#Ethiopia - #Czech_Republic
Verbatim
"There is an important cooperation going on between the Czech company Omnipol and the Ethiopian army. We are involved in the refurbishment of L-39 aircrafts, we supply flight simulators and Czech technicians train local personnel here. There is an opportunity to deliver more aircraft of the new generation. The cooperation is highly appreciated by the Ethiopian side so far, and I believe that it will expand in the future," Petr Fiala, Prime Minister of the Czech Republic.
The Premier said this after he visited the Bishoftu Air Base, the headquarters of the Ethiopian Air Force, where he met with Lieutenant General Yilma Merdassa, Commander of the Ethiopian Air Force, on 05 October.
PM Fiala paid a two-day state visit to Ethiopia over the weekend and held discussions with PM Abiy Ahmed.
Verbatim
"There is an important cooperation going on between the Czech company Omnipol and the Ethiopian army. We are involved in the refurbishment of L-39 aircrafts, we supply flight simulators and Czech technicians train local personnel here. There is an opportunity to deliver more aircraft of the new generation. The cooperation is highly appreciated by the Ethiopian side so far, and I believe that it will expand in the future," Petr Fiala, Prime Minister of the Czech Republic.
The Premier said this after he visited the Bishoftu Air Base, the headquarters of the Ethiopian Air Force, where he met with Lieutenant General Yilma Merdassa, Commander of the Ethiopian Air Force, on 05 October.
PM Fiala paid a two-day state visit to Ethiopia over the weekend and held discussions with PM Abiy Ahmed.
#Kenya says #Electricity imports from #Ethiopia halve on drought
Kenya is importing just half of the contracted electricity capacity from Ethiopia due to a biting drought that has reduced dam water levels in the Horn of Africa country.
Energy Cabinet Secretary Davis Chirchir revealed on Monday Kenya has been tapping 100 megawatts of electricity from Ethiopia, which is only half the capacity of 200 megawatts that the two countries inked last year.
“Drought has had a major effect on the cost of electricity. Even Ethiopia, which we contracted 200 megawatts has only been supplying 100 megawatts because of the drought that they have been experiencing,” he said.
Kenya in January started importing cheaper hydroelectric power from Ethiopia, with the capacity to be stepped up to 400MW in three years.
https://businessdailyafrica.com/bd/economy/electricity-imports-from-ethiopia-halve-on-drought--4425380
Kenya is importing just half of the contracted electricity capacity from Ethiopia due to a biting drought that has reduced dam water levels in the Horn of Africa country.
Energy Cabinet Secretary Davis Chirchir revealed on Monday Kenya has been tapping 100 megawatts of electricity from Ethiopia, which is only half the capacity of 200 megawatts that the two countries inked last year.
“Drought has had a major effect on the cost of electricity. Even Ethiopia, which we contracted 200 megawatts has only been supplying 100 megawatts because of the drought that they have been experiencing,” he said.
Kenya in January started importing cheaper hydroelectric power from Ethiopia, with the capacity to be stepped up to 400MW in three years.
https://businessdailyafrica.com/bd/economy/electricity-imports-from-ethiopia-halve-on-drought--4425380
Business Daily
Electricity imports from Ethiopia halve on drought
Kenya is importing just half of the contracted electricity capacity from Ethiopia.
#Editorial: Fixation on exam results is leaving a trail of disarray in Ethiopia’s education. Look beyond!
#Ethiopia
*A country that remains besieged by an unacceptable illiteracy rate and a declining state investment in education, including meagre pay for teachers
*Where a wanton destruction by wars and militarized violence for the last five years saw nearly 9, 000 schools destroyed; teaching materials, including books and laboratory equipment, deliberately liquidated
*Where there is no comprehensive assessment on the impacts that closure of schools, mass displacements, and disruption of regular classes bring about on students’ ability to learn both physically and psychologically…
These and more topics discussed is why #Addis_Standard believes the Ministry of Education’s fixation on exam results to measure quality education is leaving a trail of disarray in Ethiopia’s education system.
