#Ethiopia: PM Abiy announces ban on importing diesel-powered trucks; transport costs projected to drop 50% next year
Prime Minister #Abiy Ahmed (PhD) has announced a nationwide ban on the import of diesel-powered heavy vehicles, effective 2 October 2025, and revealed that about 2,000 buses operating in Addis Ababa and on inter-regional routes will be converted from fuel to gas this year.
“When these two thousand vehicles are converted, transport costs will decrease by at least 50 percent next year compared to the current price,” he said, adding that the measure will “greatly help the livelihoods of low-income citizens who commute for work in the city.”
The decision was unveiled on Thursday during the inauguration of the Ogaden Liquefied Natural Gas (LNG) Project in Kallub, Somali Regional State.
He noted that private investors importing gas-powered trucks will be eligible for government support, including duty-free incentives.
https://addisstandard.com/?p=52733
Prime Minister #Abiy Ahmed (PhD) has announced a nationwide ban on the import of diesel-powered heavy vehicles, effective 2 October 2025, and revealed that about 2,000 buses operating in Addis Ababa and on inter-regional routes will be converted from fuel to gas this year.
“When these two thousand vehicles are converted, transport costs will decrease by at least 50 percent next year compared to the current price,” he said, adding that the measure will “greatly help the livelihoods of low-income citizens who commute for work in the city.”
The decision was unveiled on Thursday during the inauguration of the Ogaden Liquefied Natural Gas (LNG) Project in Kallub, Somali Regional State.
He noted that private investors importing gas-powered trucks will be eligible for government support, including duty-free incentives.
https://addisstandard.com/?p=52733
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#Ethiopia: CPJ welcomes release of #Sheger_FM journalists, urges withdrawal of charges
The Committee to Protect Journalists (#CPJ) has welcomed the release of two Sheger FM radio journalists who spent three weeks in detention after covering protests by healthcare workers over poor working conditions.
“We are relieved by the September 24 release of Sheger FM radio editor Tigist Zerihun and reporter Mintamer Tsegaw, who spent three weeks in detention after covering protests over poor working conditions for healthcare workers in Ethiopia,” CPJ said in a statement.
The organization urged Ethiopian authorities to “withdraw any remaining criminal proceedings against Tigist and Mintamer and to stop using the justice system to punish independent journalism.”
Sheger FM confirmed that the two journalists were freed on 24 September 2025, following a ruling by the Federal Supreme Court.
https://web.facebook.com/AddisstandardEng/posts/pfbid02nxLezhg81aSq9EtLRSAW3AJ31vhRcWENiEHZ71o9pSppYQtYho8Wb9auMG8dVA2l
The Committee to Protect Journalists (#CPJ) has welcomed the release of two Sheger FM radio journalists who spent three weeks in detention after covering protests by healthcare workers over poor working conditions.
“We are relieved by the September 24 release of Sheger FM radio editor Tigist Zerihun and reporter Mintamer Tsegaw, who spent three weeks in detention after covering protests over poor working conditions for healthcare workers in Ethiopia,” CPJ said in a statement.
The organization urged Ethiopian authorities to “withdraw any remaining criminal proceedings against Tigist and Mintamer and to stop using the justice system to punish independent journalism.”
Sheger FM confirmed that the two journalists were freed on 24 September 2025, following a ruling by the Federal Supreme Court.
https://web.facebook.com/AddisstandardEng/posts/pfbid02nxLezhg81aSq9EtLRSAW3AJ31vhRcWENiEHZ71o9pSppYQtYho8Wb9auMG8dVA2l
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Media is too big
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PM Abiy: “We will ensure #Ethiopia’s port ownership”
- “Our desires will be achieved through Diligence, Not Begging”
During the inauguration of Ethiopia’s Calub natural gas project in the #Somali region, Prime Minister #Abiy Ahmed declared that the country will ensure its port ownership and achieve all its national ambitions through diligence, not begging.
“As the saying goes, ‘seeing is believing.’ We have completed this project just as promised before Parliament reconvenes,” he said, urging citizens—particularly those he described as “kept in the dark”—to recognize Ethiopia’s progress. With confidence, he added, “No one can stop us.”
Abiy stressed Ethiopia’s determination to secure port ownership, safeguard peace, and achieve development through hard work and unity. “All our desires will be fulfilled through the combined diligence of Ethiopians, not through begging,” he declared, noting that no nation would willingly give Ethiopia its due.
Watch
- “Our desires will be achieved through Diligence, Not Begging”
During the inauguration of Ethiopia’s Calub natural gas project in the #Somali region, Prime Minister #Abiy Ahmed declared that the country will ensure its port ownership and achieve all its national ambitions through diligence, not begging.
