#Op_ed: #Ethiopia's Impunity Machine: Repression as system, violence as strategy
The #US State Department’s recently released 2024 Country Report on Human Rights Practices in Ethiopia reads like “a haunting déjà vu,” writes Getachew Gebrekiros Temare in this op-ed. He notes that, for the fifth consecutive year, Washington has documented “extrajudicial killings, mass displacement, arbitrary detention, torture, and sexual violence as a weapon of war,” adding that while the details shift with each report, the overarching pattern remains constant: “Ethiopia’s crisis has not been cyclical—it has been sustained, engineered, and perfected into a system of governance.”
Getachew highlights the report’s accounts of atrocities in #Amhara, #Oromia, and #Tigray, where security forces and allied militias are implicated in mass violence, and political opponents and journalists face intimidation, detention, or exile “under the pretext of national security.” He states that the current administration has transformed this “perpetual emergency” into an “Impunity Machine,” employing violence, divisions, and legal manipulation to consolidate power. As the author emphasizes, “Ethiopia’s human rights abuses are not the residue of instability—they are the architecture of the state itself.”
Looking ahead to Ethiopia’s upcoming national election cycle, the article outlines five plausible scenarios—rigged elections, military-backed rule, escalation of regional geopolitical tensions, deepening economic crisis, and accelerating separatist sentiment—“none of which point to a credible democratic transition.” Getachew underscores that “the absence of accountability for mass atrocities today all but guarantees their recurrence tomorrow.”
The author argues that dismantling the impunity machine will require a fundamental shift in strategy: the cultivation of “a political will to see beyond the fictions of reform” and a willingness to confront the architecture of repression for what it truly is: “deliberate, calculated, and entirely unsustainable.”
https://addisstandard.com/?p=52173
The #US State Department’s recently released 2024 Country Report on Human Rights Practices in Ethiopia reads like “a haunting déjà vu,” writes Getachew Gebrekiros Temare in this op-ed. He notes that, for the fifth consecutive year, Washington has documented “extrajudicial killings, mass displacement, arbitrary detention, torture, and sexual violence as a weapon of war,” adding that while the details shift with each report, the overarching pattern remains constant: “Ethiopia’s crisis has not been cyclical—it has been sustained, engineered, and perfected into a system of governance.”
Getachew highlights the report’s accounts of atrocities in #Amhara, #Oromia, and #Tigray, where security forces and allied militias are implicated in mass violence, and political opponents and journalists face intimidation, detention, or exile “under the pretext of national security.” He states that the current administration has transformed this “perpetual emergency” into an “Impunity Machine,” employing violence, divisions, and legal manipulation to consolidate power. As the author emphasizes, “Ethiopia’s human rights abuses are not the residue of instability—they are the architecture of the state itself.”
Looking ahead to Ethiopia’s upcoming national election cycle, the article outlines five plausible scenarios—rigged elections, military-backed rule, escalation of regional geopolitical tensions, deepening economic crisis, and accelerating separatist sentiment—“none of which point to a credible democratic transition.” Getachew underscores that “the absence of accountability for mass atrocities today all but guarantees their recurrence tomorrow.”
The author argues that dismantling the impunity machine will require a fundamental shift in strategy: the cultivation of “a political will to see beyond the fictions of reform” and a willingness to confront the architecture of repression for what it truly is: “deliberate, calculated, and entirely unsustainable.”
https://addisstandard.com/?p=52173
Addis Standard
Ethiopia's Impunity Machine: Repression as system, violence as strategy - Addis Standard
Ethiopia's Impunity Machine: Repression as system, violence as strategy Addis Standard Op/Ed -
#US Reaffirms Support for ‘One Somalia’ Policy, Dismisses Talks on #Somaliland Recognition
The United States is not in any formal discussions geared towards recognition of the northern state of #Somalia — Somaliland, despite existing calls by several stakeholders, including Texas Senator Ted Cruz, who is pushing for the agenda.
A State Department spokesperson told Fox News that there were no engagements for recognition of Somaliland, noting that the US supports the Single Somalia policy, where emphasis is put on respect towards Somalia’s territorial integrity and sovereignty.
"The United States recognizes the sovereignty and territorial integrity of the Federal Republic of Somalia, which includes the territory of Somaliland. The State Department is not in active discussions with Somaliland’s representatives about a deal to recognize Somaliland as a state," the spokesperson said.
