#Oromia Agriculture Bureau reveals over 2M hectares in the region affected by soil acidity
The Oromia Regional Agriculture Bureau has revealed that more than two million hectares of land in the region have been affected by soil acidity. The bureau says it is undertaking various soil treatment efforts, including the use of lime.
Eshetu Legesse, Director of the Soil Development and Improvement Sector at the Oromia Agriculture Bureau, told local media that acidic soil is a major factor reducing agricultural output and extensive work needed to rehabilitate affected lands and improve yields.
As part of these efforts, the Guder Lime Factory has produced and distributed over 193,000 quintals of lime to farmers across the region, he said.
In November 2024, Agriculture Minister Girma Amente (PhD) told lawmakers that government efforts to treat over three million hectares of acidic soil in Ethiopia were falling short due to a lack of lime supply from cement factories.
https://www.facebook.com/share/p/16TnTzMi9D/
The Oromia Regional Agriculture Bureau has revealed that more than two million hectares of land in the region have been affected by soil acidity. The bureau says it is undertaking various soil treatment efforts, including the use of lime.
Eshetu Legesse, Director of the Soil Development and Improvement Sector at the Oromia Agriculture Bureau, told local media that acidic soil is a major factor reducing agricultural output and extensive work needed to rehabilitate affected lands and improve yields.
As part of these efforts, the Guder Lime Factory has produced and distributed over 193,000 quintals of lime to farmers across the region, he said.
In November 2024, Agriculture Minister Girma Amente (PhD) told lawmakers that government efforts to treat over three million hectares of acidic soil in Ethiopia were falling short due to a lack of lime supply from cement factories.
https://www.facebook.com/share/p/16TnTzMi9D/
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#UN rights expert calls on #Somalia to accelerate reforms amid conflict and uncertainty
A UN expert on human rights in Somalia urged the Somali government on Thursday to accelerate important reforms and strengthen protections for its people amid persistent conflict and political uncertainty. The expert’s statement came at the conclusion of her fourth official visit to the country.
Isha Dyfan, the UN independent expert on the situation of human rights in Somalia, strongly condemned the terrorist group Al-Shabaab and its violent attacks that harm civilians, including children, and keep Somalia in a state of ongoing insecurity. She also expressed concern about violent clashes between Somalia’s federal forces and regional groups such as those in Jubaland state, which have caused deaths, displacement, sexual violence, and the recruitment of children into armed groups.
Regarding the constitutional review process, Dyfan urged the government to ensure that all key stakeholders, including political leaders, civil society organizations,minority groups, and women’s representatives, are meaningfully involved.
https://www.jurist.org/news/2025/05/un-rights-expert-calls-on-somalia-to-accelerate-reforms-amid-conflict-and-uncertainty/
A UN expert on human rights in Somalia urged the Somali government on Thursday to accelerate important reforms and strengthen protections for its people amid persistent conflict and political uncertainty. The expert’s statement came at the conclusion of her fourth official visit to the country.
Isha Dyfan, the UN independent expert on the situation of human rights in Somalia, strongly condemned the terrorist group Al-Shabaab and its violent attacks that harm civilians, including children, and keep Somalia in a state of ongoing insecurity. She also expressed concern about violent clashes between Somalia’s federal forces and regional groups such as those in Jubaland state, which have caused deaths, displacement, sexual violence, and the recruitment of children into armed groups.
Regarding the constitutional review process, Dyfan urged the government to ensure that all key stakeholders, including political leaders, civil society organizations,minority groups, and women’s representatives, are meaningfully involved.
https://www.jurist.org/news/2025/05/un-rights-expert-calls-on-somalia-to-accelerate-reforms-amid-conflict-and-uncertainty/
Jurist
UN rights expert calls on Somalia to accelerate reforms amid conflict and uncertainty
A UN human rights expert for Somalia urged the Somali government on Thursday to accelerate important reforms and strengthen protections for its people amid persistent conflict and political uncertaint...
#Op_ed: Lessons from #Turkmenistan's Health Tragedy: How to avoid #Ethiopia's looming healthcare crisis
The author of this op-ed, Shimels Hussien (PhD), an associate professor of public health based in Addis Abeba, warns that “Ethiopia’s healthcare system is on the brink of collapse.” He highlights the dire conditions faced by medical professionals—the backbone of the nation’s health infrastructure—who continue to work under what he describes as “slavery-like conditions,” earning as little as $100 per month for medical doctors and just $40 for nurses. He adds, “With only 3.5% of GDP allocated for the health sector, hospitals lack basics like meds and equipment while over 60% of med students plan to flee,” underscoring the chronic underfunding and the looming exodus of trained professionals.
