Home - ENA English
Headlines
Africa Must Urgently Invest in Economic Recovery, Finance Ministers Urge
Mar 22, 2023 38
Addis Ababa March 22/2023 (ENA) Africa should deploy innovative resource mobilization and accelerate economic recovery from multiple crises which have eroded two decades of development gains and increased poverty, Ministers of Finance have urged. In a Ministerial Statement adopted at the 55th session of the Conference of African Ministers of Finance, Planning and Economic Development, in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, ministers reiterated the urgency of transforming Africa’s economies and driving industrialization. They underscored the need to expedite economic recovery in Africa which is likely to miss many of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). Noting that the COVID-19 pandemic, the war in Ukraine and climate change will hinder Africa’s efforts to achieve the SDGs and Agenda 2063, the Ministers said. They added that the triple crises have disrupted food and energy markets, exacerbated food insecurity and caused high inflation rates which have pushed millions of Africans into poverty and economic hardship. Africa needs to invest approximately 66 billion USD in its health systems and health infrastructure. Furthermore, financing to close infrastructure deficits amounts to between 137 billion USD and 177 billion USD by 2025, the ministers stated. In addition, the Ministers recognised that meeting SDG targets to eradicate extreme poverty and reduce inequality within seven years in line with the 2030 Agenda, is becoming increasingly unlikely. Poverty and inequality in Africa will therefore pose high risks to prosperity, peace and security, and to the social contract, according to the Ministers. The Ministers, therefore, acknowledged the need to stimulate economic recovery and to protect vulnerable populations against soaring inflation – which was forecast to reach 12.4 per cent in Africa in 2023. Rising interest rates, and the tightening of monetary policy by central banks to combat inflation have contributed to the worsening of the already limited fiscal space, the Ministers statement said. The Agreement establishing the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) will increase intra-African trade in agrifood, services, industry, energy and mining while attracting cross-border investments, the Ministers noted in the statement calling on the ECA to support the continent with strategic thinking and new perspectives achieve prosperity by 2030 and realize the objectives of the 2030 Agenda and Agenda 2063. ECA Acting Executive Secretary, Antonio Pedro, in closing the conference, said in order to foster recovery and transformation in Africa, the continent should prioritize skills enhancement, industrialization and economic diversification, infrastructure development, intra-Africa trade and innovative financing. “We have the mandate to deliver on our promise of shared prosperity to the people of Africa,” Pedro said, adding that sustainable solutions must be developed by Africa and partnership and collaborations were key to a transformed Africa.
Council of Ministers Raises Authorized Capital of Ethiopian Railway Corporation to 221 Billion Birr
Mar 21, 2023 171
Addis Ababa March 21/2023 (ENA) The Council of Ministers has decided to raise the authorized capital of Ethiopian Railways Corporation (ERC) to 221 billion Birr, according to the Office of the Prime Minister. In its regular session today, the council instructed the ERC to complete infrastructures under construction and to make the completed ones operational. The regulation on the corporation would accordingly become effective from the date of its publication on the Negarit Gazette. Moreover, the council discussed various issues and referred proclamations to the House of People's Representatives (HPR) for endorsement, it was learned. The council also discussed a draft proclamation on public enterprises. The bill is aimed at ensuring the transparency and accountability of the corporate management system of public enterprises, strengthening their competitiveness and efficiency through modernizing their corporate finance management system. The bill is expected to improve the debt burden of the enterprises so that they can effectively discharge their social responsibilities without affecting their profitability. More importantly, it enables the state-owned enterprises to contribute to the country’s economic development, it was learned. The council referred the draft proclamation to the House of People's Representatives for endorsement. The other draft bills tabled for discussion were proclamations designed to approve the agreements Ethiopia has concluded with the Luxembourg government and the Swiss Confederation for avoidance of double taxation and tax evasion prevention. During the discussion, it was noted that the proclamations have significant contributions towards encouraging investors to invest their resources in Ethiopia. The bills were subsequently referred to the House of People’s Representatives for approval.
Development of Ethiopia's Capital Market Well Underway: ECMA Director-General
Mar 21, 2023 146
Addis Ababa March 21/2023 (ENA) The process of realizing a capital market in Ethiopia is well underway in order to ensure the existence of a functioning market soon, Ethiopian Capital Market Authority (ECMA) Director-General Brook Taye said. In an exclusive interview with ENA, the director-general said what the authority has been doing is establishing the necessary legal parameters that allows to start the market and become operational. The authority has finalized and issued three different directives, according to Brook. Those are “capital market service provider’s directive, exchange directive, and self regulatory directives which would allow us to start issuing the necessary licenses to market participants.” Under the capital market service provider directive, for instance, the authority will be licensing brokers, dealers, investment banks and advisors as well as several types of market participants, he added The director-general stated that ECMA has “received excellent feedbacks from a lot of people who are experts in this field and we are finalizing those directives and providing the final version for adoption.” Stressing that significance of structuring the institution, he said that ECMA has been structuring the authority in different areas, including hiring qualified human resource, alongside its priority of designing a five-year strategy. With regarding to its mandate, its priorities are supporting “the market, investors, and focusing energy getting investors ready to participate in the market.” The overall “process is progressing well based on our time line that we shared with our Board. And we are going to deliver on commitment to make sure that Ethiopia would have functioning capital markets very soon,” Brook elaborated. Obviously, as a new institution, there are a lot of challenges that need to be overcome; but we will deliver on our commitment and the responsibility that the authority has. Recalling that one of the major commitments of the government is to make sure that there is macro-stability, the director-general underscored that when you envision macro stability that means you try to focus on having a market mechanism to mobilize resources. The Ethiopian Capital Market Authority (ECMA) was established in June 2022 by the National Bank of Ethiopia.
Gov't Striving to Enhance Responsible Agricultural Investment that Meets Accepted Principles
Mar 21, 2023 147
Addis Ababa March 21/2023 (ENA) The Ethiopian government is striving to enhance responsible agricultural investment that can meet nationally, regionally, and internationally accepted principles, according to Ministry of Agriculture. In his opening remark at the National Multi-Stakeholders Dialogue on Responsible Governance of Investment in Land underway here in Addis Ababa, Agriculture State Minister Ifa Muleta said land in Ethiopia is not only the foundation of the economy, but also plays significant role in cultural, social, and political affairs. The Government of Ethiopia is, therefore, carefully looking for a long-term sustainable land use system which enables it to design a guiding policy framework that addresses both small holders and commercial ones. According to him, the government has demonstrated strong commitment to agriculture in order to increase production and productivity of small holders through dissemination of effective technologies and scaling up strategies. As a result, considerable achievements have been registered over the past decades even if there is still substantial scope to improve production, productivity, and to also create untapped market linkages, it was learned. “We are striving to enhance responsible agricultural investment that can meet national, regional and international accepted principles and guidelines in an innovative and responsible ways. Indeed, establishing responsible agricultural investment system in the main objective of our current reform agenda in the sector land governance is a crucial issue.” Responsible Governance of Investment in Land Project Manager, Christian Mesmer said land is a finite and non-renewable resource that many found significance in economic, social, ecological, cultural and political terms. Due attention must (therefore) be given to this precious resource from national to kebele level. The manager noted that the global rush for land indicates that many land owner local communities do not benefit from land investment. Christian added that the lack of safeguarding and consultation mechanisms in doing land allocation process result in land degradation, dispute and evictions. “With its agricultural reform agenda, the Government of Ethiopia has demonstrated its commitment for good land governance through improved land tenure security for both small holders and commercial agricultural investment and alike,” he stressed. Many systematic efforts have been undertaken, the manager stated, adding that the country can still make major headway in ensuring responsible agricultural investment. EU Delegation Green Deal Team leader, Roberto Schiliro said on his part that land governance is a precondition for any development policy and strategy in agriculture. This is particularly important in Ethiopia to fully exploit its unleashed potential, the team leader said, adding the UN and its member states have taken various measures, including the adoption of UN land policy guidance in 2004, in order to meet these objectives. The EU supports this initiative acknowledging that responsible land management is a key and critical issue in Ethiopia, according to Schiliro. The team leader further underlined that we need to have specific Ethiopian approach. “We need to be inclusive and innovative in the approach to land management in Ethiopia.”
Finance Minister Says Ethiopia's Measures to Avert Economic Pressure Effective
Mar 21, 2023 139
Addis Ababa March 21/2023 (ENA) The Government of Ethiopia has been effective in implementing different policies and response measures to avert the impacts of internal and global shocks on the economy, Finance Minister Ahmed Shide said. Speaking at the 55th Conference of African Ministers of Finance, Planning, and Economic Development hosted by the UNECA, the minister stated that COVID-19, the Russia-Ukraine war and internal conflicts as well as climate change have mainly affected many African countries. And Ethiopia’s economy has similarly faced the impacts of the above. With the introduction of the Home-Grown Economic Reform and fiscal and monetary policy responses as well as boosting production and precautionary health measures, however, Ethiopia has succeeded in withstanding the shocks and registering growth, he elaborated. According to him, the production of wheat and maize in particular was boosted, health equipment were manufactured massively to prevent spread of the pandemic and digital financial services improved. Following the global fertilizer price increase, the government has been subsidizing the purchase of fertilizers to help boost agricultural production and ensure food security. The National Bank of Ethiopia also injected funding into commercial banks that had been experiencing liquidity challenges, personal income tax payments postponed, bank loan repayments rescheduled, and tax amnesty given to different sectors, among other measures, Ahmed pointed out. However, despite the gains registered by introducing and implementing various measures, forex distortions, fiscal deficits, and rising inflation remain major economic setbacks to the economy. Therefore, the second version of Home-Grown Economic Reform will continue to consolidate the gains and address the current and emerging challenges, the minister added. Joint United Nations Programme on HIV/AIDS Executive Director, Winnie Byanyima on the occasion hailed Ethiopia’s response to the shocks and observed that the biggest challenge for Africa is access to fair financial services. Even before the COVID-19 crisis and the war in Ukraine, countries were borrowing at an interest rate of over eight percent, while the high-income countries borrowed at lower rates as low as one percent, she revealed. The high cost of borrowing is taking away Africa’s prospects of achieving SDGs, the executive director stressed. Moreover, Byanyima stressed that the challenge of not being able to borrow in countries’ own currency points to how countries are being treated unequally on matters of access to affordable finances. Hence, she stated that there is a need for countries to tackle the high cost of debts, connect financing with SDG achievement, and push harder for Africa to have a seat at the G20 forum.
