Headlines
EU Awards Full Masters Scholarship to 53 Ethiopian Students
Jun 1, 2023 219
  Addis Ababa June 1/2023(ENA): The European Union (EU) has awarded a full Masters Scholarship to 53 Ethiopian students for the academic year 2023-2024, according to the Delegation of the EU to Ethiopia. The students will spend two years in prestigious European Universities in 12 European countries to pursue their Master Degrees in various fields, it added. In a press release it sent to ENA, the EU Delegation stated that the Erasmus+ Scholarships are exclusively awarded to students coming from both EU and non-EU countries that have been selected to attend one of the Erasmus Mundus Joint Programmes at Masters or Doctorate level. Ethiopia is one of the top beneficiary countries of the Erasmus programme, it was learned. Since 2004, Ethiopia has been one of the top five performing countries in the world and top in Africa, both in terms of student selection and applications for the Erasmus Scholarship programme, according to the presser. Since 2010, the European Union has awarded the Erasmus Mundes Scholarship to more than 500 Ethiopian students. The EU Delegation Head in Ethiopia, Ambassador Roland Kobia said “the Erasmus+ European scholarships highly contributes to the country’s human development effort in higher education” The program offers a lifetime opportunity for young Ethiopian students to pursue their studies at the highest level, to learn more about European cultures, languages, academic systems and, not least, people at some of the best universities in Europe. Apart from improving the student's expertise, the scholarships are also meant to enrich the student’s life experiences, help create mutual understanding and openness between people and cultures, the ambassador noted. “We hope that these scholarships will help these students to excel and that they will return to Ethiopia with enhanced skills and knowledge useful for the country and themselves, as well as with fond memories of Europe.” The Erasmus+ Scholarship programme is a valuable opportunity for Ethiopia as it supports the country’s endeavor of the development of higher learning to address its need of more experts of science, technology, engineering, mathematics, and humanities.
IGAD Calls on Media Outlets to Play Actively in Ensuring Peace, Security of Horn Region
Jun 1, 2023 305
Addis Ababa June 1/2023(ENA):-Ensuring the peace and safety of Horn of Africa calls for participation of multilateral actors; and the mass media should play active role in this regard, according to the Intergovernmental Authority on Development (IGAD). IGAD has urged the media to have proper understanding of the complex nature of the peace and security threats in the region and focus on activities that would foster the image and national interest of the country.   Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Ethiopia along with IGAD jointly organized a two-day training program to local journalists and foreign correspondents in Bishofstu. The training focused on strengthening the capacity of the mass media on covering cross-border threats of peace and security, it was indicated. Speaking on the occasion, Security Sector Program Director with IGAD, Commander Abebe Muluneh said that the East African region is vulnerable to cross-border crimes and security threats. Therefore, the director said the mass media should have proper understanding of security and safety threats, as well as cross-border crime in the region. And ensuring the peace and safety of the horn calls for participation of multilateral actors and the mass media should play active role in this regard, he stressed. Thus, the mass media should create positive effects in the efforts to address security threats by discharging their responsibilities not only during the time of conflict but also in the post-conflict and peace building process. Spokesperson of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Ambassador Meles Alem said on his part that maintaining our national interest is not only the duty of diplomats but also of journalists. Accordingly, the spokesperson urged journalists to fulfill their responsibilities especially in producing accurate information and providing it to the public. African Affairs Deputy Director General at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Ambassador Jamaladdin Mohamed said that the training would help journalists to expand their understanding in the areas peace and security of the region. The training would enable journalists to enhance their knowledge and skills, particularly in providing accurate and fair reporting on conflict and peace issues responsibly and with utmost care. Further, it contributes to the role journalists play as part of strengthening the capacity of IGAD member countries in their efforts of addressing transboundary security threats.
Featured
IGAD Calls on Media Outlets to Play Actively in Ensuring Peace, Security of Horn Region
Jun 1, 2023 305
Addis Ababa June 1/2023(ENA):-Ensuring the peace and safety of Horn of Africa calls for participation of multilateral actors; and the mass media should play active role in this regard, according to the Intergovernmental Authority on Development (IGAD). IGAD has urged the media to have proper understanding of the complex nature of the peace and security threats in the region and focus on activities that would foster the image and national interest of the country.   Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Ethiopia along with IGAD jointly organized a two-day training program to local journalists and foreign correspondents in Bishofstu. The training focused on strengthening the capacity of the mass media on covering cross-border threats of peace and security, it was indicated. Speaking on the occasion, Security Sector Program Director with IGAD, Commander Abebe Muluneh said that the East African region is vulnerable to cross-border crimes and security threats. Therefore, the director said the mass media should have proper understanding of security and safety threats, as well as cross-border crime in the region. And ensuring the peace and safety of the horn calls for participation of multilateral actors and the mass media should play active role in this regard, he stressed. Thus, the mass media should create positive effects in the efforts to address security threats by discharging their responsibilities not only during the time of conflict but also in the post-conflict and peace building process. Spokesperson of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Ambassador Meles Alem said on his part that maintaining our national interest is not only the duty of diplomats but also of journalists. Accordingly, the spokesperson urged journalists to fulfill their responsibilities especially in producing accurate information and providing it to the public. African Affairs Deputy Director General at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Ambassador Jamaladdin Mohamed said that the training would help journalists to expand their understanding in the areas peace and security of the region. The training would enable journalists to enhance their knowledge and skills, particularly in providing accurate and fair reporting on conflict and peace issues responsibly and with utmost care. Further, it contributes to the role journalists play as part of strengthening the capacity of IGAD member countries in their efforts of addressing transboundary security threats.
RRS, Somali Region, UN Refugee Agency Sign MOU to Strengthen Local Integration of Refugees in the Region
Jun 1, 2023 323
Addis Ababa June 1/2023 (ENA) The Ethiopian government’s Refugees and Returnees Service (RRS), the Somali region and the UN Refugee Agency signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to strengthen inclusion and local integration of refugees in Kebribeyah Refugee Camp of Somali region. In its press release sent to ENA, Refugees and Returnees Service said the MoU is vital to support the efforts of integration of refugees in Kebribeyah Refugee Camp of the Somali region. Over 16,000 refugees from Somalia have been living or were born in Kebribeyah for the past 30 years, according to the press release. It added that the MOU would serve as a roadmap for refugees' inclusion and local integration in Kebribeyah and surrounding refugee camps. “The signed MoU, the first of its kind in Ethiopia, defines a roadmap for refugees’ inclusion and local integration in Kebribeyah and surrounding refugee camps. It provides a framework to transforming Kebribeyah refugee camp into a part of the Kebribeyah town, requiring further strengthening of services such as sustainable public services, water systems, housing, energy and environment, livelihood and infrastructure development.” Director General of Refugees and Returnees Service, Tesfahun Gobezay said at the occasion: “The Memorandum of Understanding lays a cornerstone of a bold move to ensure refugees’ self-reliance and inclusive services.” It contributes to the implementation of the pledges made by the Government of Ethiopia during the Global Refugee Forum 2019, the director general recalled. Somali Region’s Vice President Ibrahim Ousman Farah said on his part the MoU with Refugees and Returnees Service and UN Refugee Agency was a sign of a good collaboration. He added the implementation of the MoU will formalize Kebribeyah residents, refugees and hosts as one community. The MoU builds on the boundless hospitality of the communities in the Somali region and the continuous support of donors and partners; and can be transformative, UN Refugee Agency Representative in Ethiopia, Mamadou Dian Balde highlighted. Balde also reaffirmed the long-standing partnership between Refugees and Returnees Service, the Somali region and the UN Refugee Agency. The signing of the MoU would enhance cooperation between the three stakeholders by bringing together global and regional expertise and combining it with local knowledge and leadership in harnessing innovative capabilities and solutions for refugees and host communities, it was learned.  
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Politics
IGAD Calls on Media Outlets to Play Actively in Ensuring Peace, Security of Horn Region
Jun 1, 2023 305
Addis Ababa June 1/2023(ENA):-Ensuring the peace and safety of Horn of Africa calls for participation of multilateral actors; and the mass media should play active role in this regard, according to the Intergovernmental Authority on Development (IGAD). IGAD has urged the media to have proper understanding of the complex nature of the peace and security threats in the region and focus on activities that would foster the image and national interest of the country.   Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Ethiopia along with IGAD jointly organized a two-day training program to local journalists and foreign correspondents in Bishofstu. The training focused on strengthening the capacity of the mass media on covering cross-border threats of peace and security, it was indicated. Speaking on the occasion, Security Sector Program Director with IGAD, Commander Abebe Muluneh said that the East African region is vulnerable to cross-border crimes and security threats. Therefore, the director said the mass media should have proper understanding of security and safety threats, as well as cross-border crime in the region. And ensuring the peace and safety of the horn calls for participation of multilateral actors and the mass media should play active role in this regard, he stressed. Thus, the mass media should create positive effects in the efforts to address security threats by discharging their responsibilities not only during the time of conflict but also in the post-conflict and peace building process. Spokesperson of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Ambassador Meles Alem said on his part that maintaining our national interest is not only the duty of diplomats but also of journalists. Accordingly, the spokesperson urged journalists to fulfill their responsibilities especially in producing accurate information and providing it to the public. African Affairs Deputy Director General at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Ambassador Jamaladdin Mohamed said that the training would help journalists to expand their understanding in the areas peace and security of the region. The training would enable journalists to enhance their knowledge and skills, particularly in providing accurate and fair reporting on conflict and peace issues responsibly and with utmost care. Further, it contributes to the role journalists play as part of strengthening the capacity of IGAD member countries in their efforts of addressing transboundary security threats.