Dr. Shimels draws a sobering parallel to Turkmenistan’s healthcare collapse in 2004 under Saparmurat Niyazov, who dismissed the value of medical expertise, fired 15,000 healthcare workers, and replaced them with untrained military connoscripts. “Over the past seven years, systemic neglect and rigid responses under the administration of Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed have placed the nation’s healthcare system on the brink of collapse,” he asserts.
As the government continues to suppress protests and detain healthcare workers across the country following a partial nationwide strike, Dr. Shimels argues that “The Ethiopian government’s response has mirrored Niyazov’s authoritarian playbook.” He expresses grave concern over “the deployment of unqualified personnel for critical tasks,” which, he cautioned, endangers patient safety, “echoing Turkmenistan’s reliance on untrained connoscripts.”
https://addisstandard.com/?p=50233
The author of this op-ed, Shimels Hussien (PhD), an associate professor of public health based in Addis Abeba, warns that “Ethiopia’s healthcare system is on the brink of collapse.” He highlights the dire conditions faced by medical professionals—the backbone of the nation’s health infrastructure—who continue to work under what he describes as “slavery-like conditions,” earning as little as $100 per month for medical doctors and just $40 for nurses. He adds, “With only 3.5% of GDP allocated for the health sector, hospitals lack basics like meds and equipment while over 60% of med students plan to flee,” underscoring the chronic underfunding and the looming exodus of trained professionals.
Dr. Shimels draws a sobering parallel to Turkmenistan’s healthcare collapse in 2004 under Saparmurat Niyazov, who dismissed the value of medical expertise, fired 15,000 healthcare workers, and replaced them with untrained military connoscripts. “Over the past seven years, systemic neglect and rigid responses under the administration of Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed have placed the nation’s healthcare system on the brink of collapse,” he asserts.
As the government continues to suppress protests and detain healthcare workers across the country following a partial nationwide strike, Dr. Shimels argues that “The Ethiopian government’s response has mirrored Niyazov’s authoritarian playbook.” He expresses grave concern over “the deployment of unqualified personnel for critical tasks,” which, he cautioned, endangers patient safety, “echoing Turkmenistan’s reliance on untrained connoscripts.”
https://addisstandard.com/?p=50233
Addis Standard
Lessons from Turkmenistan's Health Tragedy: How to avoid Ethiopia's looming healthcare crisis - Addis Standard
Lessons from Turkmenistan's Health Tragedy: How to avoid Ethiopia's looming healthcare crisis Addis Standard Op/Ed -
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#Ethiopia: #NEBE launches second phase of digital polling station registration for 7th national election
The National Election Board of Ethiopia (NEBE) has launched the second phase of its digital polling station registration, covering over 9,600 stations across four regional states and the Jimma Zone in Oromia, as part of preparations for the 7th national election. The Board said the process aims to make the election “more efficient and modern,” and involves mapping stations based on “distance, geographical location, and accessibility to voters” using an “‘XY Coordinate’” system.
The announcement comes days after four opposition parties warned that the current political and security context “threatens the credibility” of the upcoming election. In a joint statement, the parties said there has been “no word from the government or the legally mandated National Election Board” about the election, despite only one year remaining until the constitutional deadline. They stressed that a “free, fair, and credible election” requires a “naturally peaceful arena,” which they said “does not reflect the current situation.”
https://addisstandard.com/?p=50237
The National Election Board of Ethiopia (NEBE) has launched the second phase of its digital polling station registration, covering over 9,600 stations across four regional states and the Jimma Zone in Oromia, as part of preparations for the 7th national election. The Board said the process aims to make the election “more efficient and modern,” and involves mapping stations based on “distance, geographical location, and accessibility to voters” using an “‘XY Coordinate’” system.
The announcement comes days after four opposition parties warned that the current political and security context “threatens the credibility” of the upcoming election. In a joint statement, the parties said there has been “no word from the government or the legally mandated National Election Board” about the election, despite only one year remaining until the constitutional deadline. They stressed that a “free, fair, and credible election” requires a “naturally peaceful arena,” which they said “does not reflect the current situation.”
https://addisstandard.com/?p=50237
Addis Standard
NEBE launches second phase of digital polling station registration for 7th national election - Addis Standard
NEBE launches second phase of digital polling station registration for 7th national election Addis Standard News -
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#UN scales back aid goals in #Yemen and #Somalia
The United Nations announced Friday it is scaling back its humanitarian aid goals in Yemen and Somalia in the latest fallout from a drastic drop in funding from member states.
It said the cuts are putting millions of lives at risk around the world.
In January, the UN launched an appeal for $2.4 billion to help 10.5 million people in war-torn Yemen this year, far below the 19.5 million people it deems as being in need of assistance.
But with funding down, the global body and its humanitarian aid partners established new priorities so as to be able to help at least the neediest people there.
The UN announced similar changes in strategy in Ukraine and the Democratic Republic of Congo in recent weeks.