Politics
Council of Ministers Raises Authorized Capital of Ethiopian Railway Corporation to 221 Billion Birr
Mar 21, 2023 171
Addis Ababa March 21/2023 (ENA) The Council of Ministers has decided to raise the authorized capital of Ethiopian Railways Corporation (ERC) to 221 billion Birr, according to the Office of the Prime Minister. In its regular session today, the council instructed the ERC to complete infrastructures under construction and to make the completed ones operational. The regulation on the corporation would accordingly become effective from the date of its publication on the Negarit Gazette. Moreover, the council discussed various issues and referred proclamations to the House of People's Representatives (HPR) for endorsement, it was learned. The council also discussed a draft proclamation on public enterprises. The bill is aimed at ensuring the transparency and accountability of the corporate management system of public enterprises, strengthening their competitiveness and efficiency through modernizing their corporate finance management system. The bill is expected to improve the debt burden of the enterprises so that they can effectively discharge their social responsibilities without affecting their profitability. More importantly, it enables the state-owned enterprises to contribute to the country’s economic development, it was learned. The council referred the draft proclamation to the House of People's Representatives for endorsement. The other draft bills tabled for discussion were proclamations designed to approve the agreements Ethiopia has concluded with the Luxembourg government and the Swiss Confederation for avoidance of double taxation and tax evasion prevention. During the discussion, it was noted that the proclamations have significant contributions towards encouraging investors to invest their resources in Ethiopia. The bills were subsequently referred to the House of People’s Representatives for approval.
Ethiopia Rejects Statement Issued By U.S. State Department As ‘Blanket Condemnations’
Mar 21, 2023 280
Addis Ababa March 21/2023 (ENA) The US State Department has issued a statement determining that certain grave crimes were committed during the conflict in northern Ethiopia. Considering the Report of the Joint Investigation by the Ethiopian Human Rights Commission (EHRC) and the UN Office of the High Commissioner for Human Rights (UN-OHCHR), this statement does not contain new findings, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Ethiopia stated in a statement issued on Tuesday. The statement said the Government of Ethiopia does not accept the blanket condemnations contained in the statement and does not see any value in such a unilateral and adversarial approach. The statement is selective as it unfairly apportions blame among different parties in the conflict. For no apparent reason, the statement appears to exonerate one party from certain allegations of human rights violations such as rape and other forms of sexual violence despite the clear and overwhelming evidence about its culpability, it added. “The statement is untimely. It is coming shortly after the launching of national consultations on options for a transitional justice policy. One of the pillars of transitional justice policy is accountability. This foresees that there will be further investigations into allegations of the kinds of crimes the statement alleges. These investigations will consolidate those undertaken by the Inter-Ministerial Taskforce implementing the recommendations of the EHRC-OHCHR Joint Investigation. It thus prejudices these national efforts to thoroughly investigate allegations, whoever is the culprit.” The U.S. statement is inflammatory, it said adding that whatever the intentions of the US State Department, this statement will be used to advance highly polarized campaigns pitting one community against others in the country. The Ministry of Foreign Affairs stated: “this partisan and divisive approach from the US is ill-advised. As Ethiopia is implementing the Peace Agreement, such apportioning of blame is unwarranted and undercuts the support of the US for an inclusive peace process in Ethiopia.” According to Foreign Ministry, the visit of the US Secretary of State gave hope that the two countries are poised to mend their bilateral relations. The Government of Ethiopia hopes that despite the US’s statement, the frank discussions held and understanding reached during the Secretary of State’s visit to Ethiopia will help restore the strategic relations between Ethiopia and the United States, it affirmed. The Government of Ethiopia will continue implementing all measures of accountability, including finalizing the nationwide consultation on transitional justice and ensuring that justice is done for all victims. Friends of Ethiopia are welcome to constructively support this process, Ethiopia’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs said.
DPM & FM Confers With Yemeni Foreign Minister
Mar 21, 2023 110
Addis Ababa March 21/2023 /ENA/Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs, Demeke Mekonnen has conferred with Yemeni Foreign Minister Dr. Ahmed Awad bin Mubarak. During the deliberations Demeke briefed the Yemeni Foreign Minister on current affairs. Working to consolidate the peace process is a key priority of Ethiopia, he noted. Demeke concurrently emphasized the need to capitalize on the historical ties between the two countries that predicate not only on interests but also age-old people-to-people relations. While underscoring the need to further bolster the multifaceted ties, the Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister urged Dr. Mubarak, to work closely towards the reactivation of relations. The Foreign Minister of Yemen for his part said Yemen and Ethiopia need political consultations. He also said, the Government of Yemen will assist the Government of Ethiopia to expedite the voluntary repatriation of Ethiopians in Yemen. The Foreign Minister of Yemen arrived in Addis Ababa yesterday for an official working visit to Ethiopia. The objective of the visit is to exchange views on ways strengthening the bilateral relations of Ethiopia and Yemen, it was learned.
France Donate Over 900 Children's Books to Abrehot Library
Mar 20, 2023 136
Addis Ababa March 20/2023 (ENA) The government of France has today donated 932 new children's books to Abrehot Library. Speaking at the event, Head of Cooperation and Culture of the French Embassy, Sophie Makame, said a year ago, the Cooperation Department of the Embassy of France in Ethiopia was approached by the management team of Abrehot library , wishing to develop a foreign languages section in the library. Hence, the embassy of France acquired a set of 932 beautiful books in French language, dedicate to Ethiopian children, to serve as the foundation of a French language corner in Abrehot library, she stated. According to her, the newly designed permanent French language corner at Abrehot Library is therefore the place for all French –speaking people in Addis Ababa including Ethiopian children who speak French and children from French speaking countries. Addis Ababa University managed, Abrehot Library is currently among the biggest libraries in Africa. Addis Ababa University President, Professor Tassew Woldehanna, said on the occasion that to eradicate poverty education is a key noting that education cannot be expanded without books. According to him, everyday over 4,000 people from all walks of life, mostly young people, are using the library. "We have many diplomats from French speaking African countries as Ethiopia is the head of African Union’, he said, adding putting books at Abrehot means that you can access many readers in the country. Knowledge is the building block of civilization, he said, hence the books donated to the library will be beneficial.
Yemeni Foreign Minister Arrives in Addis Ababa for Official Working Visit
Mar 20, 2023 219
Addis Ababa March 20/2023 (ENA)The Foreign Minister of Yemen, Dr. Ahmad Awad bin Mubarak has arrived in Addis Ababa today for an official working visit to Ethiopia. Upon arrival at the Addis Ababa Bole International Airport, he was accorded a warm welcome by State Minister of Foreign Affairs, Misganu Arega. The objective of the visit is to exchange views on ways strengthening the bilateral relations of Ethiopia and Yemen, it was learned. During his stay in Ethiopia, the Foreign Minister of Yemen is expected to discuss with senior officials of the government of Ethiopia.
Americans Stress for Robust Relationship Between US, Ethiopia
Mar 18, 2023 455
Addis Ababa March 18/2023 (ENA)The United States and Ethiopia need to have robust bilateral relationships between them, two Americans told ENA. The American political and economic analyst Lawrence Freeman and fellow American journalist Hammond underscored that Ethiopia is a strategic nation in African continent which the US is seeking to build a robust bilateral relationships with Ethiopia. They also said the US Secretary of State, Antony Blinken's visit to Ethiopia is a clear indication of an attempt by the Biden administration for a positive relationship with the east African nation. Recall Secretary Blinken had an official visit in Ethiopia last week and met various officials to consolidate bilateral ties between the two countries. According to Lawrence Freeman, the visit was a significant move by the United States in resuming relations with Ethiopia. “It is clear that there is an attempt by the US government to move forward, assuming some kind of positive relationship with Ethiopia. And I think that from what I can tell the Government of Ethiopia sees this visit as positive and significant.” The United States is of course seeking to influence what's on the African continent. However, this high level visit by Secretary of State Blinken is more than that, Freeman said. “I think the United States or some faction of people in the government, (that is) in the Biden Administration, have realized that it's possible to have a working relationship with Ethiopia. One is because it is the dominant nation in the Horn of Africa. Ethiopia is also the second most populous nation on the continent. It is needed in many ways.” The analyst also mentioned that the United States of America is the leading humanitarian partner and contributor to Ethiopia during a war also this year. However, Freeman strongly insists the US Administration extends robust economic development cooperation with Ethiopia in addition to humanitarian support. “We really want to have a robust relationship between the two nations and we should have that kind of relationship. Then it will launch massive economic infrastructure, development programs between the two countries,” he stressed. The country was struggling and making some economic progress. But it still had two years of war which was very disruptive, he stated. “If the United States wants to have security in the Horn of Africa and wants to regain its influence in Africa, the Secretary of State should be outlining a massive economic assistance program more than aid,” the analyst underscored. Similarly, Fellow with the Center of Media and Peace Initiatives and award-winning American journalist Joseph Hammond said Blinken’s visit is a positive one for Ethiopia and America relationships. “I think this visit is a victory for those in the Administration who support the strong relationship between the United States and Ethiopia. Within the Biden Administration there are two factions about how to work with Ethiopia, and the trip is a real victory for those of us who support stronger US-Ethiopian relations. I think the outcome here is the beneficiary of both countries.” As the US government has given special attention to building a better relationship with Africa, Ethiopia is a very strategic nation in the continent, Hammond added. “You know one of the major priorities of the Biden Administration is to build better relationships with Africa. So Secretary Antony Blinken’s trip to Ethiopia is a demonstration. If you want to prioritize Africa, you have to involve Ethiopia. Ethiopia is the second most populous country in Africa.” Furthermore, he noted that Ethiopia is also a rapidly developing country and one of the pillars of African civility.
