Addis Standard
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An independent Ethiopia based online media focusing on current affairs. Original content+daily gist of media monitoring
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#Ethiopia: #TPLF denounces recent power moves by #Tigray interim admin as ‘unacceptable’ and ‘illegal’

The Tigray People’s Liberation Front (TPLF) has denounced the recent decisions by the Tigray interim administration to remove and appoint zonal administrators, labeling these actions as “contrary to established institutional procedures.”

In a letter to the party’s zonal and district offices, Fatlework Gebreegziabher, the party’s secretariat chief, criticized the interim administration for “removing previous appointees and making new appointments without adhering to institutional procedures and laws.” She called the actions “unacceptable” and “illegal,” urging party members to resist them in an organized manner.

https://addisstandard.com/tplf-denounces-recent-reshuffle-by-tigray-interim-admin-as-unacceptable-and-illegal/
#Ethiopia: Landslide claims 23 lives in North Gondar, surrounding areas

A series of landslides has resulted in the deaths of 23 people across four districts in North #Gondar Zone and its surrounding areas, according to the North Gondar Zone Disaster Prevention and Food Security Office. The most recent incident on 24 August, 2024, in Abna Kebele, #Tselemti district of the North Western #Tigray zone, led to 10 deaths, with six people still unaccounted for.

The disaster has displaced 2,700 residents and damaged 1,775 hectares of crops and 48 homes across the affected districts. Local authorities are providing support, while the Ethiopian Meteorology Institute had previously issued warnings about potential landslides due to anticipated rainfall.

https://addisstandard.com/landslide-claims-23-lives-in-north-gondar-surrounding-areas/
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#Ethiopia: #GERD will be completed after a year - PM Abiy Ahmed

In a televised address on 25 August 2024, Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed announced that the construction of the Grand Ethiopian Renaissance Dam (GERD) will be completed after the next rainy season.

The construction of GERD began on 02 April, 2011, with a planned reservoir capacity of 74 billion cubic meters. According to PM Abiy, the dam currently holds 60 billion cubic meters of water, which is expected to reach 71 billion by December.

The Prime Minister stated that the majority of the construction work is expected to be finalized by December, allowing three additional turbines to become operational, bringing the total number of functional turbines to seven.

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#Ethiopian gold medalist may miss UCI world championships due to asylum delay

Ethiopian cyclist Trhas Teklehaimanot Tesfay, a gold medalist in national and continental competitions, may miss the UCI Road World Championships in #Zurich this September due to delays in her #UK asylum process. Despite being invited to join the Refugee Team by the event organizers, she has been waiting nearly a year for an interview regarding her refugee status.

Trhas, who fled Ethiopia after the war in #Tigray, has continued to train under challenging conditions in the UK. She relies on minimal financial support and has participated in several amateur races this year. However, she can only compete internationally if granted refugee status and the necessary travel documents.

Supporters at the West London Welcome community center have helped Trhas with training resources and crowdfunding. Despite these efforts, her future in competitive cycling remains uncertain as the interview and travel authorization are still pending. "I have never done a world championships. That is really my dream. I don’t want to miss this one," Trhas said.

https://road.cc/content/news/ethiopian-asylum-seeking-cyclist-could-miss-uci-worlds-310035
#Ethiopia: #Boeing's African adventure to take off in October 2024 with its new office opening in Ethiopia

Boeing’s new Africa office is set to begin operations in October 2024, according to Henok Teferra, Managing Director of Boeing Africa. In an interview with state media, Henok cited Ethiopia’s advancements in aviation and its strategic position as a hub in Africa as key reasons for choosing #Addis_Abeba.

Henok added that the new office will enhance Boeing’s collaboration with Ethiopian Airlines, particularly in the joint production of aircraft components. He noted that Ethiopian Airlines is already producing wire harnesses for Boeing, and they are now working together on insulation blankets at the Kilinto Industrial Park.

https://addisstandard.com/boeings-african-adventure-to-take-off-in-october-2024-with-its-new-office-opening-in-ethiopia/
#Ethiopia: Gov’t imports 50 million liters of cooking oil, 200,000 quintals of sugar to tame surging prices ahead of Ethiopian New Year

The Ministry of Trade and Regional Integration has announced the importation of 50 million liters of edible oil to address rising prices across Ethiopia. Kassahun Gofe, State Minister for Trade and Regional Integration, announced on 26 August 2024 that the oil is being transported via the Ethio-#Djibouti Railway and by trucks.