Now, the focus in Yemen will be on 8.8 million people with a forecast budget of $1.4 billion, said Stephanie Tremblay, a spokeswoman for UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres.
In violent and unstable Somalia, an initial $1.4 billion plan to help 4.6 million people has also been trimmed back to $367 million for 1.3 million people, she said.
"This does not mean that there's been a reduction in overall humanitarian needs and requirements," Tremblay said.
https://www.newarab.com/news/un-scales-back-aid-goals-yemen-and-somalia
The United Nations announced Friday it is scaling back its humanitarian aid goals in Yemen and Somalia in the latest fallout from a drastic drop in funding from member states.
It said the cuts are putting millions of lives at risk around the world.
In January, the UN launched an appeal for $2.4 billion to help 10.5 million people in war-torn Yemen this year, far below the 19.5 million people it deems as being in need of assistance.
But with funding down, the global body and its humanitarian aid partners established new priorities so as to be able to help at least the neediest people there.
The UN announced similar changes in strategy in Ukraine and the Democratic Republic of Congo in recent weeks.
Now, the focus in Yemen will be on 8.8 million people with a forecast budget of $1.4 billion, said Stephanie Tremblay, a spokeswoman for UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres.
In violent and unstable Somalia, an initial $1.4 billion plan to help 4.6 million people has also been trimmed back to $367 million for 1.3 million people, she said.
"This does not mean that there's been a reduction in overall humanitarian needs and requirements," Tremblay said.
https://www.newarab.com/news/un-scales-back-aid-goals-yemen-and-somalia
The New Arab
UN scales back aid goals in Yemen and Somalia
The cuts, due to a drop in funding from member states, will be putting millions of lives at risk around the world.
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#Ethiopia detains 7 journalists in April alone as gov’t amends controversial media law: #CPJ
At least seven journalists were arrested in Ethiopia in April as the government passed an amendment to the 2021 media law that “increases government control” over the Ethiopian Media Authority (#EMA), according to the Committee to Protect Journalists (CPJ). Among those detained is Ahmed Awga, who was arrested after interviewing a father alleging his 16-year-old son died from a police beating. Others include Muhyidin Abdullahi Omar, charged with “defamation” and “disseminating disinformation,” and Fanuel Kinfu, who was questioned over commentary videos and released on bail. CPJ also confirmed that The Reporter journalist Abebe Fikir was briefly detained. three Addis Standard staff members were also briefly detained during a raid on the outlet’s newsroom and released later the same day.
The arrests coincided with Ethiopia’s parliament passing an amendment to the 2021 media law, which CPJ says “increases government control” over the Ethiopian Media Authority (EMA). The amendment eliminates public and civil society representation on the EMA board, removes a ban on board members belonging to political parties, and transfers the power to nominate the EMA’s director general from the board to the Prime Minister.
https://addisstandard.com/?p=50243
At least seven journalists were arrested in Ethiopia in April as the government passed an amendment to the 2021 media law that “increases government control” over the Ethiopian Media Authority (#EMA), according to the Committee to Protect Journalists (CPJ). Among those detained is Ahmed Awga, who was arrested after interviewing a father alleging his 16-year-old son died from a police beating. Others include Muhyidin Abdullahi Omar, charged with “defamation” and “disseminating disinformation,” and Fanuel Kinfu, who was questioned over commentary videos and released on bail. CPJ also confirmed that The Reporter journalist Abebe Fikir was briefly detained. three Addis Standard staff members were also briefly detained during a raid on the outlet’s newsroom and released later the same day.
The arrests coincided with Ethiopia’s parliament passing an amendment to the 2021 media law, which CPJ says “increases government control” over the Ethiopian Media Authority (EMA). The amendment eliminates public and civil society representation on the EMA board, removes a ban on board members belonging to political parties, and transfers the power to nominate the EMA’s director general from the board to the Prime Minister.
https://addisstandard.com/?p=50243
Addis Standard
Ethiopia detains 7 journalists in April alone as gov’t amends controversial media law: CPJ - Addis Standard
Ethiopia detains 7 journalists in April alone as gov’t amends controversial media law: CPJ Addis Standard News -
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#Ethiopia: Health professionals on strike continue to vacate hospitals despite Health Ministry’s claim of holding talks
Health professionals across Ethiopia are continuing to vacate hospitals as a partial nationwide strike over pay, working conditions, and professional protections enters its fifth day. Walkouts have been reported at several major institutions, including Wolkite University Specialized Hospital, University of Gondar Comprehensive Specialized Hospital, and Hawassa University College of Medicine and Health Sciences. Despite the escalation, the Ministry of Health maintains it is addressing concerns through dialogue with professional associations.