“Fixation on scrutinizing exams cheating while avoiding the more pertinent and pressing factors will not ensure quality education, it endangers access to education for all, and breeds illiterate generations by making education accessible for a select few.” https://addisstandard.com/?p=38986
#Ethiopia
*A country that remains besieged by an unacceptable illiteracy rate and a declining state investment in education, including meagre pay for teachers
*Where a wanton destruction by wars and militarized violence for the last five years saw nearly 9, 000 schools destroyed; teaching materials, including books and laboratory equipment, deliberately liquidated
*Where there is no comprehensive assessment on the impacts that closure of schools, mass displacements, and disruption of regular classes bring about on students’ ability to learn both physically and psychologically…
These and more topics discussed is why #Addis_Standard believes the Ministry of Education’s fixation on exam results to measure quality education is leaving a trail of disarray in Ethiopia’s education system.
“Fixation on scrutinizing exams cheating while avoiding the more pertinent and pressing factors will not ensure quality education, it endangers access to education for all, and breeds illiterate generations by making education accessible for a select few.” https://addisstandard.com/?p=38986
Addis Standard
Editorial: Fixation on exam results is leaving a trail of disarray in Ethiopia’s education. Look beyond! - Addis Standard
Editorial: Fixation on exam results is leaving a trail of disarray in Ethiopia’s education. Look beyond! Addis Standard Social Affairs -
#Ethiopia establishes a committee to recruit #Election_Board chairperson
Prime Minister #Abiy_Ahmed has designated a committee to nominate a chairperson for the National Election Board of Ethiopia (NEBE).
The eight-member committee is tasked with the recruitment of candidates to replace Birtukan Mideksa, who resigned from her position in June citing personal need for “a long-term rest to maintain my health.”
The committee will soon begin receiving proposed nominees.
https://addisstandard.com/asdailyscoop-ethiopia-establishes-a-committee-to-recruit-election-board-chairperson/
Prime Minister #Abiy_Ahmed has designated a committee to nominate a chairperson for the National Election Board of Ethiopia (NEBE).
The eight-member committee is tasked with the recruitment of candidates to replace Birtukan Mideksa, who resigned from her position in June citing personal need for “a long-term rest to maintain my health.”
The committee will soon begin receiving proposed nominees.
https://addisstandard.com/asdailyscoop-ethiopia-establishes-a-committee-to-recruit-election-board-chairperson/
Addis Standard
#ASDailyScoop: Ethiopia establishes a committee to recruit Election Board chairperson - Addis Standard
#ASDailyScoop: Ethiopia establishes a committee to recruit Election Board chairperson Addis Standard DailyScoop -
#South_Africa recalls all diplomats from #Israel
Foreign Minister Naledi Pandor told a press conference that South Africa was withdrawing its diplomats, saying: "We are... extremely concerned at the continued killing of children and innocent civilians in the Palestinian territories and we believe the nature of response by Israel has become one of collective punishment.
"We felt it important that we do signal the concern of South Africa while continuing to call for a comprehensive cessation [of hostilities]."
***
The recall of the diplomats was "normal practice", Foreign Minister Pandor said, adding that the envoys would give a "full briefing" to the government. After this, the government will decide whether it can be of assistance or if a "continued relationship is actually able to be sustained", Ms Pandor said.
South Africa's cabinet also accused Israeli ambassador Eliav Belotsercovsky of making derogatory remarks about South Africans, including members of government, who had criticized Israel's government.
"The disparaging remarks against those speaking up against the atrocities and the country's leaders make ambassador Belotsercovsky position more and more untenable," the cabinet statement said. https://www.bbc.com/news/world-africa-67334698
Foreign Minister Naledi Pandor told a press conference that South Africa was withdrawing its diplomats, saying: "We are... extremely concerned at the continued killing of children and innocent civilians in the Palestinian territories and we believe the nature of response by Israel has become one of collective punishment.
"We felt it important that we do signal the concern of South Africa while continuing to call for a comprehensive cessation [of hostilities]."
***
The recall of the diplomats was "normal practice", Foreign Minister Pandor said, adding that the envoys would give a "full briefing" to the government. After this, the government will decide whether it can be of assistance or if a "continued relationship is actually able to be sustained", Ms Pandor said.
South Africa's cabinet also accused Israeli ambassador Eliav Belotsercovsky of making derogatory remarks about South Africans, including members of government, who had criticized Israel's government.
"The disparaging remarks against those speaking up against the atrocities and the country's leaders make ambassador Belotsercovsky position more and more untenable," the cabinet statement said. https://www.bbc.com/news/world-africa-67334698
BBC News
South Africa recalls all diplomats from Israel
The move is in response to one of the heaviest nights of airstrikes in Gaza since the conflict began.