New Book Authored by PM Abiy Launched
Mar 18, 2023 377
Addis Ababa March 18/2023 /ENA/ "Generation Medemer", a third series of Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed's book, was launched today. Abiy has previously published two books titled "Medemer" and "Medemer Journey." This latest series, "Generation Medemer", is published in Amharic, Afan Oromo, and English languages. Today's launching ceremony was attended by federal and regional government officials and invited guests During the ceremony, scholars presented their assessments and reviews on the book. It is to be recalled that the proceedings from the sale of the previous two books were used for construction of schools. Similarly, the proceedings of the present book will be used to restore historical and tourist attractions in regions, it was learned.
South African, Gambian Scholars Say Transitional Justice Best Solution to Ethiopia
Mar 18, 2023 401
Addis Ababa March 18/2023 /ENA/ Scholars from South Africa and Gambia said that the transitional justice which their countries have passed through is best solutions for countries such as Ethiopia experiencing conflicts. The scholars approached by ENA said that transitional justice has contributed to build a better future in countries gripped with conflicts. The scholars believe that the way South Africa and the Gambia went through in the transitional justice process will give Ethiopia a better experience. Ethiopia has been developing a transitional justice policy document which is expected to contribute to sustainable peace, through reconciliation, compensation and prosecution in the country, it was indicated. Recall transitional justice has contributed to sustainable peace, reconciliation and justice in many countries’ endeavors to transition from conflict and authoritarian rule to kick start democratization process and post-conflict re-organization of political systems. As many African countries have ample evidence of transitional justice practices, among which, South Africa and Gambia are mentioned in this regard. The Head of the Institute for Justice and Reconciliation at the University of Freetown in South Africa, Professor Tim Murithi praised Ethiopia for starting the process of transitional justice to solve its problems. The professor, who has done extensive research on transitional justice in Africa, said that Ethiopia is a historical and symbolic country of Africa and hoped the transitional justice would solve the deep-rooted challenges. In a society that has gone through many conflicts and oppression, transitional justice is instrumental in compensating the past deeds and pave the way for building better society in the future, the scholar pointed out. “For building peace that has injured conflict, has had violation takes place, transitional justice is a way for societies to deal with the tensions they are experiencing and to surface the issues that took place in the past. So that the people of the society can work together in an inclusive way to find ways to heal the past violations and to also build new institutions as well as stronger communities and socially cohesive societies going forward " Gambian scholar Dr. Baba Galleh Jallow said on his part that the importance of transitional justice, especially for countries like Ethiopia, is unquestionable. Jallow who was also former Executive Secretary-General of the Truth, Reconciliation and Reparations Commission (TRRC) of Gambia said Ethiopia has been making a great move to ensure transitional justice. “A society cannot move forward without dealing with the past especially on human rights violations. Every society, Ethiopia and other countries that have gone through conflict and authoritarianism need to face the past…..and chart a course for the future. So it is very important that Ethiopia goes this process,” he pointed out. Professor Tim Murithi also noted the transitional justice which South Africa implemented to resolve the pains of the apartheid.
Politics
Council of Ministers Raises Authorized Capital of Ethiopian Railway Corporation to 221 Billion Birr
Mar 21, 2023 171
Addis Ababa March 21/2023 (ENA) The Council of Ministers has decided to raise the authorized capital of Ethiopian Railways Corporation (ERC) to 221 billion Birr, according to the Office of the Prime Minister. In its regular session today, the council instructed the ERC to complete infrastructures under construction and to make the completed ones operational. The regulation on the corporation would accordingly become effective from the date of its publication on the Negarit Gazette. Moreover, the council discussed various issues and referred proclamations to the House of People's Representatives (HPR) for endorsement, it was learned. The council also discussed a draft proclamation on public enterprises. The bill is aimed at ensuring the transparency and accountability of the corporate management system of public enterprises, strengthening their competitiveness and efficiency through modernizing their corporate finance management system. The bill is expected to improve the debt burden of the enterprises so that they can effectively discharge their social responsibilities without affecting their profitability. More importantly, it enables the state-owned enterprises to contribute to the country’s economic development, it was learned. The council referred the draft proclamation to the House of People's Representatives for endorsement. The other draft bills tabled for discussion were proclamations designed to approve the agreements Ethiopia has concluded with the Luxembourg government and the Swiss Confederation for avoidance of double taxation and tax evasion prevention. During the discussion, it was noted that the proclamations have significant contributions towards encouraging investors to invest their resources in Ethiopia. The bills were subsequently referred to the House of People’s Representatives for approval.
Ethiopia Rejects Statement Issued By U.S. State Department As ‘Blanket Condemnations’
Mar 21, 2023 280
Addis Ababa March 21/2023 (ENA) The US State Department has issued a statement determining that certain grave crimes were committed during the conflict in northern Ethiopia. Considering the Report of the Joint Investigation by the Ethiopian Human Rights Commission (EHRC) and the UN Office of the High Commissioner for Human Rights (UN-OHCHR), this statement does not contain new findings, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Ethiopia stated in a statement issued on Tuesday. The statement said the Government of Ethiopia does not accept the blanket condemnations contained in the statement and does not see any value in such a unilateral and adversarial approach. The statement is selective as it unfairly apportions blame among different parties in the conflict. For no apparent reason, the statement appears to exonerate one party from certain allegations of human rights violations such as rape and other forms of sexual violence despite the clear and overwhelming evidence about its culpability, it added. “The statement is untimely. It is coming shortly after the launching of national consultations on options for a transitional justice policy. One of the pillars of transitional justice policy is accountability. This foresees that there will be further investigations into allegations of the kinds of crimes the statement alleges. These investigations will consolidate those undertaken by the Inter-Ministerial Taskforce implementing the recommendations of the EHRC-OHCHR Joint Investigation. It thus prejudices these national efforts to thoroughly investigate allegations, whoever is the culprit.” The U.S. statement is inflammatory, it said adding that whatever the intentions of the US State Department, this statement will be used to advance highly polarized campaigns pitting one community against others in the country. The Ministry of Foreign Affairs stated: “this partisan and divisive approach from the US is ill-advised. As Ethiopia is implementing the Peace Agreement, such apportioning of blame is unwarranted and undercuts the support of the US for an inclusive peace process in Ethiopia.” According to Foreign Ministry, the visit of the US Secretary of State gave hope that the two countries are poised to mend their bilateral relations. The Government of Ethiopia hopes that despite the US’s statement, the frank discussions held and understanding reached during the Secretary of State’s visit to Ethiopia will help restore the strategic relations between Ethiopia and the United States, it affirmed. The Government of Ethiopia will continue implementing all measures of accountability, including finalizing the nationwide consultation on transitional justice and ensuring that justice is done for all victims. Friends of Ethiopia are welcome to constructively support this process, Ethiopia’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs said.
DPM & FM Confers With Yemeni Foreign Minister
Mar 21, 2023 110
Addis Ababa March 21/2023 /ENA/Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs, Demeke Mekonnen has conferred with Yemeni Foreign Minister Dr. Ahmed Awad bin Mubarak. During the deliberations Demeke briefed the Yemeni Foreign Minister on current affairs. Working to consolidate the peace process is a key priority of Ethiopia, he noted. Demeke concurrently emphasized the need to capitalize on the historical ties between the two countries that predicate not only on interests but also age-old people-to-people relations. While underscoring the need to further bolster the multifaceted ties, the Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister urged Dr. Mubarak, to work closely towards the reactivation of relations. The Foreign Minister of Yemen for his part said Yemen and Ethiopia need political consultations. He also said, the Government of Yemen will assist the Government of Ethiopia to expedite the voluntary repatriation of Ethiopians in Yemen. The Foreign Minister of Yemen arrived in Addis Ababa yesterday for an official working visit to Ethiopia. The objective of the visit is to exchange views on ways strengthening the bilateral relations of Ethiopia and Yemen, it was learned.
France Donate Over 900 Children's Books to Abrehot Library
Mar 20, 2023 136
Addis Ababa March 20/2023 (ENA) The government of France has today donated 932 new children's books to Abrehot Library. Speaking at the event, Head of Cooperation and Culture of the French Embassy, Sophie Makame, said a year ago, the Cooperation Department of the Embassy of France in Ethiopia was approached by the management team of Abrehot library , wishing to develop a foreign languages section in the library. Hence, the embassy of France acquired a set of 932 beautiful books in French language, dedicate to Ethiopian children, to serve as the foundation of a French language corner in Abrehot library, she stated. According to her, the newly designed permanent French language corner at Abrehot Library is therefore the place for all French –speaking people in Addis Ababa including Ethiopian children who speak French and children from French speaking countries. Addis Ababa University managed, Abrehot Library is currently among the biggest libraries in Africa. Addis Ababa University President, Professor Tassew Woldehanna, said on the occasion that to eradicate poverty education is a key noting that education cannot be expanded without books. According to him, everyday over 4,000 people from all walks of life, mostly young people, are using the library. "We have many diplomats from French speaking African countries as Ethiopia is the head of African Union’, he said, adding putting books at Abrehot means that you can access many readers in the country. Knowledge is the building block of civilization, he said, hence the books donated to the library will be beneficial.
Yemeni Foreign Minister Arrives in Addis Ababa for Official Working Visit
Mar 20, 2023 219
Addis Ababa March 20/2023 (ENA)The Foreign Minister of Yemen, Dr. Ahmad Awad bin Mubarak has arrived in Addis Ababa today for an official working visit to Ethiopia. Upon arrival at the Addis Ababa Bole International Airport, he was accorded a warm welcome by State Minister of Foreign Affairs, Misganu Arega. The objective of the visit is to exchange views on ways strengthening the bilateral relations of Ethiopia and Yemen, it was learned. During his stay in Ethiopia, the Foreign Minister of Yemen is expected to discuss with senior officials of the government of Ethiopia.