At #Wolkite University Specialized Hospital, a medical professional told Addis Standard that staff left on Friday evening after receiving instructions from the university and hospital administration. “10 interns and 8 residents” were ordered to “vacate the campus and dormitory” and return equipment. “All interns and residents left immediately,” the source said, adding, “We were not given time to collect our belongings” and had to leave “without fully collecting our instruments due to intimidation.” Similarly, a health worker from the University of #Gondar said professionals began departing on Saturday after “days of arrests, intimidation, and mounting pressure.” He noted that by Thursday night, “approximately 25 professionals had been detained,” including “senior physicians, specialists, and sub-specialists.”
In #Hawassa, Deutsche Welle reported that intern doctors and residents at Hawassa University College of Medicine and Health Sciences left the campus following a notice stating, “If you are not at your work post by 2:00 p.m. tomorrow [Saturday], leave the campus.” The Ministry of Health, in a statement released on 16 May, claimed it held a second round of talks with association leaders to ensure continued service delivery “without interruption” and in line with “professional ethics.” However, an active representative of the strike refuted the claim, telling Addis Standard, “The Ministry didn’t have any discussion with our representatives” and “didn’t make an official call for negotiations.”
https://addisstandard.com/?p=50250
Health professionals across Ethiopia are continuing to vacate hospitals as a partial nationwide strike over pay, working conditions, and professional protections enters its fifth day. Walkouts have been reported at several major institutions, including Wolkite University Specialized Hospital, University of Gondar Comprehensive Specialized Hospital, and Hawassa University College of Medicine and Health Sciences. Despite the escalation, the Ministry of Health maintains it is addressing concerns through dialogue with professional associations.
At #Wolkite University Specialized Hospital, a medical professional told Addis Standard that staff left on Friday evening after receiving instructions from the university and hospital administration. “10 interns and 8 residents” were ordered to “vacate the campus and dormitory” and return equipment. “All interns and residents left immediately,” the source said, adding, “We were not given time to collect our belongings” and had to leave “without fully collecting our instruments due to intimidation.” Similarly, a health worker from the University of #Gondar said professionals began departing on Saturday after “days of arrests, intimidation, and mounting pressure.” He noted that by Thursday night, “approximately 25 professionals had been detained,” including “senior physicians, specialists, and sub-specialists.”
In #Hawassa, Deutsche Welle reported that intern doctors and residents at Hawassa University College of Medicine and Health Sciences left the campus following a notice stating, “If you are not at your work post by 2:00 p.m. tomorrow [Saturday], leave the campus.” The Ministry of Health, in a statement released on 16 May, claimed it held a second round of talks with association leaders to ensure continued service delivery “without interruption” and in line with “professional ethics.” However, an active representative of the strike refuted the claim, telling Addis Standard, “The Ministry didn’t have any discussion with our representatives” and “didn’t make an official call for negotiations.”
https://addisstandard.com/?p=50250
Addis Standard
Health professionals on strike continue to vacate hospitals despite Health Ministry’s claim of holding talks - Addis Standard
Health professionals on strike continue to vacate hospitals despite Health Ministry’s claim of holding talks Addis Standard News -
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#Ethiopian Medical Association urges release of detained professionals, calls for swift response as health workers warn of full strike
The Ethiopian Medical Association (#EMA), Ethiopia’s largest professional body of physicians, has called for the immediate release of detained health professionals and urged authorities to respond promptly to their demands, as health workers warn that the ongoing partial strike could escalate into a full work stoppage by Monday. In a statement issued on 18 May, the Association said it has been “coordinating discussions” with professional associations and the Ministry of Health to seek “attention and urgent solutions,” while acknowledging that “health services in some institutions are being partially disrupted.”
The partial strike, which began on 13 May, was preceded by protests and a social media campaign calling for improved pay, working conditions and protection of professional rights. Since the strike began, some health professionals have reported facing “arrests and intimidation,” a development Amnesty International described as a “crackdown” in which workers were “arbitrarily rounded up.” While the Ministry of Health responded by declaring such strikes “legally prohibited” and accused some participants of acting with “malicious intentions,” the EMA warned that disruptions to services and education “could severely harm the community” and called for “urgent national discussions” to resolve the issue. “We have heard that our doctors and health professionals have been arrested in various locations,” the EMA said, urging that it would be “better if these professionals were released” to continue their work.
https://addisstandard.com/?p=50264
The Ethiopian Medical Association (#EMA), Ethiopia’s largest professional body of physicians, has called for the immediate release of detained health professionals and urged authorities to respond promptly to their demands, as health workers warn that the ongoing partial strike could escalate into a full work stoppage by Monday. In a statement issued on 18 May, the Association said it has been “coordinating discussions” with professional associations and the Ministry of Health to seek “attention and urgent solutions,” while acknowledging that “health services in some institutions are being partially disrupted.”
