Addis Ababa April 26/2024 (ENA) The Disaster Risk Management Commission (DRMC) stated that it is undergoing a significant overhaul to strengthen its ability to manage and respond to the uncertain humanitarian needs. The commission has started pre-deployment training for management and staff of the commission at the African Leadership Excellence Academy today.   Disaster Risk Management Commissioner Shiferaw Teklemariam on the occasion said the commission is implementing reforms, including revised policy, new human resources structure, preparedness in terms of resources and technology to manage and respond to the uncertain humanitarian needs. The Council of Ministers has approved the revised Disaster Risk Management Policy in February which was in use for about 20 years. The reform activities following the implementation of the revised policy, will equip the commission with more qualified and agile workforce prepared to handle emergencies, he stated. According to him, the commission should also be equipped with the necessary human and material resources as well as technology to strengthen its ability to manage and respond to the uncertain humanitarian needs in the country. Therefore, the commission is undergoing an internal reorganization to streamline operations and optimize its effectiveness in tackling humanitarian crises. The reform activities are crucial at a time when aid is dwindling while the need is huge, he noted, adding that the government shouldered most portion of the humanitarian burden to save likelihoods, compromising other development activities. However, with dwindling support from international stakeholders, it is crucial for the commission to become more self-sufficient and adept at managing these complex situations, he stressed. The revamped commission will be better equipped to anticipate, prevent, respond to, and recover from disasters, ultimately safeguarding the well-being of Ethiopian citizens during times of crisis.      

Addis Ababa, April 23/2024 (ENA) The Kalazar treatment drug has reached an exciting milestone as it enters the crucial phase two clinical trials in Ethiopia. This development brings renewed hope for the effective and patient-friendly treatment of Kalazar, also known as visceral leishmaniasis, a disease that poses a significant health challenge in Eastern Africa. Director of the Kalazar Disease Research and Treatment Center at the University of Gondar, Dr. Samuel Teshome highlighted the significance of this progress and the opportunity it presents for developing a safe and efficient cure for Kalazar in Ethiopia for new cases of the disease has been increasing in the country. According to him, Kalazar is a parasitic disease that ranks as the second deadliest globally, following malaria. It is characterized by symptoms such as persistent fever, weight loss, and enlargement of the spleen and liver. Without proper treatment, the disease can be fatal, he said. It is primarily transmitted through the bite of infected sandflies and is endemic in 80 countries, particularly in Eastern Africa, South Asia, and Latin America. Dr. Samuel said Eastern Africa currently bears the highest burden of Kalazar cases. Alarmingly, children under the age of 15 accounts for half of the 50,000 to 90,000 new cases reported each year. The research has been carried out in collaboration with researchers and laboratory institutions of various countries, he pointed out. The current treatment for Kalazar in Ethiopia involves a 17-day regimen of painful daily injections administered at hospitals, Dr. Samuel said. However, the newly developed drug, LXE408, offers a promising alternative. According to Dr. Samuel, LXE408 is administered orally in the form of pills, which is expected to provide improved efficacy and safety compared to the existing treatment options. This patient-friendly approach has the potential to revolutionize the way Kalazar is treated, offering a more convenient and accessible solution. The drug is expected to have high level of curability with very little side effects which will be available easily in health centers in villages. Research and Treatment Center (LRTC), co-Principal Investigator of the clinical trial at the Leishmaniasis at the University of Gondar Dr. Eleni Ayele, emphasized the significance of conducting the phase two clinical trial in an endemic country like Ethiopia. She highlighted the limitations of the current treatment options, which can be potentially toxic, require injections and cold-chain supplies, and often necessitate patients to travel long distances and stay in hospitals for extended periods. The goal of the research is to develop an oral treatment that is both efficacious and less toxic, allowing patients to receive care at primary healthcare facilities near their homes, she said. This approach could significantly reduce morbidity and transmission rates associated with Kalazar, bringing the treatment closer to the affected communities, the researcher added. The Director of the Leishmaniasis program at the Drugs for Neglected Diseases initiative (DNDi), Dr. Fabiana Alves also emphasized that the clinical trial for LXE408 represents a significant step towards delivering better, patient-friendly, and effective medicines that are accessible to all those in need. The clinical trial in Ethiopia is financially supported by the European and Developing Countries Clinical Trials Partnership (EDCPT) as part of the VL-INNO project, which involves a diverse range of partners. This collaboration ensures that the research is well-resourced and supported by various stakeholders, further enhancing its potential impact.      