Americans Stress for Robust Relationship Between US, Ethiopia
Mar 18, 2023 455
Addis Ababa March 18/2023 (ENA)The United States and Ethiopia need to have robust bilateral relationships between them, two Americans told ENA. The American political and economic analyst Lawrence Freeman and fellow American journalist Hammond underscored that Ethiopia is a strategic nation in African continent which the US is seeking to build a robust bilateral relationships with Ethiopia. They also said the US Secretary of State, Antony Blinken's visit to Ethiopia is a clear indication of an attempt by the Biden administration for a positive relationship with the east African nation. Recall Secretary Blinken had an official visit in Ethiopia last week and met various officials to consolidate bilateral ties between the two countries. According to Lawrence Freeman, the visit was a significant move by the United States in resuming relations with Ethiopia. “It is clear that there is an attempt by the US government to move forward, assuming some kind of positive relationship with Ethiopia. And I think that from what I can tell the Government of Ethiopia sees this visit as positive and significant.” The United States is of course seeking to influence what's on the African continent. However, this high level visit by Secretary of State Blinken is more than that, Freeman said. “I think the United States or some faction of people in the government, (that is) in the Biden Administration, have realized that it's possible to have a working relationship with Ethiopia. One is because it is the dominant nation in the Horn of Africa. Ethiopia is also the second most populous nation on the continent. It is needed in many ways.” The analyst also mentioned that the United States of America is the leading humanitarian partner and contributor to Ethiopia during a war also this year. However, Freeman strongly insists the US Administration extends robust economic development cooperation with Ethiopia in addition to humanitarian support. “We really want to have a robust relationship between the two nations and we should have that kind of relationship. Then it will launch massive economic infrastructure, development programs between the two countries,” he stressed. The country was struggling and making some economic progress. But it still had two years of war which was very disruptive, he stated. “If the United States wants to have security in the Horn of Africa and wants to regain its influence in Africa, the Secretary of State should be outlining a massive economic assistance program more than aid,” the analyst underscored. Similarly, Fellow with the Center of Media and Peace Initiatives and award-winning American journalist Joseph Hammond said Blinken’s visit is a positive one for Ethiopia and America relationships. “I think this visit is a victory for those in the Administration who support the strong relationship between the United States and Ethiopia. Within the Biden Administration there are two factions about how to work with Ethiopia, and the trip is a real victory for those of us who support stronger US-Ethiopian relations. I think the outcome here is the beneficiary of both countries.” As the US government has given special attention to building a better relationship with Africa, Ethiopia is a very strategic nation in the continent, Hammond added. “You know one of the major priorities of the Biden Administration is to build better relationships with Africa. So Secretary Antony Blinken’s trip to Ethiopia is a demonstration. If you want to prioritize Africa, you have to involve Ethiopia. Ethiopia is the second most populous country in Africa.” Furthermore, he noted that Ethiopia is also a rapidly developing country and one of the pillars of African civility.
New Book Authored by PM Abiy Launched
Mar 18, 2023 377
Addis Ababa March 18/2023 /ENA/ "Generation Medemer", a third series of Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed's book, was launched today. Abiy has previously published two books titled "Medemer" and "Medemer Journey." This latest series, "Generation Medemer", is published in Amharic, Afan Oromo, and English languages. Today's launching ceremony was attended by federal and regional government officials and invited guests During the ceremony, scholars presented their assessments and reviews on the book. It is to be recalled that the proceedings from the sale of the previous two books were used for construction of schools. Similarly, the proceedings of the present book will be used to restore historical and tourist attractions in regions, it was learned.
South African, Gambian Scholars Say Transitional Justice Best Solution to Ethiopia
Mar 18, 2023 401
Addis Ababa March 18/2023 /ENA/ Scholars from South Africa and Gambia said that the transitional justice which their countries have passed through is best solutions for countries such as Ethiopia experiencing conflicts. The scholars approached by ENA said that transitional justice has contributed to build a better future in countries gripped with conflicts. The scholars believe that the way South Africa and the Gambia went through in the transitional justice process will give Ethiopia a better experience. Ethiopia has been developing a transitional justice policy document which is expected to contribute to sustainable peace, through reconciliation, compensation and prosecution in the country, it was indicated. Recall transitional justice has contributed to sustainable peace, reconciliation and justice in many countries’ endeavors to transition from conflict and authoritarian rule to kick start democratization process and post-conflict re-organization of political systems. As many African countries have ample evidence of transitional justice practices, among which, South Africa and Gambia are mentioned in this regard. The Head of the Institute for Justice and Reconciliation at the University of Freetown in South Africa, Professor Tim Murithi praised Ethiopia for starting the process of transitional justice to solve its problems. The professor, who has done extensive research on transitional justice in Africa, said that Ethiopia is a historical and symbolic country of Africa and hoped the transitional justice would solve the deep-rooted challenges. In a society that has gone through many conflicts and oppression, transitional justice is instrumental in compensating the past deeds and pave the way for building better society in the future, the scholar pointed out. “For building peace that has injured conflict, has had violation takes place, transitional justice is a way for societies to deal with the tensions they are experiencing and to surface the issues that took place in the past. So that the people of the society can work together in an inclusive way to find ways to heal the past violations and to also build new institutions as well as stronger communities and socially cohesive societies going forward " Gambian scholar Dr. Baba Galleh Jallow said on his part that the importance of transitional justice, especially for countries like Ethiopia, is unquestionable. Jallow who was also former Executive Secretary-General of the Truth, Reconciliation and Reparations Commission (TRRC) of Gambia said Ethiopia has been making a great move to ensure transitional justice. “A society cannot move forward without dealing with the past especially on human rights violations. Every society, Ethiopia and other countries that have gone through conflict and authoritarianism need to face the past…..and chart a course for the future. So it is very important that Ethiopia goes this process,” he pointed out. Professor Tim Murithi also noted the transitional justice which South Africa implemented to resolve the pains of the apartheid.
Social
Al Basar International Foundation Providing Free Eye Treatment Service at Alert Hospital
Mar 18, 2023 125
Addis Ababa March 18/2023 /ENA/ Al Basar International Foundation launched a volunteer service program to provide free eye check-up and cataract surgery at Alert Hospital. Some 10, 000 residents are expected to benefit from physical examination of eye treatment and about 400 cases to be operated for cataract starting from March 17, 2023. Manager of Medical Team of Al Basar International Foundation, Farhruddin Dakhan said the objective of the volunteer to Ethiopia is to provide free eye services to the people suffering of eye blindness. He added that in the future the organization plans to go out through Ethiopia and look forward to have permanent base in Addis Ababa for sustainable and quality eye care service. Speaking at the occasion, senior advisor to the Ministry of Health Dr. Daniel Gebremichael on his part said we have been working with Al Basir Foundation for more than two decades and more than half million people benefited because of this foundation. More than 50 thousand cataract surgeries have been carried out on our patients for free, enabling more than 50 thousand Ethiopians to have recovered from their sight problems.. He explained that this is very important humanitarian activities, in this round, more than 30 thousand patients will be benefited from this mission. Last week, they were in Jimma and Worabe Hospital where more than 20 thousand patients received medical treatment especially with eye drops., he said. “In Ethiopia we have around 1.5 million people with low vision; most of them are because of cataract and trachoma. And cataract is actually the leading cause of blindness in Ethiopia and elsewhere in developing countries which can be prevented with simple surgical service,” he said. According to the advisor, given the number of cataract centers we have and the number of ophthalmology in the country, we have huge backlogs, where we need support from partners like Al Baser and others to support the people in need of recovery from sight problems. As we have only five tertiary centers for eye surgery, we need support to build hospital in Addis and elsewhere. Head of the Department of ophthalmology of Alert Hospital, Dr. Solomon Bussa on his part said it is for the third time that this organization is coming and doing cataract surgery and management of ophthalmologic disease.
FAO Provides Support to 4m People in East Africa
Mar 18, 2023 201
Addis Ababa March 18/2023 /ENA/ The UN Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) has reached out to 4 million people in need of humanitarian assistance in east Africa but the gap remains huge, FAO Representative to Eastern Africa and AU Chimimba David Phiri said. In an exclusive interview with ENA, Phiri said that the Horn of Africa has been affected by five serious droughts over the past few years which is the worst in forty years. FAO appealed for resources with a view to saving lives as well as saving livelihoods of the affected communities, he stated, and added “we have also requested funding for making sure that there is development and resilience, so that the communities do not fall into a situation where they need assistance at any point in time.” “So this is a sign that the program is huge because we expect that as many as 26 million people need support but FAO has reached out to 4 million. Of course other agencies have reached out to others but the gap between what we have now and where we need to be is very big,” the East Africa Representative noted. To date we have spent 120 million USD and reached nearly 4 million people with the support that we provided, Phiri added. He stressed “we are afraid that if not all support is provided to the people in particular the affected people of Ethiopia, Kenya, parts of Uganda, Djibouti, and Somalia, we could run into a serious famine by the end of this year.” FAO is providing feed, water and livestock vaccination against pests as well as enhancing capacity of the community to produce their own feed under serious drought conditions, it was indicated. The crisis in the Horn of Africa is not just drought but also coupled with Russia-Ukraine war, climate, conflicts and the biggest desert locust invasion in history of Africa, he pointed out. “So the vulnerability is already very bad and when you add the drought, it worsens that situation. So I think the international community needs to really build the resilience of the communities by providing the resources that they need, so that they can stand on their own. FAO does not itself as an organization provide food, we do provide feed to animals, but also provide livelihood’s support to them through animal or crop production and through providing them implements for sustainable agriculture, and also build capacities to make sure that they practice climate smart agriculture,” Phiri elaborated. He called on partners to scale up their commitment in providing the resources that are required to save lives and livelihoods in eastern Africa as the demand is a lot more than what is on the ground.