The partial strike, which began on 13 May, was preceded by protests and a social media campaign calling for improved pay, working conditions and protection of professional rights. Since the strike began, some health professionals have reported facing “arrests and intimidation,” a development Amnesty International described as a “crackdown” in which workers were “arbitrarily rounded up.” While the Ministry of Health responded by declaring such strikes “legally prohibited” and accused some participants of acting with “malicious intentions,” the EMA warned that disruptions to services and education “could severely harm the community” and called for “urgent national discussions” to resolve the issue. “We have heard that our doctors and health professionals have been arrested in various locations,” the EMA said, urging that it would be “better if these professionals were released” to continue their work.
https://addisstandard.com/?p=50264
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At least 13 reported killed in suicide bomb blast in #Somalia’s #Mogadishu
At least 13 people were killed in a suicide bombing outside the Damanyo military base in Somalia’s capital, Mogadishu, on Sunday, as dozens of young recruits queued for registration, according to witnesses cited by the Associated Press and Reuters.
Abdulkadir Hassan Mohamed, a tuk-tuk driver who witnessed the explosion, told AP there was “a loud explosion” after which “people began running in all directions,” adding that “bodies were everywhere.” A military officer identified as Captain Suleiman said the remains of the attacker and dozens of shoes were scattered at the site.
Abdisalan Mohamed, another witness, described the scene to Reuters, saying there were “hundreds of teenagers at the gate” before “a deafening blast occurred” and “the area was covered by dense smoke,” making it difficult to see casualties. Medical staff at a nearby military hospital reported receiving 30 injured individuals, six of whom were declared dead upon arrival. Separately, an official told the Anadolu news agency that the attack had killed at least 11 people.
https://www.aljazeera.com/amp/news/2025/5/18/at-least-10-reported-killed-in-suicide-bomb-blast-in-somalias-mogadishu
At least 13 people were killed in a suicide bombing outside the Damanyo military base in Somalia’s capital, Mogadishu, on Sunday, as dozens of young recruits queued for registration, according to witnesses cited by the Associated Press and Reuters.
Abdulkadir Hassan Mohamed, a tuk-tuk driver who witnessed the explosion, told AP there was “a loud explosion” after which “people began running in all directions,” adding that “bodies were everywhere.” A military officer identified as Captain Suleiman said the remains of the attacker and dozens of shoes were scattered at the site.
Abdisalan Mohamed, another witness, described the scene to Reuters, saying there were “hundreds of teenagers at the gate” before “a deafening blast occurred” and “the area was covered by dense smoke,” making it difficult to see casualties. Medical staff at a nearby military hospital reported receiving 30 injured individuals, six of whom were declared dead upon arrival. Separately, an official told the Anadolu news agency that the attack had killed at least 11 people.
https://www.aljazeera.com/amp/news/2025/5/18/at-least-10-reported-killed-in-suicide-bomb-blast-in-somalias-mogadishu
Al Jazeera
At least 13 reported killed in suicide bomb blast in Somalia’s Mogadishu
Suicide bomber targets queue of young recruits registering at a military base in the capital.
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#Somaliland president sends recognition appeal to 130+ countries
On the occasion marking the 34th anniversary of its restored independence, President Abdirahman Mohamed Abdillahi Irro made an appeal to the international community, calling for formal recognition of Somaliland.
Speaking during the official National Day celebrations, President Irro revealed he had dispatched a series of presidential letters to over 130 countries around the world - including presidents, prime ministers, kings, and emirs - urging them to recognize the Republic of Somaliland.
https://www.horndiplomat.com/2025/05/somaliland-president-sends-recognition-appeal-to-130-countries/
On the occasion marking the 34th anniversary of its restored independence, President Abdirahman Mohamed Abdillahi Irro made an appeal to the international community, calling for formal recognition of Somaliland.
Speaking during the official National Day celebrations, President Irro revealed he had dispatched a series of presidential letters to over 130 countries around the world - including presidents, prime ministers, kings, and emirs - urging them to recognize the Republic of Somaliland.
https://www.horndiplomat.com/2025/05/somaliland-president-sends-recognition-appeal-to-130-countries/
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#Ethiopia: Nineteen people killed, several others injured in traffic accident in Gilgel Beles town, Benishangul-Gumuz region
Nineteen people were killed and 13 others injured in a traffic accident on the morning of Sunday, 18 May, in Gilgel Beles town, Metekel Zone of Benishangul-Gumuz Regional State, state media reported.
Taye Gurmesa, head of the Gilgel Beles Police Department, said the incident occurred around 9:15 a.m. when “a loader transporting an excavator, with license plate ET 17196... failed to control its brakes” while entering the town. He noted that the vehicle, which was en route from Chagni town to Gilgel Beles, “crashed through the fence of a public recreation hotel,” causing “casualties and property damage.”