#Ethiopia - Clashes between militiamen and armed residents left at least 18 killed in #Oromo special zone, #Amhara region
More than 18 people were killed during recent clashes between the Fano militia and armed residents of Artuma Fursi district in the Oromo Special Zone of the Amhara region, according to witnesses.
More than 30 others were wounded in the day-long fighting on Sunday, 05 November 2023. Unarmed residents including an elderly man were reported to be among the dead.
“Three days earlier [on 02 November] they [the Fano militiamen] came and killed our man. On Sunday, they attacked again and the people started to fight back,” one resident told Addis Standard.
https://addisstandard.com/news-clashes-between-militiamen-and-armed-residents-left-at-least-18-killed-in-oromo-special-zone-amhara-region/
More than 18 people were killed during recent clashes between the Fano militia and armed residents of Artuma Fursi district in the Oromo Special Zone of the Amhara region, according to witnesses.
More than 30 others were wounded in the day-long fighting on Sunday, 05 November 2023. Unarmed residents including an elderly man were reported to be among the dead.
“Three days earlier [on 02 November] they [the Fano militiamen] came and killed our man. On Sunday, they attacked again and the people started to fight back,” one resident told Addis Standard.
https://addisstandard.com/news-clashes-between-militiamen-and-armed-residents-left-at-least-18-killed-in-oromo-special-zone-amhara-region/
Addis Standard
News: Clashes between militiamen and armed residents left at least 18 killed in Oromo special zone, Amhara region - Addis Standard
News: Clashes between militiamen and armed residents left at least 18 killed in Oromo special zone, Amhara region Addis Standard Politics -
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#Tigray: "The constitution is clear", Getachew Reda, President of Tigray Regional State Interim Administration.
Getachew explained Ethiopia's constitutional procedure on holding a referendum in an interview with the local Tigray TV in response to the federal government's statement yesterday asserting that an agreement was reached for the "final determination on the fate of these areas through a referendum to be held in the localities."
The "referendum" the federal government said is in reference to the occupied Western Tigray zone, which remains under the control of #Amhara forces.
Getachew explained Ethiopia's constitutional procedure on holding a referendum in an interview with the local Tigray TV in response to the federal government's statement yesterday asserting that an agreement was reached for the "final determination on the fate of these areas through a referendum to be held in the localities."
The "referendum" the federal government said is in reference to the occupied Western Tigray zone, which remains under the control of #Amhara forces.
Clashes in #Ethiopia's #Amhara region raise concern for historic churches
Fresh fighting between the Ethiopian army and a local militia in the northern #Amhara region has raised concerns among residents for the safety of historic rock-hewn churches in the holy town of #Lalibela.
Fano militiamen over-ran Lalibela and #Gondar, the second-biggest city in the Amhara region, for several days in August in Ethiopia's most serious security crisis since a two-year civil war in neighbouring Tigray ended a year ago.
Fano fighters battled alongside the army during the war in Tigray, but relations between the two sides have soured, particularly after the federal government moved in April to integrate security forces operated by each region into the police and army.
On Sunday, Ethiopian soldiers fired heavy weapons 11 times from locations near the churches, a deacon said, sending damaging shockwaves through one of the subterranean monuments, which date back to the 12th and 13th Centuries.
"The vibrations are affecting the churches," the deacon said, requesting anonymity for fears of reprisals.
https://www.usnews.com/news/world/articles/2023-11-07/clashes-in-ethiopias-amhara-region-raise-concern-for-historic-churches
Fresh fighting between the Ethiopian army and a local militia in the northern #Amhara region has raised concerns among residents for the safety of historic rock-hewn churches in the holy town of #Lalibela.
Fano militiamen over-ran Lalibela and #Gondar, the second-biggest city in the Amhara region, for several days in August in Ethiopia's most serious security crisis since a two-year civil war in neighbouring Tigray ended a year ago.
Fano fighters battled alongside the army during the war in Tigray, but relations between the two sides have soured, particularly after the federal government moved in April to integrate security forces operated by each region into the police and army.
On Sunday, Ethiopian soldiers fired heavy weapons 11 times from locations near the churches, a deacon said, sending damaging shockwaves through one of the subterranean monuments, which date back to the 12th and 13th Centuries.