The latest confirmation is an affirmation that the US could not take the matter as thought by Cruz, a senior GOP politician who is also in charge of the Senate Foreign Relations Committee.
He is a close ally of President Donald Trump. Earlier, Ted Cruz, the senator for Texas, told Fox News that "There is a very real opportunity that President Trump will recognize Somaliland during this administration."
Cruz added, "President Trump is bringing a new era of clarity in American national security, after four years of the Biden administration rewarding our enemies and punishing our allies, and recognizing Somaliland should be part of this new era."
https://www.garoweonline.com/en/news/somalia/us-reaffirms-support-for-one-somalia-policy-dismisses-talks-on-somaliland-recognition
The United States is not in any formal discussions geared towards recognition of the northern state of #Somalia — Somaliland, despite existing calls by several stakeholders, including Texas Senator Ted Cruz, who is pushing for the agenda.
A State Department spokesperson told Fox News that there were no engagements for recognition of Somaliland, noting that the US supports the Single Somalia policy, where emphasis is put on respect towards Somalia’s territorial integrity and sovereignty.
"The United States recognizes the sovereignty and territorial integrity of the Federal Republic of Somalia, which includes the territory of Somaliland. The State Department is not in active discussions with Somaliland’s representatives about a deal to recognize Somaliland as a state," the spokesperson said.
The latest confirmation is an affirmation that the US could not take the matter as thought by Cruz, a senior GOP politician who is also in charge of the Senate Foreign Relations Committee.
He is a close ally of President Donald Trump. Earlier, Ted Cruz, the senator for Texas, told Fox News that "There is a very real opportunity that President Trump will recognize Somaliland during this administration."
Cruz added, "President Trump is bringing a new era of clarity in American national security, after four years of the Biden administration rewarding our enemies and punishing our allies, and recognizing Somaliland should be part of this new era."
https://www.garoweonline.com/en/news/somalia/us-reaffirms-support-for-one-somalia-policy-dismisses-talks-on-somaliland-recognition
Garowe Online
US Reaffirms Support for ‘One Somalia’ Policy, Dismisses Talks on Somaliland Recognition
#Ethiopia: Addis Abeba Police arrest two officers filmed dragging man on ground, label act ‘inhumane’
The Addis Abeba Police announced the arrest of two officers after a video circulated on social media showing them pulling a man by his hair and dragging him on the ground, an act authority described as “inhumane.”
In a statement, police identified the officers as Deputy Sergeant Asheber Gimjawo and Assistant Sergeant Natnael Belay, both members of the Lideta Sub-City Police Command. The incident occurred on 27 August 2025 around 4 p.m. in the Balcha School area during an operation targeting individuals allegedly caught chewing khat and consuming narcotic drugs inside a vehicle.
https://web.facebook.com/AddisstandardEng/posts/pfbid02pXsApvm2BnmdEdEShzRVQshK5TjUV9B2RKuo1Aktn48TSGUuBueCNxJop4q1AVkGl
The Addis Abeba Police announced the arrest of two officers after a video circulated on social media showing them pulling a man by his hair and dragging him on the ground, an act authority described as “inhumane.”
In a statement, police identified the officers as Deputy Sergeant Asheber Gimjawo and Assistant Sergeant Natnael Belay, both members of the Lideta Sub-City Police Command. The incident occurred on 27 August 2025 around 4 p.m. in the Balcha School area during an operation targeting individuals allegedly caught chewing khat and consuming narcotic drugs inside a vehicle.
https://web.facebook.com/AddisstandardEng/posts/pfbid02pXsApvm2BnmdEdEShzRVQshK5TjUV9B2RKuo1Aktn48TSGUuBueCNxJop4q1AVkGl
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Three killed, many displaced as clashes continue along #Oromia–#Somali border
Clashes along the Oromia–Somali border have left three people dead, including a seven-year-old child, and many displaced in Wachille, Arero, and Dhaas districts of East Borana Zone. Residents told Addis Standard that armed groups from the Somali Region carried out multiple attacks in recent days, killing a child in Arero, a 56-year-old man in Wachille, and a young man in Garbii Didisa, while several others were injured. Local officials confirmed the killings and said federal forces intervened to restore temporary calm.