Prosperity Party Carried Out Activities that Enhance Nation-State Building: Party Vice President
May 31, 2023 386
Addis Ababa May 31/2023 (ENA) The Prosperity Party has carried out major activities that enhance nation-state building following the direction given by the strong and legitimate leadership of the party, Vice President Adem Farah said. The party will continue strengthening and building the leadership of the party so that the political, social, economic and diplomatic activities started can continue successfully, he added. In the statement he gave to ENA at the conclusion of the two-day PP Executive Committee meeting, the leadership conducted in-depth discussion on various issues. Accordingly, the executive committee has set directions in political, social, economic and diplomatic activities. With regard to the political sector, the vice president said that the efforts exerted to solve fundamental national issues through the National Dialogue Commission in a democratic manner were successful. He added that the Prosperity Party will play its role as a party for the holding of an inclusive dialogue to reach national consensus. The party has created a spirit of cooperation to establish a democratic system in Ethiopia by involving competing political parties which differ from it in ideology and policy in the government structure, he noted, adding that the effort would continue unabated. In order to create a lasting peace in Ethiopia, the vice president stated that commendable results have been gained in terms of building free and independent security, intelligence and democratic institutions for the benefit of the people. The executive committee has also positively evaluated the efforts to establish lasting peace through combining modern and traditional methods of conflict resolution with those who were engaged in armed struggle. Extremist bodies, which intend to meet group and individual needs by force in Ethiopia, are threatening our multinational unity, Adem said, adding that respecting the freedom of others is essential to exercise own freedom. The executive committee has also set a direction stressing the importance ensuring the rule of law and constitutionalism, maintaining complete peace, and strengthening justice and security institutions. Speaking about the economic sector, the vice president explained that the executive committee reviewed that an inclusive economy is being built in terms of ensuring fair development during the last 10 months. He mentioned the results registered in the productivity of wheat production with a view to maintaining the multi-sector economic system where impressive results are recorded in wheat productivity. In “Let’s Ethiopia Produce,” a national campaign that intends to solve the problems of the industrial sector, encouraging results have been achieved through increasing productivity and creating market linkages, he noted. Adem also indicated the ‘ Dine for the Nation’ and other projects, were able to stimulate the tourism sector and create 2.4 million jobs in nine months; and this achievement will continue to be strengthened. The Party executive committee has also set direction to take strong measures to reduce the role of non-value-added actors in the producers-consumers chain, preventing contrabandists with a view to stabilizing inflation. He stated that in realizing inclusive prosperity and developing social system, encouraging results have been achieved in education, health, youth and women empowerment. Stating that mutual benefits and productive diplomatic activities have registered results, priority has been given to neighboring countries in creating economic integration and boosting people-to-people relations, he noted this will be continued in a strengthening manner. In preserving our sovereignty and territorial integrity, we were able to overcome the pressure of some elements following the war in the northern part of the country, he said. As the principle of African solution to African problems has recorded results, it will be strengthened. In the future, we will pursue balanced and inclusive diplomatic works to maintain our interests, he said adding we will continue to overcome the pressure and expand our allies. To maintain the successful accomplishments of the ongoing political, social, economic and diplomatic activities, Prosperity Party will continue filtering, strengthening and building the leadership, he said.                                              
AU Expanded Mechanism Discusses Implementation of Continental Roadmap for Resolution of Conflict in Sudan 
May 31, 2023 367
Addis Ababa May 31/2023 (ENA)The Third Meeting of the Expanded Mechanism on the Sudan Crisis discussed today the implementation of the African Union Roadmap for the Resolution of the Conflict in Sudan. During the opening session, African Union Commission Conflict Management Directorate, Political Affairs, Peace and Security Director Sarjoh Bah said the AU has been working on a number of issues since the last meeting on 2nd May, 2023. It has convened two meetings on the trilateral mechanism in order to agree on the way forward, and also held a meeting of all humanitarian organizations working in Sudan to discuss how to cooperate, he added. “This third meeting of the expanded mechanism is the first engagement we are undertaking following the PSC summit level meeting that took place on Saturday, to share the outcome of the meeting and to discuss the way forward,” the director stated. Bah further stated that AU is embarking on a tour of regional capitals to express concerns about the crisis in Sudan, and the potential impact on the neighboring states and the continent as a whole if the fighting is not arrested immediately and an inclusive political process is allowed to start. At the last meeting, it was agreed that the AU would consult to put in place a Core Group that would guide the work of the international community in addressing the Sudan crisis. The director said that the AU is now ready to convene the Core Group in the coming week. “While doing that, we need to start planning and preparing for the inclusive negotiations on a political process, one which would address both the immediate and long-term causes of the Sudanese crisis.” While disagreements over the reform of the security sector did provide the immediate trigger for the conflict, Sudan and the Sudanese need to address the systemic grievances that date back decades. The African Union is working to support such an inclusive political process, which would allow for the full representation of the voices of all sectors of Sudanese civil society and political parties, Bah elaborated. Deputy Head of Office UNOAU and Director of Political Affairs, Gérald Mitchell said the UN fully endorses the demand that the Sudanese warring parties in this conflict resume a political process that will yield a democratic outcome in line with the democratic aspirations of the Sudanese people without delay. Building on the work we have done in the trilateral mechanism, Mitchell pointed out that “the United Nations remains committed to working closely with the African Union and regard as we pursue a permanent ceasefire, facilitation of humanitarian access, and providing support to the Sudanese actors in preparing the ground to the right moment to return to civilian democratic rule.” IGAD Permanent Representative to the African Union, Maureen Achieng said the authority is steadfastly committed to fostering peace in Sudan and the broader region. “We are by now well aware of the ongoing efforts by IGAD Member States, the African Union, and the international community at large to address the situation in Sudan and bring the warring parties to the negotiating table.”
Int'l Community behind National Dialogue in Ethiopia: UNDP Resident Representative 
May 31, 2023 565
Addis Ababa May 31/2023(ENA):- The international community is behind the national dialogue in Ethiopia and places much importance in the process that brings and consolidates peace in the country, UNDP Resident Representative Turhan Saleh told ENA. The representative said that the international community, which is behind this process, is supporting the Ethiopian National Dialogue Commission (ENDC) to build its capacity to undertake the dialogue successfully. In an exclusive interview with ENA, Saleh noted that the commission is incredibly important because it would enable to find peaceful means of resolving differences of important national issues in the country. According to him, the Ethiopian National Dialogue Commission has a significant role for the development of political culture in instilling the spirit of negotiation and compromise. The dialogue will provide a forum for allowing the participants to find common ground that provides something and benefits Ethiopia, he added. The United Nations Development Programme, on behalf of the UNDP, is coordinating all development assistance to the National Dialogue Commission. UNDP Resident Representative Saleh revealed that 35 million USD support is expected for projects related to the dialogue commission in 3 years. The first country, Japan, recently provided 3 million USD assistance through UNDP to the process and other countries will come to forward soon, he said. The representative stressed that this shows how much importance the international community places on the national dialogue process to bring and consolidate peace in Ethiopia. The Ethiopian National Dialogue Commission was established by the House of People’s Representatives in February 2022 with a three-year mandate to lead an independent, inclusive, and transparent national dialogue across the country.
Deputy PM & FM’s Visit To China Further Strengthens Multilateral Ties Between Two countries: MoFA
May 31, 2023 512
Addis Ababa May 31/2023(ENA):- Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs Demeke Mekonnon’s official working visit to China further strengthens the friendship and cooperation between Ethiopia and China, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MoFA) said. In a bi-weekly press briefing he gave to local and Addis Ababa based media on diplomatic activities and engagements of Ethiopia, Ambassador Meles Alem said that DPM & Foreign Minister Demeke's visit to China was successful. Ambassador Meles said the five-day diplomatic tour demonstrated the fast growing Ethiopia-China ties, especially in the areas of investment, trade, agriculture, pharmaceuticals and technology transfer. The inauguration of a newly inaugurated Ethiopian Embassy in Beijing is indicative of this trajectory, he added. The visit was indicative that China is Ethiopia's most important ally and that they have reached an agreement to bolster friendship in the fields of politics and diplomacy, he said. “I would like to say that the visit of the Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Affairs Minister Demeke Mekonnen has enhanced the relationship between Ethiopia and China, and brought the friendship and cooperation to a higher level,” he said. During this visit, Demeke had extensive discussions with Vice President of China, the Foreign Minister, the administrations of Guangdong Province and the Mayor of Guangzhou and various investors.” He added that the two countries reached better understanding on cooperation on international and the Horn of Africa issues. During his stay in China, Demeke held discussions with senior officials of the Chinese government and investors, which further strengthens the historical relationship between the two countries that lasted for more than 50 years. “The relationship between Ethiopia and China is 52 years old. Because we wanted to have a representative and embassy chancellery that fits this relationship, a newly built Ethiopian Embassy and Chancellery was inaugurated in China," Meles said. The visits and diplomatic activity which lasted for five days gave an opportunity to further strengthen the friendship of the two countries that lasted for more than 50 years,” the ambassador added. The ambassador said successful discussion was held with 300 Chinese companies on potential investment opportunities in Ethiopia.
