#Ethnically-driven killings in #Sudan's war have jumped this year, #UN says
Sudan has seen a significant rise in civilian killings during the first half of this year due to growing ethnic violence, largely in the western region of Darfur, the U.N. human rights office said on Friday.
The conflict that erupted in Sudan in April 2023 between the Sudanese Armed Forces (SAF) and the paramilitary Rapid Support Forces (RSF) has unleashed waves of ethnically-driven killings, caused mass displacement and created what the U.N. has called the world's worst humanitarian crisis.
At least 990 civilians were killed in summary executions in the first half of the year, the report found, with the number between February and April tripling.
That was driven mainly by a surge in Khartoum after the army and allied fighters in late March recaptured the city previously controlled by the RSF, the OHCHR said.
"One witness who observed SAF search operations in civilian neighbourhoods in East Nile, Khartoum between March and April, said that he saw children as young as 14 or 15 years of age, accused of being RSF members, summarily killed," OHCHR spokesperson Jeremy Laurence said.
"Every day we are receiving more reports of horrors on the ground," OHCHR Sudan representative Li Fung told reporters in Geneva.
Fung said ethnicity was a motivating factor for violence, which she described as very concerning.
She explained that certain ethnic communities were being targeted because they are associated with the leadership of the SAF and RSF, building upon decades of discrimination and division between different groups and identities in the diverse nation.
https://www.reuters.com/world/africa/significant-rise-civilian-killings-sudan-conflict-this-year-says-un-human-rights-2025-09-19/
Sudan has seen a significant rise in civilian killings during the first half of this year due to growing ethnic violence, largely in the western region of Darfur, the U.N. human rights office said on Friday.
The conflict that erupted in Sudan in April 2023 between the Sudanese Armed Forces (SAF) and the paramilitary Rapid Support Forces (RSF) has unleashed waves of ethnically-driven killings, caused mass displacement and created what the U.N. has called the world's worst humanitarian crisis.
At least 990 civilians were killed in summary executions in the first half of the year, the report found, with the number between February and April tripling.
That was driven mainly by a surge in Khartoum after the army and allied fighters in late March recaptured the city previously controlled by the RSF, the OHCHR said.
"One witness who observed SAF search operations in civilian neighbourhoods in East Nile, Khartoum between March and April, said that he saw children as young as 14 or 15 years of age, accused of being RSF members, summarily killed," OHCHR spokesperson Jeremy Laurence said.
"Every day we are receiving more reports of horrors on the ground," OHCHR Sudan representative Li Fung told reporters in Geneva.
Fung said ethnicity was a motivating factor for violence, which she described as very concerning.
She explained that certain ethnic communities were being targeted because they are associated with the leadership of the SAF and RSF, building upon decades of discrimination and division between different groups and identities in the diverse nation.
https://www.reuters.com/world/africa/significant-rise-civilian-killings-sudan-conflict-this-year-says-un-human-rights-2025-09-19/
Reuters
Ethnically-driven killings in Sudan's war have jumped this year, UN says
Sudan has seen a significant rise in civilian killings during the first half of this year due to growing ethnic violence, largely in the western region of Darfur, the U.N. human rights office said on Friday.
News: #Sheger FM says journalists remain in custody for 17 days despite court-ordered bail
Addis Abeba – Two journalists from Sheger FM Radio, editor Tigist Zerihun and reporter Mintamr Tsegaw, have remained in Federal Police custody for 17 days despite a court order granting their release on bail, the station said.
Following the arrests, police requested a 14-day extension to pursue investigations. The court granted nine days. At the subsequent hearing, police sought further time for forensic analysis, financial transaction reviews, and other inquiries. After hearing arguments from both sides, the Lideta Division of the Federal High Court’s First Bench for extended detention hearings ordered the release of the journalists on bail set at 50,000 birr.
Court documents show that all required procedures were finalized and submitted to the Federal Police Crime Investigation Department on 17 September 2025.
https://addisstandard.com/?p=52497
Addis Abeba – Two journalists from Sheger FM Radio, editor Tigist Zerihun and reporter Mintamr Tsegaw, have remained in Federal Police custody for 17 days despite a court order granting their release on bail, the station said.
Following the arrests, police requested a 14-day extension to pursue investigations. The court granted nine days. At the subsequent hearing, police sought further time for forensic analysis, financial transaction reviews, and other inquiries. After hearing arguments from both sides, the Lideta Division of the Federal High Court’s First Bench for extended detention hearings ordered the release of the journalists on bail set at 50,000 birr.
Court documents show that all required procedures were finalized and submitted to the Federal Police Crime Investigation Department on 17 September 2025.
https://addisstandard.com/?p=52497
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#Somali, #Chinese defense ministers hold first high-level talks in Decades
Chinese Defense Minister Admiral Dong Jun met with Somali Defense Minister Ahmed Moallin Fiqi in Beijing on Friday on the sidelines of the Xiangshan International Defense Forum, marking the first ministerial-level meeting between the two countries in nearly 40 years.