WFP Calls on Donors to Step-up Support for Somaliland Refugees in Ethiopia
Mar 16, 2023 723
Addis Ababa March 16/2023 (ENA) The World Food Program (WFP) has urged donors to step up the level of support for some 100,000 Somaliland refugees who have fled to Ethiopia recently. Recall that about 100,000 Somaliland refugees, most of them women, pregnant and lactating mothers, unaccompanied children, elderly persons with serious medical conditions and disabilities, arrived at Doolo Zone of Somali Region, Ethiopia. In an exclusive interview with ENA, WFP Representative and Country Director Claude Jibidar said it is a sad situation to witness those Somaliland citizens forced to flee their homes due to conflict. Citing the gravity of the problem, he stated that WFP has “already provided some distributions. Distribution of food has been started and delivered for those people.” Partners too have been supplying water, shelter, and everybody is mobilized to respond, the country director said, adding that it seems like this is a situation that will not change overnight. Therefore “we need to step up the level of support so that we can sustain those people until they can go back home,” Jibidar said. “My appeal is to all the supporters. I know the government through Ethiopia’s Refugees and Returnees Service is doing a lot to support and we will also do our best. I am also appealing to donors to look at this situation so that we can help those people while they are here.” The WFP representative also expressed readiness to help the refugees when they go back and can resettle in their own home. The Ethiopian host communities have generously welcomed the refugees, sharing them the little they have in one of the areas hardest hit by drought affecting the Horn of Africa. The Refugees and Returnees Service and the UNHCR have together affirmed last week that many of the families have settled within the communities in common buildings or in open areas. “The Government of Ethiopia, having maintained its longstanding generosity to asylum seekers, is receiving the needy by keeping the humanitarian and civilian nature of the overall response,” Refugees and Returnees Service (RRS) Director-General Tesfahun Gobezay said. According to him, “RRS and the UNHCR are coordinating with federal and regional government bodies, UN agencies and other partners to respond to the needs of the newly arrived asylum-seekers.” UNHCR Country Representative Mamadou Dian Balde noted that Ethiopians have “once again shown tremendous generosity by keeping their doors open for their Somali brothers and sisters in need of protection.”
WHO Office Coordinator Says Gov't of Ethiopia Very Supportive with Dev't Partners Providing Health Services
Mar 16, 2023 176
Addis Ababa March 16/2023 /ENA/ The Government of Ethiopia is very supportive with development partners in providing health services to those in need, in addition to strengthening the humanitarian aid, the WHO Shire Sub Office (in Tigray Region) Coordinator Boniface Ambani told ENA. “I should say the government is very, very supportive, because it is through the government that we have been able to get the donation because there's been high level advocacy by the government and also by the humanitarian agencies.” He further stated that the signing agreement is contributing a lot in boosting support to people in need. “We have already started even before. But, of course, this is a very big boost. I believe that after the signing of the peace agreement and the support that is coming in we are able to access as many health facilities as possible; and we are able to support the health delivery of health care services. We are also able to distribute all supplies to all the health facilities that are required to provide services,” Ambani said. According to him, the organization is partnering with all its development partners to ensure that we get adequate supply. He reaffirmed that with support from donors and development partners, WHO will continue to collaborate with the government in providing essential health care services for people in need of these services. The coordinator reaffirmed that WHO, with support from donors and development partners, will continue to collaborate with the government in providing essential health care services for people in need of these services. WHO has reportedly extended 70 metric tons of emergency medicine and other medical supplies targeted to reach about 1.2 million people to the Northern Ethiopia Emergency Response over the past two weeks.
Economy
Africa Must Urgently Invest in Economic Recovery, Finance Ministers Urge
Mar 22, 2023 38
Addis Ababa March 22/2023 (ENA) Africa should deploy innovative resource mobilization and accelerate economic recovery from multiple crises which have eroded two decades of development gains and increased poverty, Ministers of Finance have urged. In a Ministerial Statement adopted at the 55th session of the Conference of African Ministers of Finance, Planning and Economic Development, in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, ministers reiterated the urgency of transforming Africa’s economies and driving industrialization. They underscored the need to expedite economic recovery in Africa which is likely to miss many of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). Noting that the COVID-19 pandemic, the war in Ukraine and climate change will hinder Africa’s efforts to achieve the SDGs and Agenda 2063, the Ministers said. They added that the triple crises have disrupted food and energy markets, exacerbated food insecurity and caused high inflation rates which have pushed millions of Africans into poverty and economic hardship. Africa needs to invest approximately 66 billion USD in its health systems and health infrastructure. Furthermore, financing to close infrastructure deficits amounts to between 137 billion USD and 177 billion USD by 2025, the ministers stated. In addition, the Ministers recognised that meeting SDG targets to eradicate extreme poverty and reduce inequality within seven years in line with the 2030 Agenda, is becoming increasingly unlikely. Poverty and inequality in Africa will therefore pose high risks to prosperity, peace and security, and to the social contract, according to the Ministers. The Ministers, therefore, acknowledged the need to stimulate economic recovery and to protect vulnerable populations against soaring inflation – which was forecast to reach 12.4 per cent in Africa in 2023. Rising interest rates, and the tightening of monetary policy by central banks to combat inflation have contributed to the worsening of the already limited fiscal space, the Ministers statement said. The Agreement establishing the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) will increase intra-African trade in agrifood, services, industry, energy and mining while attracting cross-border investments, the Ministers noted in the statement calling on the ECA to support the continent with strategic thinking and new perspectives achieve prosperity by 2030 and realize the objectives of the 2030 Agenda and Agenda 2063. ECA Acting Executive Secretary, Antonio Pedro, in closing the conference, said in order to foster recovery and transformation in Africa, the continent should prioritize skills enhancement, industrialization and economic diversification, infrastructure development, intra-Africa trade and innovative financing. “We have the mandate to deliver on our promise of shared prosperity to the people of Africa,” Pedro said, adding that sustainable solutions must be developed by Africa and partnership and collaborations were key to a transformed Africa.
Development of Ethiopia's Capital Market Well Underway: ECMA Director-General
Mar 21, 2023 146
Addis Ababa March 21/2023 (ENA) The process of realizing a capital market in Ethiopia is well underway in order to ensure the existence of a functioning market soon, Ethiopian Capital Market Authority (ECMA) Director-General Brook Taye said. In an exclusive interview with ENA, the director-general said what the authority has been doing is establishing the necessary legal parameters that allows to start the market and become operational. The authority has finalized and issued three different directives, according to Brook. Those are “capital market service provider’s directive, exchange directive, and self regulatory directives which would allow us to start issuing the necessary licenses to market participants.” Under the capital market service provider directive, for instance, the authority will be licensing brokers, dealers, investment banks and advisors as well as several types of market participants, he added The director-general stated that ECMA has “received excellent feedbacks from a lot of people who are experts in this field and we are finalizing those directives and providing the final version for adoption.” Stressing that significance of structuring the institution, he said that ECMA has been structuring the authority in different areas, including hiring qualified human resource, alongside its priority of designing a five-year strategy. With regarding to its mandate, its priorities are supporting “the market, investors, and focusing energy getting investors ready to participate in the market.” The overall “process is progressing well based on our time line that we shared with our Board. And we are going to deliver on commitment to make sure that Ethiopia would have functioning capital markets very soon,” Brook elaborated. Obviously, as a new institution, there are a lot of challenges that need to be overcome; but we will deliver on our commitment and the responsibility that the authority has. Recalling that one of the major commitments of the government is to make sure that there is macro-stability, the director-general underscored that when you envision macro stability that means you try to focus on having a market mechanism to mobilize resources. The Ethiopian Capital Market Authority (ECMA) was established in June 2022 by the National Bank of Ethiopia.
Gov't Striving to Enhance Responsible Agricultural Investment that Meets Accepted Principles
Mar 21, 2023 147
Addis Ababa March 21/2023 (ENA) The Ethiopian government is striving to enhance responsible agricultural investment that can meet nationally, regionally, and internationally accepted principles, according to Ministry of Agriculture. In his opening remark at the National Multi-Stakeholders Dialogue on Responsible Governance of Investment in Land underway here in Addis Ababa, Agriculture State Minister Ifa Muleta said land in Ethiopia is not only the foundation of the economy, but also plays significant role in cultural, social, and political affairs. The Government of Ethiopia is, therefore, carefully looking for a long-term sustainable land use system which enables it to design a guiding policy framework that addresses both small holders and commercial ones. According to him, the government has demonstrated strong commitment to agriculture in order to increase production and productivity of small holders through dissemination of effective technologies and scaling up strategies. As a result, considerable achievements have been registered over the past decades even if there is still substantial scope to improve production, productivity, and to also create untapped market linkages, it was learned. “We are striving to enhance responsible agricultural investment that can meet national, regional and international accepted principles and guidelines in an innovative and responsible ways. Indeed, establishing responsible agricultural investment system in the main objective of our current reform agenda in the sector land governance is a crucial issue.” Responsible Governance of Investment in Land Project Manager, Christian Mesmer said land is a finite and non-renewable resource that many found significance in economic, social, ecological, cultural and political terms. Due attention must (therefore) be given to this precious resource from national to kebele level. The manager noted that the global rush for land indicates that many land owner local communities do not benefit from land investment. Christian added that the lack of safeguarding and consultation mechanisms in doing land allocation process result in land degradation, dispute and evictions. “With its agricultural reform agenda, the Government of Ethiopia has demonstrated its commitment for good land governance through improved land tenure security for both small holders and commercial agricultural investment and alike,” he stressed. Many systematic efforts have been undertaken, the manager stated, adding that the country can still make major headway in ensuring responsible agricultural investment. EU Delegation Green Deal Team leader, Roberto Schiliro said on his part that land governance is a precondition for any development policy and strategy in agriculture. This is particularly important in Ethiopia to fully exploit its unleashed potential, the team leader said, adding the UN and its member states have taken various measures, including the adoption of UN land policy guidance in 2004, in order to meet these objectives. The EU supports this initiative acknowledging that responsible land management is a key and critical issue in Ethiopia, according to Schiliro. The team leader further underlined that we need to have specific Ethiopian approach. “We need to be inclusive and innovative in the approach to land management in Ethiopia.”