The Ethiopian Industrial Input Development Enterprise (#EIIDE) also announced the procurement of 200,000 quintals of sugar, expected to arrive within a week. Following recent macroeconomic reforms, Ethiopia, particularly in #Addis_Abeba, has seen a significant increase in consumer prices. This inflation has led to government action against businesses suspected of price gouging and hoarding.

https://addisstandard.com/govt-imports-50-million-liters-of-cooking-oil-200000-quintals-of-sugar-to-tame-surging-prices-ahead-of-ethiopian-new-year/
#US Ambassador arrives in #Tigray amidst political tension: calls for ‘peaceful dialogue’ to resolve disputes

U.S. Ambassador Ervin J. Massinga arrived in Tigray on 26 August, 2024, to emphasize “the importance of resolving political disputes through peaceful dialogue,” according to the American Embassy in #Addis_Abeba. His three-day visit includes meetings with regional officials to discuss the implementation of the Cessation of Hostilities Agreement (COHA) and visits to U.S.-supported projects.

The visit takes place against the backdrop of internal tensions within the Tigray People’s Liberation Front (#TPLF), where a rift has developed between TPLF Chairman Debretsion Gebremichael and Getachew Reda, President of the Tigray Interim Administration.

https://addisstandard.com/us-ambassador-arrives-in-tigray-amidst-political-tension-calls-for-peaceful-dialogue-to-resolve-disputes/
#Kenya: #Kenya_Airways seeks release of $12mn frozen in #Ethiopia

Kenya Airways is seeking to recover more than KES1.5 billion shillings (USD11.6 million) being withheld in Ethiopia due to foreign exchange restrictions in that country, according to CEO Allan Kilavuka.

Kilavuka said that Kenya and Ethiopia were negotiating to ease these restrictions, as the funds in Ethiopian banks are losing value through a 30% drop in the Ethiopian birr against the US dollar.

"We have significant amounts of blocked funds. We have USD12 million, which is blocked, and we cannot use it because it is stuck across restricted countries," Kilavuka said in an interview with Business Daily Africa. "That is our problem because, like now in Ethiopia, our money has been significantly devalued and there is nothing we can do about it..."

https://www.ch-aviation.com/news/144072-kenya-airways-seeks-release-of-12mn-frozen-in-ethiopia
#Ethiopia: Public rallies in North Shewa Zone call for peace amid conflict in #Oromia region

Residents of #Sululta and #Chancho towns in North Shewa Zone held rallies calling for peace amid the ongoing conflict in Oromia region between the Oromo Liberation Army (#OLA) and the federal government. The gatherings on 26 August, 2024 included community leaders, religious figures, educators, and families.

The OLA responded to the rallies on social media, stating that "the ruling party orchestrated individuals to falsely assert that the people of North Shewa are calling for peace." The OLA emphasized that "two years ago, when the ruling party declared, 'We will not engage in peace talks with terrorists,' the OLA maintained its commitment to a peaceful resolution."

https://addisstandard.com/public-rallies-in-north-shawa-zone-call-for-peace-amid-conflict-in-oromia-region/#google_vignette
#Op_ed: Can #Egypt-led alliance stand in #Ethiopia's way of securing access to the sea?

In this op-ed, Miessa Elema Robe, PhD, head of the Press Secretariat at the #Addis_Abeba City Administration, examines Ethiopia's pursuit of access to the sea following the recent Memorandum of Understanding (#MoU) with #Somaliland. He considers the potential impact of this agreement on regional dynamics, particularly in light of Egypt’s historical opposition to Ethiopia.

The article discusses how the MoU could significantly enhance Ethiopia's trade opportunities while also benefiting Somaliland. However, it raises concerns about whether Egypt, through possible counter-alliances, might seek to obstruct Ethiopia’s efforts to secure a maritime route.