Minister Fiqi highlighted Somalia’s security gains, noting that government forces have liberated large areas from al-Shabaab and taken steps to stabilize key regions. Admiral Dong praised Somalia’s progress, calling it “a step of hope and stability” toward rebuilding national defense institutions.
The two sides agreed to deepen cooperation in regional security, counterterrorism, support for the AU mission in Somalia and the development of the Somali National Army. Both ministers emphasized the importance of strengthening ties to promote peace and stability in Somalia and the wider Horn of Africa.
The Xiangshan Forum, held at the Beijing International Convention Center under the theme “Upholding International Order and Promoting Peaceful Development,” has drawn representatives from more than 100 countries and international organizations, solidifying its status as a major platform for global security dialogue.
https://www.hiiraan.com/news4/2025/Sept/202991/somali_chinese_defense_ministers_hold_first_high_level_talks_in_decades.aspx
Chinese Defense Minister Admiral Dong Jun met with Somali Defense Minister Ahmed Moallin Fiqi in Beijing on Friday on the sidelines of the Xiangshan International Defense Forum, marking the first ministerial-level meeting between the two countries in nearly 40 years.
Minister Fiqi highlighted Somalia’s security gains, noting that government forces have liberated large areas from al-Shabaab and taken steps to stabilize key regions. Admiral Dong praised Somalia’s progress, calling it “a step of hope and stability” toward rebuilding national defense institutions.
The two sides agreed to deepen cooperation in regional security, counterterrorism, support for the AU mission in Somalia and the development of the Somali National Army. Both ministers emphasized the importance of strengthening ties to promote peace and stability in Somalia and the wider Horn of Africa.
The Xiangshan Forum, held at the Beijing International Convention Center under the theme “Upholding International Order and Promoting Peaceful Development,” has drawn representatives from more than 100 countries and international organizations, solidifying its status as a major platform for global security dialogue.
https://www.hiiraan.com/news4/2025/Sept/202991/somali_chinese_defense_ministers_hold_first_high_level_talks_in_decades.aspx
Hiiraan
Somali, Chinese defense ministers hold first high-level talks in Decades
Beijing (HOL) – Chinese Defense Minister Admiral Dong Jun met with Somali Defense Minister Ahmed Moallin Fiqi in Beijing on Friday on the sidelines of the Xiangshan International Defense Forum, marking the first ministerial-level meeting between the two countries…
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#Ethiopia: Authorities freeze bank accounts of 123 suspects over ‘illicit foreign currency’ activities
Addis Abeba – The Financial Intelligence Service (#FIS) has announced the freezing of bank accounts belonging to 123 individuals suspected of engaging in illicit foreign currency activities.
In a statement issued yesterday 19 September 2025, FIS said the measure is part of an intensified crackdown on parallel foreign exchange markets that bypass the formal banking system. The service added that monitoring has been expanded to identify additional suspects.
According to the statement, the financial transactions of the 123 individuals were suspended “to ensure accountability” for their alleged involvement in black market dealings. FIS noted that Ethiopia’s recent macroeconomic reforms have contributed to a significant increase in legal foreign exchange services, describing the development as “highly commendable.”
https://addisstandard.com/?p=52499
Addis Abeba – The Financial Intelligence Service (#FIS) has announced the freezing of bank accounts belonging to 123 individuals suspected of engaging in illicit foreign currency activities.
In a statement issued yesterday 19 September 2025, FIS said the measure is part of an intensified crackdown on parallel foreign exchange markets that bypass the formal banking system. The service added that monitoring has been expanded to identify additional suspects.
According to the statement, the financial transactions of the 123 individuals were suspended “to ensure accountability” for their alleged involvement in black market dealings. FIS noted that Ethiopia’s recent macroeconomic reforms have contributed to a significant increase in legal foreign exchange services, describing the development as “highly commendable.”
https://addisstandard.com/?p=52499
#Ethiopia: Five political parties form coalition ahead of national elections
Five political parties have announced the formation of a coalition framework aimed at enabling joint political activity. The parties include the Ethiopian People’s Revolutionary Party (#EPRP), #Enat Party, Ethiopian National Unity Party, #Amhara Ghionians Movement, and One Ethiopia Democracy Party.
Megabe Beluy Abraham Teklehaimanot, chair of the EPRP, told Addis Standard that the coalition emerged after four years of discussions among the parties and agreement on common issues. He said the framework will prioritize “core national matters” and added: “By recognizing the challenging conditions, this coalition will present itself as a strong and competitive force in the upcoming national elections.”