Politics
IGAD Calls on Media Outlets to Play Actively in Ensuring Peace, Security of Horn Region
Jun 1, 2023 305
Addis Ababa June 1/2023(ENA):-Ensuring the peace and safety of Horn of Africa calls for participation of multilateral actors; and the mass media should play active role in this regard, according to the Intergovernmental Authority on Development (IGAD). IGAD has urged the media to have proper understanding of the complex nature of the peace and security threats in the region and focus on activities that would foster the image and national interest of the country.   Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Ethiopia along with IGAD jointly organized a two-day training program to local journalists and foreign correspondents in Bishofstu. The training focused on strengthening the capacity of the mass media on covering cross-border threats of peace and security, it was indicated. Speaking on the occasion, Security Sector Program Director with IGAD, Commander Abebe Muluneh said that the East African region is vulnerable to cross-border crimes and security threats. Therefore, the director said the mass media should have proper understanding of security and safety threats, as well as cross-border crime in the region. And ensuring the peace and safety of the horn calls for participation of multilateral actors and the mass media should play active role in this regard, he stressed. Thus, the mass media should create positive effects in the efforts to address security threats by discharging their responsibilities not only during the time of conflict but also in the post-conflict and peace building process. Spokesperson of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Ambassador Meles Alem said on his part that maintaining our national interest is not only the duty of diplomats but also of journalists. Accordingly, the spokesperson urged journalists to fulfill their responsibilities especially in producing accurate information and providing it to the public. African Affairs Deputy Director General at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Ambassador Jamaladdin Mohamed said that the training would help journalists to expand their understanding in the areas peace and security of the region. The training would enable journalists to enhance their knowledge and skills, particularly in providing accurate and fair reporting on conflict and peace issues responsibly and with utmost care. Further, it contributes to the role journalists play as part of strengthening the capacity of IGAD member countries in their efforts of addressing transboundary security threats.
Prosperity Party Carried Out Activities that Enhance Nation-State Building: Party Vice President
May 31, 2023 386
Addis Ababa May 31/2023 (ENA) The Prosperity Party has carried out major activities that enhance nation-state building following the direction given by the strong and legitimate leadership of the party, Vice President Adem Farah said. The party will continue strengthening and building the leadership of the party so that the political, social, economic and diplomatic activities started can continue successfully, he added. In the statement he gave to ENA at the conclusion of the two-day PP Executive Committee meeting, the leadership conducted in-depth discussion on various issues. Accordingly, the executive committee has set directions in political, social, economic and diplomatic activities. With regard to the political sector, the vice president said that the efforts exerted to solve fundamental national issues through the National Dialogue Commission in a democratic manner were successful. He added that the Prosperity Party will play its role as a party for the holding of an inclusive dialogue to reach national consensus. The party has created a spirit of cooperation to establish a democratic system in Ethiopia by involving competing political parties which differ from it in ideology and policy in the government structure, he noted, adding that the effort would continue unabated. In order to create a lasting peace in Ethiopia, the vice president stated that commendable results have been gained in terms of building free and independent security, intelligence and democratic institutions for the benefit of the people. The executive committee has also positively evaluated the efforts to establish lasting peace through combining modern and traditional methods of conflict resolution with those who were engaged in armed struggle. Extremist bodies, which intend to meet group and individual needs by force in Ethiopia, are threatening our multinational unity, Adem said, adding that respecting the freedom of others is essential to exercise own freedom. The executive committee has also set a direction stressing the importance ensuring the rule of law and constitutionalism, maintaining complete peace, and strengthening justice and security institutions. Speaking about the economic sector, the vice president explained that the executive committee reviewed that an inclusive economy is being built in terms of ensuring fair development during the last 10 months. He mentioned the results registered in the productivity of wheat production with a view to maintaining the multi-sector economic system where impressive results are recorded in wheat productivity. In “Let’s Ethiopia Produce,” a national campaign that intends to solve the problems of the industrial sector, encouraging results have been achieved through increasing productivity and creating market linkages, he noted. Adem also indicated the ‘ Dine for the Nation’ and other projects, were able to stimulate the tourism sector and create 2.4 million jobs in nine months; and this achievement will continue to be strengthened. The Party executive committee has also set direction to take strong measures to reduce the role of non-value-added actors in the producers-consumers chain, preventing contrabandists with a view to stabilizing inflation. He stated that in realizing inclusive prosperity and developing social system, encouraging results have been achieved in education, health, youth and women empowerment. Stating that mutual benefits and productive diplomatic activities have registered results, priority has been given to neighboring countries in creating economic integration and boosting people-to-people relations, he noted this will be continued in a strengthening manner. In preserving our sovereignty and territorial integrity, we were able to overcome the pressure of some elements following the war in the northern part of the country, he said. As the principle of African solution to African problems has recorded results, it will be strengthened. In the future, we will pursue balanced and inclusive diplomatic works to maintain our interests, he said adding we will continue to overcome the pressure and expand our allies. To maintain the successful accomplishments of the ongoing political, social, economic and diplomatic activities, Prosperity Party will continue filtering, strengthening and building the leadership, he said.                                              
AU Expanded Mechanism Discusses Implementation of Continental Roadmap for Resolution of Conflict in Sudan 
May 31, 2023 367
Addis Ababa May 31/2023 (ENA)The Third Meeting of the Expanded Mechanism on the Sudan Crisis discussed today the implementation of the African Union Roadmap for the Resolution of the Conflict in Sudan. During the opening session, African Union Commission Conflict Management Directorate, Political Affairs, Peace and Security Director Sarjoh Bah said the AU has been working on a number of issues since the last meeting on 2nd May, 2023. It has convened two meetings on the trilateral mechanism in order to agree on the way forward, and also held a meeting of all humanitarian organizations working in Sudan to discuss how to cooperate, he added. “This third meeting of the expanded mechanism is the first engagement we are undertaking following the PSC summit level meeting that took place on Saturday, to share the outcome of the meeting and to discuss the way forward,” the director stated. Bah further stated that AU is embarking on a tour of regional capitals to express concerns about the crisis in Sudan, and the potential impact on the neighboring states and the continent as a whole if the fighting is not arrested immediately and an inclusive political process is allowed to start. At the last meeting, it was agreed that the AU would consult to put in place a Core Group that would guide the work of the international community in addressing the Sudan crisis. The director said that the AU is now ready to convene the Core Group in the coming week. “While doing that, we need to start planning and preparing for the inclusive negotiations on a political process, one which would address both the immediate and long-term causes of the Sudanese crisis.” While disagreements over the reform of the security sector did provide the immediate trigger for the conflict, Sudan and the Sudanese need to address the systemic grievances that date back decades. The African Union is working to support such an inclusive political process, which would allow for the full representation of the voices of all sectors of Sudanese civil society and political parties, Bah elaborated. Deputy Head of Office UNOAU and Director of Political Affairs, Gérald Mitchell said the UN fully endorses the demand that the Sudanese warring parties in this conflict resume a political process that will yield a democratic outcome in line with the democratic aspirations of the Sudanese people without delay. Building on the work we have done in the trilateral mechanism, Mitchell pointed out that “the United Nations remains committed to working closely with the African Union and regard as we pursue a permanent ceasefire, facilitation of humanitarian access, and providing support to the Sudanese actors in preparing the ground to the right moment to return to civilian democratic rule.” IGAD Permanent Representative to the African Union, Maureen Achieng said the authority is steadfastly committed to fostering peace in Sudan and the broader region. “We are by now well aware of the ongoing efforts by IGAD Member States, the African Union, and the international community at large to address the situation in Sudan and bring the warring parties to the negotiating table.”