The violence has forced households to flee to towns such as Wachille and Borbor, where displaced families face hunger, cold, and lack of support. Residents warn of worsening humanitarian conditions, with women and children most at risk. Officials say limited aid is being delivered, but many displaced remain in temporary shelters. The clashes follow the Somali Region Council’s controversial decision to restructure administrative units, a move denounced by opposition parties as an attempt to claim land and deepen instability along the border.
https://addisstandard.com/?p=52187
Clashes along the Oromia–Somali border have left three people dead, including a seven-year-old child, and many displaced in Wachille, Arero, and Dhaas districts of East Borana Zone. Residents told Addis Standard that armed groups from the Somali Region carried out multiple attacks in recent days, killing a child in Arero, a 56-year-old man in Wachille, and a young man in Garbii Didisa, while several others were injured. Local officials confirmed the killings and said federal forces intervened to restore temporary calm.
The violence has forced households to flee to towns such as Wachille and Borbor, where displaced families face hunger, cold, and lack of support. Residents warn of worsening humanitarian conditions, with women and children most at risk. Officials say limited aid is being delivered, but many displaced remain in temporary shelters. The clashes follow the Somali Region Council’s controversial decision to restructure administrative units, a move denounced by opposition parties as an attempt to claim land and deepen instability along the border.
https://addisstandard.com/?p=52187
Addis Standard
Three killed, many displaced as clashes continue along Oromia–Somali border - Addis Standard
Three killed, many displaced as clashes continue along Oromia–Somali border Addis Standard News -
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#Sudan: Barrier being built around besieged #Sudan city, satellite images show
An extensive earthen wall is being built around the besieged Sudanese city of el-Fasher and is intended to trap people inside, according to research from Yale University.
From satellite images, the university's Humanitarian Research Lab has identified more than 31km (19 miles) of "berms" - as the raised banks are known - constructed since May in territory outside the city occupied by the paramilitary Rapid Support Forces (RSF).
El-Fasher, under siege for more than a year, is the last major foothold in Darfur for the army, which has been battling the RSF since April 2023.
The Sudan Doctors Network has told the BBC the RSF is intensifying its offensive there and deliberately targeting civilians.
"Yesterday there was a shelling in a civilian area down in the city centre that ended up killing almost 24 civilians and injuring 55 people, among them five women," Dr Mohamed Faisal Hassan, from the medics association, told the BBC's Newsday programme.
The attacks on the central market and a residential area were "deliberate" and "heinous", he said.
"Three days ago they targeted one of the biggest hospitals in el-Fasher and resulted in a massive massacre of patients and medical staff."
https://www.bbc.com/news/articles/c4gz1ekdee3o
An extensive earthen wall is being built around the besieged Sudanese city of el-Fasher and is intended to trap people inside, according to research from Yale University.
From satellite images, the university's Humanitarian Research Lab has identified more than 31km (19 miles) of "berms" - as the raised banks are known - constructed since May in territory outside the city occupied by the paramilitary Rapid Support Forces (RSF).
El-Fasher, under siege for more than a year, is the last major foothold in Darfur for the army, which has been battling the RSF since April 2023.
The Sudan Doctors Network has told the BBC the RSF is intensifying its offensive there and deliberately targeting civilians.
"Yesterday there was a shelling in a civilian area down in the city centre that ended up killing almost 24 civilians and injuring 55 people, among them five women," Dr Mohamed Faisal Hassan, from the medics association, told the BBC's Newsday programme.
The attacks on the central market and a residential area were "deliberate" and "heinous", he said.
"Three days ago they targeted one of the biggest hospitals in el-Fasher and resulted in a massive massacre of patients and medical staff."
https://www.bbc.com/news/articles/c4gz1ekdee3o
Bbc
Barrier being built around besieged Sudan city, satellite images show
The earthen berm is intended to trap people inside el-Fasher, Yale University research shows.
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#Ethiopia: Heavy rains, windstorms trigger floods affecting 125,000; further flooding expected
Ongoing heavy rainfall and windstorms during the current rainy season have triggered flooding that has affected at least 125,000 people across Ethiopia since July, with forecasts warning of additional flooding in the coming weeks.
According to the #European Civil Protection and Humanitarian Aid Operations (ECHO), the floods have impacted populations in #Oromia Region’s Southwest #Shewa and West Guji zones, in the Shire area of #Tigray, and in #Amhara’s North Shewa Zone, particularly the Jara IDP camp. Authorities and aid agencies reported extensive damage, including the destruction of IDP shelters, food stocks, crops, and livestock.