Addis Ababa, April 19/2024(ENA) The Government of Ethiopia is committed to implementing the Transitional Justice Policy which is essential to ensure lasting peace in the country, House of People's Representatives (HPR) Chief Government Whip Tesfaye Beljige said. The chief government whip gave the assurance at a consultative meeting held for parliamentarians and high government officials to discuss the Transitional Justice Policy approved this week by the Council of Ministers. Addressing the meeting, Tesfaye Beljige said the experience of various countries show that appropriately implementing transitional justice is crucial to sustainable resolution of complex crises. The government has, therefore, shown unwavering commitment for the realization of transitional justice starting from taking the initiative in preparing the document, he added. Tesfaye elaborated that transitional justice is an important tool to solve deep rooted problems and the government has a clear position to bring lasting peace and stability in Ethiopia by resolving disputes arising from the past through forgiveness. For him, the role of all stakeholders is essential to realize the historic national dialogue and the Transitional Justice Policy.   House of People's Representatives Speaker, Tagesse Chaffo said on the occasion that implementing the policy is essential for a better Ethiopia. Designing and implementing a participatory transitional justice based on the nation's political and social circumstances with a clear policy framework is vital, he underscored. The speaker, who noted that the Ministry of Justice has a huge role for monitoring and coordinating the implementation of the policy and law documents, affirmed that the HPR will continue its unwavering support to the implementation of transitional justice. Recall that Ethiopia has been making various attempts to resolve human rights violations, civil conflicts, unwarranted narratives and abuses that had occurred and continue in different eras with a wide range of victims and perpetrators.  

Addis Ababa, April 19/2024(ENA)-Chief of General Staff of the Ethiopian National Defense Force (ENDF), Field Marshal Birhanu Jula, has expressed his condolences over the death of General Francis Omondi Ogolla, Kenya's Chief of Defense Force. In his message of condolences on behalf of the ENDF and himself, Field Marshal Birhanu expressed his compassion to the bereaved families and friends of the top military officers who lost their lives in a helicopter crash. He stated that General Ogolla has hugely contributed to peace and security of his country as well as the region. Field Marshal Birhanu affirmed that the ENDF will stand by Kenyans at this difficult time. Kenya began today a three-day mourning after its defense chief and nine other senior military officers were killed in a helicopter crash. The helicopter was carrying 11 people, including the Kenyan Chief of Defense Force Gen. Ogolla, when it crashed on Thursday and caught fire in a remote area near the border with Uganda, killing nine people on board.

Addis Ababa April 18/2024 (ENA) There is a growing interest and promising future for learning the Chinese language in Africa, according to UNECA Africa Center for Statistics Director Oliver Chinganya. Addressing the celebration of the Chinese Language Day at the UNECA (United Nations Economic for Africa) in Addis Ababa today, the director noted that among the numerous reasons why people are increasingly interested in learning Chinese is its being one of the six official working languages of the United Nations. The growing ease of travel to China, expansion of Confucius Institutes in the continent, and the vast economic opportunities that come with Chinese language proficiency are the other reasons, Chinganya added.   According to him, there were 62 Confucius institutes in 45 African countries in 2021. The number of students enrolled in the Chinese language programs also surpassed the number of students in many European countries. The director claimed that the number of people learning Chinese worldwide is nearing 40 million, and is projected to reach 100 million by 2026. Chinganya finally called for a stronger partnership between UNECA and China's Mission to the African Union, along with other multilateral partners.   Head of China's Mission to the African Union, Hu Changchun, echoed the importance of learning Chinese to understand China. Emphasizing the worldwide surge in demand for Chinese language proficiency, he reaffirmed his government's commitment to addressing global needs such as peace, development, and cooperation.    