“As the saying goes, ‘seeing is believing.’ We have completed this project just as promised before Parliament reconvenes,” he said, urging citizens—particularly those he described as “kept in the dark”—to recognize Ethiopia’s progress. With confidence, he added, “No one can stop us.”
Abiy stressed Ethiopia’s determination to secure port ownership, safeguard peace, and achieve development through hard work and unity. “All our desires will be fulfilled through the combined diligence of Ethiopians, not through begging,” he declared, noting that no nation would willingly give Ethiopia its due.
Watch
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#AS_Editorial: End the Drone Doctrine: #Ethiopia cannot bomb its way to peace
On 04 September, Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed toured the AeroAbay drone assembly plant and proudly declared that Ethiopia’s “locally produced drones” are “key to defending the nation’s economic gains” and essential to sustaining prosperity.
The Prime Minister framed drones as proof that Ethiopia’s military power is growing in tandem with its economic development……His words were unambiguous: drones are not simply tools of defense, but a cornerstone of Ethiopia’s vision of “sovereignty” and modernization.
Jut weeks later, a drone strike on a health post in North Wollo, Amhara region killed four civilians, including a pregnant woman......
This publication believes the government must be held accountable to immediately halt drone strikes on civilian areas, permit independent investigations into past atrocities, and ensure that perpetrators face justice.
Read the Editorial
https://addisstandard.com/?p=52739
On 04 September, Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed toured the AeroAbay drone assembly plant and proudly declared that Ethiopia’s “locally produced drones” are “key to defending the nation’s economic gains” and essential to sustaining prosperity.
The Prime Minister framed drones as proof that Ethiopia’s military power is growing in tandem with its economic development……His words were unambiguous: drones are not simply tools of defense, but a cornerstone of Ethiopia’s vision of “sovereignty” and modernization.
Jut weeks later, a drone strike on a health post in North Wollo, Amhara region killed four civilians, including a pregnant woman......
This publication believes the government must be held accountable to immediately halt drone strikes on civilian areas, permit independent investigations into past atrocities, and ensure that perpetrators face justice.
Read the Editorial
https://addisstandard.com/?p=52739
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#Commentary: #Irreecha: What it is and what it isn’t
In this commentary, Irreecha is highlighted as a significant cultural celebration for the #Oromo people, deeply rooted in the Gadaa system. Marking the transition between seasons, it represents thanksgiving and renewal. During this time, Oromos express gratitude to #Waaqa (God) for the blessings of nature and life through rituals that connect them with their environment.
Irreecha also serves as a unifying event for Oromos both in Ethiopia and the diaspora. It allows diverse communities to express their collective identity. For #Generation_Z, particularly those born abroad, Irreecha becomes a vital way to reconnect with their heritage and keep traditions alive in a globalized world.
This celebration is an expression of the Oromo people’s resilience in preserving their culture amid historical challenges. Drawing millions, Irreecha symbolizes unity and pride that transcends generations.
https://addisstandard.com/?p=46161
In this commentary, Irreecha is highlighted as a significant cultural celebration for the #Oromo people, deeply rooted in the Gadaa system. Marking the transition between seasons, it represents thanksgiving and renewal. During this time, Oromos express gratitude to #Waaqa (God) for the blessings of nature and life through rituals that connect them with their environment.
Irreecha also serves as a unifying event for Oromos both in Ethiopia and the diaspora. It allows diverse communities to express their collective identity. For #Generation_Z, particularly those born abroad, Irreecha becomes a vital way to reconnect with their heritage and keep traditions alive in a globalized world.
This celebration is an expression of the Oromo people’s resilience in preserving their culture amid historical challenges. Drawing millions, Irreecha symbolizes unity and pride that transcends generations.
https://addisstandard.com/?p=46161
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In_Photo: Today, 4 October 2025 the celebrated #Irreecha Hora Finfinnee has concluded peacefully.
Our Media 'Addis Standard' covered the atmosphere of the festival by being present at the location and presented it in photos.
Our Media 'Addis Standard' covered the atmosphere of the festival by being present at the location and presented it in photos.
#Nigeria risks joining #Eritrea as the only African countries on U.S. religious freedom blacklist
Nigeria could soon be designated a "Country of Particular Concern" (CPC) by the #United_States, a label currently applied to only one other African nation, Eritrea.
The designation is reserved for states accused of engaging in or tolerating systematic, ongoing, and egregious violations of religious freedom.
In its 2025 Annual Report, the U.S. Commission on International Religious Freedom (USCIRF) recommended Nigeria’s re-designation, citing the enforcement of blasphemy laws in 12 northern states and at the federal level, which have led to prosecutions and imprisonment of individuals accused of insulting religion.