Displaced communities in Amhara and northwestern Tigray are considered particularly vulnerable .......
https://web.facebook.com/AddisstandardEng/posts/pfbid02YqvnAmb2gz651gnct8dUedAsVgb3mHnEFd8L5nTFPd7TmvT6kHAmPkbfe9QXoL2gl
Ongoing heavy rainfall and windstorms during the current rainy season have triggered flooding that has affected at least 125,000 people across Ethiopia since July, with forecasts warning of additional flooding in the coming weeks.
According to the #European Civil Protection and Humanitarian Aid Operations (ECHO), the floods have impacted populations in #Oromia Region’s Southwest #Shewa and West Guji zones, in the Shire area of #Tigray, and in #Amhara’s North Shewa Zone, particularly the Jara IDP camp. Authorities and aid agencies reported extensive damage, including the destruction of IDP shelters, food stocks, crops, and livestock.
Displaced communities in Amhara and northwestern Tigray are considered particularly vulnerable .......
https://web.facebook.com/AddisstandardEng/posts/pfbid02YqvnAmb2gz651gnct8dUedAsVgb3mHnEFd8L5nTFPd7TmvT6kHAmPkbfe9QXoL2gl
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News: #Ethiopian Civil Aviation Authority to launch inter-regional air transport service
The Ethiopian Civil Aviation Authority (ECAA) has unveiled plans to launch an inter-regional air transport service starting in September 2025, aiming to improve connectivity across Ethiopian cities and regions.
The initiative comes amid growing challenges in road transport, particularly in #Oromia and #Amhara, where insecurity, abductions targeting buses, and multiple checkpoints on commercial trucks have made road travel both costly and unsafe.
ECAA Advisor for Air Transport and International Affairs, Endeshaw Yigezu, said the service will operate scheduled and non-scheduled flights. “The new program will connect cities and regions, expand accessibility, and increase the number of air transport users,” he stated.
Planned routes include Mizan Teferi–Jimma–Gambella–Assosa, Dire Dawa–Harar–Bale Robe….
https://addisstandard.com/?p=52193
The Ethiopian Civil Aviation Authority (ECAA) has unveiled plans to launch an inter-regional air transport service starting in September 2025, aiming to improve connectivity across Ethiopian cities and regions.
The initiative comes amid growing challenges in road transport, particularly in #Oromia and #Amhara, where insecurity, abductions targeting buses, and multiple checkpoints on commercial trucks have made road travel both costly and unsafe.
ECAA Advisor for Air Transport and International Affairs, Endeshaw Yigezu, said the service will operate scheduled and non-scheduled flights. “The new program will connect cities and regions, expand accessibility, and increase the number of air transport users,” he stated.
Planned routes include Mizan Teferi–Jimma–Gambella–Assosa, Dire Dawa–Harar–Bale Robe….
https://addisstandard.com/?p=52193
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News: ENDF says operations intensified against ‘anti-peace’ armed forces near #GERD
The #Ethiopian National Defense Force (ENDF) said its Western Command’s Renaissance Corps divisions have intensified operations against what it described as “anti-peace forces” operating in and around areas surrounding the Grand Ethiopian Renaissance Dam (GERD).
Major Aklilu Wolde Giorgis, Deputy Commander of the Renaissance Corps First Division, told defense media that the unit, deployed in Guba district of the #Metekel Zone, #Benishangul Gumuz region, has “taken extensive measures” against armed groups during recent operations.
Metekel Zone experienced a new wave of insecurity, which began in May 2025, that has disrupted the relative calm that followed the devastating conflicts that plagued the region between 2019 and 2022. Weeks-long attacks by heavily armed, unidentified militiamen have rocked several woredas,.....
https://addisstandard.com/?p=52196
The #Ethiopian National Defense Force (ENDF) said its Western Command’s Renaissance Corps divisions have intensified operations against what it described as “anti-peace forces” operating in and around areas surrounding the Grand Ethiopian Renaissance Dam (GERD).
Major Aklilu Wolde Giorgis, Deputy Commander of the Renaissance Corps First Division, told defense media that the unit, deployed in Guba district of the #Metekel Zone, #Benishangul Gumuz region, has “taken extensive measures” against armed groups during recent operations.