Addis Ababa, April 18/2024 (ENA)Global development partners pledged 630 million USD to support the humanitarian assistance induced by climate change in Ethiopia, Foreign Affairs Spokesperson Nebiyu Tedla said. In his biweekly briefing today, Spokesperson Nebiyu said that Ethiopia has achieved numerous diplomatic gains in the last 6 years of reform. The high-level pledging conference in Geneva co-sponsored by Ethiopia, Britain and the United Nations received nearly about 630 million USD in pledges to provide humanitarian assistance for Ethiopians suffering from the ill effects of climate change, it was indicated. Ethiopia is gaining encouraging results towards food security; particularly with the dry season wheat, he stated, and added that it is journey to ensure self-reliance. In addition to that, Ethiopia made efforts to engage the diaspora in every national developmental agenda, Nebiyu said, and emphasized that Ethiopia has gained 20 billion USD through remittance over the last 5 years. Moreover, the diaspora has contributed about 55 million USD to accelerate the completion of the national flagship project Grand Ethiopian Renaissance Dam (GERD), the Spokesperson elaborated.  

Addis Ababa, April 17/2024 (ENA) There is a more serious calling now for religious fathers to teach about other people and how we can live together, the Executive Director of Inter-Religious Council of Kenya Abdirahman Ismail told ENA on the side lines of the Second International Religious Institutions Conference held in Addis Ababa. We have very many challenges and conflicts around us in the Horn of Africa region, which is prone to conflict, the executive director noted, adding that the conference is about the spirit of peace, Christians, Muslims and people of other faiths. Speaking about the role of religious leaders, Ismail said there is a more serious calling now for religious fathers to teach about other people and how we can live together.   In Ethiopia different religions have been coexisting for a long period. Both Christianity and Islam have great history, he noted. “The Prophet of Islam, Muhammad, peace be upon him, sent his companions to go to Ethiopia. He told that they will get protection and safety there. There was a just Christian leader at the time. Ethiopia is also a country that has a long history devoid of colonialism.” According to him, the people have learned that Ethiopians all together make one great Ethiopia. “Ethiopia is a great nation, and it's a leader in Africa. When Ethiopia succeeds, the rest of Africa will succeed, especially the Horn. We (therefore) pray for Ethiopia, we pray for Ethiopians.” The Kenya Inter-Religious Council Executive Director added that the conference is an amazing gathering that has brought people of faith and religious leaders from different faiths, including Christians Orthodox, Catholic, Evangelical, Adventist, and Muslim, among others, to Addis Ababa. “I am happy to be in Addis Ababa, which is the new flower. And I pray for the city of Addis Ababa, the new flower, and say at the outset may this flower keep blooming.”   Burundi Inter-Religious Council General Secretary Louis Pasteur Nizigiyimana said on his part that the conference is very important because it’s a gathering from which we can share experiences of what others are doing in their contexts in their countries. He thinks it is important for religious leaders and fathers to have a critical role in societies. “In Burundi where I live and work, we have been implementing a project which aims to contribute to the dialogue between the political parties.” For religious leaders, it's important to play that key role even in advancing the development of our countries in Africa, Nizigiyimana underscored. Also, “it’s important for the fathers and religious leaders to give guidance and to give instruction to the youth so that they can remain in the good lands of our holy books.”   Ethiopia Inter-Religious Council Secretary General, Tagay Tadele, said it is critical to work in collaboration with various religious leaders to advance interfaith harmony and human dignity, and preserve the environment. The Inter-Religious Council of Ethiopia is committed to enhancing its partnership with different national, regional and international partner organizations to advance a culture of peace, interfaith dialogue and environmental protection, he stated.   G20 Interfaith Forum Association President, Professor Cole Durham, pointed out that it's very helpful to bring together religious leaders to discuss many of the pressing problems human beings face today. Maybe the most urgent social problems or problems those religious communities have cared about for literally for centuries, the professor said, adding that yet, too often in our time, people forget the importance of listening to the different religious voices. According to Professor Durham, people “care about protecting the environment and preventing trafficking. There are all kinds of common social issues that will be dealt with better if religious actors are taken into account.”                                      

