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Humanitarian Aid, Rehabilitation Activities Well Underway to Victims of Landslide in Southern Ethiopia
Jul 26, 2024 536
Addis Ababa July 26/2024 (ENA) The humanitarian and rehabilitation activities are well underway to the victims of landslide in Gozdi Kebele of Southern Ethiopia region as per the direction given by Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed, Disaster Risk Management Commission (DRMC) remarked in a statement sent to ENA. The Commission recalled that the landslide disaster inflicted loss of lives and destruction of properties in Gozdi Kebele of Gofa Zone last Monday. As per the direction given by Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed, a federal team comprised of high ranking government officials has been deployed to the Gozdi Kebele and identified critical issues and the necessary humanitarian need in the area by showing sympathy to the affected community. While the lifesaving endeavors are still continued, the number of people died due to the landslide has so far reached 226, the commission revealed. According to the commission, some 6,000 vulnerable people have been identified to be relocated from scene of the disaster including the 600 people, who have already been relocated from the area. Alongside the provision of humanitarian support, efforts are in place to rehabilitate the victims in an orderly manner based on expert study, the commission indicated. The humanitarian support has been intensified by federal and regional states, various institutions, and the citizens at large in collaboration with the regional administration, Zone and the community, it said. Other partners have also been extending food and non-food supports through the UNOCHA, the commission added. In addition to ongoing efforts to save lives and provide rehabilitation, the commission has set up a structure for emergency disaster response coordination and integration. The commission has extended gratitude for the humanitarian support that audaciously displayed a profound understanding of Ethiopian culture since the tragedy and urged for a continued support in the efforts to sustainably address the problem.
War College Engages in Enhancing Ethiopia's Diplomacy by Providing Training to Neighboring Countries
Jul 24, 2024 521
Addis Ababa,July 24/2024(ENA)- Defense War College of Ethiopia is striving to empower itself in nurturing strategic leaders of the defense force of Ethiopia and the East African region at large, Commander in Chief of Defense War College, Brgadier General Bulti Tadesse said. Defense War College of Ethiopia organized a workshop to discuss on its achievements and challenges with stakeholders.   Commander in Chief of Defense War College, Brigadier General Bulti Tadesse briefed stakeholders about the activities, achievements and challenges of the war college over the past five years. He highlighted the critical role being played by the college to empower the strategic leadership capacity of the Ethiopian defense forces. Furthermore, the college is working to strengthen diplomatic relation with neighboring countries like South Sudan, Kenya, Uganda, and others by providing training courses for their military leaders, he noted. He stated that the war college provides short term and long term courses as well as masters and regular diploma programs in areas of strategic leadership, national security, military professionalism, international relations, foreign policy and diplomacy. The college also renders training in the areas of internal and regional threat analysis, conflict resolution, military intelligence and geopolitics among other key subject matters related to defense. He also stressed the need for strong stakeholders’ collaboration to further strengthen the college. Ethiopian National Defense Force Engineering Main Department Head, Lieutenant General Desta Abchie of the Defense Engineering Command, on his part praised the achievement and contributions of the war college for military professionalism and strategic leadership of the defense force. The college is one of the key institutions that has been playing pivotal role in military professionalism and influential military leadership, he added. The Defense War College, which has been operational since October 2019 as Ethiopia’s first senior level strategic security studies and research institutions, has the vision to become Africa's preferred center of excellence in strategic security issues by 2033.  