"The vibrations are affecting the churches," the deacon said, requesting anonymity for fears of reprisals.
https://www.usnews.com/news/world/articles/2023-11-07/clashes-in-ethiopias-amhara-region-raise-concern-for-historic-churches
US News & World Report
Fighting in Ethiopia's Amhara Region Prompts Fear for Ancient Churches
By Giulia Paravicini and Dawit Endeshaw
#Ethiopia: Municipal authorities urge informal traders to swiftly join the formal sector
The #Addis_Abeba city administration is encouraging approximately 6,300 informal traders who have been granted transitional licenses to promptly transition into the formal sector. These traders have been issued licenses as part of a transition period, allowing them to conduct activities that will eventually legitimize their operations.
During a discussion with the traders' representative, Tesema Jameda, Director at the Addis Abeba Trade Bureau, highlighted that the transition period has been hindered by various factors.
Informal trading remains widespread in Addis Abeba; however, it also serves as a source of employment and livelihood for millions of residents.
https://www.facebook.com/permalink.php?story_fbid=pfbid08gidZ6VsNqjjBDoR4xnBnLqA9p7Q7qzvYAjcJL9xoT9z3TExvjo2BT15zQZvgbFbl&id=100069351701097
The #Addis_Abeba city administration is encouraging approximately 6,300 informal traders who have been granted transitional licenses to promptly transition into the formal sector. These traders have been issued licenses as part of a transition period, allowing them to conduct activities that will eventually legitimize their operations.
During a discussion with the traders' representative, Tesema Jameda, Director at the Addis Abeba Trade Bureau, highlighted that the transition period has been hindered by various factors.
Informal trading remains widespread in Addis Abeba; however, it also serves as a source of employment and livelihood for millions of residents.
https://www.facebook.com/permalink.php?story_fbid=pfbid08gidZ6VsNqjjBDoR4xnBnLqA9p7Q7qzvYAjcJL9xoT9z3TExvjo2BT15zQZvgbFbl&id=100069351701097
#Ethiopia: Unseasonal rains devastate crops in Western #Amhara as meteorological data predicts continued rainfall
The Amhara Agriculture Bureau has reported extensive damage to crops, specifically in western Amhara, due to unseasonal rains. During a press conference held yesterday, Dr. Deres Sahlu, the head of the bureau, highlighted the findings of the National Meteorology's data, suggesting that the unseasonal rain is likely to persist in most parts of the country.
However, Deres said with the aid of machinery and an ample workforce, efforts are being made to mitigate the situation. The region had set a target of producing over 160 million quintals during this harvesting season.
Last week, the Ministry of Agriculture cautioned small-scale farmers in Ethiopia to take proactive measures to minimize post-harvest losses.
https://www.facebook.com/AmharaCommunications/posts/pfbid0jJ9USWPyv3qZDYa1gi5ewfVZX2vbwysw42BuCuNEVshnztknqJZDVdnYoDSShN2l
The Amhara Agriculture Bureau has reported extensive damage to crops, specifically in western Amhara, due to unseasonal rains. During a press conference held yesterday, Dr. Deres Sahlu, the head of the bureau, highlighted the findings of the National Meteorology's data, suggesting that the unseasonal rain is likely to persist in most parts of the country.
However, Deres said with the aid of machinery and an ample workforce, efforts are being made to mitigate the situation. The region had set a target of producing over 160 million quintals during this harvesting season.
Last week, the Ministry of Agriculture cautioned small-scale farmers in Ethiopia to take proactive measures to minimize post-harvest losses.
https://www.facebook.com/AmharaCommunications/posts/pfbid0jJ9USWPyv3qZDYa1gi5ewfVZX2vbwysw42BuCuNEVshnztknqJZDVdnYoDSShN2l
Feature: A goodwill initiative sparks hope by restoring eye sights across #Ethiopia
Sisay Abebe, a resident of Logia in the #Afar region, lost his vision in 2017 due to cataract, leaving him unable to work and reliant on others for survival. However, his life took a positive turn when he regained his sight through ophthalmic surgeries organized by the Himalayan Cataract Project's CureBlindness campaign. Along with 369 other beneficiaries, Sisay received the much-needed treatment in #Semera, Afar region.
This surgery brought hope not only to Sisay but to many underprivileged individuals in the region who suffer from treatable cataracts. The campaign was a success, with 369 surgeries performed out of the planned 500. Hiwot Degneh, one of the participating health practitioners, expressed her satisfaction in witnessing people regain their lost vision through the surgeries.