Metekel Zone experienced a new wave of insecurity, which began in May 2025, that has disrupted the relative calm that followed the devastating conflicts that plagued the region between 2019 and 2022. Weeks-long attacks by heavily armed, unidentified militiamen have rocked several woredas,.....
https://addisstandard.com/?p=52196
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#Opinion: Exclusion by Tradition: How #Sidama’s progress bypassed Dara’s #Hadicho community
The Sidama people achieved self-rule in 2019, becoming Ethiopia’s tenth regional state—an important milestone in their long struggle for self-determination. Yet, the author of this opinion piece argues that for communities such as the Hadicho in #Dara district, “the vision for progress, equitable and comprehensive development becomes elusive” due to “the continued dominance of old ideologies” and “group favoritism.”
To support this claim, the author highlights two major highways—the #Hawassa-#Negele and Hawassa-#Moyale—which, he notes, “were rerouted bypassing Dara’s principal towns, #Teferi_Kela and #Kebado.” The consequence, he writes, is that “local coffee farmers face persistent challenges due to limited market access,” leaving the district’s agricultural and business sectors underdeveloped.
The article further contends that administrative decisions have compounded this exclusion. It highlights, for instance, the transfer of #Dilla and surrounding kebeles to the #Gedeo Zone “without consulting Dara residents,” a move that severed the Hadicho community from crucial economic and urban networks. The author also emphasizes that the exclusion extends beyond infrastructure and agriculture, noting that “Individuals from the Hadicho community are rarely appointed to government positions within the Sidama region, even when they possess the requisite skills, experience…” while “officials from non-Hadicho communities are routinely assigned to key roles in Dara…”
The author concludes by arguing that "the allocation of development resources must be grounded in actual need and anticipated impact, not lineage or group affiliation." He further states that “Establishing transparent mechanisms for public oversight will be essential to ensure that development benefits are distributed fairly and equitably."
https://addisstandard.com/?p=52190
The Sidama people achieved self-rule in 2019, becoming Ethiopia’s tenth regional state—an important milestone in their long struggle for self-determination. Yet, the author of this opinion piece argues that for communities such as the Hadicho in #Dara district, “the vision for progress, equitable and comprehensive development becomes elusive” due to “the continued dominance of old ideologies” and “group favoritism.”
To support this claim, the author highlights two major highways—the #Hawassa-#Negele and Hawassa-#Moyale—which, he notes, “were rerouted bypassing Dara’s principal towns, #Teferi_Kela and #Kebado.” The consequence, he writes, is that “local coffee farmers face persistent challenges due to limited market access,” leaving the district’s agricultural and business sectors underdeveloped.
The article further contends that administrative decisions have compounded this exclusion. It highlights, for instance, the transfer of #Dilla and surrounding kebeles to the #Gedeo Zone “without consulting Dara residents,” a move that severed the Hadicho community from crucial economic and urban networks. The author also emphasizes that the exclusion extends beyond infrastructure and agriculture, noting that “Individuals from the Hadicho community are rarely appointed to government positions within the Sidama region, even when they possess the requisite skills, experience…” while “officials from non-Hadicho communities are routinely assigned to key roles in Dara…”
The author concludes by arguing that "the allocation of development resources must be grounded in actual need and anticipated impact, not lineage or group affiliation." He further states that “Establishing transparent mechanisms for public oversight will be essential to ensure that development benefits are distributed fairly and equitably."
https://addisstandard.com/?p=52190
Addis Standard
Exclusion by Tradition: How Sidama’s progress bypassed Dara’s Hadicho community - Addis Standard
Exclusion by Tradition: How Sidama’s progress bypassed Dara’s Hadicho community Addis Standard Opinion -
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#Ethiopia - #In_Pictures: The Ethiopian National Defense Forces (#ENDF) graduated thousands of recruits from three training centers on Saturday 30 August.
The new graduates are from #Hurso Contingent Training School, which completed its 10th round of basic military training; #Tolay High-Rank Training School, which graduated cadets after months of training; and #Bir_Sheleko Basic Military Training School, which also graduated newly trained soldiers.
The new graduates are from #Hurso Contingent Training School, which completed its 10th round of basic military training; #Tolay High-Rank Training School, which graduated cadets after months of training; and #Bir_Sheleko Basic Military Training School, which also graduated newly trained soldiers.
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#Kenya pushes to expand khat exports as #Somalia market faces #Ethiopian challenge
Kenya is intensifying efforts to expand its khat exports, placing the stimulant leaf at the center of President William Ruto’s trade agenda, even as disputes and competition threaten the country’s largest market in Somalia.
Kenyan exports stalled in February when farmers in Meru, the country’s main khat-producing region, suspended shipments over pricing disputes. Growers accused middlemen of paying below-market rates, while others alleged that unauthorized taxes were being imposed on the trade.