Finally, the op-ed suggests that #Somalia might benefit more from direct negotiations with Ethiopia and Somaliland rather than relying on external alliances.

https://addisstandard.com/can-egypt-led-alliance-stand-in-ethiopias-way-of-securing-access-to-the-sea/
#Egypt deploys military to #Somalia in strategic move amid Horn of #Africa
tensions


Egyptian military officers and equipment have arrived in #Mogadishu, initiating a deployment that could involve up to 10,000 Egyptian soldiers in Somalia, according to reports and local footage.

Two Egyptian military C-130 aircraft landed at Aden Adde International Airport, following a defense agreement recently signed between Somali President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud and Egyptian President Abdel Fattah El-Sisi in Cairo.

The deployment occurs amid regional developments, including a recent Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) between #Ethiopia and #Somaliland. Egypt's military presence in Somalia is seen as a strategic move in the context of regional dynamics, including discussions over the Grand Ethiopian Renaissance Dam and broader interests in the Horn of Africa.

This military cooperation is part of the upcoming African Union Support and Stabilization Mission in Somalia (#AUSSOM), scheduled to replace the current ATMIS mission by January 2025.

https://www.garoweonline.com/en/news/somalia/egypt-deploys-military-to-somalia-in-strategic-move-amid-horn-of-africa-tensions
#Ethiopia: From Water to Power: Ethiopia activates key turbines at #GERD amid regional diplomatic maneuvering, experts examine what lies ahead

Ethiopia has increased the Grand Ethiopian Renaissance Dam’s (GERD) power by 800 MW with two new turbines activated on 24 August 2024. The dam's total capacity now stands at 1,550 MW, with further growth expected as water levels rise.

The activation coincides with ongoing regional discussions about water resource management in the Nile Basin. The recent ratification of the Nile Basin Cooperative Framework Agreement (#CFA) by South Sudan marks a step toward more equitable use of the river.

Opinions vary on the impact. Some experts believe the GERD and CFA will strengthen Ethiopia’s position, while others caution that unresolved tensions with downstream countries, particularly #Egypt, could still pose challenges.

https://addisstandard.com/from-water-to-power-ethiopia-activates-key-turbines-at-gerd-amid-regional-diplomatic-maneuvering-experts-examine-what-lies-ahead/
#Boeing delays force top #Africa carrier #Ethiopian to lease planes

Ethiopian Airlines, Africa’s largest carrier, is leasing aircraft to sustain its growth, following delays in deliveries from Boeing Co. The airline has been awaiting Boeing 737 Max jetliners and 777 freighters since April, with no revised delivery schedule provided, according to Chief Executive Officer Mesfin Tasew Bekele.

“The late delivery of airplanes will affect our growth plan,” Mesfin stated, adding that the airline has proactively turned to leasing to bridge the gap. He emphasized, “We are waiting to hear from them, but we didn’t wait for Boeing to deliver the ordered airplanes.”

Boeing, which is contending with supply chain issues and workforce challenges post-pandemic, did not immediately comment on the delays. Mesfin confirmed that Ethiopian Airlines is still expecting 16 aircraft in the current fiscal year, including deliveries from both Boeing and Airbus SE.

Despite the setbacks, Ethiopian Airlines is pursuing expansion within Africa, with plans to partner with at least two more African nations over the next year. “A few African governments have requested us to form airlines in partnership,” Mesfin revealed.

https://www.bnnbloomberg.ca/business/2024/08/28/boeing-delays-force-top-africa-carrier-ethiopian-to-lease-planes/
#Ethiopia: Central bank revises gold pricing policy, eliminates guaranteed premium for local suppliers

The National Bank of Ethiopia (#NBE) has overhauled its gold pricing policy, effective 27 August 2024, eliminating the guaranteed premium for local suppliers. The NBE will now set offer prices based on "internal procedures and a cost-covering incentive." Under the new policy, suppliers delivering a minimum of 25 kilograms will receive pricing incentives that ensure cost coverage, without a fixed premium regardless of the quantity sold.

The policy also allows large-scale producers to retain up to 50% of foreign currency from gold exports for up to three months, up from the previous one-month limit. The NBE said the changes are necessary for sustainable reforms in the gold exchange market.

https://addisstandard.com/central-bank-revises-gold-pricing-policy-eliminates-guaranteed-premium-for-local-suppliers/
Clashes between rival #RSF factions leave seven dead in North #Darfur

Clashes between rival factions of #Sudan’s Rapid Support Forces (RSF) in Mellit, North Darfur, have led to seven fatalities, according to local sources.