He further explained that during the elections, the coalition will seek to create a genuine political space by involving the public and engaging international stakeholders.
https://addisstandard.com/?p=52504
Five political parties have announced the formation of a coalition framework aimed at enabling joint political activity. The parties include the Ethiopian People’s Revolutionary Party (#EPRP), #Enat Party, Ethiopian National Unity Party, #Amhara Ghionians Movement, and One Ethiopia Democracy Party.
Megabe Beluy Abraham Teklehaimanot, chair of the EPRP, told Addis Standard that the coalition emerged after four years of discussions among the parties and agreement on common issues. He said the framework will prioritize “core national matters” and added: “By recognizing the challenging conditions, this coalition will present itself as a strong and competitive force in the upcoming national elections.”
He further explained that during the elections, the coalition will seek to create a genuine political space by involving the public and engaging international stakeholders.
https://addisstandard.com/?p=52504
#Opinion: #Ethiopia, #Jubaland, and emerging security challenge in #Gedo
Recent reports suggest that #Egypt may soon deploy military personnel to the Gedo Zone in #Somalia's Jubaland State. The author of this opinion piece argues that while this could be seen as support for Somalia's fight against terrorism, “the choice of location, the timing, and the wider political context raise serious concerns about its potential implications for the Horn of Africa.” He states that this potential move might be regarded as "geopolitical positioning, with Ethiopia at the center of the equation," designed to undermine Ethiopia's security, which is intrinsically linked to the stability of Jubaland.
The author emphasizes that "external interference in Gedo is more than a local issue; it is a regional security concern with potentially destabilizing consequences." He questions if Somalia's Federal Government understands that the "pursuit of distant alliances [outweighs] the value of stable relations with neighbors who share borders, history, and sacrifices." Instead, the article calls for a focus on strengthening ties with neighbors and "building consensus among federal member states," noting that this is "the only viable path toward a functioning Somali state."
The author contends that regional peace depends on internal stability and cooperation, and that the alternative is a "cycle of mistrust, external interference, and renewed instability."
https://addisstandard.com/?p=52494
Recent reports suggest that #Egypt may soon deploy military personnel to the Gedo Zone in #Somalia's Jubaland State. The author of this opinion piece argues that while this could be seen as support for Somalia's fight against terrorism, “the choice of location, the timing, and the wider political context raise serious concerns about its potential implications for the Horn of Africa.” He states that this potential move might be regarded as "geopolitical positioning, with Ethiopia at the center of the equation," designed to undermine Ethiopia's security, which is intrinsically linked to the stability of Jubaland.
The author emphasizes that "external interference in Gedo is more than a local issue; it is a regional security concern with potentially destabilizing consequences." He questions if Somalia's Federal Government understands that the "pursuit of distant alliances [outweighs] the value of stable relations with neighbors who share borders, history, and sacrifices." Instead, the article calls for a focus on strengthening ties with neighbors and "building consensus among federal member states," noting that this is "the only viable path toward a functioning Somali state."
The author contends that regional peace depends on internal stability and cooperation, and that the alternative is a "cycle of mistrust, external interference, and renewed instability."
https://addisstandard.com/?p=52494
Addis Standard
Ethiopia, Jubaland, and emerging security challenge in Gedo - Addis Standard
Ethiopia, Jubaland, and emerging security challenge in Gedo Addis Standard Opinion -
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#Ethiopia: PM Abiy promotes dozens of senior officers in major army reshuffle
Today's reshuffle marks one of the most extensive promotions within the #ENDF in recent years, expanding the army leadership pool at a time when Ethiopia continues facing evolving security challenges due in large part to the ongoing insurgencies in #Oromia and #Amhara regions, and renewed regional tensions over access to the #Red_Sea.
Read full story here: https://addisstandard.com/?p=52509
Today's reshuffle marks one of the most extensive promotions within the #ENDF in recent years, expanding the army leadership pool at a time when Ethiopia continues facing evolving security challenges due in large part to the ongoing insurgencies in #Oromia and #Amhara regions, and renewed regional tensions over access to the #Red_Sea.
Read full story here: https://addisstandard.com/?p=52509
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#Britain, #Canada and #Australia formally recognize a #Palestinian state, deepening #Israel’s isolation
Britain, Canada and Australia announced formal recognition of the state of Palestine on Sunday, in an attempt to pile pressure on Israel as it presses on with its campaign in Gaza despite international outrage.
The three – all strong allies of Israel for decades – also expressed deep frustration at the lack of progress towards a two-state solution.
Later on Sunday, Portugal announced that it too had formally recognized a Palestinian state, adding that a two-state solution was the “only path to a just and lasting peace.”
France and several other countries are expected to follow suit at the United Nations General Assembly this week, deepening Israel’s isolation and putting them at odds with Israel’s key partner, the United States.
In response, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu vowed that “there will be no Palestinian state.”
https://edition.cnn.com/2025/09/21/world/palestinian-state-uk-canada-australia-intl
Britain, Canada and Australia announced formal recognition of the state of Palestine on Sunday, in an attempt to pile pressure on Israel as it presses on with its campaign in Gaza despite international outrage.