Int'l Community behind National Dialogue in Ethiopia: UNDP Resident Representative 
May 31, 2023 565
Addis Ababa May 31/2023(ENA):- The international community is behind the national dialogue in Ethiopia and places much importance in the process that brings and consolidates peace in the country, UNDP Resident Representative Turhan Saleh told ENA. The representative said that the international community, which is behind this process, is supporting the Ethiopian National Dialogue Commission (ENDC) to build its capacity to undertake the dialogue successfully. In an exclusive interview with ENA, Saleh noted that the commission is incredibly important because it would enable to find peaceful means of resolving differences of important national issues in the country. According to him, the Ethiopian National Dialogue Commission has a significant role for the development of political culture in instilling the spirit of negotiation and compromise. The dialogue will provide a forum for allowing the participants to find common ground that provides something and benefits Ethiopia, he added. The United Nations Development Programme, on behalf of the UNDP, is coordinating all development assistance to the National Dialogue Commission. UNDP Resident Representative Saleh revealed that 35 million USD support is expected for projects related to the dialogue commission in 3 years. The first country, Japan, recently provided 3 million USD assistance through UNDP to the process and other countries will come to forward soon, he said. The representative stressed that this shows how much importance the international community places on the national dialogue process to bring and consolidate peace in Ethiopia. The Ethiopian National Dialogue Commission was established by the House of People’s Representatives in February 2022 with a three-year mandate to lead an independent, inclusive, and transparent national dialogue across the country.
Deputy PM & FM’s Visit To China Further Strengthens Multilateral Ties Between Two countries: MoFA
May 31, 2023 512
Addis Ababa May 31/2023(ENA):- Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs Demeke Mekonnon’s official working visit to China further strengthens the friendship and cooperation between Ethiopia and China, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MoFA) said. In a bi-weekly press briefing he gave to local and Addis Ababa based media on diplomatic activities and engagements of Ethiopia, Ambassador Meles Alem said that DPM & Foreign Minister Demeke's visit to China was successful. Ambassador Meles said the five-day diplomatic tour demonstrated the fast growing Ethiopia-China ties, especially in the areas of investment, trade, agriculture, pharmaceuticals and technology transfer. The inauguration of a newly inaugurated Ethiopian Embassy in Beijing is indicative of this trajectory, he added. The visit was indicative that China is Ethiopia's most important ally and that they have reached an agreement to bolster friendship in the fields of politics and diplomacy, he said. “I would like to say that the visit of the Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Affairs Minister Demeke Mekonnen has enhanced the relationship between Ethiopia and China, and brought the friendship and cooperation to a higher level,” he said. During this visit, Demeke had extensive discussions with Vice President of China, the Foreign Minister, the administrations of Guangdong Province and the Mayor of Guangzhou and various investors.” He added that the two countries reached better understanding on cooperation on international and the Horn of Africa issues. During his stay in China, Demeke held discussions with senior officials of the Chinese government and investors, which further strengthens the historical relationship between the two countries that lasted for more than 50 years. “The relationship between Ethiopia and China is 52 years old. Because we wanted to have a representative and embassy chancellery that fits this relationship, a newly built Ethiopian Embassy and Chancellery was inaugurated in China," Meles said. The visits and diplomatic activity which lasted for five days gave an opportunity to further strengthen the friendship of the two countries that lasted for more than 50 years,” the ambassador added. The ambassador said successful discussion was held with 300 Chinese companies on potential investment opportunities in Ethiopia.
Social
EU Awards Full Masters Scholarship to 53 Ethiopian Students
Jun 1, 2023 219
  Addis Ababa June 1/2023(ENA): The European Union (EU) has awarded a full Masters Scholarship to 53 Ethiopian students for the academic year 2023-2024, according to the Delegation of the EU to Ethiopia. The students will spend two years in prestigious European Universities in 12 European countries to pursue their Master Degrees in various fields, it added. In a press release it sent to ENA, the EU Delegation stated that the Erasmus+ Scholarships are exclusively awarded to students coming from both EU and non-EU countries that have been selected to attend one of the Erasmus Mundus Joint Programmes at Masters or Doctorate level. Ethiopia is one of the top beneficiary countries of the Erasmus programme, it was learned. Since 2004, Ethiopia has been one of the top five performing countries in the world and top in Africa, both in terms of student selection and applications for the Erasmus Scholarship programme, according to the presser. Since 2010, the European Union has awarded the Erasmus Mundes Scholarship to more than 500 Ethiopian students. The EU Delegation Head in Ethiopia, Ambassador Roland Kobia said “the Erasmus+ European scholarships highly contributes to the country’s human development effort in higher education” The program offers a lifetime opportunity for young Ethiopian students to pursue their studies at the highest level, to learn more about European cultures, languages, academic systems and, not least, people at some of the best universities in Europe. Apart from improving the student's expertise, the scholarships are also meant to enrich the student’s life experiences, help create mutual understanding and openness between people and cultures, the ambassador noted. “We hope that these scholarships will help these students to excel and that they will return to Ethiopia with enhanced skills and knowledge useful for the country and themselves, as well as with fond memories of Europe.” The Erasmus+ Scholarship programme is a valuable opportunity for Ethiopia as it supports the country’s endeavor of the development of higher learning to address its need of more experts of science, technology, engineering, mathematics, and humanities.
RRS, Somali Region, UN Refugee Agency Sign MOU to Strengthen Local Integration of Refugees in the Region
Jun 1, 2023 323
Addis Ababa June 1/2023 (ENA) The Ethiopian government’s Refugees and Returnees Service (RRS), the Somali region and the UN Refugee Agency signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to strengthen inclusion and local integration of refugees in Kebribeyah Refugee Camp of Somali region. In its press release sent to ENA, Refugees and Returnees Service said the MoU is vital to support the efforts of integration of refugees in Kebribeyah Refugee Camp of the Somali region. Over 16,000 refugees from Somalia have been living or were born in Kebribeyah for the past 30 years, according to the press release. It added that the MOU would serve as a roadmap for refugees' inclusion and local integration in Kebribeyah and surrounding refugee camps. “The signed MoU, the first of its kind in Ethiopia, defines a roadmap for refugees’ inclusion and local integration in Kebribeyah and surrounding refugee camps. It provides a framework to transforming Kebribeyah refugee camp into a part of the Kebribeyah town, requiring further strengthening of services such as sustainable public services, water systems, housing, energy and environment, livelihood and infrastructure development.” Director General of Refugees and Returnees Service, Tesfahun Gobezay said at the occasion: “The Memorandum of Understanding lays a cornerstone of a bold move to ensure refugees’ self-reliance and inclusive services.” It contributes to the implementation of the pledges made by the Government of Ethiopia during the Global Refugee Forum 2019, the director general recalled. Somali Region’s Vice President Ibrahim Ousman Farah said on his part the MoU with Refugees and Returnees Service and UN Refugee Agency was a sign of a good collaboration. He added the implementation of the MoU will formalize Kebribeyah residents, refugees and hosts as one community. The MoU builds on the boundless hospitality of the communities in the Somali region and the continuous support of donors and partners; and can be transformative, UN Refugee Agency Representative in Ethiopia, Mamadou Dian Balde highlighted. Balde also reaffirmed the long-standing partnership between Refugees and Returnees Service, the Somali region and the UN Refugee Agency. The signing of the MoU would enhance cooperation between the three stakeholders by bringing together global and regional expertise and combining it with local knowledge and leadership in harnessing innovative capabilities and solutions for refugees and host communities, it was learned.  
Gov’t, Development Partners Made Significant Investments In Social Protection, But Requires More Investments: Samson
May 30, 2023 372
Addis Ababa May 30/2023(ENA):- The government of Ethiopia and its development partners have made large investments in social protection sector, which requires more investment, according to Director of Research at Economic Policy Research Institute, Michael Samson. Samson has 37 years of experience working in social protection, and specializes in designing, implementing, monitoring and evaluating social protection strategies, systems, and programmes, with a particular emphasis on food security and nutrition. Talking to ENA, he stated that the government of Ethiopia and its development partners have made large investment in the social protection sector. He stated that social protection means many things, but at the core of which, is investment in food security, and nutrition.” “It’s become one of the most important initiatives for inclusive growth in the country. But it requires more investment. It's necessary that everybody who requires social protection have this investment and for that to happen it's important for the government to see how vital this is for the country's future economic growth and development,” according to expert. Partners like the WFP, UNICEF and the World Bank have made significant investments with the government of Ethiopia to ensure food security and nutrition. Moreover, he elaborated that the implementation of a comprehensive green economy policy and strategy is vital to realize the social protection system. On other hand, Samson illustrated that nutrition is not just about having enough food. It is about having access to: safe water, sanitation, education and health, along with food security; all of which are important to improve nutritional outcomes. These nutritional outcomes then derive what economists call cognitive capital, the ability to work effectively in a knowledge economy, he indicated. He stressed that green economy is a smart economy, and this needs investment in nutrition and food security to drive the cognitive capital and enable everybody in Ethiopia to achieve this prosperity. “A green initiative and a climate change mitigation strategy involves a complex interaction of investments. You need to invest in a new energy policy, a new industrial policy, really an entirely new development policy which creates enormous opportunities for the country to achieve greater prosperity,” he elaborated. Recall a high-level national social protection conference was held last week under the theme “Social Protection for Nation Building in Ethiopia” with the objective to expand and improve social protection programs in the country. Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs, Demeke Mekonnen, African Union Commission, Deputy Commissioner, Monique Nsanzabaganwa and other high government officials, representatives of various partners and other pertinent stakeholders attended the conference. The conference aimed at generating ideas and have a common understanding among stakeholders about the expansion and improvement of social protection programs and systems through collaboration among the government, non-governmental actors, private sectors and development partners.  