Addis Ababa, April 16/2024 (ENA) The government of Germany donated ICU medical equipment and other materials totaling 3.6 million euros to eight teaching hospitals in Ethiopia. NIRAS Germany, project Team leader, Gert kluge handed over the equipment to Infrastructural Development and Supply Desk Head at the Ministry of Education, Zewdu Kassa today.   Speaking on the occasion, Gert kluge said the support provided by the German Development Bank, KFW through the German Financial Cooperation to Ethiopia’s Ministry of Education (MoE) for capacity building and development in the biomedical sector in Ethiopia. The provision is part of 16.5 million Euro grant support launched in 2020 to support College, teaching hospitals, and Universities in different regions of the country, he added. The support aims to enhance and extend the training of biomedical technicians and engineers while upgrading medical care in the hospitals, according to kluge. “We the Biomedical project from the NIRAS Germany got the mandate from both governments to execute the procurement of equipment and tools, including the installation and the onsite training.” The Team leader further said ‘’Today, we present the first in a series of procurement that includes more than 843 piece of ICU and OR medical equipment such as ICU beds, ventilator, oxygen concentrates, patient monitors among others.” In addition, 109 pieces of Tool kits and instruments for Biomedical maintenance workshops are included in the items, he added.   Infrastructural Development and supply Desk Head at the Ministry of Education Zewdu Kassa said the purpose of the project is to improve Technical and vocational Education and Training system as the Higher Education System in both quantitative and qualitative terms in the area of Biomedical Training. Beyond enhancing the capacity of the hospitals, the support will also contribute in ensuring the quality of education in the field of area as well as enhances the skill of maintenance in medical equipment and improve existing medical services rendered in the hospitals.   Human Resource Development and Improvement Lead Executive Officer at the Ministry of Health Assgid Samuel also said the medical equipment will help to further strengthen the existing the medical services to patients. The items will be distributed to 8 teaching hospitals including Dilchora Hospital, Dessie Referral hospital, Adama Hospital, Felege- Hiwot Referral Hospital, Ayder Referral hospital, and Arbaminch Referral hospital, Black Lion (Tikur Anbessa) Specialized Hospital, and Jimma University Medical Center.              

Addis Ababa, April 16/2024 (ENA) ASTEWLOT, a film produced by the Ethiopian Artificial Intelligence Institute inaugurated today in the presence of Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed. Director General of the Institute, Engineer Worku Gachena highlighted the importance of Artificial Intelligence (AI) for future betterment of the world.   The Director General hailed Prime Minister Abiy for his immense contribution for the development of the sector citing the establishment of the institute and the encouraging achievements so far registered in the sector. He said currently the institute is engaged in various activities vital for the advancement of the country stressing the need to intensify efforts to further strengthen the sector.   ASTEWLOT is a scientific film based on a true story, it was learned. The film is produced by the institute in collaboration with Sewgna Films Production Company.    