The three – all strong allies of Israel for decades – also expressed deep frustration at the lack of progress towards a two-state solution.
Later on Sunday, Portugal announced that it too had formally recognized a Palestinian state, adding that a two-state solution was the “only path to a just and lasting peace.”
France and several other countries are expected to follow suit at the United Nations General Assembly this week, deepening Israel’s isolation and putting them at odds with Israel’s key partner, the United States.
In response, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu vowed that “there will be no Palestinian state.”
https://edition.cnn.com/2025/09/21/world/palestinian-state-uk-canada-australia-intl
CNN
Britain, Canada and Australia formally recognize a Palestinian state, deepening Israel’s isolation | CNN
Australia, Canada and the United Kingdom announced formal recognition of the state of Palestine on Sunday, in an attempt to pile pressure on Israel as it presses on with its campaign in Gaza despite international outrage.
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#Kenya urges #EU to prioritise war against Al Shabaab
Kenya has urged #Cyprus to prioritize the fight against Al Shabaab when it assumes the Presidency of the Council of the European Union in early 2026.
Speaking on the sidelines of the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA), Prime Cabinet Secretary and Cabinet Secretary for Foreign and Diaspora Affairs Musalia Mudavadi warned that waning international attention on Somalia could undermine regional security gains.
“There is growing international fatigue because of other conflicts and a shift in focus. The international community’s support has depreciated significantly, and countries like Kenya have been left to carry the heavy load in this fight,” Mudavadi said.
Kenya currently deploys about 3,000 troops in Somalia under the African Union Transition Mission in Somalia (ATMIS). Mudavadi cautioned that a Kenyan withdrawal could create a dangerous security vacuum few international players are prepared to fill.
https://www.hiiraan.com/news4/2025/Sept/203013/kenya_urges_eu_to_prioritise_war_against_al_shabaab.aspx
Kenya has urged #Cyprus to prioritize the fight against Al Shabaab when it assumes the Presidency of the Council of the European Union in early 2026.
Speaking on the sidelines of the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA), Prime Cabinet Secretary and Cabinet Secretary for Foreign and Diaspora Affairs Musalia Mudavadi warned that waning international attention on Somalia could undermine regional security gains.
“There is growing international fatigue because of other conflicts and a shift in focus. The international community’s support has depreciated significantly, and countries like Kenya have been left to carry the heavy load in this fight,” Mudavadi said.
Kenya currently deploys about 3,000 troops in Somalia under the African Union Transition Mission in Somalia (ATMIS). Mudavadi cautioned that a Kenyan withdrawal could create a dangerous security vacuum few international players are prepared to fill.
https://www.hiiraan.com/news4/2025/Sept/203013/kenya_urges_eu_to_prioritise_war_against_al_shabaab.aspx
Hiiraan
Kenya urges EU to prioritise war against Al Shabaab
New York (HOL) — Kenya has urged Cyprus to prioritize the fight against Al Shabaab when it assumes the Presidency of the Council of the European Union in early 2026.
#Ethiopia: HRW warns surge in journalist arrests threatens press freedom ahead of 2026 elections
Human Rights Watch (#HRW) has expressed alarm over a sharp rise in arrests of journalists and media professionals in Ethiopia since August 2025, warning that the crackdown undermines press freedom in the lead-up to the country’s 2026 national elections.
The rights watchdog said at least six media workers have been arbitrarily detained, some held incommunicado or without charge, describing the arrests as “renewed efforts by the government to suppress independent reporting.”
“The Ethiopian authorities’ renewed efforts to muzzle independent reporting are all about preventing public scrutiny of the government,” said Laetitia Bader, HRW’s deputy Africa director. “The authorities should stop targeting journalists and media workers and immediately release those unjustly detained for their work.”
https://addisstandard.com/?p=52526
Human Rights Watch (#HRW) has expressed alarm over a sharp rise in arrests of journalists and media professionals in Ethiopia since August 2025, warning that the crackdown undermines press freedom in the lead-up to the country’s 2026 national elections.
The rights watchdog said at least six media workers have been arbitrarily detained, some held incommunicado or without charge, describing the arrests as “renewed efforts by the government to suppress independent reporting.”
“The Ethiopian authorities’ renewed efforts to muzzle independent reporting are all about preventing public scrutiny of the government,” said Laetitia Bader, HRW’s deputy Africa director. “The authorities should stop targeting journalists and media workers and immediately release those unjustly detained for their work.”
https://addisstandard.com/?p=52526
Media is too big
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Trump calls impact of #GERD on Nile waters “a big problem”
U.S. President Donald #Trump has commented on the Grand #Ethiopian Renaissance Dam (GERD), describing its impact on Nile waters as “a big problem” for Egypt.