Returnees in Amba Midrina, Maitebri Confirm Peaceful Life Following Their Return
Jul 24, 2024 335
Addis Ababa, July 24/2024 (ENA) The inhabitants of Amba Midrina and Maitebri expressed their happiness after their return from difficult life in shelters and settled in their localities. Colonel Dereje Kumsa, deputy commander of the 501st Corps, confirmed that the returnees have begun leading their normal life. The returnees are participating in development activities following their return, the deputy commander stated. Among the residents, Shambel Gebreyesus and Atiklit Birhane who had sheltered at Shire described the difficulty life they experienced for over two years. Recalling the unpleasant time they were facing in shelters, the residents are now happy to be back in their village and rebuild their livelihoods. With the joint efforts of the National Defense Force (NDF), officials from Amhara and Tigray regions and the broader community, the conflict in the areas has ended, according to the inhabitants. As a result, Amba Midrina and Maitebri and other adjacent areas have been now receiving numerous returnees following a restoration of normalcy, the residents indicated. The residents added that all internal displaced persons (IDPs) are returning to their homes and resuming their normal lives and social interactions are gradually being restored. Amelset Berhem, a resident of Maitebri town, expressed relief at the end of the difficult times. She described a renewed sense of happiness and thanked members of the National Defense Force for their role in restoring peace. Upon their return to their home villages, the former IDP have also expressed gratitude to the local community for their warm welcome. Returnees have appealed for continued support from the government and the community until their life become stable. Colonel Dereje Kumsa, Deputy Commander of the 501st Corps in the Northwest Command reported that displaced civilians have returned to their villages and are rebuilding their lives.   The colonel also assured that the national defense force will continue to prioritize peace and security in the region. Recall that the Deputy Commander of the North West Command, Major General Mesle Belete has confirmed that more than 10,000 citizens who were displaced from the three Telemt districts during the war in Northern Ethiopia have returned to their home villages.    
Gov’t Providing Emergency Support to Landslide Victims of Southern Ethiopia Region
Jul 23, 2024 560
Addis Ababa July 23/2024 (ENA) Disaster Risk Management Commission revealed that the government of Ethiopia has been providing emergency support to victims of landslide occurred in Gofa Zone, Geze Gofa Woreda, Kencho Shacha Gozdi Kebele of Southern Ethiopia Region on Monday. Disaster Risk Management Commission Commissioner, Ambassador Shiferaw Teklemariam told the media today that the landslide disaster inflicted loss of lives and destruction of properties in Gozdi Kebele of Gofa Zone. He said a landslide occurred in the area on last Sunday following a heavy rain and stated that the initial landslide claimed the lives of four persons, and those who came to the scene to help the victims of the first calamity lost their lives due another incident of landslide. According to him, activities to provide emergency support have been commenced right after the occurrence of the accident to help victims including displaced people. He revealed that food and non-food items have been provided to some 400 displaced people due to the disaster. A team of experts drawn from different institutions has been sent to the area to work on preventive measures to halt another landslide disaster. The commissioner also mentioned that the provision of necessary support and relocation of the displaced people to other suitable sites are being underway. The landslide has so far claimed the lives of 157 citizens.    
5th Demographic, Health Survey to Begin In Last Week of July 
Jul 19, 2024 1068
Addis Ababa, July 19/2024 (ENA) The Ethiopian Statistical Service (ESS) has announced that preparations are underway for the fifth national demographic and health survey, scheduled to begin in the last week of July. Various institutions and prominent figures have emphasized the critical role of accurate data in improving the country's demographic and health conditions. They also highlight the need for evidence-based plans, policies, and strategies. Recognizing the critical importance of accurate nationwide data, the ESS is diligently preparing for the fifth National Demographic and Health Survey. The survey will gather data on key areas including maternal and child health, nutrition, reproductive health and family planning, HIV/AIDS prevalence and distribution, and access to potable water. Executive officer of Communication and Public Relations at the Ethiopian Statistical Service, Safi Gemedi reported that his office is diligently working to ensure the successful conduct of the Fifth National Demographic and Health Survey. He explained that key activities currently underway include questionnaire development, survey methodology refinement, and extensive consultations with key stakeholders. Safi emphasized the importance of achieving comprehensive coverage across all regions and ensuring proper spatial distribution of survey areas. He noted that the Service has already set up 800 data collection centers nationwide. The executive officer stated that the national sample survey will encompass approximately 20-21 thousand households and will utilize various data collection methods. He added that the survey is scheduled to take place from the end of July to the end of September 2024, spanning a period of five months. Preparations for manpower and technology deployment are complete. Over 500 data collectors and related professionals are undergoing intensive training and orientation specifically for the upcoming national survey. Safi added that all necessary survey materials, including tablets and software, are ready. He noted that plans are in place to address potential challenges that may arise during data collection. The CEO appealed to the public for their full cooperation in providing the necessary information to ensure the survey's success. He also requested support from all relevant institutions involved in the data collection process at every level. Over the past years, four rounds of the National Demographic and Health Survey have been conducted nationwide.