Finance Minister Says Ethiopia's Measures to Avert Economic Pressure Effective
Mar 21, 2023 139
Addis Ababa March 21/2023 (ENA) The Government of Ethiopia has been effective in implementing different policies and response measures to avert the impacts of internal and global shocks on the economy, Finance Minister Ahmed Shide said. Speaking at the 55th Conference of African Ministers of Finance, Planning, and Economic Development hosted by the UNECA, the minister stated that COVID-19, the Russia-Ukraine war and internal conflicts as well as climate change have mainly affected many African countries. And Ethiopia’s economy has similarly faced the impacts of the above. With the introduction of the Home-Grown Economic Reform and fiscal and monetary policy responses as well as boosting production and precautionary health measures, however, Ethiopia has succeeded in withstanding the shocks and registering growth, he elaborated. According to him, the production of wheat and maize in particular was boosted, health equipment were manufactured massively to prevent spread of the pandemic and digital financial services improved. Following the global fertilizer price increase, the government has been subsidizing the purchase of fertilizers to help boost agricultural production and ensure food security. The National Bank of Ethiopia also injected funding into commercial banks that had been experiencing liquidity challenges, personal income tax payments postponed, bank loan repayments rescheduled, and tax amnesty given to different sectors, among other measures, Ahmed pointed out. However, despite the gains registered by introducing and implementing various measures, forex distortions, fiscal deficits, and rising inflation remain major economic setbacks to the economy. Therefore, the second version of Home-Grown Economic Reform will continue to consolidate the gains and address the current and emerging challenges, the minister added. Joint United Nations Programme on HIV/AIDS Executive Director, Winnie Byanyima on the occasion hailed Ethiopia’s response to the shocks and observed that the biggest challenge for Africa is access to fair financial services. Even before the COVID-19 crisis and the war in Ukraine, countries were borrowing at an interest rate of over eight percent, while the high-income countries borrowed at lower rates as low as one percent, she revealed. The high cost of borrowing is taking away Africa’s prospects of achieving SDGs, the executive director stressed. Moreover, Byanyima stressed that the challenge of not being able to borrow in countries’ own currency points to how countries are being treated unequally on matters of access to affordable finances. Hence, she stated that there is a need for countries to tackle the high cost of debts, connect financing with SDG achievement, and push harder for Africa to have a seat at the G20 forum.
Technology
Ethiopia, Sudan Sign MoU to Cooperate on Telecom & Digital Transformation
Mar 16, 2023 188
Addis Ababa March 16/2023 (ENA) Ethiopia's Ministry of Innovation and Technology and Sudan’s Ministry of Telecommunication and Digital Transformation have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) today to cooperate on telecommunication and digital transformation sectors. Innovation and Technology Minister Belete Mola and Sudanese Minister of Telecommunication and Digital Transformation, Adel Hassan Mohamed Hussein signed the MoU in Addis Ababa. The implementation of the agreement is expected to improve people to people relations, experience sharing and cooperation on security issues between the two countries. Innovation and Technology Minister Belete Mola said at the occasion that his ministry is committed to implement the MoU aimed at cooperating on telecommunication and digital transformation. “I was looking at the MoU,” Belete said, further pointing out, “There is strategy wise, policy wise, there is a lot that we are supposed to work together with our parallel Sudanese ministry and all other institutions around the ministry.” “We will be very much happy to make sure that the articles put in the MoU will be put into effect so to the benefit of our two sisterly countries and we will remain committed and again we are happy to have this relationship with our sister country Sudan.” The two big countries with huge potential have been playing star role in socio-political-economic affairs of the region and have to work and achieve more together not only for the benefit of the countries but also for the security and development of the region, he added. Sudanese Minister of Telecommunication and Digital Transformation, Adel Hassan Mohamed Hussein expressed readiness to start a new era of collaboration with Ethiopia. “We are so pleased to have this meeting today, to meet you and your team. Ethiopia is a sister country and we are looking forward to start a new era of collaboration. Yes, we are so close in the past, but we will be closer in the future.” The signing of the MoU by the Sudanese and Ethiopian ministries for cooperation in ICT and digital transformation is to tap into the unlimited opportunities in the field of telecom and digital transformation. “It gives me great pleasure and honor to meet you today your Excellency and witness a signing of the MoU between the government of Sudan and Ethiopia for cooperation in ICT and digital transformation.” Noting the unlimited opportunities in this field, the minister stressed the need for real cooperation and coordination. “We are looking forward to get the most benefit from this collaboration in exchanging knowledge, experience, technology, and even developing co-projects for the people of both countries.” The Sudanese minister has invited his counterpart to visit Sudan to reflect on the MoU together and incorporate it into a daily work and he accepted the invitation.
E-Government Strategy and Enterprise Architecture for Ethiopia Launched
Mar 16, 2023 280
Addis Ababa March 16/2023 (ENA) Ministry of Innovation and Technology and the Delegation of the European Union to Ethiopia launched a five-year e-Government Strategy and Enterprise Architecture for Ethiopia today. Innovation and Technology Minister Belete Molla said implementing the project will improve government services delivery, facilitate digital economy, and foster socio-economic development. “ I am sufficiently informed that the ultimate goal of this project is to enable the Government of Ethiopia to be more efficient, result oriented, and to provide citizen-centered, secure and integrated e-governance services.” According to him, the implementation of this project will go a long way to strengthen Ethiopia in the global digital economy by facilitating digital transformation for rapid, inclusive socio-economic wellbeing of our citizens. A policy framework articulated under the Digital Ethiopia 2025 Strategy is enabling utilization of digital technologies across the sectors of the economy to improve the services, Belete noted. EU Delegation to Ethiopia Economy and Infrastructure Team Leader, Sanne Willems said the Union funded the project that will be implemented by the ministry. This is part of “a large project of 10-million-Euros to support the business environment and investment climate, including e-governance services,” she added. The team leader pointed out that effective implementation of the project will enable the government to improve services delivery in an inclusive and transparent way. The project also aligns with to the SDG-16 target and contributes to the strengthening of peace and justice institutions. Willems stated that the EU and Ethiopia have been cooperating on various areas for over four decades.
Int'l Atomic Energy Agency Expresses Keenness to Enhance Cooperation with Africa in Civilian Nuclear Technology
Mar 13, 2023 315
Addis Ababa March 13/2023 (ENA) The International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) has expressed its interest to enhance cooperation with Africa in civilian nuclear technology, Deputy Director General and Head of the Department of Technical Cooperation, Hua Liu said. The International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA), representatives of nearly 40 African countries including the African Regional Cooperative Agreement for Research, Development and Training Related to Nuclear Science and Technology (AFRA), are participating in the 2023 annual National Liaison Officers meeting here in Addis Ababa. The annual meeting being held under the theme, "Paradigm Shift," is aimed at enhancing the technical collaboration between African countries and IAEA. The 5-day meeting is expected to emphasize the significance of embracing change and innovation to achieve sustainable development goals through nuclear science and technology, it was learned. Speaking at the event, Deputy Director General and Head of the Department of Technical Cooperation, IAEA, Hua Liu said the meeting aims to improve the efficiency and effectiveness of the technical cooperation programme in Africa. Significant progress has been made in the region in recent years, he said , adding it is essential that Africa continue its efforts to develop and implement a programme of maximum benefit to the countries Socio-economic development. According to him, IAEA has launched a number of key initiatives such as Rays of Hope, NUTEC Plastics, and the Zoonotic Disease Integrated Action (ZODIAC), which are of particular importance to the African region. The agency will continue to provide support for the new comer countries in nuclear energy, especially in small modular reactor through interregional projects, he vowed. The programmes that his agency launched is also contributing to global efforts to address climate change. Growing number of African member states are focusing their attention on nuclear power, research reactors and irradiation technology, he said, adding his agency encourage Africa to take advantage of the support that the Agency offers in these areas. "IAEA also launched a program aimed at encouraging the next generation of women nuclear professionals by offering scholarships for their master degrees in nuclear topics’, he said. Speaking at the event, Ethiopian Minister of Innovation and Technology, Dr. Belete Molla, said as a founding member of the IAEA, since its establishment in 1957, my country through the years has enhanced its collaboration with the Agency. He further stated that Ethiopia is highly committed and strongly supportive to the mandates of the Agency towards nonproliferation, nuclear safety and promoting peaceful applications of Nuclear Science and Technology for sustainable development. "We have a strong commitment of my government in collaborating and promoting technical cooperation with the Agency in key socio-economic sectors such as agriculture and food security, human health, water resource management, environment, manufacturing industry and power generation and in advancing Nuclear Science and Technology for sustainable development." Ethiopia is committed for advancing Nuclear Science and Technology for development including exploring the potential of nuclear power for electricity generation, he said. According to him, substantive measures are underway to establish the Center for Nuclear Science and Technology (CNST) through establishing an institute to sustainably manage the sector. "We are investing in research and development, constructing the necessary infrastructure, and developing policies and programs to support innovative businesses and entrepreneurs in all sectors," he added. This meeting will provide a vital platform for exchanging ideas and best practices, fostering new collaborations, and building partnerships, the minister stated. By working together, we can achieve sustainable development goals, leveraging the power of nuclear science and technology to create a more sustainable future for all, he noted. Speaking on his behalf, Director for the Division for Africa of the Department of Technical Cooperation, Professor Shaukat Abdulrazak, said our gathering here will help us find ways to share information and means, which help us produce documents and results based management. The meeting will also help us address together some of the bottlenecks, he added. Technical cooperation program is a shared responsibility, that IAEA play role, he added. The National Liaison Officers and AFRA National Coordinators meeting will remain in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia will remain open until 17 of March and expected to adopt concrete measures and actions to further improve the planning and formulation of the next Technical Cooperation cycle for 2024-2025.
Ethio-telecom Sells over 39,000 SIM Cards to Residents of Shire City
Mar 4, 2023 519
March 4/2023 Shire City Ethio-telecom Sales Center in Tigray region disclosed that it has sold over 39,000 SIM cards in the last two months alone, and collected close to two million Birr revenue from various services. Following the peace agreement, the Government of Ethiopia has been actively engaged in reconstruction and restoration of basic services in areas severely affected by the war. Accordingly, essential services like air travel, telecom, banking, electricity have been restored in the city. Shire City Ethio-Telecom Sales Center Coordinator, Andom Belay told ENA that the center has been providing services for customers, following the peace agreement. The staff of the center are working hard to meet the demand of needs of the high number of customers, he said. The coordinator stated that the center sold over 39,000 SIM cards to customers in the last two months. Moreover, the center is also providing other services, including change of SIM card, tele Birr services, 3-G Internet and broadband data sales. Thus, close to two million Birr revenue was secured from SIM card sales and other additional services, Andom added. Similarly, transportation service has been restored from Shire City to the regional capital Mekelle and other towns in the region. Passengers and drivers told ENA that the difficulty they faced during the conflict in the region has been resolved as they can travel in the region. Following the peace deal, provisions of service in the different sectors have returned to normalcy.