“They built a little dam in Ethiopia that’s like the largest dam in the world. And it affects the water going to the Nile. Would you say that’s a problem? I would say that’s a big problem,” Trump said on Saturday at the American Cornerstone Institute Founder’s Dinner in Mount Vernon, Virginia.
He listed the GERD alongside other global crises, including tensions between #India and #Pakistan, #Thailand and #Cambodia, #Armenia and #Azerbaijan, #Kosovo and #Serbia, and #Israel and #Iran. In July, Trump controversially claimed the GERD was “largely” funded by U.S.
Watch
U.S. President Donald #Trump has commented on the Grand #Ethiopian Renaissance Dam (GERD), describing its impact on Nile waters as “a big problem” for Egypt.
“They built a little dam in Ethiopia that’s like the largest dam in the world. And it affects the water going to the Nile. Would you say that’s a problem? I would say that’s a big problem,” Trump said on Saturday at the American Cornerstone Institute Founder’s Dinner in Mount Vernon, Virginia.
He listed the GERD alongside other global crises, including tensions between #India and #Pakistan, #Thailand and #Cambodia, #Armenia and #Azerbaijan, #Kosovo and #Serbia, and #Israel and #Iran. In July, Trump controversially claimed the GERD was “largely” funded by U.S.
Watch
#Israel and #US to boycott French-Saudi summit to rally for two-state solution at UNGA
Several of the attendees are expected to join others in recognizing a Palestinian state at the summit -- a move that could elicit harsh responses from Israel and the US
#France and #Saudi_Arabia will bring together dozens of world leaders on Monday to rally support for a two-state solution, several of whom are expected to join the UK and several other countries who have already done so in recognizing a Palestinian state -- a move that could elicit harsh responses from Israel and the US.
Israel's UN Ambassador Danny Danon said that Israel and the United States will boycott the summit, describing the event as a “circus.” “We don't think it's helpful. We think it's actually rewarding terrorism,” he told reporters on Thursday.
https://www.i24news.tv/en/news/international/artc-france-and-saudi-arabia-to-host-summit-to-rally-for-two-state-solution-at-unga
Several of the attendees are expected to join others in recognizing a Palestinian state at the summit -- a move that could elicit harsh responses from Israel and the US
#France and #Saudi_Arabia will bring together dozens of world leaders on Monday to rally support for a two-state solution, several of whom are expected to join the UK and several other countries who have already done so in recognizing a Palestinian state -- a move that could elicit harsh responses from Israel and the US.
Israel's UN Ambassador Danny Danon said that Israel and the United States will boycott the summit, describing the event as a “circus.” “We don't think it's helpful. We think it's actually rewarding terrorism,” he told reporters on Thursday.
https://www.i24news.tv/en/news/international/artc-france-and-saudi-arabia-to-host-summit-to-rally-for-two-state-solution-at-unga
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#Commentary: From Megawatts to Malware: Why cybersecurity holds key to securing #Ethiopia’s #GERD
With a generating capacity exceeding 5,000 megawatts, the Grand Ethiopian Renaissance Dam (GERD) represents not only a feat of modern engineering but also a potent emblem of Ethiopia’s national aspirations. Yet, Abebe Diro argues in this commentary that the dam’s most critical asset may not be its towering structure or massive turbines—but rather its unseen digital architecture: “digital systems that regulate turbines, monitor data, and ensure efficient distribution.” He emphasizes that the GERD is more than concrete and steel; it depends on a digital “nervous system” to manage energy effectively—though that same system also opens the door to cyber threats.
The author contends that the true power of the GERD lies not merely in its physical scale but in the intricate “digital nervous system” orchestrating its operations. Through SCADA systems, IoT sensors, AI-driven analytics, and predictive modeling, the dam achieves "operational efficiency, reliability, and resilience" while also seamlessly integrating with other renewable sources to support a modern, adaptive power grid. But this digital foundation, he warns, carries a hidden cost: Industrial Control Systems, once designed to operate in isolation, are now connected to broader networks—making them increasingly vulnerable to cyber intrusion.
The article underscores that cyber vulnerabilities pose risks far more consequential than mechanical breakdowns. As the author puts it, “the dam’s immense physical power is meaningless without a resilient digital infrastructure”—because a well-targeted cyberattack could trigger “blackouts,” paralyzing entire sectors of the economy. The fallout, according to Abebe, would extend beyond technical failure, carrying “economic, societal, and geopolitical consequences” that could unsettle not just Ethiopia but the wider region.