Economy
Ethiopia Perfect Partner for Development, Investment in Africa: American Analyst
May 30, 2023 618
Addis Ababa May 30/2023 (ENA) With its enormous comparative advantages, Ethiopia is a perfect partner for development and investment in Africa, the American political-economic analyst Lawrence Freeman said. Freeman, who is known for closely following Ethiopian affairs, told ENA that the two-year long war in the northern part of Ethiopia has come to an end and swept the way for development and investment to the east African nation. More importantly, the relative peace that Ethiopia has been enjoying after the Pretoria accord has created a conducive environment to reinforce efforts on reconstruction, recovery and investment activities, the analyst noted. Everybody is happy that the war is over, Freeman said, adding that there is now going to be a process of reconstruction that could be used as a means to expand the entire Ethiopian economy. The European Union (EU) as well as its member countries and the United States have now been normalizing their bilateral ties with Ethiopia, a country considered a longstanding diplomatic partner of the West. The American analyst further pointed out the need to enhance financial support and maximize investment beyond a geopolitical interest in Ethiopia. The country has untapped potential for luring massive global investment in the areas of agriculture, manufacturing, and energy, among many other areas. Mentioning the agricultural potential of Ethiopia as an example, he noted that most of the arable land is not cultivated. “Most of the land in Ethiopia, what we call arable land that could be cultivated, is not being used. Only a tiny fraction of Ethiopia's arable land is actually under cultivation. There are certain crops that are being grown. That has to expand and that itself can help relieve some of the poverty and hunger questions.” According to him, the country could attract Foreign Direct Investment (FDI) from around the world since its agricultural potential is tremendously undeveloped. He appreciated the recent success story of Ethiopia on wheat production and its export that started this year. In this regard, Freeman believes that Ethiopia can play a crucial role for agricultural investment alone in Africa where the continent spends 45 billion USD for food import annually. This analyst further noted that the country can also attract giant global energy companies and make contribution to the Horn of Africa and beyond. Freeman also noted that Ethiopian Airline, the most advanced airline industry in the African continent, can serve as a manufacturing capability to build and repair engines by attracting investment “We can begin to use some of that capability. We are talking about 10,000 of square feet of space you used in Ethiopian Airlines to maintain those planes. We can begin to use some of that capability and transform it into manufacturing capability of finished products and goods that Ethiopian would consume and would not have to buy from abroad.” Finally, he stated that Ethiopia has built industrial parks that could be considered as comparative advantage to bring more investors.  
European Union Encourages Ethiopia to Exploit Everything But Arms Market Scheme
May 30, 2023 392
Addis Ababa May 30/2023(ENA):- The European Union Delegation Head in Ethiopia, Ambassador Kobia, has urged Ethiopians to exploit Everything But Arms (EBA) market scheme, a highly preferential system for the country. In an exclusive interview with ENA, Ambassador Roland Kobia revealed that there are 7,200 export products on the EBA list that Ethiopia can exploit. The European Union is the second largest trading partner and export destination to Ethiopia. The country exports 20 percent of its goods with the total worth of 130 billion Birr, he added. In order to enhance the trade linkage between the two sides, the EU is looking for ways to further create a favorable market environment for Ethiopia, the head pointed out. According to him, one of the EU trade preferential systems to Ethiopian export goods is Everything But Arm, a tariff reduced trade regime like the American African Growth and Opportunity Act (AGOA). “I am always surprised about how much Ethiopians know about AGOA, but how little they know about the European system, Everything But Arms (EBA),” Ambassador Kobia wondered. He further explained that Ethiopia has basically all the products, and these can be exported to the European Union market without any customs duties and zero percent taxes as well as without any quantitative restrictions. Ambassador Kobia urged the country to exploit this market opportunity to a maximum, even if it is one of the top five countries that benefit from the EBA system. “We are offering to let you know that the EU has 450 million inhabitants and it is one of the richest markets in the world. So we are offering the possibility to ensure export to one of the richest as well as the biggest markets in the world in a highly preferential way.” The head added that the EU is looking forward to an increased partnership and engagement with Ethiopia in many spheres.      
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Technology
PM Abiy Urges Innovators to Play their Part in Ethiopia’s Development Efforts
May 22, 2023 1226
Addis Ababa May 22/2023(ENA):- Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed urged innovators to exert efforts and play their part for the development of Ethiopia by effectively withstanding challenges they might encounter in the course of their activities. Prime Minister Abiy has today officially launched the 3rd National Competition of Innovation in Addis Ababa. The nationwide skill competition attracted young people with unique skills and abilities.   The participants are presenting their creative works at the competition organized by the Ministry of Labor and Skills will be held for the coming five days under the theme “Skill for Competitiveness” Innovation workshops, panel discussions, and other related programs will be underway as part of the competition. During the opening ceremony of the competition, Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed urged innovators to exert effort and play their part in the development of Ethiopia by effectively withstanding challenges they might encounter in the course of their effort. The premier stressed the need to increase the number of innovators and effectively use the available inputs as Ethiopia is endowed with abundant raw materials in all the economic sectors. Noting that Ethiopia has been experiencing several problems, the premier urged innovators to exert the utmost efforts to ensure Ethiopia’s prosperity through solution oriented activities and withstanding challenges they may encounter. “The innovation works displayed by young Ethiopian innovators here today demonstrates the fact that the efforts being carried out by the Ministry of Labor and Skills are encouraging. Ethiopia is a country with enormous problems. If we are willing to innovate in order to simplify the lives of the people by appreciating these challenges, Ethiopia is capable of providing full-fledged input to all the types of innovation works. However, despite Ethiopia having the ability to produce, it still imports from various countries for there are limitations in the number of people who are capable to innovate and make things simple. The main objective of this event is to reverse this limitation." He said the competition program will play crucial role for young Ethiopians with skills and talents to demonstrate their capabilities and create market linkages. The premier further stressed the need to strengthen innovative skills as Ethiopia has no shortages of inputs, urging innovators to use challenges as a springboard for their effective work. Minister of Labor and Skills, Muferiat Kamil said Solution oriented technologies play a great deal of role in creating competitive economy and ensuring sustainable development.   According to her, Ministry of Labor and Skills has been carrying out enormous reform activities in order to modernize the technical and vocational sector. The reforms have already been registering encouraging results, the minister added.    
Endangered African carnivore lived in Ethiopia for 1.5 million years: Study
May 17, 2023 3199
Addis Ababa May 17/2023(ENA):- A study by Israel's Hebrew University of Jerusalem and American, Spanish and Italian teams found the first and unique fossil of an Ethiopian wolf from 1.5 million and not 20,000 years ago, according to The Jerusalem Post. The first fossil – half of a jawbone – from an Ethiopian wolf in Africa has been found by experts from the Hebrew University in Jerusalem (HU) and the University of California at Berkeley, along with Spanish and Italian paleontologists. The study, published on Tuesday in the Journal Communications Biology under the title “The earliest Ethiopian wolf: implications for the species evolution and its future survival,” unambiguously proves that the ancient Ethiopian wolf Canis simensis existed in Africa some 1.5 million years ago and not 20,000 years ago according to previous theories that suggested the mammal arrived from EuroAsia. The discovery “constitutes the first empirical evidence that supports molecular interpretations.” In 2017, the jawbone from the ancient wolf was found at the Melka Wakena site on the southeastern Ethiopian highlands about 2,300 meters above sea level. The specimen is the first and unique Pleistocene fossil of this species, the team wrote. Today, this species is one of the most endangered carnivores in Africa. “Bioclimate modeling applied to the time frame indicated by the fossil suggested that the lineage of the Ethiopian wolf faced severe survival challenges in the past, with consecutive drastic geographic range contractions during warmer periods. These models help to describe future scenarios for the survival of the species,” the authors continued.  