Addis Ababa, April 16 /2024 (ENA) The recently inaugurated Adwa Victory Memorial Museum in Addis Ababa has become a major attraction, drawing over 31,000 visitors in its first month of operation, the General Manager disclosed. The Adwa Victory Memorial Museum that commemorates Ethiopia's historic victory at the Battle of Adwa in 1896 was inaugurated by Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed on February 11, 2024. The architectural design of the memorial that spans five hectares itself is a powerful symbol, reflecting the unity and sacrifice of Ethiopians from all walks of life, including farmers and women. The entrance gates of Adwa Victory Memorial are also named as East Heroes Gate, West Heroes Gate, North Heroes Gate, South Heroes Gate, Cavalry Gate, Patriot Gate, and Pan-Africanism Gate. Adwa Victory Memorial, which is a symbol of the freedom of Africans and all black people, was opened for public viewing on March 16, 2024. Adwa Victory Memorial Museum General Manager, Wbayehu Mamo stated that 31,750 people have visited the memorial between March 16 and April 15, 2024. “Recall this memorial was opened to the public on March 16, 2024. The commercial area is catering to the needs of visiting customers. In addition to the history, there are also donated spaces.” The Adwa Victory Memorial has already welcomed dignitaries – heads of state, diplomats, and delegates attending the 37th African Union Leaders Conference held in Addis Ababa earlier this year. "It is our duty to inform history. This is crucial for the government because it realized the memorial after 128 years. It is pivotal to transmit the spirit of the victory of Adwa to this generation in all age levels and all people from any institution should visit it. We are bringing them here and we are working to make them grow up knowing their history and knowledge.” The memorial is well-equipped to host future African Union events, featuring a grand Pan-African Hall that can host 0ver 2,500 guests, conference rooms, restaurants, cafeterias and a children's museum. It has modern amenities, including 1,000-vehicle parking lot, gym and others.

Addis Ababa April 15/2024 (ENA) State Minister of Peace, Kairedin Tezera stressed the need to create a platform for religious leaders to share best practices and develop the initiative for peacebuilding and environmental stewardship. The Second International Religious Institutions conference kicked off today in Addis Ababa. The two-day conference brought together faith leaders and religiously linked institutions from various countries to discuss pressing issues, foster understanding and promote peaceful coexistence across the globe. The conference aims to foster peace, human dignity, development, and preservation of the environment, and to counter hate speech, violence and xenophobia in Africa and across the world. Speaking at the occasion, Peace State Minister Kairedin Tezera said “we stand at a crossroads. The winds of change are upon us marked by climate in crisis, yearning for societies where human dignity and rights are the cornerstone of policy and action.” At this juncture, the work of religious fathers regarding peace building and environment protection is critical than ever, he stressed. For generations, faith fathers have served as anchors of peace and foster dialogue, he underscored, adding that “today, this could be more urgent than ever.” The globe is entangled with mammoth challenges such as climate crisis, displacement, conflict, and drought. “Yet, in the middle of these challenges, there is reason for hope. Religious peacebuilding offers a powerful path forward. It is the moral authority to bridge difference, promote empathy, inspire collective action for a given legacies and secures sustainable peace,” the state minister underlined. Faith communities have a unique capacity to speak to the hearts and minds of people, fostering understanding and cooperation regardless of ethnic and cultural identities. Therefore, he underlined “ Let us create a platform for religious leaders to share best practices, extensive knowledge and develop the initiative for peace building and environmental stewardship.” We have witnessed the transformative power of religion in peacebuilding, he noted, adding the Ministry of Peace has taken exemplary action. The interfaith council which has been established brings together religious leaders from diverse traditions to address human challenges, including the critical issue of environment, he said. A Green Legacy Initiative, a nationwide tree planting program exemplifies powerful link between religious peace building and developmental action, according to the state minister. Faith leaders have been instrumental in mobilizing communities, emphasizing the connection between a healthy environment and a peaceful society. “This initiative not only combats deforestation, but also fosters a sense of shared purpose and collective responsibility for the future,” he underscored. Inter-Religious Council of Ethiopia, Secretary General Kesis Tagay Tadele said on his part that the conference will provide opportunities to discussion on key issues in which religious communities have deep interest and come up with recommendation to advance this interfaith harmony and human dignity, and preservation of the environmental.   The council is committed to enhancing its partnership with different national, regional and international partner organizations to advance a culture of peace interfaith dialogue and environmental protection, he affirmed. President of G20 Interfaith Forum Association, Professor Cole Durham on his part expressed gratitude for gathering together and celebrate central religious ideas and interfaith harmony in Ethiopia.   “We hope this time can be a time of building and strengthening relationships, as all of us work together to identify initiatives that can have significant practical effects. We seek not only ideas, but ideas with impact,” the professor noted. As G20 interfaith leaders, we are conscious of a number of priority areas that are already emerging, noting broader engagement with emerging food prices, pursuing successful programs on climate and other environmental concerns, he elaborated “We need not only to identify specific policy priorities, but in addition, it is vital to help global leaders understand that engagement with faith communities is itself an essential priority that holds the key to furthering countless other objectives.” Regional Director of United Religious Initiative for Africa, Mussie Hailu said religious leaders have been playing a crucial role in peacebuilding and achievement the Agenda 2063 of Africa and of Sustainable Development Goals. “In this divided and conflict torn world, we cannot remain as we are. Why can we go back to condition that are now behind us? We need to move forward in a new direction for us to live in peace without marginalizing and destroy environment,” he underlined. Moreover, he argued that we need to be responsible global citizens and play our part, to our best ability in building the peace we want to see in the world.  