Protecting these digital systems, the author states, is no longer a technical concern alone—it is “a matter of national security, economic stability, and regional diplomacy.”He notes, "The strength of GERD’s concrete walls is only as meaningful as the security and reliability of the digital protocols that govern them."
https://addisstandard.com/?p=52523
With a generating capacity exceeding 5,000 megawatts, the Grand Ethiopian Renaissance Dam (GERD) represents not only a feat of modern engineering but also a potent emblem of Ethiopia’s national aspirations. Yet, Abebe Diro argues in this commentary that the dam’s most critical asset may not be its towering structure or massive turbines—but rather its unseen digital architecture: “digital systems that regulate turbines, monitor data, and ensure efficient distribution.” He emphasizes that the GERD is more than concrete and steel; it depends on a digital “nervous system” to manage energy effectively—though that same system also opens the door to cyber threats.
The author contends that the true power of the GERD lies not merely in its physical scale but in the intricate “digital nervous system” orchestrating its operations. Through SCADA systems, IoT sensors, AI-driven analytics, and predictive modeling, the dam achieves "operational efficiency, reliability, and resilience" while also seamlessly integrating with other renewable sources to support a modern, adaptive power grid. But this digital foundation, he warns, carries a hidden cost: Industrial Control Systems, once designed to operate in isolation, are now connected to broader networks—making them increasingly vulnerable to cyber intrusion.
The article underscores that cyber vulnerabilities pose risks far more consequential than mechanical breakdowns. As the author puts it, “the dam’s immense physical power is meaningless without a resilient digital infrastructure”—because a well-targeted cyberattack could trigger “blackouts,” paralyzing entire sectors of the economy. The fallout, according to Abebe, would extend beyond technical failure, carrying “economic, societal, and geopolitical consequences” that could unsettle not just Ethiopia but the wider region.
Protecting these digital systems, the author states, is no longer a technical concern alone—it is “a matter of national security, economic stability, and regional diplomacy.”He notes, "The strength of GERD’s concrete walls is only as meaningful as the security and reliability of the digital protocols that govern them."
https://addisstandard.com/?p=52523
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#Kenya opens inquiry after reports of citizens forced into #Russia’s war in Ukraine
• Kenya has initiated investigations into claims of its citizens being trafficked to Russia and involved in the war in Ukraine.
• The inquiry follows the case of Evans Kibet, an athlete who alleges he was coerced into joining the Russian military.
• Kenyan officials are liaising with both Russian and Ukrainian authorities to ascertain the facts and ensure the welfare of those affected.
• The situation highlights concerns over recruitment practices targeting foreign nationals in conflict zones.
Kenya has opened investigations after reports emerged that some of its citizens were allegedly trafficked to Russia and are now being held as prisoners of war in Ukraine. The probe follows the case of 36-year-old athlete Evans Kibet, who says he was tricked into joining the Russian military
https://africa.businessinsider.com/local/lifestyle/kenya-opens-inquiry-after-reports-of-citizens-forced-into-russias-war-in-ukraine/ne0ctk5
• Kenya has initiated investigations into claims of its citizens being trafficked to Russia and involved in the war in Ukraine.
• The inquiry follows the case of Evans Kibet, an athlete who alleges he was coerced into joining the Russian military.
• Kenyan officials are liaising with both Russian and Ukrainian authorities to ascertain the facts and ensure the welfare of those affected.
• The situation highlights concerns over recruitment practices targeting foreign nationals in conflict zones.
Kenya has opened investigations after reports emerged that some of its citizens were allegedly trafficked to Russia and are now being held as prisoners of war in Ukraine. The probe follows the case of 36-year-old athlete Evans Kibet, who says he was tricked into joining the Russian military
https://africa.businessinsider.com/local/lifestyle/kenya-opens-inquiry-after-reports-of-citizens-forced-into-russias-war-in-ukraine/ne0ctk5
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#Malta MP condemns deportation of three #Ethiopians after 18 years in country
Nationalist Party (PN) MP Albert Buttigieg has denounced the deportation of three Ethiopian men who had lived in Malta for 18 years, accusing the Labour government of double standards in its treatment of migrants while depending on foreign workers to sustain the economy.
“MPs must be the voice of the voiceless even if this costs us popularity and support,” Buttigieg told parliament earlier this week. He said the government was scapegoating asylum seekers to ease public fears about overpopulation while relying on migrant labour to drive economic growth.
Buttigieg cited the cases of Abdu, Abdi, Yusuf, and Kondienah. Three were deported despite nearly two decades in Malta, while Abdu, an LGBT activist, was released following pressure from the Malta Gay Rights Movement.
https://timesofmalta.com/article/pn-mp-condemns-deportation-three-ethiopians-1518-years-malta.1116535
Nationalist Party (PN) MP Albert Buttigieg has denounced the deportation of three Ethiopian men who had lived in Malta for 18 years, accusing the Labour government of double standards in its treatment of migrants while depending on foreign workers to sustain the economy.
“MPs must be the voice of the voiceless even if this costs us popularity and support,” Buttigieg told parliament earlier this week. He said the government was scapegoating asylum seekers to ease public fears about overpopulation while relying on migrant labour to drive economic growth.