Sport
Environment
Ethiopia's Green Legacy Initiative Exemplary for Africa: ECA Director
May 31, 2023 319
Addis Ababa May 31/2023 (ENA)The Green Legacy, which enhances biodiversity side by side with economic activities, is an interesting example for Africans, the Economic Commission for Africa Technology, Climate Change, and Natural Resources Director said. United Nations Economic Commission for Africa (UNECA) Technology, Climate Change, and Natural Resources Director, Jean-Paul Adam told ENA that the Green Legacy program that Ethiopia has been undertaking side by side with other economic activities, such as growing coffee, which provides jobs and improves livelihood not only contributes to the protection of biodiversity but also to the economy. “There are some interesting examples in Ethiopia, where you have the Green Legacy, which protects the natural environment; and it happens side by side with economic activities,” he said, adding that the “growing of coffee (for example) provides jobs and which improve livelihoods.” According to him, it's very important that these types of planting are done in a way that enhances biodiversity; and this means properly choosing the type of plants and also looking at the impact of this planting on the environment. For instance, the country is considering how the plantation can address the issue of water retention, he noted. Indigenous saplings friendly to the environment and seedlings that boost agricultural yields have been increased during the Green Legacy plantation campaigns, it was learned. UNECA has been providing technical support to Ethiopia’s works to protect biodiversity. Adam pointed out that “Ethiopia is already doing a program that is very vast and which has a very big impact, and we are supporting simply to provide technical expertise to ensure that you are getting the right results.” The country is also doing a successful program for building back better post-COVID-19 in terms of launching a biodiversity green initiative to promote the sustainable management of catchment areas in critical energy infrastructure zones by deploying nature-based solutions. The Green Legacy Initiative which protects biodiversity side by side with economic activities that benefit the people through job creation and improving livelihood is an interesting example for Africans. The director believes that biodiversity is one of the most important elements for African countries to realize economic transformation. However, it is being exploited, extracted, or made use of without benefiting enough of the population, according to Adam. “So having the right frameworks on the protection of biodiversity can allow us to develop economic activities that protect the biodiversity, while also delivering improvements in job creation and livelihoods.” The director advises countries to maximize their income from different sectors, including ecotourism, by developing sustainable value chains in agriculture. African countries should also have strategies for better coordination in implementing the Convention on Biodiversity and Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Flora and Fauna in a way that also improves their economic opportunities.
High-level Conference on Biodiversity Kicks Off at AU HQ
May 30, 2023 412
Addis Ababa May 30/2023(ENA):- A four-day high-level conference on biodiversity kicked off at the African Union Headquarters in Addis Ababa today. Speaking on the occasion, Sustainable Environment and Blue Economy (SEBE) Director Harsen Nyambe said biodiversity is critical to many sectors and livelihoods of local societies in Africa.   However, local communities are not benefiting from biodiversity and there are also challenges of climate change trends and unsustainable use of biodiversity which need to be addressed, he added. “As a continent, we need to domesticate the outcome of the Montreal CBD COP15. But at the same time, we would want to make sure that we reconcile that with the outcome of the CITES COP 19.” CITES is one of the conventions that divided the continent despite the resolutions of the Head of States that call for unity and one voice. “We are therefore hopeful, during these four days, that we will be able to come up with some wisdom on how we can be able to chart a way forward and make sure that we are able to have a united voice of Africa when it comes to matters of CITES,” the director said. The CITES CoP is where governments (CITES parties) around the world convene every two to three years to review and make decisions on the regulation of trade in endangered species. A number of frameworks have been put in place for nature based solutions, sustainable forest management and to combat illegal trade of wild fauna and flora. “We are hoping that all of these frameworks will be able to make a contribution to the strategy as well as the action plan that we are actually going to develop during the coming days.” During the UN Convention on Biological Diversity (CBD) Fifteenth Conference of the Parties (COP15) held in December 2022 in Montreal, Canada, governments from around the world came together to agree on a new set of goals to guide global action through 2030 to halt and reverse nature loss.  
Forging Innovative Partnership with Research Institutions Crucial to Transform Agriculture, Says CGIAR 
May 25, 2023 953
Addis Ababa May 25/2023 (ENA) ፡Forging innovative partnership with research institutions is crucial to transform agriculture through building resilience to climate change, according to the Consortium of International Agricultural Research Centers (CGIAR). A conference on building livelihood and resilience of small holder farmers by changing the climate in Ethiopia opened here in Addis Ababa today. Speaking on the occasion, Consortium of International Agricultural Research Centers (CGIAR) Regional Director Numukolo Covic said the conference will address the need to use and adopt production practices to contribute and enhance natural resource management that would safeguard food security and nutrition for our future generation. According to her, natural resources management is a very important aspect of agricultural development as it enables small holder farmers to generate adequate income from their farming for livelihood. Smallholder farmers do not face individual challenges at a time; they face multiple challenges often concurrently and sometimes one after the other, she added. We, therefore, need to limit shocks from frequent drought and floods and bundle innovations from different partners to deliver to farm households. “All our agricultural production efforts in anywhere in the country and in the world are taking place in the context of a growing climate crisis for which we need not just accurate forecasting but timely action to limit the shocks where possible.” Ethiopian Agricultural Transformation Institute Director-General, Mandefro Nigusse highlighted the importance of agriculture to this country in terms of food nutrition and security, job creation, foreign currency generation, and as raw material in the ever growing industrialization. This meeting is part of shaping Ethiopian agriculture for greater impact and also contributing to counteract these challenges, and the contribution of the scientific community in CGAIR is huge. He noted that agricultural transformation is not just about production but it takes into consideration the entire value chain, and Ethiopian food system transformation is even bigger than the agricultural transformation. Appreciating the contribution of research and development partners and donors, the director-general stated that there is still a long way to go “and we need stronger collaboration not just in drought affected Ethiopia and the entire Africa but also the globe.”   World Bank Agriculture and Food Global Director, Martien Van Nieuwkoop said on his part that our vision is to support agriculture and food system on how to help people and economy. Climate smart agriculture is really high priority for the Bank in Ethiopia, he pointed out, adding that it has put 1.5 billion USD in financing various programs for Ethiopia in major food system resilience project, building climate resilience in agriculture. We are active in the lowland livelihood resilience projects, livestock and aquaculture, and we are also working very closely with CGAIR, the director stated. The one-day conference aims to accelerate the integration of Consortium of International Agricultural Research Centers (CGIAR) and its national and international partners to improve livelihood and build agri-food system resilience and adaptive capacity to changing climate.
Dry Conditions Expected in Northern Parts of Greater Horn of Africa: ICPAC
May 24, 2023 1002
Addis Ababa May 24/2023 (ENA) IGAD’S Climate Prediction and Applications Centre (ICPAC) today announced that the June to September, 2023 forecast shows high chances of drier than usual conditions across the northern parts of the Greater Horn of Africa (GHA). Accordingly, Djibouti, Eritrea, central and northern Ethiopia, western Kenya, northern Uganda, and much of South Sudan and Sudan are expected to receive insufficient rainfall until the end of the season. ICPAC’s analysis also indicates an increased likelihood of warmer than usual conditions over the entire region, particularly over northern Sudan, parts of southern and central to western Ethiopia, central and northern Kenya, central and northern Somalia, and coastal parts of Tanzania. The June to September rainfall season is particularly important for the northern regions of the GHA, where it contributes to more than 50 percent of the annual total rainfall. ICPAC Director, Guleid Artan called for heightened vigilance “as the conditions we forecast could very well increase food insecurity in the region. Depressed rainfall, coupled with warmer than usual temperatures, are likely to affect crop productivity, with the risk of crop wilting and a hastened decline in pasture and water availability." He appealed to IGAD’s partners to “stay mobilized and continue to respond to the crisis where 49 million people are still highly-food insecure in the IGAD region.” In most parts of the region, above average rainfall was recorded during the March to May, 2023 season, bringing some respite to the communities most affected by five consecutive failed rainfall seasons in parts of Ethiopia, Kenya, and Somalia. “It is now very likely that we will transition from La Niña to El Niño between July and September”, explained Hussen Seid, Climate Modelling Expert at ICPAC. “At this stage, there is no indication of the strength or duration of El Niño, but in general it is associated with depressed rainfall between June and September in the north of the region and wetter conditions between October and December in the equatorial parts. So, we must get prepared for much wetter weather towards the end of the year. We encourage our users to consult our weekly and monthly updates that have a high degree of predictability." ICPAC is a designated Regional Climate Centre by the World Meteorological Organization. Its seasonal forecast is based on an analysis of several global climate model predictions customized for the Greater Horn of Africa (GHA). The 64th Greater Horn of Africa Climate Outlook Forum (GHACOF64) was convened as a hybrid event on 24th May 2023 by ICPAC in collaboration with the National Meteorological and Hydrological Services in the region and other partners to issue the June - September 2023 seasonal forecast. The forum brought together climate services providers and users from key socio-economic sectors, governmental and non-governmental organizations, decision-makers, climate scientists, and civil society stakeholders, among others, to discuss impacts and mitigation measures for the upcoming season.