The conflict began on Monday night when an RSF group from West Darfur attempted to loot the Mellit market, prompting resistance from local RSF members. The incident resulted in the destruction of two vehicles.

Markets in the area remain closed, and residents are staying indoors as tensions persist and both factions continue to mobilize.

https://sudantribune.com/article290087/
#Ethiopia: Convict sentenced to death three times among six individuals arrested in connection with ET saga

The Ethiopian Federal Police announced that among six individuals recently arrested in connection with an incident on an Ethiopian Airlines flight from #Addis_Abeba to #Mekelle, one suspect, Elias Driba, has a significant criminal history dating back to 1996. Previously known as Dawit Driba Badaane, he has been sentenced to death three times for offenses ranging from arms trafficking to multiple murders.

The other suspects, Yohannes Daniel Berhe, Ammanuel Mewcha Abreha, Nathnael Wendwesen Shume, Yididia Netsanet Abebe, and Eleni Kinfe Tekleab, are under investigation for allegedly “causing disruption and creating panic” aboard the flight on 22 August 2024. The court has deferred their bail hearing to 09 September 2024 to allow the police additional time for investigation.

https://addisstandard.com/convict-sentenced-to-death-three-times-among-six-individuals-arrested-in-connection-with-et-saga/
#Ethiopia: Floods and landslides put 400,000 at risk in #Amhara region, surrounding areas

The Amhara Disaster Prevention and Food Security Commission has reported that 400,000 people across eight zones in the region are at risk due to heavy rains, which have triggered floods and landslides. The North #Gondar, South Gondar, and Wag Hemra zones are among the affected areas.

A recent landslide in #Tselemti, in the neighbouring #Tigray region, resulted in 10 deaths and displaced nearly 3,000 people. The Amhara regional government has provided 45,000 quintals of aid and is supplying daily meals to those affected. Despite these efforts, 28,000 people remain at risk of displacement.

https://addisstandard.com/floods-and-landslides-put-400000-at-risk-in-amhara-region-surrounding-areas/
#Ethiopian Electric Power generates over $25 million in revenue from data mining companies

Ethiopian Electric Power (#EEP) generated over $25 million in revenue from electricity supplied to data mining companies in the 2023/2024 fiscal year. This revenue is part of EEP’s strategy to increase foreign currency earnings by billing domestic customers in #US dollars.

Minilik Getahun, Manager of Sales and Customer Management at EEP, stated that since December 2022, nine companies engaged in data mining have been making payments in U.S. dollars, shifting from the previous practice of billing in Ethiopian Birr.

https://addisstandard.com/ethiopian-electric-power-generates-over-25-million-in-revenue-from-data-mining-companies/
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#Ethiopia: Flooding in #Silte zone submerges over 900 houses, displaces more than 6,000 people

Heavy rainfall affecting more than six kebeles in #Silti and East Silti districts of the Silte Zone, Central Ethiopia Region, has caused flooding that submerged over 900 houses and displaced more than 6,000 people.

Silte Zone Communication Officer Sali Hassan reported to state media that the flooding has destroyed over 1,200 hectares of crops, including maize, wheat, mango, papaya, and coffee.

This incident follows a similar flooding on 15 August 2024, which displaced 1,650 people and caused significant loss of livestock and property.

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#NewsAlert: #Ethiopia says #ATMIS transition ‘fraught with dangers’, warns it ‘cannot stand idle’ while ‘actors taking measures to destabilize’ the Horn

The Ethiopian government said it is concerned that the transition from the African Union transition mission in #Somalia (ATMIS) to a new peace support mission is “fraught with dangerous” to the region.

Ethiopia also warned that it “cannot stand idle while other actors are taking measures to destabilize the region.” Ethiopia is vigilantly monitoring developments in the region that could threaten its national security, according to a statement released by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs.

The statement came a day after Egypt sent military officers and heavy equipment to Mogadishu, Somalia as part of a bigger deployment that media reports said could involve up to 10,000 Egyptian soldiers in Somalia.

Read the full news here: https://addisstandard.com/?p=45566