Cataracts remain a leading cause of blindness worldwide, affecting millions in Sub-Saharan #Africa. In Ethiopia, recent surveys have identified cataracts as the main cause of blindness and low vision. The CureBlindness campaign, led by the Himalayan Cataract Project, aims to address curable blindness through collaborations with global partners.
https://addisstandard.com/feature-a-goodwill-initiative-sparks-hope-by-restoring-eye-sights-across-ethiopia/
Sisay Abebe, a resident of Logia in the #Afar region, lost his vision in 2017 due to cataract, leaving him unable to work and reliant on others for survival. However, his life took a positive turn when he regained his sight through ophthalmic surgeries organized by the Himalayan Cataract Project's CureBlindness campaign. Along with 369 other beneficiaries, Sisay received the much-needed treatment in #Semera, Afar region.
This surgery brought hope not only to Sisay but to many underprivileged individuals in the region who suffer from treatable cataracts. The campaign was a success, with 369 surgeries performed out of the planned 500. Hiwot Degneh, one of the participating health practitioners, expressed her satisfaction in witnessing people regain their lost vision through the surgeries.
Cataracts remain a leading cause of blindness worldwide, affecting millions in Sub-Saharan #Africa. In Ethiopia, recent surveys have identified cataracts as the main cause of blindness and low vision. The CureBlindness campaign, led by the Himalayan Cataract Project, aims to address curable blindness through collaborations with global partners.
https://addisstandard.com/feature-a-goodwill-initiative-sparks-hope-by-restoring-eye-sights-across-ethiopia/
Addis Standard
Feature: A goodwill initiative sparks hope by restoring eye sights across Ethiopia - Addis Standard
A beneficiary whose eye sight was restored through HCP Cureblindness campaign (Photo: HCP) By Molla Mitiku @MollaAyenew Addis Abeba – Sisay Abebe, 64, is a resident in Logia, Afar region. He had been leading his life with the income he earned from his semi…
#Ethiopia: Ministry of Trade implements stringent registration process for #Khat exporters
The Ministry of Trade has announced new pre-license requirements for all khat exporters in Ethiopia. The registration process will be rigorous, with a re-registration period from 7–25 November, 2023. Minister Gebremeskel Chala emphasized the need for these criteria to improve the industry and enhance export revenue.
The new directive aims to address challenges faced by the sector and prevent illegal traders from infiltrating the system. Failure to meet the requirements and renew licenses within the given timeframe will result in license revocation.
This move follows a decline in export earnings from over $400 million a decade ago to $248 million last year. The government's intervention in khat trading extends to the regional level, with challenges faced by farmers and exporters in the Oromia region.
https://addisstandard.com/news-ministry-of-trade-implements-stringent-registration-process-for-khat-exporters/
The Ministry of Trade has announced new pre-license requirements for all khat exporters in Ethiopia. The registration process will be rigorous, with a re-registration period from 7–25 November, 2023. Minister Gebremeskel Chala emphasized the need for these criteria to improve the industry and enhance export revenue.
The new directive aims to address challenges faced by the sector and prevent illegal traders from infiltrating the system. Failure to meet the requirements and renew licenses within the given timeframe will result in license revocation.
This move follows a decline in export earnings from over $400 million a decade ago to $248 million last year. The government's intervention in khat trading extends to the regional level, with challenges faced by farmers and exporters in the Oromia region.
https://addisstandard.com/news-ministry-of-trade-implements-stringent-registration-process-for-khat-exporters/
Addis Standard
News: Ministry of Trade implements stringent registration process for Khat exporters - Addis Standard
News: Ministry of Trade implements stringent registration process for Khat exporters Addis Standard News -
#Ethiopia - Second round peace talk to end conflict in #Oromia kicks off in Dar es Salaam; #OLA Commander on board
With Commander of the Oromo Liberation Army (OLA) Kumsa Diriba, popularly known as Jaal Marroo, on board, the second round talks between the Ethiopian federal government and OLA kicked off in Dar es Salaam, Tanzania, on Tuesday.
Addis Standard learned from the diplomatic sources that the two sides were engaged in renewed “political dialogue” over the last three weeks, the “positive outcome” of which helped progress to the ongoing talks between senior military officials of the two sides that kick started yesterday.
Additional diplomatic sources in close proximity to the mediators said as the discussion “progresses into a critical stage, it is increasingly evident that the dedication and resolve demonstrated by all parties to reach a sustainable resolution is commendable.”
https://addisstandard.com/news-second-round-peace-talk-to-end-conflict-in-oromia-kicks-off-in-dar-es-salaam-ola-commander-on-board/
With Commander of the Oromo Liberation Army (OLA) Kumsa Diriba, popularly known as Jaal Marroo, on board, the second round talks between the Ethiopian federal government and OLA kicked off in Dar es Salaam, Tanzania, on Tuesday.