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Ethiopian Diaspora Demand Egypt to Change Counterproductive Posture on GERD
Apr 4, 2023 13059
Addis Ababa April 4/2023 (ENA) Ethiopians in the Diaspora have called on Egypt to change its counterproductive posture and find mutually beneficial agreements on the Grand Ethiopian Renaissance Dam (GERD). In a statement the diaspora issued yesterday, they noted that Ethiopia is the main source of the Nile by contributing 86 percent of the water to the Nile basin states while utilizing less than 1 percent of the potential for hydroelectric power. Ethiopians are currently building the GERD on the Blue Nile that is financed entirely by Ethiopians and is a crucial project for the country's development as it will provide clean, renewable energy and lift millions out of poverty. About 65 percent of the 122 million of Ethiopia's population have no access to any form of electricity. The much-needed electricity will facilitate economic growth for Ethiopia and the region, the statement elaborated. The dam will promote regional cooperation and integration while offering opportunity for eleven countries of the Nile Basin to work together to manage the river's resources more efficiently and effectively, it added. The GERD is being built with the highest environmental and technical standards to achieve the objectives of the national electrification program and the execution of Ethiopia’s Climate-Resilient Green Economy Strategy. According to the statement, Ethiopia has provided scientific evidence and expert testimonies that GERD will not significantly affect the flow of water downstream, and provided compelling arguments for the need for equitable use of the Nile's resources by all countries in the region. The diaspora further said they understand that the GERD has raised concerns in Egypt about the downstream effects on the Nile's flow and water availability since Egyptians have been misinformed about the GERD for many years. But on the contrary, the dam will provide several benefits to Egypt and Sudan, including increased water flow during dry seasons and decreased flooding events. “We want to assure Egyptians that Ethiopians are committed to fair and equitable use of the Nile's waters without harming our downstream neighbors. We recognize that the Nile River is a shared resource, and we support finding a mutually beneficial solution.” As Ethiopians in the Diaspora, we reiterate our support for fair and equitable use of the Nile River and call on the Egyptian people and Egyptian Diaspora to question the misinformation about the GERD in Egypt's mainstream media and embrace the spirit of friendship and cooperation by understanding that the GERD is a project of great national importance to Ethiopians that will benefit Egyptians by ensuring a reliable and predictable supply of water, that Ethiopians have the right to use their water resources for the development of its people and economy, in accordance with the principles of equitable and reasonable utilization without causing significant harm. Efforts to destabilize Ethiopia by the regime in Egypt, will indeed affect the historical and diplomatic relations dating back to several thousand years, the long-term interest of the Egyptian people and make Ethiopians less trusting in cooperating on the GERD and future hydropower projects on the Nile, they warned. The diaspora groups urged Egyptian leaders to engage in constructive dialogue with the leaders of Ethiopia regarding the GERD and steer away from their counterproductive posture of calling for a “binding agreement” on the GERD filling and the subsequent operations as an imposing instrument on water sharing that Ethiopians will never accept. The GERD can be a source of cooperation and collaboration between our two countries rather than a source of conflict, they underscored. "Ethiopians believe that, through dialogue and understanding, peaceful and equitable agreements that benefit all parties involved can be realized to build a brighter future for all people in the Nile basin. Belligerent positions by Egyptian leaders stating ‘all options are open’ are contrary to the spirit of the 2015 Declaration of Principles signed by Ethiopia, Sudan and Egypt." According to the statement, such postures will surely harm Egypt's long-term interest and impede trustful cooperation with the Ethiopian people and government. They asked Arab League and its member states to refrain from interfering in the issue of the GERD, which is the sole concern of the three riparian countries (Ethiopia, Sudan and Egypt) and their shared regional organization (the African Union), which is mediating the talks to find ‘African Solutions to African Problems.’ The issues remaining on the table at the trilateral negotiations under the auspices of the African Union are being narrowed to a handful of critical matters on equity and justice, on which the Arab league nations have no business or legal right to be involved.
Africa’s Sustainable Growth Hinges on Science, Technology and Innovation: Experts
Mar 3, 2023 9340
Addis Ababa March 3/2023/ENA/ Achieving the ambitious targets of the 2030 and 2063 Agendas of Africa requires leveraging the power of science, technology, and innovation (STI), according to experts. A press release issued by the ECA stated experts at the Ninth African Regional Forum on Sustainable Development have emphasized the crucial role of STI as a key driver and enabler for ensuring economic growth, improving well-being, mitigating the effects of climate change, and safeguarding the environment. They also underscored the need to strengthen national and regional STI ecosystems by fostering innovation, promoting entrepreneurship, and investing in research and development. By doing so, the experts said that Africa can harness the potential of STI to accelerate its socio-economic progress and achieve the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) by 2030 and the African Union's Agenda by 2063. The session, held on 2 March 2023, builds on the recommendations of the Fifth African Science, Technology, and Innovation Forum, which accentuates the central role of STI and digitalization during the COVID-19 pandemic and the need for the necessary infrastructures for the development of STI, plans, and policies that are action-oriented towards strengthening its full implantation. The experts highlighted that despite advances in STI, significant gaps remain in bridging the scientific and technological divide between developed countries and Africa. The highly uneven global distribution of scientific capacity and access to knowledge threatens to derail the goal of leaving no one behind, which is the central and transformative promise of Agenda 2030. “We need a clear political will from governments to ensure science, technology, and innovation is a reality. By doing so our education systems will be capacitated to deliver knowledge that is vital to solving Africa’s sustainability challenges,” Niger Higher Education and Research Minister Mamoudou Djibo said. The strategy includes the establishment of universities as centers for excellence and investments in education, technical competencies, and training in the fields of science, technology, research, and innovation. These initiatives are crucial in accelerating progress towards achieving global goals. However, in order to fully leverage the potential of STI, significant investments in research and development are required. National systems also need to be strengthened, Namibia Information and Communication Technologies Deputy Minister Emma Theophilus, stated adding that “strengthening our national systems for STI is a key game changer for rapid structural transformation in Africa. Leveraging the digital transformation can achieve a stronger, smarter, and more inclusive recovery.” Emerging evidence suggests that an STI and digital Africa can be a springboard to accelerate the implementation of the SDGs and fulfill the aspirations of Agenda 2063.
Renaissance Dam Reached Final Stage Through United Efforts of Ethiopians, Says DPM & Foreign Minister
Apr 1, 2023 9335
Addis Ababa April 1/2023/ENA/ The construction of the Grand Ethiopian Renaissance Dam (GERD) has reached the final stage through the united effort of the Ethiopian people, Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Demeke Mekonen said. The National Council for the Coordination of Public Participation on the Construction of GERD, chaired by the Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Mnister Demeke, held a consultive forum that discussed the implementation of the construction of the dam and assessed the preparations for the celebration of the 12th year founding anniversary of the dam. Speaking on the occasion, Demeke noted that Ethiopians have been supporting the construction of the dam without any differences since the launching. This public participation has brought about an encouraging result that will elevate Ethiopia, he added. Some 18 billion Birr has been collected in various ways since the laying of the cornerstone of the Grand Renaissance Dam. The all-round activities to complete the dam have been supported by citizens that are leading the project and doing a proud work that will pass on to generations, the deputy premier and foreign minister stated. "This shows how capable we Ethiopian are when united," he noted. Demeke further called on all Ethiopians to participate in integrated watershed development, in addition to their support to the construction of the renaissance dam until its completion. While celebrating the laying of the foundation of the Great Ethiopian Renaissance Dam, we should also sustain the achievements registered in the diplomatic sphere, he said. The Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister stressed that the Great Ethiopia Renaissance Dam is a project that will benefit all the riparian countries. According to him, Ethiopia is interested in continuing the tripartite talks that have started in Africa. Demeke underlined that a backward approach that benefits only one party is not acceptable. Prosperity Party Vice President, Adam Farah said on his part that the contribution of Ethiopians to the construction of GERD is "history that makes the next generation proud."   Adam underscored the need to strengthen the all-round support to the construction until the dam is completed. Chief Government Whip Tesfaye Beljige said that the current level of the dam is a historic victory that Ethiopia has achieved despite many challenges. Tesfaye pointed out that the Great Ethiopian Renaissance Dam is an African project that would connect the region through power.  