The report also highlighted violent attacks by non-state actors, including Fulani herders, armed gangs, Boko Haram, and Islamic State West Africa Province..
https://africa.businessinsider.com/local/lifestyle/nigeria-risks-joining-eritrea-as-the-only-african-countries-on-us-religious-freedom/v804d6d
Nigeria could soon be designated a "Country of Particular Concern" (CPC) by the #United_States, a label currently applied to only one other African nation, Eritrea.
The designation is reserved for states accused of engaging in or tolerating systematic, ongoing, and egregious violations of religious freedom.
In its 2025 Annual Report, the U.S. Commission on International Religious Freedom (USCIRF) recommended Nigeria’s re-designation, citing the enforcement of blasphemy laws in 12 northern states and at the federal level, which have led to prosecutions and imprisonment of individuals accused of insulting religion.
The report also highlighted violent attacks by non-state actors, including Fulani herders, armed gangs, Boko Haram, and Islamic State West Africa Province..
https://africa.businessinsider.com/local/lifestyle/nigeria-risks-joining-eritrea-as-the-only-african-countries-on-us-religious-freedom/v804d6d
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Floods kill 19, affect nearly 640,000 in #South_Sudan: UN
Widespread flooding caused by heavy rains in South Sudan has killed 19 people and affected an estimated 639,225 others across 26 counties in six states, a United Nations (#UN) humanitarian agency said on Friday.
The UN Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (OCHA) said nearly 175,000 people are displaced, sheltering on higher ground in 16 counties.
"Health risks are rising, with increasing cases of malaria, respiratory infections, and diarrhea," OCHA said in its latest humanitarian report released in Juba, the capital of South Sudan.
It said at least 121 health facilities have been impacted amid reports of 144 snake bites and 3,391 malnutrition cases across 11 counties.
https://english.news.cn/africa/20251004/729bbfe4805844e0b6dc98f8638e52ba/c.html
Widespread flooding caused by heavy rains in South Sudan has killed 19 people and affected an estimated 639,225 others across 26 counties in six states, a United Nations (#UN) humanitarian agency said on Friday.
The UN Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (OCHA) said nearly 175,000 people are displaced, sheltering on higher ground in 16 counties.
"Health risks are rising, with increasing cases of malaria, respiratory infections, and diarrhea," OCHA said in its latest humanitarian report released in Juba, the capital of South Sudan.
It said at least 121 health facilities have been impacted amid reports of 144 snake bites and 3,391 malnutrition cases across 11 counties.
https://english.news.cn/africa/20251004/729bbfe4805844e0b6dc98f8638e52ba/c.html
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#Opinion: #Irreechaa and Christ: Beyond politics, beyond demonization
In his opinion piece “Irreechaa and Christ: Beyond politics, beyond demonization,” the author Naol Befkadu Kebede, MD, delivers a pointed rebuttal to recent theological and political interpretations of Irreechaa by two scholars, arguing that both misrepresent and diminish the festival’s deeper cultural and spiritual significance. He takes aim at Yonas Gorfe’s view that ties Irreechaa to #Oromo nationalism and Kebede Bedhadha’s framing of #Waaqeffannaa as demonic, insisting that “both miss the question of how a Christian relates to their roots.” The author contends that their approaches, one politicizing and the other demonizing, “end in erasure,” replacing authentic Oromoness with sectarian identities that declare, in effect, “to be an Oromo is to be a born-again Christian.”
Rejecting both extremes, the author argues that Christian faith does not require cultural amnesia. “Can one be a Christian and still embrace their roots without compromise?” he asks. “Must conversion always mean cultural amnesia?” He grounds his argument in noscripture, asserting that being “a new creation in Christ” does not entail escaping one’s community but living “as a redeemed presence within it.”
Attending Irreechaa, he writes, “is not to regress spiritually but to confess our belonging, to say we are part of our people and their story.” For him, the Christian calling is not to sever ties with culture, but to redeem them through faith.
He further draws on historical and theological precedents to reinforce this view. The apostles, he notes, remained connected to their Jewish rituals even after their conversion, while global Christianity has always grown through “translation and incarnation, not erasure.” Quoting theologians like Lamin Sanneh and Kwame Bediako, the author underscores that “Christianity is never foreign anywhere” and warns that when African Christians reject their heritage, “the gospel is impoverished.” For the Oromo, he writes, the task is not to redefine themselves as Orthodox, Protestant, or Muslim first, but to “safeguard the uniqueness of Oromoness even as they embrace Christ.”