According to police, the 13 individuals injured in the crash sustained both “severe and minor injuries.”
Read more: https://x.com/addisstandard/status/1924379753206734910
Nineteen people were killed and 13 others injured in a traffic accident on the morning of Sunday, 18 May, in Gilgel Beles town, Metekel Zone of Benishangul-Gumuz Regional State, state media reported.
Taye Gurmesa, head of the Gilgel Beles Police Department, said the incident occurred around 9:15 a.m. when “a loader transporting an excavator, with license plate ET 17196... failed to control its brakes” while entering the town. He noted that the vehicle, which was en route from Chagni town to Gilgel Beles, “crashed through the fence of a public recreation hotel,” causing “casualties and property damage.”
According to police, the 13 individuals injured in the crash sustained both “severe and minor injuries.”
Read more: https://x.com/addisstandard/status/1924379753206734910
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#Op_ed: #Somalia’s Path to Peace: Why three-state solution offers most realistic future
For decades, the international community has held on to the idea of a unified Somalia. But Adam Daud Ahmed, the author of this op-ed, argues that “this vision no longer reflects the reality on the ground.” He writes, “Somalia today functions as three distinct regions: #Somaliland, Puntland, and South/Central Somalia—each with its governance, security, and political path.”
The author notes that Somaliland has maintained a stable and democratic system since 1991 while “meeting international statehood criteria”—yet it remains unrecognized. He adds that “Puntland is widely considered an autonomous territory of Somalia” and has played a key role in regional security. By contrast, Ahmed states that “South/Central Somalia remains mired in conflict and fragile governance.”
The writer contends it is time to “move past the ideal of unity.” He argues that “A better, peaceful path would be to recognize Somaliland as an independent republic… Puntland as an autonomous state… and South/Central Somalia as a UN-supervised trusteeship, allowing time for peacebuilding and political reform.” To support his argument, the author references “successful” state separations such as those of Eritrea and South Sudan.
https://addisstandard.com/?p=50278
For decades, the international community has held on to the idea of a unified Somalia. But Adam Daud Ahmed, the author of this op-ed, argues that “this vision no longer reflects the reality on the ground.” He writes, “Somalia today functions as three distinct regions: #Somaliland, Puntland, and South/Central Somalia—each with its governance, security, and political path.”
The author notes that Somaliland has maintained a stable and democratic system since 1991 while “meeting international statehood criteria”—yet it remains unrecognized. He adds that “Puntland is widely considered an autonomous territory of Somalia” and has played a key role in regional security. By contrast, Ahmed states that “South/Central Somalia remains mired in conflict and fragile governance.”
The writer contends it is time to “move past the ideal of unity.” He argues that “A better, peaceful path would be to recognize Somaliland as an independent republic… Puntland as an autonomous state… and South/Central Somalia as a UN-supervised trusteeship, allowing time for peacebuilding and political reform.” To support his argument, the author references “successful” state separations such as those of Eritrea and South Sudan.
https://addisstandard.com/?p=50278
Addis Standard
Somalia’s Path to Peace: Why three-state solution offers most realistic future - Addis Standard
Somalia’s Path to Peace: Why three-state solution offers most realistic future Addis Standard Op/Ed -
#AU, Arab League, #UN vow coordinated push for #Sudan peace
The African Union (AU) Commission, the Arab League, and the United Nations (UN) have vowed to intensify and align their efforts to end the ongoing conflict in Sudan, pledging what they described as a “stronger, more coordinated international response” aimed at securing a permanent ceasefire, according to a joint communiqué.
The announcement followed a high-level consultative meeting held on the sidelines of the Arab League Summit in Baghdad, where the three bodies underscored their intent to “stop the fighting and violence in Sudan, alleviate the suffering of the Sudanese people,” and facilitate “unhindered humanitarian access,” with the ultimate goal of achieving a “permanent and comprehensive ceasefire.”
Reaffirming their joint position, the organizations expressed “strong commitment to Sudan’s sovereignty, unity, independence, and territorial integrity,” while also acknowledging what they described as “challenges faced in ensuring effective multilateral coordination,” which, they noted, had “impacted the level of trust among stakeholders and affected mediation efforts.”
https://sudantribune.com/article301033/
The African Union (AU) Commission, the Arab League, and the United Nations (UN) have vowed to intensify and align their efforts to end the ongoing conflict in Sudan, pledging what they described as a “stronger, more coordinated international response” aimed at securing a permanent ceasefire, according to a joint communiqué.
The announcement followed a high-level consultative meeting held on the sidelines of the Arab League Summit in Baghdad, where the three bodies underscored their intent to “stop the fighting and violence in Sudan, alleviate the suffering of the Sudanese people,” and facilitate “unhindered humanitarian access,” with the ultimate goal of achieving a “permanent and comprehensive ceasefire.”