ENA, TV BRICS Cooperation Key to Tackle Distorted Portrayal of Africa: Ambassador Terekhin 
Jul 17, 2024 1295
Addis Ababa, July 17/2024 (ENA)The memorandum of understanding (MoU) signed to cooperate on enhancing media coverage between the Ethiopian News Agency and TV BRICS on Tuesday will help in tackling the distorted portrayal of Africa, Russian Ambassador to Ethiopia Evgeny Terekhin said. Following the signing of the milestone agreement, Ambassador Terekhin said that as mass media plays an important role in today’s world the MoU is crucial for all the BRICS plus member states and beyond. Some media outlets tend to distort the reality for fulfilling their own interest, he stated, and noted such cooperation amongst BRICS plus member countries will help in bringing the reality to light. “Therefore, enhancing cooperation between the media outlets helps to reach the main idea and goal of BRICS Plus association that means building a new world on the principles of justice, mutual cooperation, respect and help,” Ambassador Terekhin noted. The signed MoU lays a solid foundation for the cooperation in various areas, he pointed out, and emphasized that it also demonstrates Ethiopia’s accession to the BRICS Plus undoubtedly was for practical deeds. The inappropriate portrayal of Africa is done purposely to diminish its investment, he stated, and hastened to say “so we need to make a breakthrough against such narratives.” According to him, the MoU signed by Ethiopian News Agency CEO Seife Deribe and TV BRICS counterpart Janna Tolstikova is instrumental towards changing those narratives.   “Once again, I express my happiness of making this formalize cooperation with BRICS TV. And I am sure that it will be mutual beneficial for both BRICS TV and its audiences and as well as ENA and the people of Ethiopia who will get a better chance to get undistorted, truthful of the life in other BRICS Plus countries,” the Ambassador elaborated. During the signing ceremony, Ethiopian News Agency CEO Seife Derbie stated the MoU will serve as a model to strengthen cooperation among the BRICS countries. “My organization, the Ethiopian News Agency (ENA), as a primary news source of the country has been seeking strong cooperation with Russian media organizations and other BRICS countries media outlets. So this is extremely important to exchange regional continental news contents with other media outlets among our BRICS countries.” the CEO underscored. Recall that the Ethiopian News Agency had inked MoUs with the BRICS member countries media houses including the Russian News Agency Sputnik and the Chinese news agency Xinhua. The agency is also a member of BRICS+ Media Presidium. With over 38 branch offices across the country and 80 plus years rich experience, ENA has been striving to become a leading and reliable news source in the African continent.  
Ministry of Health, USAID to Execute New Nutrition and Health Projects in Ethiopia
Jul 17, 2024 1367
Addis Ababa, July 17/2024 (ENA)The Ministry of Health disclosed a plan to implement new projects jointly with U.S. Agency for International Development (USAID) that would improve the nutrition and health conditions in Ethiopia. Minister of Health Mekdes Daba held discussion today with representatives from the USAID Nutrition Group, it was indicated. The minister affirmed that the Ministry of Health will provide the necessary support and cooperate with USAID for the projects to be implemented in Ethiopia. Feed the Future is one of the food system programs that could be implemented by USAID, which has a paramount role in order to benefit women, young children and infants from better nutrition. Head of the USAID’s Chief Nutritionist, Patrick Webb said that food systems are the top priority of the organization's projects in Ethiopia. Webb believes nutrition system projects being implemented in Ethiopia are yielding results. On her part, Head of Global Health Nutrition Division, Kelly Stewart reiterated USAID’s commitment to continue technical and financial support for implementation of nutrition projects, pledging continued support for the domestic private sector’s continuous production of food to prevent malnutrition. Members of the USAID Nutrition Group have also discussed with officials of the Health Ministry’s nutrition division on the way to support the triple Nexus project, which encompasses development and peace in Ethiopia.