Sport
22nd Edition of Great Ethiopian Run Colorfully Held in Addis Ababa
Nov 20, 2022 481
Addis Ababa November 20/2022/ENA/ The 22nd edition of Great Ethiopian Run was held today in Addis Ababa with participation of more than 40,000 people. President Sahle-Work Zewde, Addis Ababa Mayor, Adanech Abiebie, Minister of Culture and Tourism, Kejela Merdasa and other senior government officials as well guests including renowned Kenyan athletes and tourists attended the 10 killo Meter annual street race held at Meskel Square in the capital. The Great Ethiopian Run is the first biggest event in Africa and sixth in the world’s international street races. The Great Ethiopian Run is believed to be one of the most important events to promoting tourism in Ethiopia. It was indicated that the Great Ethiopian Run has successfully conducted more than 100 races in various cities in the country over the past years. Ethiopia's famous long-distance runner, Haile Gebrselassie founded the race in 2000.
PM Inaugurates Sport Center in Capital City
Oct 27, 2022 483
Addis Ababa October 27,2022 Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed has inaugurated a newly rebuilt sport center in Arada sub-city of Addis Ababa today. The previous "15 Meda" sport center was not conducive for physical activities. Therefore, Prime Minister Abiy took the initiative to build a new the sport center with the participation of stakeholders, it was learned. The renovated center was inaugurated today and will provide its previous services. The reconstruction of the sport center is part of the winter volunteer project, it was learned.
City Administration Expresses Gratitude to Victorious Nat'l Athletics Team
Jul 29, 2022 467
Addis Ababa July 29/2022/ENA/ The Addis Ababa City Administration held a Thanksgiving ceremony for the Ethiopian athletics team that registered stunning victory at the Oregon World Athletics Championship 2022. The athletic team, which stood second after the US in the medal list, was earlier given warm reception by President Sahle-Work Zewde at the National Palace and the outstanding members awarded. The City Administration Council of Addis Ababa also awarded 10 million Birr prize in total to the athletes who participated in the competition. In addition, the athletes who won gold, silver and bronze medals were given 500 to 250 square meters of land based on their results. Speaking on the occasion, Mayor Adanech Abebie said that the athletes have once again raised Ethiopia's honor in the world arena. "History testifies that we Ethiopians are people who do not surrender to defeat, and challenges make us stronger," she stressed. According to her, the athletes should be honored for their contribution in making the country's flag fly high in the world championships. Ethiopian Athletics Federation President, Commander Derartu Tulu said she was happy with the reception given to the athletes, stating that "the most precious gift is morale and respect we are given by the people." The Thanksgiving program was held under the theme: "We thank you for raising our flag in the world arena.” Culture and Sports Minister Kejela Merdasa, former famous athletes and various government officials attended the ceremony.
Victory at World Athletics Championship Enhances Ethiopia’s Journey to Dev’t: Team Leader
Jul 28, 2022 461
Addis Ababa July 28/2022/ENA/ The results registered at the World Athletics Championship have filled the hearts of Ethiopians with joy and help to sustain Ethiopia's march towards development, Ethiopian Athletics Team Leader at the 18th World Athletics Championships said. President Sahle-Work Zewde welcomed members of the Ethiopian Athletic Team at the National Palace today. During the occasion, the team leader Tefera Molla said he is proud and happy about the victory achieved by the Ethiopian athletes. He also lauded Ethiopians for standing with the athletics team. Tefera recalled the repeated victories achieved by former Ethiopian athletes such as Abebe Bikila, Mamo Wolde, Miruts Yifter, Haile Gebre Sellasie, and Derartu Tulu, among others. The team leader stated that the results obtained in the Oregon World Athletics Championship will enable the country to continue the journey to prosperity. According to him, the victory was achieved due to the rigorous preparations, including the performance and evaluation done on a daily basis, as well as the strict discipline in recruitment. Ethiopia ranked second in the world after United States of America and first in Africa, Tefera noted, adding that the result recorded in the athletics arena proved that there is no force that can stop Ethiopia's journey towards prosperity.
Environment
Ethiopian Airlines to Start Direct Flight to Karachi as of May
Mar 10, 2023 240
Addis Ababa (ENA) March 10/2023 Ethiopian Airlines, the largest network operating carrier in Africa, has finalized preparations to launch direct flights to Karachi, Pakistan as of 01 May 2023. According to a press release of the Airlines issued on Thursday, the upcoming flight will be operated four times a week. Commenting on the resumption of services to Karachi, Ethiopian Airlines Group CEO, Mesfin Tasew said, “we are excited to return to Karachi nearly two decades after we last served the city. As the most populous city in Pakistan, Karachi will be a crucial gateway to Pakistan and the wider South Asia region. He added that as the only flight connecting Pakistan with Africa, the planned service to Karachi will have significant contribution in strengthening the diplomatic and economic relations between the two regions. It will also offer convenient air connectivity to the growing number of Pakistani investors in Africa as well as tourists, the CEO said. Karachi will be the 37th destination of Ethiopian Airlines in Asia. Currently, Ethiopian is serving more than 145 domestic and international passenger and cargo destinations. Ethiopian Airlines (Ethiopian) is the fastest growing Airline in Africa. In its seventy-six plus years of operation, Ethiopian has become one of the continent’s leading carriers, unrivalled in efficiency and operational success.
Ethiopia Doing Well in Planting Trees, Minimizing Desertification: AU Commissioner Sacko
Feb 17, 2023 467
Addis Ababa February 17/2013 /ENA/ Ethiopia is doing well in environmental protection and minimizing desertification through its Green Legacy of planting billions of trees, AU Agriculture, Rural Development, Blue Economy, and Sustainable Environment Commissioner Ambassador Josefa Leonel Sacko said. In an exclusive interview with ENA, Commissioner Sacko commended Ethiopia’s Green Legacy initiated by Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed. “I commend the government of Ethiopia that is doing so well in planting trees because it is very important. By planting trees we can minimize the desertification and we can also stimulate the rain and mitigate the effect of drought on the continent,” she applauded. Rooted in a vision of building a green and climate-resilient Ethiopia, the Green Legacy Initiative was launched in June 2019. A target of planting 20 billion seedlings within a period of four years was set. By the fourth year, Ethiopia has succeeded in planting 25 billion seedlings by mobilizing more than 20 million citizens throughout the nation. The Green Legacy Initiative is a demonstration of Ethiopia’s long-term commitment to a multifaceted response to the impacts of climate change and environmental degradation that encompasses agroforestry, forest sector development, greening and renewal of urban areas, and integrated water and soil resources management. AU Agriculture, Rural Development, Blue Economy, and Sustainable Environment Commissioner urged African countries to follow suit and align their programs with African Union Commission as well. Speaking of Ethiopia’s wheat exporting with regard to food security, the Commissioner said that African countries should notice the essentiality of agriculture to secure food efficiency. “I commend Ethiopia for cultivating wheat and we know that there is a very good lesson for the countries and should follow the example of Ethiopia that have the ecological advantage to grow wheat in their countries,” Commissioner Sacko noted. Ethiopia is set to export 1.2 million quintals of wheat bumper harvest during this year, the Ministry of Trade and Regional Integration announced last week.
Ethiopia Doing Well in Planting Trees, Minimizing Desertification: AU Commissioner Sacko
Feb 16, 2023 471
Addis Ababa (ENA) February 16/2023 Ethiopia is doing well in environmental protection and minimizing desertification through its Green Legacy of planting billions of trees, AU Agriculture, Rural Development, Blue Economy, and Sustainable Environment Commissioner Ambassador Josefa Leonel Sacko said. In an exclusive interview with ENA, Commissioner Sacko commended Ethiopia’s Green Legacy initiated by Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed. “I commend the government of Ethiopia that is doing so well in planting trees because it is very important. By planting trees we can minimize the desertification and we can also stimulate the rain and mitigate the effect of drought on the continent,” she applauded. Rooted in a vision of building a green and climate-resilient Ethiopia, the Green Legacy Initiative was launched in June 2019. A target of planting 20 billion seedlings within a period of four years was set. By the fourth year, Ethiopia has succeeded in planting 25 billion seedlings by mobilizing more than 20 million citizens throughout the nation. The Green Legacy Initiative is a demonstration of Ethiopia’s long-term commitment to a multifaceted response to the impacts of climate change and environmental degradation that encompasses agroforestry, forest sector development, greening and renewal of urban areas, and integrated water and soil resources management. AU Agriculture, Rural Development, Blue Economy, and Sustainable Environment Commissioner urged African countries to follow suit and align their programs with African Union Commission as well. Speaking of Ethiopia’s wheat exporting with regard to food security, the Commissioner said that African countries should notice the essentiality of agriculture to secure food efficiency. “I commend Ethiopia for cultivating wheat and we know that there is a very good lesson for the countries and should follow the example of Ethiopia that have the ecological advantage to grow wheat in their countries,” Commissioner Sacko noted. Ethiopia is set to export 1.2 million quintals of wheat bumper harvest during this year, the Ministry of Trade and Regional Integration announced last week.