Reaffirming their joint position, the organizations expressed “strong commitment to Sudan’s sovereignty, unity, independence, and territorial integrity,” while also acknowledging what they described as “challenges faced in ensuring effective multilateral coordination,” which, they noted, had “impacted the level of trust among stakeholders and affected mediation efforts.”
https://sudantribune.com/article301033/
Sudan Tribune
AU, Arab League, UN vow coordinated push for Sudan peace
May 18, 2025 (BAGHDAD) – The heads of the African Union Commission, the Arab League and the United Nations have pledged to unify their efforts for a stronger, more coordinated international response to end the conflict in Sudan and achieve a permanent ceasefire…
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Families of victims appalled as #Boeing seems likely to avoid prosecution over 737 Max crashes
Boeing is set to avoid prosecution in a fraud case sparked by two fatal crashes of its bestselling 737 Max jet that killed 346 people, according to sources familiar with the matter.
The US Department of Justice is considering a non-prosecution agreement, relatives of the victims were told on Friday, through which the US aerospace giant would not be required to plead guilty.
Representatives of the crash victims’ families expressed outrage, describing the proposal as “morally repugnant” after a tense call with senior justice department officials.
In October 2018, 189 people were killed when Lion Air flight 610 fell into the Java Sea off Indonesia. In March 2019, #Ethiopian Airlines flight 302 crashed shortly after takeoff from #Addis_Abeba airport, claiming 157 lives.
https://www.theguardian.com/business/2025/may/16/boeing-737-crashes-justice-department-deal
Boeing is set to avoid prosecution in a fraud case sparked by two fatal crashes of its bestselling 737 Max jet that killed 346 people, according to sources familiar with the matter.
The US Department of Justice is considering a non-prosecution agreement, relatives of the victims were told on Friday, through which the US aerospace giant would not be required to plead guilty.
Representatives of the crash victims’ families expressed outrage, describing the proposal as “morally repugnant” after a tense call with senior justice department officials.
In October 2018, 189 people were killed when Lion Air flight 610 fell into the Java Sea off Indonesia. In March 2019, #Ethiopian Airlines flight 302 crashed shortly after takeoff from #Addis_Abeba airport, claiming 157 lives.
https://www.theguardian.com/business/2025/may/16/boeing-737-crashes-justice-department-deal
#Chinese car manufacturer introduces #EV brand to #Ethiopian market
Chinese automaker Guangzhou Automobile Group Co., Ltd (GAC Group) has introduced two of its electric vehicle (EV) models to the Ethiopian market, marking the Chinese car brand's entry into the East African country.
The company unveiled its AION Y and ES9 models on Saturday at a launch event in Addis Abeba, the capital of Ethiopia.
Addressing the event, Zeleke Temesgen, commissioner of the Ethiopian Investment Commission, said the government has taken bold measures to encourage the adoption of EVs to accelerate the country's transition to electric mobility.
"The Ethiopian government has already banned the production, import, and assembly of gas-powered cars, so Ethiopia would be an ideal market for reputable companies like GAC Group," said Temesgen.
https://en.people.cn/n3/2025/0519/c90000-20316364.html
Chinese automaker Guangzhou Automobile Group Co., Ltd (GAC Group) has introduced two of its electric vehicle (EV) models to the Ethiopian market, marking the Chinese car brand's entry into the East African country.
The company unveiled its AION Y and ES9 models on Saturday at a launch event in Addis Abeba, the capital of Ethiopia.
Addressing the event, Zeleke Temesgen, commissioner of the Ethiopian Investment Commission, said the government has taken bold measures to encourage the adoption of EVs to accelerate the country's transition to electric mobility.
"The Ethiopian government has already banned the production, import, and assembly of gas-powered cars, so Ethiopia would be an ideal market for reputable companies like GAC Group," said Temesgen.
https://en.people.cn/n3/2025/0519/c90000-20316364.html
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#Ethiopia: Hospitals in #Addis_Abeba, various regional states remain largely non-operational as Ethiopian health professionals launch full strike
Major hospitals in Addis Abeba and several regional states were largely shut down on Monday, 19 May, as health professionals demanding better pay, improved working conditions, and protection of their rights escalated their nationwide strike into what organizers called a “full work stoppage,” leaving most departments non-operational and only limited emergency services available.
At major hospitals in the capital, including Menelik II, Zewditu Memorial, and Yekatit 12, Addis Standard observed widespread service disruption. A staff member at Yekatit 12 stated that “none of the healthcare workers have reported to duty,” adding that “only the emergency department is operational,” where patients with critical needs are being treated. Departments such as orthopedics, neurology, laboratory, outpatient, and physiotherapy were all non-functional.