Ethiopian News Agency, TV BRICS Ink MoU
Jul 16, 2024 1113
Addis Ababa, July 16/2024 (ENA) The Ethiopian News Agency and TV BRICS have signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) to cooperate on enhancing media coverage. Ethiopian News Agency (ENA) CEO, Seife Deribe and TV BRICS CEO Janna Tolstikova signed the MoU today in the presence of Reta Alemu, International Legal Affairs Director-General at Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Political and Public Diplomacy Minister of the Ethiopian Embassy in Russia, Gisla Shawl, and Russian Ambassador to Ethiopia Evgeny Terekhin. On the occasion, International Legal Affairs Director-General at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Ambassador Reta Alemu said the MoU will lay the legal foundation for cooperation, which is an important milestone in bringing the two institutions to work together in the media network. CEO of the Ethiopian News Agency, Seife Deribe for his part said that the MoU will serve as a model to strengthen cooperation among the BRICS countries. “Today’s MoU will have a great contribution to enhance the media coverage for both media houses and BRICS media countries. It can also facilitate the distribution of news content to the global audience. This would allow the exchange of international news in English, French, and Arabic languages,” the CEO noted. Seife also mentioned ENA's effort to become a leading news source in the African continent, he said, highlighting the importance of the agreement to enhance the media coverage of both media houses and other media in the BRICS countries. TV BRICS CEO, Janna Tolstikova on her part said the media cooperation signed between ENA and TV BRICS will contribute to bolstering the bilateral relationship between Ethiopia and Russia. She also pointed out that the cooperation between TV BRICS international media network and ENA, the oldest and most experienced news source in the country, will become an impactful boost in promoting BRICS common information space. According to Tolstikova, ENA is the source of the Ethiopian agenda to be shared with partner media in BRICS. Russian Ambassador to Ethiopia Evgeny Terekhin for his part stated that the agreement will play a constructive role in building further cooperation within the BRICS framework. Recall that the Ethiopian News Agency had inked MoUs with the BRICS member countries media houses including the Russian News Agency Sputnik and the Chinese news agency Xinhua. The agency is also a member of BRICS+ Media Presidium. With over 38 branch offices across the country and 80 plus years rich experience, ENA has been striving to become a leading and reliable news source in the African continent.                    
UN Chief Underscores Need to Empower Young People Globally with Skills to Shape Peaceful, Sustainable future
Jul 16, 2024 567
Addis Ababa, July 16/2024 (ENA) The UN Secretary-General has underscored the need to empower young people globally with the skills they need to shape a more peaceful, sustainable future for all. In a message on World Youth Skills Day, António Guterres pointed out that the world’s young people are already working to build safer and stronger communities, even though almost a quarter are not in education, employment or training. “They can make an even bigger difference for our shared future with training for the burgeoning green and digital economies, education to help break the cycle of hate speech and misinformation, tools to enhance mediation and dialogue, and so much more,” he declared. The UN chief also highlighted the link between countries spending on education, school completion rates and levels of peace enjoyed by their people. “Today, and every day, let us work to transform education. And let us ensure that youth have what they need to build skills for shaping a more peaceful, sustainable future for all.” The UN General Assembly in 2014 declared 15 July as World Youth Skills Day, to celebrate the strategic importance of equipping young people with skills for employment, decent work and entrepreneurship. Since then, World Youth Skills Day events have provided a platform for dialogue between young people, technical and vocational education and training institutions, firms, employers’ and workers’ organizations, policy makers and development partners. In commemorations this year, the UN Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO), International Labour Organization (ILO) and the UN Youth Office in collaboration with the Permanent Missions of Portugal and Sri Lanka will convene a panel discussion featuring young experts, partners and government representatives. The event will review practices and interventions to advance skills development, highlight youth’s contribution to achieving the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), helping address violence and harassment, and foster social and emotional learning into education and training systems.    