Addis Ababa April 15/2024 (ENA) National Dialogue Chief Commissioner, Professor Mesfin Araya called on the UN agencies and other international partners to consolidate the resource mobilization efforts to the success of the Ethiopian national consultation process. The dialogue commission has received some 12 vehicles today from the government of Japan that would be important for its operational activities and could lessen the transpiration burden in the rural parts of Ethiopia. In his remarks at the handover ceremony, chief commissioner said the assistance of development partners is critical to realize Ethiopia’s ambition of national consensus on the most fundamental issues of significance. As part of the support from Ethiopia’s partners, Mesfin appreciated the Japanese government for its commitment and today’s donation of vehicles to the commission. According to him, Ethiopian National Dialogue Commission has embarked on a reconciliation process to attend unity and consensus in the country. Acknowledging Ethiopia richness in diversity as well as heritages, the chief commissioner explained that the country has faced with challenges in realizing a shared vision. Despite extreme political views that Ethiopia is experiencing, the Ethiopian National Dialogue Commission has been working hard for all-encompassing political landscape as well as reconciliation, Mesfin stated. In this respect, he underscored that the commission stands as a beacon of hope to bridge the gaps that dividing us and pave the way for brighter future. “As we are undertaking this critical national initiative, it is abundantly evident that the participation of more national and international stakeholders succeeds our national expectation,” he said. As the ongoing Ethiopia's national consultation project requires significant resources, the commissioner said, adding that therefore the engagement of partners would have an indispensable role in driving forward the dialogue activities.On his part, UNDP Ethiopia Resident Representative, Samuel Doe said we believe strongly that Ethiopia is at a critical juncture for dialogue in which UNDP has been part of the process from the inception. The UNDP is looking forward to working closely with the commission and with all people of Ethiopia, he noted. “The path of conversation provides shared vision, the path for conversation provides shared solutions, and the powerful conversation provides the pathway for economic prosperity.” He added we are also looking forward that the east African nation will address its major outstanding issues through the consultation project.” Japan's ambassador to Ethiopia, Shibata Hironori said that today’s handing-over ceremony shows strong ties between Ethiopia and Japan through supporting the national dialogue process and the government of Japan is continuously supportive of Ethiopia in various spheres.   In May 2023, Japan provided 3 million USD in collaboration with UNDP to enable the Ethiopian National Dialogue Commission to conduct a more efficient and credible national consultation, he indicated. The ambassador reaffirmed his country’s commitment to continue its enhanced support for the success of the national dialogue commission and other various development activities in Ethiopia