Buttigieg cited the cases of Abdu, Abdi, Yusuf, and Kondienah. Three were deported despite nearly two decades in Malta, while Abdu, an LGBT activist, was released following pressure from the Malta Gay Rights Movement.
https://timesofmalta.com/article/pn-mp-condemns-deportation-three-ethiopians-1518-years-malta.1116535
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Media is too big
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ENDF Chief cites poverty, divisions as internal weaknesses exploited by ‘enemies’
Field Marshal #Berhanu Jula, Chief of the General Staff of the #Ethiopian National Defence Force (#ENDF), warned that Ethiopia’s enemies are exploiting internal weaknesses during the inauguration of new officers at Hurso military training school.
He said poverty, divisions, and internal disagreements are being used by enemies and their internal collaborators to weaken the nation. “They find, arm, and fund groups, amplify them through media, and exploit our vulnerabilities to advance their agenda,” Berhanu said.
Addressing graduates, he called them “modern patriots” tasked with identifying and confronting internal agents and historic enemies to preserve national unity, protect sovereignty, and secure Ethiopia’s
Watch
Field Marshal #Berhanu Jula, Chief of the General Staff of the #Ethiopian National Defence Force (#ENDF), warned that Ethiopia’s enemies are exploiting internal weaknesses during the inauguration of new officers at Hurso military training school.
He said poverty, divisions, and internal disagreements are being used by enemies and their internal collaborators to weaken the nation. “They find, arm, and fund groups, amplify them through media, and exploit our vulnerabilities to advance their agenda,” Berhanu said.
Addressing graduates, he called them “modern patriots” tasked with identifying and confronting internal agents and historic enemies to preserve national unity, protect sovereignty, and secure Ethiopia’s
Watch
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Treason trial begins for #South_Sudan VP Machar as ‘unity government’ breaks
The latest break between the two foremost military and political leaders risks igniting civil war again for the embattled nation.
South Sudan has started holding a trial for First Vice President Riek #Machar, who has been sacked by his decades-long rival, President Salva Kiir, and charged with murder, treason and crimes against humanity in relation to rebellion and an attack by a militia linked with ethnic tensions.
Machar and seven others who have been charged alongside him, including Petroleum Minister Puot Kang Chol, were seen sitting inside a barred cage in the court on Monday during a live broadcast on national television.
Machar has been held in house arrest at his residence in the capital, Juba, for months following investigations by the government of his allies.
https://www.aljazeera.com/news/2025/9/22/treason-trial-begins-for-south-sudan-vp-machar-as-unity-government-breaks
The latest break between the two foremost military and political leaders risks igniting civil war again for the embattled nation.
South Sudan has started holding a trial for First Vice President Riek #Machar, who has been sacked by his decades-long rival, President Salva Kiir, and charged with murder, treason and crimes against humanity in relation to rebellion and an attack by a militia linked with ethnic tensions.
Machar and seven others who have been charged alongside him, including Petroleum Minister Puot Kang Chol, were seen sitting inside a barred cage in the court on Monday during a live broadcast on national television.
Machar has been held in house arrest at his residence in the capital, Juba, for months following investigations by the government of his allies.
https://www.aljazeera.com/news/2025/9/22/treason-trial-begins-for-south-sudan-vp-machar-as-unity-government-breaks
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#Ethiopia: National Bank governor Eyob Tekalign leads delegation to #China for debt talks
A high-level Ethiopian delegation led by Eyob Tekalign (Phd), the newly appointed governor of the National Bank of Ethiopia, is visiting China this week to advance debt restructuring discussions and strengthen economic cooperation, state media reported.
The delegation is scheduled to meet senior officials from China’s Ministry of Finance, the People’s Bank of China, and Exim Bank, along with representatives of major financial and commercial institutions.
According to the report, the visit builds on the recently concluded debt restructuring agreement with the Official Creditors Committee, co-chaired by China and France, and aims to accelerate Ethiopia’s restructuring process.
https://web.facebook.com/AddisstandardEng/posts/pfbid0wJ45sTP6FwaZLCPaTpBwoGn39fqQWDEgmTN6CYDQmwf6SVcpdtUHrjC3Dt6CszL3l
A high-level Ethiopian delegation led by Eyob Tekalign (Phd), the newly appointed governor of the National Bank of Ethiopia, is visiting China this week to advance debt restructuring discussions and strengthen economic cooperation, state media reported.
The delegation is scheduled to meet senior officials from China’s Ministry of Finance, the People’s Bank of China, and Exim Bank, along with representatives of major financial and commercial institutions.