Ultimately, the opinion challenges Ethiopian theologians to “wrestle” with, rather than reject, Irreechaa and Waaqeffannaa. “Too many of our contemporary writings on Irreechaa and Waaqeffannaa betray weaknesses,” he argues, “either weaponizing the festival as nationalist politics or casting it off in fear as a demonic threat.” True theology, he insists, must listen, discern, and redeem rather than erase. His concluding warning is both cultural and spiritual: “If we lose our roots, we lose more than culture. We lose the very ground where the gospel can take root and bear fruit.”
https://addisstandard.com/?p=52748
In his opinion piece “Irreechaa and Christ: Beyond politics, beyond demonization,” the author Naol Befkadu Kebede, MD, delivers a pointed rebuttal to recent theological and political interpretations of Irreechaa by two scholars, arguing that both misrepresent and diminish the festival’s deeper cultural and spiritual significance. He takes aim at Yonas Gorfe’s view that ties Irreechaa to #Oromo nationalism and Kebede Bedhadha’s framing of #Waaqeffannaa as demonic, insisting that “both miss the question of how a Christian relates to their roots.” The author contends that their approaches, one politicizing and the other demonizing, “end in erasure,” replacing authentic Oromoness with sectarian identities that declare, in effect, “to be an Oromo is to be a born-again Christian.”
Rejecting both extremes, the author argues that Christian faith does not require cultural amnesia. “Can one be a Christian and still embrace their roots without compromise?” he asks. “Must conversion always mean cultural amnesia?” He grounds his argument in noscripture, asserting that being “a new creation in Christ” does not entail escaping one’s community but living “as a redeemed presence within it.”
Attending Irreechaa, he writes, “is not to regress spiritually but to confess our belonging, to say we are part of our people and their story.” For him, the Christian calling is not to sever ties with culture, but to redeem them through faith.
He further draws on historical and theological precedents to reinforce this view. The apostles, he notes, remained connected to their Jewish rituals even after their conversion, while global Christianity has always grown through “translation and incarnation, not erasure.” Quoting theologians like Lamin Sanneh and Kwame Bediako, the author underscores that “Christianity is never foreign anywhere” and warns that when African Christians reject their heritage, “the gospel is impoverished.” For the Oromo, he writes, the task is not to redefine themselves as Orthodox, Protestant, or Muslim first, but to “safeguard the uniqueness of Oromoness even as they embrace Christ.”
Ultimately, the opinion challenges Ethiopian theologians to “wrestle” with, rather than reject, Irreechaa and Waaqeffannaa. “Too many of our contemporary writings on Irreechaa and Waaqeffannaa betray weaknesses,” he argues, “either weaponizing the festival as nationalist politics or casting it off in fear as a demonic threat.” True theology, he insists, must listen, discern, and redeem rather than erase. His concluding warning is both cultural and spiritual: “If we lose our roots, we lose more than culture. We lose the very ground where the gospel can take root and bear fruit.”
https://addisstandard.com/?p=52748
Addis Standard
Irreechaa and Christ: Beyond politics, beyond demonization - Addis Standard
Irreechaa and Christ: Beyond politics, beyond demonization Addis Standard Opinion -
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#GERD prevented ‘historic destruction’ in #Sudan, #Egypt, Ethiopia asserts
#Ethiopia has dismissed accusations made by the Egyptian Ministry of Water Resources and Irrigation regarding the Grand Ethiopian Renaissance Dam (GERD), calling them “falsehoods” and “misrepresentations.”
In a statement on Friday, 3 October 2025, Egypt’s ministry claimed Ethiopia’s dam management “lacks the most basic principles of responsibility and transparency.”
In response, Ethiopia’s Ministry of Water and Irrigation in a statement released 4 October 2025, argued that regulated water flow from the dam has reduced peak flood magnitudes and minimized damage downstream.
Citing data recorded in Sudan, the statement noted that prior to the GERD, peak floods in the months of August & September often exceeded 800 million cubic meters per day. In comparison, the average daily release from the GERD in the same months this year was 154.7 million cubic meters & 472 million cubic meters, respectively.
https://addisstandard.com/?p=52747
#Ethiopia has dismissed accusations made by the Egyptian Ministry of Water Resources and Irrigation regarding the Grand Ethiopian Renaissance Dam (GERD), calling them “falsehoods” and “misrepresentations.”
In a statement on Friday, 3 October 2025, Egypt’s ministry claimed Ethiopia’s dam management “lacks the most basic principles of responsibility and transparency.”
In response, Ethiopia’s Ministry of Water and Irrigation in a statement released 4 October 2025, argued that regulated water flow from the dam has reduced peak flood magnitudes and minimized damage downstream.
Citing data recorded in Sudan, the statement noted that prior to the GERD, peak floods in the months of August & September often exceeded 800 million cubic meters per day. In comparison, the average daily release from the GERD in the same months this year was 154.7 million cubic meters & 472 million cubic meters, respectively.
https://addisstandard.com/?p=52747
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