aid to support nearly 3 million displaced people, faces worsening conditions as NGOs struggle with funding cuts. Ayan Ali Hussein, chairwoman of the Dooxdoox IDP camp near Mogadishu, said the freeze led to immediate shutdowns of USAID-supported programs. “There are no facilities to treat malnourished children,” she said, adding that survivors of gender-based violence have also lost access to crucial services.

Dr. Abdiqani Sheikh Omar, founder of the Somali Young Doctors Association, said his organization is among those severely impacted. “In 2025, Somalia was to receive $125 million in USAID support, which could now become null and void,” he said. His group, which provides medical assistance, has had to cut staff and prioritize only critical nutrition and hygiene programs.

Camp residents say they are struggling without assistance. Ruqiya Abdulle Ubeyd, an 85-year-old mother of eight, said she was shocked by the decision and urged the U.S. government to restore aid. “Previously, whenever our children got sick, we would come straight to the center for help,” said Hussein Abikar, a father of five. “There is no other place where we could find such support.”

https://apnews.com/article/somalia-usaid-trump-internally-displaced-people-714b61139eea538201c6227bf491d914

Sisi to skip White House visit if #Gaza displacement discussed, sources say

#Egyptian President Abdel Fattah al-Sisi will not visit Washington for talks at the White House as long as discussions include U.S. President Donald Trump’s plan to “permanently displace” Palestinians from Gaza, two Egyptian security sources said.

Trump has angered the Arab world with a proposal to claim “U.S. control” over Gaza and turn it into the “Riviera of the Middle East.” He has pressed Egypt and Jordan to take in Palestinians and has “threatened to withdraw aid” if they refuse.

Egypt has said Trump extended an “open invitation” to Sisi earlier this month, but a U.S. official said “no date” had been set. The Egyptian presidency and foreign ministry did not immediately respond to requests for comment.

Egypt’s Foreign Minister Badr Abdelatty visited Washington this week, with one aim being to avert a “potentially awkward” meeting. According to Egyptian sources, it was made apparent to Abdelatty during talks with U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio that the displacement plan “would be on the table” if Sisi visited.

https://www.reuters.com/world/africa/egypts-president-sisi-not-attend-any-white-house-talks-if-gaza-displacement-2025-02-12/

#Ethiopia elected to #AU Peace and Security Council

Ethiopia has secured a seat on the African Union Peace and Security Council (#AUPSC) following elections held during the 46th Ordinary Session of the AU Executive Council meeting which kicked off today in Addis Abeba, the seat of the African Union headquarters.

Ethiopia’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs said the election highlights “Ethiopia’s contribution to peace, security, and development across the continent.”

The AU Executive Council, comprising African Foreign Ministers and high level decision-makers, is also reviewing key legal instruments, including the Draft AU Convention on Ending Violence Against Women and Girls, the establishment of the Africa Food Safety Agency, and digital trade regulations under the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA), among others.

Trump, Putin agree to initiate #Ukraine ceasefire talks; #Kyiv, #Europe express concerns

U.S. President Donald Trump has announced that he and Russian President Vladimir Putin have agreed to start negotiations on a ceasefire in Ukraine, stating that it was “unlikely” Kyiv would reclaim all its territory or join NATO if a deal were reached.

Trump said he was “OK” with Ukraine not joining NATO, adding that Russia had “took a lot of land, and they fought for that land and they lost a lot of soldiers.” He also emphasized his focus on stopping the war rather than territorial disputes. “I don’t care so much about anything other than I want to stop having millions of people killed,” he said.

In a social media post, Trump described his phone call with Putin as “lengthy and highly productive” and said they agreed to “have our respective teams start negotiations immediately.” He also revealed plans for mutual visits between the two leaders, stating their first meeting would take place in Saudi Arabia. The Kremlin confirmed the call, with Putin reportedly stating that “a long-term settlement could be achieved through peaceful negotiations.”