World Meteorological Organization to Enhance Digital Transformation of Hydrometeorological Services in Africa
Feb 13, 2023 462
Addis Ababa /ENA/ February 13/2023 The World Meteorological Organization (WMO) in collaboration with the Ethiopian Meteorological Institute (EMI) is holding its regional conference to enhance digital transformation of the hydrometeorological services in Africa. The use of modern digital technology has unexploited potential to offer through the value chain of climate services including in fields such as data collection, dissemination and personalization of services. Addressing the occasion, State Minister of Water and Energy Abraha Adugna said the information from meteorology and climate is basic parameters to achieve the nation’s ambitions in various fronts. Stating that lots of experiences will be shared among countries in the conference; he said “As Ethiopians, we will use those experiences for the next development plans.” “We are running a climate resilient green economy. That is one of the areas that we need information from climate and meteorology.” “For this and other purposes we need information from climate and meteorology. So the workshop will give the opportunity to get the good experiences from African countries as well as from other countries around the world.” WMO assistant Secretary General Wenjian Zhang said for his part African region permanent representatives meet together which they can address the challenges, and opportunities from their country’s perspective. For the assistant Secretary General, he expects the conference to promote further the partnership with regional key partners. The main objective of the conference is to strengthen observation network. Observation network is used to enhance and deliver meteorological and hydrological services, the Director General of Ethiopian Meteorological Institute Fetene Teshome said. He further stressed that the discussion mainly focuses on how can we strengthen the service delivery system in Africa. The 5 days conference will draw a strategic plan to enhance the capacities of hydrometeorological services in Africa and partnerships on infrastructural strength of national meteorological and hydrological services. Accordingly, the conference with the participation of global and regional experts and decision makers from Africa will discuss partnerships in enhancing communication in service delivery, capacity development, research and innovation and early warning in Africa. It is to be recalled that United Nations Secretary-General António Guterres had unveiled its early warnings for all: Executive action plan 2023–2027 that calls for a targeted investment of 3.1 billion USD at a high-level COP27 meeting in Egypt last November. It will cost the equivalent of just 50 cents per person per year for the next five years to reach everyone on Earth with early warnings against increasingly extreme and dangerous weather, World Meteorological Organization stated.
Feature Article
Scaling up Ethio-US Relations for Mutual Benefits
Mar 15, 2023 170
BY SOLOMON DIBABA Ethiopia and the United States have enjoyed warm government-to-government and people-to-people relations for well over a century. The ties have transcended the passage of time and the changes of governments and political systems in both countries. Formal Ethio-US relations date back to December 1903 following nine days of meetings in Ethiopia between the government of Ethiopia and Robert P. Skinner, an emissary of President Theodore Roosevelt. Ethiopia appreciated America’s commercial interest in Ethiopia, and that the United States did not possess colonial designs similar to those that were designed by colonial forces. Then, the talks which Ethiopia and the United States had held yielded a joint document known as the Treaty of Amity and Commerce. This agreement accorded Ethiopia Most Favored Nation status and eventually led to full diplomatic relations between the two countries. Over the past several decades, Ethiopia has remained a partner with the US in a battle against terrorism. It is to be recalled the US government and US based international NGOs have rendered immense contribution to roll back the 1984-85 food shortage crisis and recurrent drought that plagued the country. Given its geopolitical locations, Ethiopia has been a strong ally for the United States for many decades. Apart from government to government relations, people to people relations between the two countries have remained strong. Suffice to mention, the number of Ethiopian diaspora residing in the United States. Further, the two countries have enjoyed multiple development and economic cooperation for many decades.For instance, the Boeing and Ethiopian Airlines have demonstrated strong partnerships. Regarding development cooperation, since 1961, the USAID has continued to support various development programs including promotion of education, agricultural development programs including the US Peace Corp program for promoting cultural relations and expansion of modern education. The US provided support to Ethiopia in establishing Haramaya former Agricultural College and a number of agricultural colleges in Jimma, Bako and the College of Veterinary Medicine and Agriculture (then Debre Zeit Veterinary Science College) and a number of teachers training institutions across the country. Between 1953-1976, in line with the Mutual Defense Agreement Assistance, the US provided Ethiopia with defense armaments and trained military officers for the Ethiopian army and air force. Ethiopia shares a common interest with the US in ascertaining peace and stability in the Horn of Africa. The reform program that has been conducted in the country has been instrumental in further fostering the operational relations between the two countries in promoting democracy and good governance. Regular visits paid to Ethiopia by US officials including today’s visit by US Secretary of State Antony Blinken have enormous implications in forging relations between the two countries, in the areas of economic cooperation, security and upscaling a united action against terrorism in the Horn of Africa. Climate change induced drought has repeatedly become a major bottleneck for the economic development of countries in the Horn of Africa including Ethiopia. A number of countries of the Horn are still grappling with the aftermath of the COVID-19 pandemic. Overall, the US can provide technological and economic development support in partnership with these countries. Ethiopia and the US need to engage in the areas of peace building in the Horn and the rest of Africa. The mutual support and partnership based economic relations between Ethiopia and the US need to be promoted for mutual benefits of both countries. Roughly speaking, more than 3 million Ethiopians and foreign nationals of Ethiopian origin constitute the diaspora population across the world and most of whom reside and work in the US, becoming a major force to further strengthen the relationship between Ethiopia and the US. Both Ethiopia and the US need to develop and exploit the positive influence that the Ethiopian diaspora could play in fostering the relationship between the two countries. Ethiopia is now hosting close to one million refugees from the neighboring countries and is providing protection in line with guiding principles and statutes of the UNHCR. On the other hand, the Ethiopian Government is actively working in rehabilitating hundreds of IDPs that were affected by the conflicts in various parts of the country. As a longstanding partner with Ethiopia, the US can support such efforts as it will help to promote sustained peace and stability in the country. Ethiopia unswervingly stands for peace and stability in the Horn of Africa and the US can effectively partner with the Government of Ethiopia in building sustained peace and stability to promote mutually beneficial interest of the two countries. The people to people relations between the two countries can be enhanced through public diplomacy between the peoples of both countries to further promote cross cultural exchanges that have developed between the two nations for over a century. The ongoing visit by the US Secretary of State to Ethiopia is therefore expected to enhance the relations between the two friendly countries based on mutual understanding, respect and cordial relations.
Victory of Adwa: Launching Pad for the Inception of Pan Africanism
Mar 1, 2023 696
BY SOLOMON DIBABA The Battle of Adwa on March 1, 1896 is a historic landmark in the history of the black population across the world, particularly in Africa. It ignited two important phenomenological incidents in Ethiopian and African history including the decolonization of African and the continental vision of Pan Africanism. The victory at the Battle of Adwa immediately resonated across the world in complete negation of the invincibility of the diplomatic, political and military prowess of colonialists. Ethiopia and Africa mark the victory at the Battle Adwa, in which Ethiopian peasants, artesian, women and many other volunteers from all walks of life and ethnicity marched in unison to repel Italian aggressors which received the blessings of the colonial powers in the Scramble for Africa in line with the resolutions of the Berlin Conference (1884-1885.). According to Professor Richard Pankhurst in his book “Reflections on the Battle of Adwa” the Ethiopian victory at the Battle of Adwa has remained a very important event in the shared recollection of the entire African people. It is the only secular episode in the whole history of Africa that has been celebrated for more than a century. . A phenomenon such as Adwa is a complex nexus of various historical processes with wide ranging but as yet not fully explored meanings. Adwa does not only reflect its time, but that it also transcends it, and that the aspirations and meanings that flow from it have been a powerful constitutive force in the rise and evolution of modern African Pan Africanism. Indeed, it is an event that awakened the hope for emancipation and the struggle against colonialism and racism among Africans in the colonies and in the Diaspora. Black people across the globe celebrate one historical asset that occurred 127 years ago in a small town in northern Ethiopia, Adwa. The Battle of Adwa was a rocket booster or a launching pad for the inception of Pan Africanism. This historic battle and the subsequent victory registered by irregular army of Ethiopia resonated across the world as the first victory against a colonial power ever to be won by an African country. History proves that the victory at the Battle of Adwa was not a victory only for Ethiopia. Although the Battle was fought in Ethiopia, the entire global community of people shares this outstanding victory against the colonial powers that was thought to be invincible. It must be noted that the founding fathers of the former OAU were certainly inspired by the loft goals of pan Africanism. Dr. Kwame Nkrumah, who was undoubtedly one of Africa’s foremost freedom fighters, nationalists, writers, and thinkers, that influenced a generation of Pan-African nationalists and freedom fighters, and the founding member of the Organization of African. He foretold that “It is clear that we must find an African solution to our problems, and that this can only be found in African unity. Divided we are weak; united, Africa could become one of the greatest forces for good in the world.” Will Africa live up to these expectations? The current trend is in the right direction but certainly there are huge challenges ahead before the lofty goals of Pan Africanism are achieved. Today, the AU has creatively designed Agenda 2063, African Continental Free Trade Area and Pan African Parliament as well as peace and Security Council, African Court of Justice and Human Rights and a number of specialized committees who are tasked with fulfilling their duties in the context of the aspirations of Pan Africanism. Ethiopia was and is indeed a forerunner in promoting the loft goals of Pan Africanism and the decolonization of the African continent by supporting major African liberation fronts like ANC, SWAPO, SPLM, ZANU-PF who fought for their freedom from Apartheid, colonialism and neocolonialism. Moreover, in the sphere of integrating Africa from the perspectives of economic Pan Africanism, Ethiopia has already gone a long way in connecting Africa by aviation, railway line, road transport, telecommunication and supply of renewable hydro-electric power for the neighboring countries of Sudan, Kenya, Djibouti and possibly for Somalia and other East African countries. The aspirations of the victory at the Battle of Adwa needs to be implanted in the African youth who are expected to continue to light up the torch of Pan Africanism. The spirit of Adwa will certainly continue to reverberate in the current pan Africanist battle against abject poverty, climate change, unemployment, promotion of peace and security, food insecurity, inflation and the growing level of debt and debt servicing. In his latest message on his twitter account, Prime Minister Abiy wrote “Reinvigorating and re-calibrating Pan Africanism requires us to disrupt the status quo and leap into the future. Potentials need to change into products. Our mind needs to transform our lands. We need to create clean and green environment. PAN Africanism should flourish as an idea of cooperative integration, global competitiveness and peaceful coexistence ” Victory at the Battle of Adwa is indeed symbolic of how poor peasants defeated a colonial army equipped to the teeth only because they were united in purpose, goal to ensure their freedom and territorial integrity. The lesson from Adwa was loud and clear, united Africans can overcome any challenge as long as they are united.