The impact extended to regional facilities as well. At Asella Referral and Teaching Hospital in Arsi Zone, a health professional reported a “full strike,” noting that “all residents and interns have joined,” while only “some patients and a few nurses” remained in the wards. In Fitche town’s Salale University Hospital, a source said administrators were relying on “fifth-year medical students to cover the majority of the workload,” even though the students “are yet to be qualified to work without supervision.”
In Bale Zone, #Oromia, professionals at Madda Walabu University Goba Referral Hospital said they had moved from a partial to a “complete work stoppage.” One health worker said that “no services are currently being provided,” including previously operational units like the ICU and labor ward. The professional also alleged that “security forces entered the hospital compound early in the morning,” which has left staff feeling “terrorized.”
https://addisstandard.com/?p=50283
Major hospitals in Addis Abeba and several regional states were largely shut down on Monday, 19 May, as health professionals demanding better pay, improved working conditions, and protection of their rights escalated their nationwide strike into what organizers called a “full work stoppage,” leaving most departments non-operational and only limited emergency services available.
At major hospitals in the capital, including Menelik II, Zewditu Memorial, and Yekatit 12, Addis Standard observed widespread service disruption. A staff member at Yekatit 12 stated that “none of the healthcare workers have reported to duty,” adding that “only the emergency department is operational,” where patients with critical needs are being treated. Departments such as orthopedics, neurology, laboratory, outpatient, and physiotherapy were all non-functional.
The impact extended to regional facilities as well. At Asella Referral and Teaching Hospital in Arsi Zone, a health professional reported a “full strike,” noting that “all residents and interns have joined,” while only “some patients and a few nurses” remained in the wards. In Fitche town’s Salale University Hospital, a source said administrators were relying on “fifth-year medical students to cover the majority of the workload,” even though the students “are yet to be qualified to work without supervision.”
In Bale Zone, #Oromia, professionals at Madda Walabu University Goba Referral Hospital said they had moved from a partial to a “complete work stoppage.” One health worker said that “no services are currently being provided,” including previously operational units like the ICU and labor ward. The professional also alleged that “security forces entered the hospital compound early in the morning,” which has left staff feeling “terrorized.”
https://addisstandard.com/?p=50283
Addis Standard
Hospitals in Addis Abeba, various regional states remain largely non-operational as Ethiopian health professionals launch full…
Hospitals in Addis Abeba, various regional states remain largely non-operational as Ethiopian health professionals launch full strike Addis Standard News -
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#Ethiopia’s Health Minister says healthcare services “continuing” across the country “uninterrupted”
Addis Abeba- Minister of Health, Dr. Mekdes Dhaba told state tv tonight that healthcare services are “continuing without interruption” across the country, despite reports over healthcare workers’ strikes and disruptions in various hospitals.
Speaking to EBC tonight, Dr. Mekdes stated that health professionals at hospitals and health centers across the country are serving patients, including both inpatients and outpatients, “without halting operations.”
“I would like to express my gratitude to all the healthcare workers who continue to serve the public diligently,” the Minister said.
She acknowledged, however, that “limited service interruptions” had occurred in a “few teaching” hospitals. These, she noted, were “swiftly addressed” through coordinated efforts involving senior physicians and nurses.
Dr. Mekdes also warned against individuals or groups “attempting to disrupt” healthcare delivery through “intimidation or disorder”adding that such actions are “unacceptable” and will be met with “appropriate legal and professional disciplinary measures.”
The Minister further said the government’s commitment to “resolving quality” and “workforce” issues in the health sector.
“We are working to provide lasting solutions through constructive dialogue,” she said, adding that discussions with stakeholders are “ongoing at various administrative levels and will continue in the coming weeks.” AS
Photo: EBC
Addis Abeba- Minister of Health, Dr. Mekdes Dhaba told state tv tonight that healthcare services are “continuing without interruption” across the country, despite reports over healthcare workers’ strikes and disruptions in various hospitals.
Speaking to EBC tonight, Dr. Mekdes stated that health professionals at hospitals and health centers across the country are serving patients, including both inpatients and outpatients, “without halting operations.”
“I would like to express my gratitude to all the healthcare workers who continue to serve the public diligently,” the Minister said.
She acknowledged, however, that “limited service interruptions” had occurred in a “few teaching” hospitals. These, she noted, were “swiftly addressed” through coordinated efforts involving senior physicians and nurses.
Dr. Mekdes also warned against individuals or groups “attempting to disrupt” healthcare delivery through “intimidation or disorder”adding that such actions are “unacceptable” and will be met with “appropriate legal and professional disciplinary measures.”
The Minister further said the government’s commitment to “resolving quality” and “workforce” issues in the health sector.
“We are working to provide lasting solutions through constructive dialogue,” she said, adding that discussions with stakeholders are “ongoing at various administrative levels and will continue in the coming weeks.” AS
Photo: EBC
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