Ethiopian Receives Global Recognition, Appreciation Award for Outstanding Role in COVID-19 Response
Jul 15, 2024 864
Addis Ababa, July 15/2024(ENA) Ethiopian Airlines Group has received today the prestigious Global Recognition and Appreciation Award at the First International Post-COVID Conference held in Toronto, Canada. This accolade acknowledges Ethiopian Airlines' pivotal role in distributing emergency gear throughout Africa during the COVID-19 pandemic, ensuring the delivery of essential medical supplies and saving countless lives. The conference was jointly held by Livelihood Development International Initiatives (LDII), Intergovernmental Authority on Development (IGAD), and other partners aimed at building a unified frontier for responding to future global pandemics. While receiving the recognition award Ethiopian Airlines Group CEO, Mesfin Tasew said “we are honored to receive this prestigious recognition for our significant contribution worldwide during the COVID-19 pandemic.” This recognition is a testament to our commitment, dedication and hard work of our team members, the airline community, and the stakeholders who worked tirelessly with us to keep our operations running smoothly during those difficult times, he elaborated. The CEO added that this award gives us courage to stay committed to serving our customers and communities, even during unprecedented challenges. In the face of unprecedented challenges, Mesfin emphasized the airline's adaptability and unwavering commitment, according to Ethiopian Airlines Group. “Every flight carried is more than just supplies; it carried hope and life. We remain committed to using our global network and expertise to empower”. Ethiopian Airlines played a crucial role in re configuring approximately 25 passenger aircraft into dedicated cargo freighters. The airline conducted over 470 charter repatriation flights, reuniting more than 63,000 citizens with their families, and loved ones. In collaboration with governmental entities, non-profit organizations, and international agencies, Ethiopian Airlines facilitated the transportation of millions of tons of personal protective equipment, medical apparatus, vaccines, and other essential supplies across Africa and beyond. Throughout its 78-year journey, Ethiopian Airlines has cultivated remarkable adaptability, agility, and resilience. Amidst adversity, the airline has preserved its legacy as one of the continent's leading carriers, renowned for operational excellence and efficiency. During the Covid-19 pandemic Ethiopian Airlines was one of the few airlines that managed to continue their operation and serve the global community in transporting medical supplies, humanitarian aid, and required personnel to various parts of the world. The airline had also implemented several strategies amid the pandemic to weather the crisis including service diversification, precautionary measures, and responsive management.  
Ethiopia Prepares to Welcome Second-Generation Diaspora for Summer Impact Programs
Jul 15, 2024 991
Addis Ababa, July 15/2024(ENA) The Ethiopian government has announced comprehensive preparations to engage second-generation Ethiopians in various developmental activities during the summer months. This initiative aims to allow these citizens to leave their mark on their ancestral homeland. Minister of Tourism, Ambassador Nasise Challi, made the remark while receiving a group of second-generation Ethiopians that arrived in Ethiopia this morning at the Addis Ababa Bole International Airport. This influx is part of the third phase of a program which began in this rainy season to 30 September 2024 under the motto "Leave Your Legacy." It follows two previous successful rounds that saw numerous Ethiopians from around the world responding to Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed's call to visit their homeland. Minister Nasise elaborated on the opportunities awaiting the visitors: "We have organized various programs for our second-generation Ethiopians to make meaningful contributions during their stay." These include participation in the Green Legacy initiative, renovation projects for underprivileged communities, summer educational programs, and other charitable activities. The minister also mentioned that tours have been prepared to showcase various tourist destinations across the country. She extended an invitation to the diaspora to take advantage of the favorable conditions in Ethiopia and make their mark in different fields. "This initiative not only helps second-generation Ethiopians to truly experience Ethiopia but also significantly boosts our tourism sector," Nasise stated. She further emphasized that this program provides an opportunity for knowledge and technology transfer from the diaspora to their ancestral homeland. Estefanos Gidey, who arrived from Toronto, Canada, with his two children, shared his perspective: "We have a responsibility to ensure our foreign-born children know their roots. That's why I brought my kids here." He added that as members of the diaspora, they feel a duty to contribute to Ethiopia's development. Maya Estefanos, one of the second-generation visitors, expressed her excitement: "I'm thrilled to have the opportunity to see Ethiopia. I'm ready to explore during my stay here." This initiative represents a significant effort by the Ethiopian government to engage its global diaspora, particularly the younger generation, in the country's ongoing development and cultural preservation efforts. It also serves as a unique opportunity for these individuals to connect with their heritage while contributing to Ethiopia's future.      
Ethiopian News Agency
2023