Addis Ababa April 15/2024 (ENA) The government of Japan has donated 12 vehicles to the Ethiopian National Dialogue Commission that would be important for its operational activities. The Japanese embassy in Ethiopia hosted a ceremony to hand over these vehicles that will support the ongoing endeavors of the commission to see a national consensus by reaching on the most fundamental issues of national significance. Accordingly, the handover ceremony was attended by Chief Commissioner of Ethiopian National Dialogue, Mesfin Areya,UNDP Ethiopia Resident Representative, Samuel Doe and Japan ambassador to Ethiopia, Shibata Hironori among others. Most importantly, those vehicles are expected to reduce the transportation burden that the commission may face in rural parts of Ethiopia. Speaking at the handover ceremony, Chief Commissioner Mesfin thanked the Japan government for its longstanding relationship and commitment to support Ethiopia. The vehicles that have been donated by Japan will be fully utilized in the field works of the commission, he revealed. Japanese Ambassador to Ethiopia, Shibata Hironori on his part reaffirmed his country’s commitment to support the success of the national dialogue commission and other various development activities in Ethiopia. Recall the Ethiopian National Dialogue Commission consists of 11 members whose undertaking is to facilitate inclusive techniques of discussion and reconciliation that heal wounds, build consensus on key troubles, and assist Ethiopia in remedying its complicated issues.

Addis Ababa April 15/2024 (ENA) The Second International Religious Institutions conference kicked off today in Addis Ababa. A two-day conference brought together religious fathers of various countries, members of the diplomatic community, researchers and other invited guests. The conference has been convened primarily to honor and promote interfaith collective action in the African continent. Moreover, this conference aims to foster peace, human dignity, development, and preservation of the environment, and to counter hate speech, violence and xenophobia in Africa and across the world. On this occasion, the 2024 Golden Rule Day and commemoration of World Interfaith Harmony week is being celebrated. As faiths gather with the African Union (AU) to celebrate interfaith harmony, the event has gathered hundreds participants from different regions of Africa and the world to commemorate World Interfaith Harmony Week. The Second International Religious Institutions conference was organized by Ethiopian Inter-religious Council in collaboration of AU, G20 Interfaith Forum, Interfaith Dialogue Forum and United Religious Initiative. The conference is also anticipated to discuss the vital roles of religious leaders and faith-inspired organizations in global, national and local affairs.

Addis Ababa ,April 13/2024(ENA) Ethiopia has been elected to serve as a member of the United Nations Commission on the Status of Women (CSW) for a four-year term. In 1946 the Commission on the Status of Women was established to promote the advancement of women throughout the world. The Commission continues to provide unique opportunities for exchange of ideas, experiences, good practices and lessons-learned to enhance implementation of commitments at national level, through interactive expert panels on the themes under consideration and roundtables for high level representatives attending the annual sessions. Ethiopia is elected to be a member of UN Commission on the Status of Women for a four-year term of office beginning at the first meeting of the Commission’s seventieth session in 2025 and expiring at the close of its seventy-third session in 2029, according to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs.    

Addis Ababa ,April 13/2024(ENA)- Some 14 million youth have participated in the national voluntary service program to foster their contribution in Ethiopia’s aspiration of development and prosperity, according to the Ministry of Peace. The Ethiopian national voluntary youth service program was launched in 2020 to mobilize volunteers across the country, it was indicated. Essentially, the government of Ethiopia has introduced the program with the objective of fostering a sense of national unity, social cohesion, peace and stability, volunteerism and public service. In response to this voluntary youth service program request, 14 million youths have participated in the program, the National Volunteer Service Lead Executive with the Ministry Gemechis Eticha told ENA. Tremendous youths of the country have received training in eight rounds since the inception of the national voluntary youth service program. The Ministry of Peace has trained 48,000 young people so far, he indicated According to him, the engagement of the youth volunteers has brought about positive results and enabled the youth to play their role in national reconciliation and develop a sense of patriotism. The lead executive added that the volunteers are playing an important role in nurturing peace and they are providing services that would solve social problems and benefit the society. He also figured out that this year alone, some five million young people participated in the forums organized under the theme: “Adwa for sustainable peace and nation building.” Stressing the need for consolidating the nation-state building and realizing lasting peace, Gemechis said a national voluntary youth service program has been put into action and will be reinforced through generations. As a result, the Ethiopian youth voluntary association is being formed for this purpose, mentioning that 34,000 members have been registered so far. The 9th round of the national voluntary service training is anticipated to be started next week and it will bring about 1,500 young volunteers, it was learned. Finally, Gemechis called on non-governmental organizations and the community to support the government's efforts to strengthen voluntary services in Ethiopia.        