The suspension quickly rippled across Somalia, sparking protests in Mogadishu as Somali women traders demonstrated against surging prices that made khat unaffordable for many buyers.
Kenya’s dominance in Somalia is also being challenged by Ethiopia. Reports from 2023 and 2024 stated that large volumes of Ethiopian khat were smuggled into Somalia, undercutting Kenyan suppliers and eroding their market share.
https://www.hiiraan.com/news4/2025/Aug/202746/kenya_pushes_to_expand_khat_exports_as_somalia_market_faces_ethiopian_challenge.aspx
Kenya is intensifying efforts to expand its khat exports, placing the stimulant leaf at the center of President William Ruto’s trade agenda, even as disputes and competition threaten the country’s largest market in Somalia.
Kenyan exports stalled in February when farmers in Meru, the country’s main khat-producing region, suspended shipments over pricing disputes. Growers accused middlemen of paying below-market rates, while others alleged that unauthorized taxes were being imposed on the trade.
The suspension quickly rippled across Somalia, sparking protests in Mogadishu as Somali women traders demonstrated against surging prices that made khat unaffordable for many buyers.
Kenya’s dominance in Somalia is also being challenged by Ethiopia. Reports from 2023 and 2024 stated that large volumes of Ethiopian khat were smuggled into Somalia, undercutting Kenyan suppliers and eroding their market share.
https://www.hiiraan.com/news4/2025/Aug/202746/kenya_pushes_to_expand_khat_exports_as_somalia_market_faces_ethiopian_challenge.aspx
Hiiraan
Kenya pushes to expand khat exports as Somalia market faces Ethiopian challenge
Mogadishu (HOL) — Kenya is intensifying efforts to expand its khat exports, placing the stimulant leaf at the center of President William Ruto’s trade agenda, even as disputes and competition threaten the country’s largest market in Somalia.
#South_Sudan, #Ethiopian Airlines renew strategic partnership talks
Plans for Ethiopian Airlines to play a key role in expanding South Sudan’s aviation services have been revived under new economic cooperation talks between the two countries.
South Sudanese President Salva Kiir met with Ethiopian Finance Minister and Special Envoy Ahmed Shide Mohammed in Juba on August 27, during which Ethiopian Airlines was proposed as a strategic partner to strengthen South Sudan’s aviation sector and boost regional connectivity, according to a statement from Kiir’s office.
"Air transport was also on the agenda, with Ethiopian Airlines proposed as a strategic partner in enhancing South Sudan’s aviation services," the statement said without providing further details.
https://www.ch-aviation.com/news/157770-south-sudan-ethiopian-airlines-renew-strategic-pship-talks
Plans for Ethiopian Airlines to play a key role in expanding South Sudan’s aviation services have been revived under new economic cooperation talks between the two countries.
South Sudanese President Salva Kiir met with Ethiopian Finance Minister and Special Envoy Ahmed Shide Mohammed in Juba on August 27, during which Ethiopian Airlines was proposed as a strategic partner to strengthen South Sudan’s aviation sector and boost regional connectivity, according to a statement from Kiir’s office.
"Air transport was also on the agenda, with Ethiopian Airlines proposed as a strategic partner in enhancing South Sudan’s aviation services," the statement said without providing further details.
https://www.ch-aviation.com/news/157770-south-sudan-ethiopian-airlines-renew-strategic-pship-talks
#Egypt delivers medical aid to #Eritrea
A shipment of medical supplies donated by Egypt arrived at #Asmara International Airport on Friday, 29 August 2025, the Egyptian Ministry of Foreign Affairs announced.
The consignment, handed over to Eritrea’s Pharmaceutical Administration, includes supplies for ophthalmology and kidney dialysis. It was provided by the Egyptian Agency of Partnership for Development.
According to the ministry, the donation is part of Cairo’s efforts to strengthen what it described as “strategic and sisterly relations” with Eritrea.
The delivery follows Egyptian President Abdel Fattah El Sisi’s visit to Asmara in October last year, which both countries said marked a new chapter in bilateral cooperation.
A shipment of medical supplies donated by Egypt arrived at #Asmara International Airport on Friday, 29 August 2025, the Egyptian Ministry of Foreign Affairs announced.
The consignment, handed over to Eritrea’s Pharmaceutical Administration, includes supplies for ophthalmology and kidney dialysis. It was provided by the Egyptian Agency of Partnership for Development.