According to the report, the visit builds on the recently concluded debt restructuring agreement with the Official Creditors Committee, co-chaired by China and France, and aims to accelerate Ethiopia’s restructuring process.
https://web.facebook.com/AddisstandardEng/posts/pfbid0wJ45sTP6FwaZLCPaTpBwoGn39fqQWDEgmTN6CYDQmwf6SVcpdtUHrjC3Dt6CszL3l
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#France to recognize #Palestinian state tonight— France's ambassador to Ethiopia and the AU
France will formally recognize the State of Palestine tonight, Alexis Lamek, France’s ambassador to #Ethiopia and the #African Union, announced, describing the move as “the beginning of a process” toward a two-state solution.
He said the decision aims to reopen diplomatic channels and restore a credible political horizon for peace. The ambassador stressed that an immediate ceasefire in #Gaza, the release of hostages, and increased humanitarian access remain urgent priorities. He noted ongoing mediation efforts by Egypt, Qatar, and the United States, which France supports.
However, he cautioned that “ceasefire alone is not enough” and underlined the need to prepare for post-war stability. France’s recognition, he said, seeks to secure long-term peace for both Palestinians and Israelis.
Watch
France will formally recognize the State of Palestine tonight, Alexis Lamek, France’s ambassador to #Ethiopia and the #African Union, announced, describing the move as “the beginning of a process” toward a two-state solution.
He said the decision aims to reopen diplomatic channels and restore a credible political horizon for peace. The ambassador stressed that an immediate ceasefire in #Gaza, the release of hostages, and increased humanitarian access remain urgent priorities. He noted ongoing mediation efforts by Egypt, Qatar, and the United States, which France supports.
However, he cautioned that “ceasefire alone is not enough” and underlined the need to prepare for post-war stability. France’s recognition, he said, seeks to secure long-term peace for both Palestinians and Israelis.
Watch
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#France among six more countries to formally recognise #Palestinian statehood
#France, #Andorra, #Belgium, #Luxembourg, #Malta, #Monaco join diplomatic push as #Israel unleashes fierce attacks on #Gaza.
The leaders of six countries, including France, have moved to recognise Palestinian statehood at a high-level summit ahead of the annual United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) meeting in New York.
The additional countries recognising Palestine now join some 147 of the 193 UN member states that had already formally recognised Palestinian statehood as of April this year.
With more than 80 percent of the international community now recognising the state of Palestine, diplomatic pressure has ramped up on Israel as it continues its genocidal war on Gaza, where more than 65,300 Palestinians have been killed and the has been enclave turned into rubble.
https://www.aljazeera.com/news/2025/9/22/france-recognises-palestinian-state-ahead-of-the-unga-meeting
#France, #Andorra, #Belgium, #Luxembourg, #Malta, #Monaco join diplomatic push as #Israel unleashes fierce attacks on #Gaza.
The leaders of six countries, including France, have moved to recognise Palestinian statehood at a high-level summit ahead of the annual United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) meeting in New York.
The additional countries recognising Palestine now join some 147 of the 193 UN member states that had already formally recognised Palestinian statehood as of April this year.
With more than 80 percent of the international community now recognising the state of Palestine, diplomatic pressure has ramped up on Israel as it continues its genocidal war on Gaza, where more than 65,300 Palestinians have been killed and the has been enclave turned into rubble.
https://www.aljazeera.com/news/2025/9/22/france-recognises-palestinian-state-ahead-of-the-unga-meeting
Al Jazeera
France among six more countries to formally recognise Palestinian statehood
France, Andorra, Belgium, Luxembourg, Malta, Monaco join diplomatic push as Israel unleashes fierce attacks on Gaza.
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#Sudan: #EU extends sanctions regime by one year
The Council has agreed today to extend for another year the EU restrictive measures against those responsible for destabilising Sudan and obstructing its political transition.
As a consequence, the sanctions regime in view of the situation in Sudan will remain in force until 10 October 2026, covering ten individuals and eight entities. Those listed are subject to an EU-wide travel ban, the freezing of assets, and a prohibition on making funds or economic resources available to them, either directly or indirectly.
For the past two years, the war in Sudan has brutally impacted the lives of millions of civilians, with responsibility resting on the Rapid Support Forces (RSF), the Sudanese Armed Forces (SAF), and their respective affiliated militias.
https://www.consilium.europa.eu/en/press/press-releases/2025/09/22/sudan-eu-extends-sanctions-regime-by-one-year/
The Council has agreed today to extend for another year the EU restrictive measures against those responsible for destabilising Sudan and obstructing its political transition.
As a consequence, the sanctions regime in view of the situation in Sudan will remain in force until 10 October 2026, covering ten individuals and eight entities. Those listed are subject to an EU-wide travel ban, the freezing of assets, and a prohibition on making funds or economic resources available to them, either directly or indirectly.
For the past two years, the war in Sudan has brutally impacted the lives of millions of civilians, with responsibility resting on the Rapid Support Forces (RSF), the Sudanese Armed Forces (SAF), and their respective affiliated militias.
https://www.consilium.europa.eu/en/press/press-releases/2025/09/22/sudan-eu-extends-sanctions-regime-by-one-year/
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