Addis Ababa, April 12/2024 (ENA) France will host international humanitarian conference next week with the objective to find a sustainable solution to the conflict in Sudan, according to the French Ministry of Foreign Affairs for European Affairs. The "Paris Conference for Sudan", which will be held on the 15th of April in Paris, is expected to find solutions to the problems in Sudan with the participation of all influential actors, highlighting humanitarian disasters, and soliciting donations and pledges to support those affected by the war. It was learned that the conference will include representatives from 20 countries and international organizations, including Sudan’s neighboring countries, IGAD and African Union. . Sudanese civil society organizations, academics and Sudanese business community will also participate at the conference. It was indicated during the occasion that the humanitarian needs in Sudan is estimated at 4 billion euro.    

Addis Ababa, April 12/2024 (ENA)The Ethiopian Ministry of Foreign Affairs announced today that a total of 842 Ethiopian citizens, who had been imprisoned in Saudi Arabia, have been successfully repatriated today in two rounds of flights. In a step towards citizen-oriented diplomacy, the third phase of repatriating approximately 70,000 undocumented Ethiopian citizens detained in Saudi Arabian prisons has commenced. Foreign Affairs Spokesperson, Nebyu Tedla revealed that a national committee comprising 16 government institutions had been assembled to initiate the repatriation process. According to him, this committee has been engaging with high-ranking Saudi Arabian government officials since last week to seek their cooperation and support. Nebyu further stated that twelve flights will be scheduled each week over the next four months, solely dedicated to bringing back undocumented Ethiopian citizens detained in jails across Saudi Arabia. Today marked the beginning of this massive undertaking, as 842 individuals held in prisons and detention centers in Saudi Arabia were successfully repatriated to Ethiopia in two separate rounds. The Ethiopian government has repatriated over 50,000 Ethiopians from various countries, including Saudi Arabia, Gulf nations, and other African states in the last 9 months.  

Addis Ababa, April 11/2024 (ENA) The Second International Religious Institutions conference scheduled to be convened in Addis Ababa next Monday, according to the Ethiopian Inter-religious Council. In a press briefing today, the Ethiopian Inter-religious Council Secretary General Kesis Tagay Tadele said religious fathers of various countries, members of the diplomatic community, researchers and other invited guests are expected to attend the two day conference. The conference will discuss ways on strengthening international cooperation in peace building efforts and other global and continental issues, Kesis Tagay stated. The Secretary General also disclosed the preparation of visiting programs on the margins of the conference that depict Ethiopia’s Land Of Origins. It is anticipated that representatives from 37 nations would attend the summit, which will take place at the African Union Hall.        

Addis Ababa, April 10/2024 (ENA) Some Muslims celebrating Eid al-Fitr told the Ethiopian News Agency the need for extending the support that has been given to the needy during the Ramadan. Ethiopian Muslims across the country celebrated the 1445th of Eid al-Fitr today. The Muslims celebrating the holiday at the Addis Ababa Stadium stressed the importance of preserving the invaluable essence of helping one another, and added that the good deed should not be limited to the month of Ramadan. Jamal Redi said Ramadan is a month when all Muslims support and extend a helping hand to the needy. During the month, Muslims share what they have and demonstrate generosity, he noted. According to him, there is a need to extend the commendable deed of helping and supporting one another. Mubarek Mohammed also said that Muslims should continue providing the support they were rendering in Ramadan. He stated that it is important not only to help the poor but also to incorporate the practice as social norm. Similarly, Nurselam Hassen underscored that the good deeds cherished should not be exercised only during the month of Ramadan. Eid al-Fitr, the holiday which marks the end of the Islamic Holy month of Ramadan, is being celebrated by Muslims across the country.