The development has raised concerns among Ukraine and its European allies. Ukraine’s President Volodymyr Zelenskyy said he had a “meaningful” conversation with Trump, stressing that “no one wants peace more than Ukraine.” However, a European diplomat criticized the U.S. stance, calling it a “premature surrender” that could encourage Russia to demand more concessions. European leaders have called for direct involvement in the negotiations, arguing that “there will be no just and lasting peace in Ukraine without the participation of Europeans.”

https://www.theguardian.com/us-news/2025/feb/12/trump-putin-ukraine-ceasefire

#Sudan seeks reinstatement in #African Union amid summit

Sudan is seeking to end its suspension from the African Union (#AU), a diplomatic source told Sudan Tribune on Tuesday, as the continental body convenes its 46th summit in #Ethiopia.

The AU suspended Sudan’s membership on October 27, 2021, two days after the military, led by Abdel Fattah al-Burhan, "dissolved the civilian government" in what was described as a coup. Since then, Sudan has been absent from AU summits for four consecutive years.

A diplomatic source said Sudanese officials have been "holding sideline meetings" with African leaders during the summit to push for reinstatement. The source added that the Sudanese government has provided "assurances" that it will appoint a prime minister and "transfer power to a civilian government before the end of February" to meet AU conditions for lifting the suspension.

The AU’s Peace and Security Council is set to hold a special session on Sudan’s situation on February 14. On the same day, #Addis_Abeba will also host a high-level conference on humanitarian issues in Sudan.

https://sudantribune.com/article297267/

#Ethiopia: Trade Ministry to enforce new mandatory standards starting June

The Ministry of Trade and Regional Integration (MoTRI) announced that newly approved mandatory national standards will be enforced starting 08 June 2025. Kassahun Goffe (PhD), Minister of Trade and Regional Integration, stated that the standards, approved by the Ethiopian Standards Council, cover various aluminum and aluminum alloy products for construction, paint products, motorcycle helmets, and vehicle inspection standards, among others.

The ministry disclosed that a four-month grace period has been granted for products purchased under Franco Valuta or with existing bank permits and currently in transit. It urged Franco Valuta importers to ensure their products comply with the new mandatory standards before the enforcement date. The government banned Franco Valuta imports in November 2025, calling the system “unsustainable.”

https://addisstandard.com/?p=48460

Bill to deport #Eritrean migrants backing regime passes preliminary reading in #Israeli Knesset

A bill that seeks to deport Eritrean migrants who support their home country’s government passed a preliminary reading in the Israeli Knesset with a 51-0 vote, passing to a standing committee for further review. The legislation, if enacted, would empower the interior minister to expel regime-supporting Eritreans on the grounds that they “are not in danger in their country and can be returned to their homeland,” according to Yulia Malinovsky, a Yisrael Beytenu MK and one of the bill’s sponsors.

The proposed law comes amid ongoing tensions within the Eritrean migrant community in Israel, which numbers approximately 20,000 people. Various Israeli governments have previously introduced measures to encourage the departure of asylum seekers, many of whom fled “war and oppression” in Eritrea, though some efforts were blocked by courts.

https://tinyurl.com/4294jm2k

#Ethiopia: #Afar Sultanate condemns #Djibouti’s drone strike as ‘indiscriminate’, urges ‘immediate international action’

The Sultanate of Afar has condemned the 30 January drone strike by Djibouti’s security forces, calling it a “heinous and indiscriminate” attack on civilians. In a statement, it expressed “unequivocal condemnation,” alleging that the strike killed “women, children, and the elderly” in a remote village already suffering from “malnutrition and starvation.” The Sultanate accused Djibouti of engaging in “systematic persecution, state-sponsored violence, and deliberate neglect” against the Afar people.

Djibouti’s Ministry of Defense previously confirmed the strike but stated it was conducted “within its territory” and targeted a “logistical and operational base” after “a week of surveillance.” It acknowledged “collateral damage” and said an investigation was underway. The Sultanate dismissed Djibouti’s justification as a “desperate and transparent lie” and urged “immediate international action” to hold those responsible accountable.

https://addisstandard.com/?p=48463