According to the ministry, the donation is part of Cairo’s efforts to strengthen what it described as “strategic and sisterly relations” with Eritrea.
The delivery follows Egyptian President Abdel Fattah El Sisi’s visit to Asmara in October last year, which both countries said marked a new chapter in bilateral cooperation.
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#Ethiopia: #Tigray Interim Administration launches region-wide #dialogue; opposition parties #reject process as illegitimate, symbolic
The Tigray Interim Regional Administration (IRA) has unveiled a region-wide dialogue initiative, portraying it as a step toward reconciliation and inclusive governance. Yet major opposition parties have rejected the move, questioning its legitimacy, inclusiveness, and intent.
Read more at
https://addisstandard.com/?p=52210
The Tigray Interim Regional Administration (IRA) has unveiled a region-wide dialogue initiative, portraying it as a step toward reconciliation and inclusive governance. Yet major opposition parties have rejected the move, questioning its legitimacy, inclusiveness, and intent.
Read more at
https://addisstandard.com/?p=52210
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#Somaliland, #Ethiopia Central Bank Chiefs Meet to Boost Financial Cooperation
The central banks of Somaliland and Ethiopia on saturday held talks in Addis Ababa aimed at strengthening financial and economic cooperation, including cross-border trade and banking ties, officials said.
Somaliland’s central bank governor, Abdinasir Ahmed Hersi, and Ethiopia’s central bank chief, Mamo E. Mihretu, met at the National Bank of Ethiopia headquarters to discuss collaboration on payments and settlement systems, foreign exchange and trade financing, anti-money laundering measures, FinTech licensing and forex operations.
The two sides agreed to set up a joint technical working group to follow up on the initiatives.
Governor Hersi underscored the importance of Somaliland’s Berbera Port and trade corridor for Ethiopia’s regional commerce, urging swift progress on banking and insurance protocols to accelerate port-use agreements. Governor Mihretu welcomed the initiative, committing to raise the matter with Ethiopia’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs.
The meeting also discussed strengthening financial flows, khat trade across the border, and the potential opening of a branch of Ethiopia’s state-owned Commercial Bank in Somaliland.
https://www.horndiplomat.com/2025/08/somaliland-ethiopia-central-bank-chiefs-meet-to-boost-financial-cooperation/
The central banks of Somaliland and Ethiopia on saturday held talks in Addis Ababa aimed at strengthening financial and economic cooperation, including cross-border trade and banking ties, officials said.
Somaliland’s central bank governor, Abdinasir Ahmed Hersi, and Ethiopia’s central bank chief, Mamo E. Mihretu, met at the National Bank of Ethiopia headquarters to discuss collaboration on payments and settlement systems, foreign exchange and trade financing, anti-money laundering measures, FinTech licensing and forex operations.
The two sides agreed to set up a joint technical working group to follow up on the initiatives.
Governor Hersi underscored the importance of Somaliland’s Berbera Port and trade corridor for Ethiopia’s regional commerce, urging swift progress on banking and insurance protocols to accelerate port-use agreements. Governor Mihretu welcomed the initiative, committing to raise the matter with Ethiopia’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs.
The meeting also discussed strengthening financial flows, khat trade across the border, and the potential opening of a branch of Ethiopia’s state-owned Commercial Bank in Somaliland.
https://www.horndiplomat.com/2025/08/somaliland-ethiopia-central-bank-chiefs-meet-to-boost-financial-cooperation/
Horn Diplomat
Somaliland, Ethiopia Central Bank Chiefs Meet to Boost Financial Cooperation
The central banks of Somaliland and Ethiopia on saturday held talks in Addis Ababa aimed at strengthening financial and economic cooperation, including cross-border trade and banking ties, officials said.
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#Commentary: Backsliding on Reform: #Ethiopia’s draft #CSO law threatens hard-won gains on civic freedom
When Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed assumed office in 2018, he pledged to expand Ethiopia’s democratic space. A central step was the Civil Society Organizations (CSO) Proclamation of 2019, which lifted the harsh restrictions of a 2009 law that had “silenced advocacy groups by imposing a 10% foreign-funding cap.” Yet, Belete A. Yemata, the author of this commentary, argues, six years later, “that promise is under threat” as proposed amendments to the 2019 law risk reversing those gains.