Feature Article
Generation Medemer: Remedial For Posterity
May 24, 2023 1000
BY STAFF WRITER Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed has authored the third series of book entitled Generation Medemer. The first and second series of his books are: Philosophy and Paradigm of Medemer published in 2019 and the Principles and Practices of Medemer written two years later. This latest series, Generation Medemer, with focus on principles and personalities of Medemer is published in Amharic, Afan Oromo, and English languages. The book which once more proved that Prime Minister Abiy is a prolific writer with five books to his name. Particularly, the aforementioned three books have been written in the context of a daunting responsibility he shoulders as a leader of Ethiopia, pioneering a far-reaching national reform program in the unprecedented challenging situation following the war in the northern part of the country, internal and external conspiracy. Fascinatingly, he has managed to write these books in five years despite those difficulties. In latest book, Prime Minister Abiy has taken the initiative to show a generational description of Ethiopia, a country which boasts of history dating back to 3,000 years. The book gives a road map on how the Ethiopian current generation learns from mistakes and tries to improvise on their future. Apart from his previous books, this newest book of the prime minister takes a different stage at a more advanced age which is talking about the millennial generation to put Ethiopia in a position at a global stage. Thus, the book is a deliberation on how Ethiopia is positioned in Africa, in the Middle East, and globally in general. It also suggests how the coming generation needs to work, needs to think and needs to unify in order to strengthen Ethiopian position globally. Accordingly, the first part of Generation Medemer is dedicated to conception and chain of generations since the 19th century Ethiopia while part two deals with generation path and journey and the third part deals with the rising of the new Medemer Generation. In a recent presentation on the English version of the book which was introduced to the international community residing in Addis Ababa, one of the presenter outlined eight items that defined Medemer as synergy, alignment, synchronization of times, ages and era, symmetry of space and balance, alignment of functions, and many others. Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed as a writer defined Medemer as “an idea that seeks to address the deficit in a new social, political, economic and foreign relations and orientations. Medemer encourages working together for a shared vision towards a mutually beneficial goal. It builds on past successes while striving to correct mistakes in the effort to create a more harmonious union. The book defines and delineates generations that the country has cruised through. Accordingly, five levels of generations in Ethiopia since the 19th century are identified, namely, the conservative patriotic generation, the dreamers generation, disillusioned generation, smart generation and the future Medemer generation to be established. The book identifies the conservative and patriotic generation, imbued with the spirit of victory at Adwa in 1896, is the first to experience modernity (elements of Western modernization). It was the first to have access to modern schools, hotels, cars, cinemas, airplanes and newspapers. That generation placed a premium on “Ethiopianness” and strove for unity and cooperation. It sought to emulate Japan which had successfully modernized while maintaining a balance and blending of its traditional values with the technological progress of Westernization. The Conservative generation sought “to preserve the culture, ethos spirits and patriotism and pride of Ethiopians and aspired to harmonize the modern with the traditional values.” According to Prime Minister Abiy’s latest book, the dreamer generation came into being in the middle of the 20th century and is sometimes referred to as “the children of the 1960s.” This generation was shaped by the expansion of modern education, mass media and broad exposure to foreign values and practice as well as revolutionary ideas. The student movement phenomenon was unique to this generation which steeped itself in Socialist Ideology and organized itself in revolutionary “study clubs.” It mimicked upheavals in Western higher education. Its principal aspiration was to see a democratic Ethiopia but got caught in a vicious cycle of violence which traumatized millions and led to mass exile and displacement of hundreds of thousands during the Red Terror of the Derge era. While the conservative generation was willing to blend tradition with modernity, the dreamer generation did not find much that is worthwhile in traditional values and wanted to fully uproot the existing reality and replace it with a new socialist culture and society. “The leading intellectual figures of the time seemed to believe the solution to all our problems could be derived from the thoughts of a few foreign individuals,”Abiy states. Generation Medemer also argues that the disillusioned (confused) generation came in the last three decades of the 20th century in the aftermath of the demise of the Derg and socialism. This generation witnessed the rise of the ethno-nationalist wing of the dreamer generation. It is disillusioned because of the demise of socialism and ruination of its sacrifices and the political confusion that engulfed the country. Due to its traumatic experience during the Red and White Terrors, this generation lost clear content of politics and disengaged from politics. The other generation is the smart generation, the millennial generation that has been raised on the politics of division. It is estranged from other generations, ignorant of the country’s complex history and is overwhelmed by bitterness and frustration. Its alienation stems from institutionalized politics of division and globalization which has enhanced the influence of foreign social/media to sow ignorance and confusion among members of this generation. Abiy conceives of the alienated generation demands what the country cannot provide and would rather migrate to foreign lands for an uncertain future than stay and strive to make things better at home. It asserts its rights but is clueless of the responsibilities attached to those rights. Its expectations are shaped by globalization. It suffers from a malaise of self-pity, hopelessness, and victimhood. It has limited critical thinking abilities and consumes disinformation on social media mindlessly. Its politics is characterized by extremism. The Generation Medeemer identifies five basic characteristic features of the current generation which is characterized by love of art and beauty, emotional intelligence, the need for trust as social capital, pursuit of excellence and mark of ethical integrity. The book explains intra-generational with the context of raising a new generation of Medemer, relating the existing generation with the newly emerging generation and transgenerational relations of aligning with generation across borders and boundaries to relate with the rest of the world. All in all, the latest series of book authored by Prime Minister Abiy puts a lot of emphasis on how Ethiopia could become a powerhouse in the world that could be considered as a paradigm shift. It has set a tone for the future, and for Ethiopia to be a superpower. And it's a very visionary text, which the coming generations understand, read and have an opinion, have a perspective. The principles of Medemer are not either confined to Ethiopia; they can be applied in universal context. Most certainly, it is a thought of Medemer or inclusiveness. Many scholars who read the book pointed out that the book establishes perspectives by drawing lessons from the past mistakes, rally together and understand each other.  
Ethiopia’s Elevation In Diplomacy Opening Investment Flow 
May 19, 2023 1948
Ethiopia’s Elevation In Diplomacy Opening Investment Flow BY SOLOOMON DIBABA It is noted that the Agreement on the Permanent Cession of Hostilities signed between the Federal Government of Ethiopia and TPLF in Pretoria, South Africa on 2 November, 2022, has won Ethiopia not only a wider international acclamation but also elevated its stature in diplomacy. Following the bold decision of the government to sign the peace accord to resolve the conflict in the northern part of the country and its effective implementation afterwards, Ethiopia has evolved from strained diplomacy to new diplomatic heights. Moreover, the signing of the peace agreement has vividly demonstrated Ethiopia’s irreversible stand for peace in the country and the Horn of Africa, where some influential political figures in Africa have started urging Ethiopia to step up its usual positive role for the cause of Africa both in the sub-region and in the entire continent. Over the last couple of months, different high ranking executives of foreign countries, mostly from Europe, the USA, including the Hungarian Minister of Foreign Affairs and Trade, Peter Szijjarto, the Prime Minister of Italy, Georgia Meloni, Foreign Ministers of France and Germany, Catherine Colonna and Annalena Baerblock respectively, British Foreign Secretary James Cleverly, EU Special Representative for Human Rights, Eamon Gilmore, Deputy Prime Minister of Slovenia, Tanja Fajon, Vice President of the Republic of Colombia, Francia Elena Márquez Mina and a number of other officials across the world have visited Ethiopia and exchanged views on national and regional issues of common interest. During their discussions with both Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed and Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Affairs Minister, Demeke Mekonen, the officials expressed the appreciation of their respective governments on the successes achieved in bringing peace to the northern part of the country and on their strong desire to foster the existing bilateral relations and cooperation with Ethiopia. They also discussed with other government officials on how to boost bilateral relations, economic cooperation and the ongoing relief and rehabilitation programs in the northern part of the country. Although relative peace and stability is already ensured in the country, there is huge resource mobilization needs not only for relief and rehabilitation assistance in the war ravaged areas of the country but also to reinvigorate the reconstruction of destroyed infrastructure facilities and embark on investment opportunities based on the trust and mutual understanding between Ethiopia and its partners to revamp the socio-economic development endeavors. The imperatives of buttressing the dividends of peace with socio-economic development will help to ensure sustainable peace and development in the country in line with the Ten Years Perspective Plan which is now under implementation. FDI in the areas of the commanding heights of the economy including agriculture, mining, tourism development, manufacturing industries, energy and infrastructure development are of critical importance for peaceful and uninterrupted economic development for the country. Invest Ethiopia 2023 International Investment Forum held from April 26 to 28 here in Addis Ababa was also a big achievement. The forum aimed to obtain 3 billion USD in FDI for 2023 including 500 million USD soft commitments in the short run. Ethiopia has now become a major investment destination in Africa primarily because of the comparative advantage the country is providing. This includes, among other things, lucrative investment climate, growing economy, excellent climate and fertile soil, young and trainable labor force, access to global markets, improved economic infrastructure, competitive incentive package and government commitment. A number of foreign visitors who attended the forum told ENA that senior government officials had provided them with clear presentations about the investment potentials, impressing them about the potentials of country. In view of the diplomatic stature and its attendant results witnessed over the last couple of weeks, such trends can be multiplied by leaps and bounds in the future, calling for multifaceted preparations from public offices and service providing institutions. So, efforts must be intensified to sustain the results which country has registered following the peace agreement and its implementation. In the first place, Ethiopia’s foreign diplomatic missions abroad should conduct various forums for foreign investors, tourists and others to raise their awareness on the country’s investment potentials and the incentives offered by the Ethiopian Investment Commission (EIC). This could be done through online conferences in which potential investors can be invited to take part. Or, as Ethiopia is participating in international trade fairs, such occasions should be properly utilized to lure more FDI into the country. The initiatives started by EIC in providing one stop services for incoming investors should be promoted. Eco-tourism development projects are intensified with public resources, and many more projects are waiting for investors. Attracting FDI into the country needs swift provision of services for potential investors. By all standards, Ethiopia’s diplomacy is elevating with the resultant effect of investment flows. For many foreign investors, Ethiopia has become their choice from Africa. Of course, compared to other African countries, Ethiopia has a far better investment policy with attractive incentives. Potential investors, service delivery institutions and relevant actors need to exploit the comparative advantage at their disposal.  
Ethiopian News Agency
2023