He explains that the draft amendments would reduce the Authority for Civil Society Organization’s board from 11 to seven members, with six being government appointees, "leaving civil society with only one seat at the table." The amendments would also mandate that CSOs obtain project-by-project approval from government agencies, which "would allow officials to veto or delay programs and pressure CSOs to align with government preferences." Additionally, the proposed changes would grant the government the authority to suspend CSOs based solely on suspicion and prohibit them from receiving foreign funds for activities related to elections. Belete states that if implemented, these changes could "undo hard-won gains, depoliticize Ethiopia’s civic sphere, and return the sector to the fear and isolation that characterized the post-2005 period."
The article highlights that the proposed amendments “threaten the credibility of the 2026 national elections” and could “deepen the financial crisis already confronting many CSOs.” It also adds that in a country navigating conflict and political transition, an independent civil society is essential. Yet the proposed amendments risk “silencing critical voices” and weakening the sector’s capacity to deliver vital services and monitor human rights abuses.
The author emphasizes that Ethiopia “does not need to choose between national security and civic freedom.” Rather than constraining civil society, he argues, “the government should strengthen accountability mechanisms, empower the CSO Council, and treat civic actors as partners in building stability and democracy—not adversaries.”
https://addisstandard.com/?p=52205
When Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed assumed office in 2018, he pledged to expand Ethiopia’s democratic space. A central step was the Civil Society Organizations (CSO) Proclamation of 2019, which lifted the harsh restrictions of a 2009 law that had “silenced advocacy groups by imposing a 10% foreign-funding cap.” Yet, Belete A. Yemata, the author of this commentary, argues, six years later, “that promise is under threat” as proposed amendments to the 2019 law risk reversing those gains.
He explains that the draft amendments would reduce the Authority for Civil Society Organization’s board from 11 to seven members, with six being government appointees, "leaving civil society with only one seat at the table." The amendments would also mandate that CSOs obtain project-by-project approval from government agencies, which "would allow officials to veto or delay programs and pressure CSOs to align with government preferences." Additionally, the proposed changes would grant the government the authority to suspend CSOs based solely on suspicion and prohibit them from receiving foreign funds for activities related to elections. Belete states that if implemented, these changes could "undo hard-won gains, depoliticize Ethiopia’s civic sphere, and return the sector to the fear and isolation that characterized the post-2005 period."
The article highlights that the proposed amendments “threaten the credibility of the 2026 national elections” and could “deepen the financial crisis already confronting many CSOs.” It also adds that in a country navigating conflict and political transition, an independent civil society is essential. Yet the proposed amendments risk “silencing critical voices” and weakening the sector’s capacity to deliver vital services and monitor human rights abuses.
The author emphasizes that Ethiopia “does not need to choose between national security and civic freedom.” Rather than constraining civil society, he argues, “the government should strengthen accountability mechanisms, empower the CSO Council, and treat civic actors as partners in building stability and democracy—not adversaries.”
https://addisstandard.com/?p=52205
Addis Standard
Backsliding on Reform: Ethiopia’s draft CSO law threatens hard-won gains on civic freedom - Addis Standard
Backsliding on Reform: Ethiopia’s draft CSO law threatens hard-won gains on civic freedom Addis Standard Commentary -
#EU chief von der Leyen's plane hit by suspected #Russian GPS jamming
The navigation system of a plane carrying Ursula von der Leyen was disrupted due to suspected Russian interference, the European Commission said.
A spokesperson said the "GPS jamming" happened while the Commission president was about to arrive in Bulgaria on Sunday, but she still landed safely.
They added: "We have received information from the Bulgarian authorities that they suspect that this was due to blatant interference by Russia."
The Financial Times, citing unnamed officials, reported that von der Leyen had to land at Plovdiv Airport using paper maps.
https://www.bbc.com/news/articles/c9d07z1439zo
The navigation system of a plane carrying Ursula von der Leyen was disrupted due to suspected Russian interference, the European Commission said.
A spokesperson said the "GPS jamming" happened while the Commission president was about to arrive in Bulgaria on Sunday, but she still landed safely.
They added: "We have received information from the Bulgarian authorities that they suspect that this was due to blatant interference by Russia."
The Financial Times, citing unnamed officials, reported that von der Leyen had to land at Plovdiv Airport using paper maps.
https://www.bbc.com/news/articles/c9d07z1439zo
Bbc
EU chief von der Leyen's plane hit by suspected Russian GPS jamming
The European Commission said the plane's navigation was disrupted in Bulgaria on Sunday.