Addis Standard learned from the diplomatic sources that the two sides were engaged in renewed “political dialogue” over the last three weeks, the “positive outcome” of which helped progress to the ongoing talks between senior military officials of the two sides that kick started yesterday.
Additional diplomatic sources in close proximity to the mediators said as the discussion “progresses into a critical stage, it is increasingly evident that the dedication and resolve demonstrated by all parties to reach a sustainable resolution is commendable.”
https://addisstandard.com/news-second-round-peace-talk-to-end-conflict-in-oromia-kicks-off-in-dar-es-salaam-ola-commander-on-board/
Addis Standard
News: Second round peace talk to end conflict in Oromia kicks off in Dar es Salaam; OLA Commander on board - Addis Standard
News: Second round peace talk to end conflict in Oromia kicks off in Dar es Salaam; OLA Commander on board Addis Standard Politics -
#Ethiopia: #Tigray interim admin sacks four more high-ranking officials
The Tigray Interim Administration has dismissed four high-ranking officials from their positions. This decision follows the removal of six top zonal officials just ten days ago.
The officials were notified via a letter dated 28 October, 2023; however, two of them discovered their terminations through social media. No official statement has been provided by the interim administration regarding these dismissals.
Tension has been increasing between the interim administration and the Tigray People's Liberation Front (#TPLF).
https://addisstandard.com/news-tigray-interim-admin-sacks-four-more-high-ranking-officials/
The Tigray Interim Administration has dismissed four high-ranking officials from their positions. This decision follows the removal of six top zonal officials just ten days ago.
The officials were notified via a letter dated 28 October, 2023; however, two of them discovered their terminations through social media. No official statement has been provided by the interim administration regarding these dismissals.
Tension has been increasing between the interim administration and the Tigray People's Liberation Front (#TPLF).
https://addisstandard.com/news-tigray-interim-admin-sacks-four-more-high-ranking-officials/
Addis Standard
News: Tigray interim admin sacks four more high-ranking officials - Addis Standard
From left to right: Alem Gebrewahid, Amanuel Assefa, Liya Kassa, and Teklay Gebremedhin (Photo:Social Media) Addis Abeba – In a letter sent from the president’s office, the Tigray Interim Administration has removed four high-ranking officials from their positions.…
Update: #US, #IGAD, #Kenya & #Norway key peace talk facilitators; #OLA southern command chief arrives in Dar es Salaam
Ongoing talks between the Ethiopian government and OLA which according to diplomatic sources is happening at Hyatt Regency Hotel in Dar es Salaam, Tanzania, involve the active support from external mediators and facilitators, most notably the U.S through a delegation led by Ambassador Mike Hammer, Special Envoy for the Horn of Africa, and senior diplomats representing IGAD, as well as the governments of Kenya and Norway.
General Getachew Gudina, Head of Military Intelligence of the federal defense forces, and Major General Demis Amenu, his deputy, who was part of the first round talks held in May this year in Zanzibar, represented the federal government.
Sources also confirmed to Addis Standard that OLA’s Southern Command Gemechu Regassa a.k.a Jaal Gemechu Aboye and his deputy, were flown via Kenya from their bases in Borana, southern Oromia, to the meeting venue this morning.
https://addisstandard.com/update-us-igad-kenya-ola-southern-command-chief-arrives-in-dar-es-salaam/
Ongoing talks between the Ethiopian government and OLA which according to diplomatic sources is happening at Hyatt Regency Hotel in Dar es Salaam, Tanzania, involve the active support from external mediators and facilitators, most notably the U.S through a delegation led by Ambassador Mike Hammer, Special Envoy for the Horn of Africa, and senior diplomats representing IGAD, as well as the governments of Kenya and Norway.
General Getachew Gudina, Head of Military Intelligence of the federal defense forces, and Major General Demis Amenu, his deputy, who was part of the first round talks held in May this year in Zanzibar, represented the federal government.
Sources also confirmed to Addis Standard that OLA’s Southern Command Gemechu Regassa a.k.a Jaal Gemechu Aboye and his deputy, were flown via Kenya from their bases in Borana, southern Oromia, to the meeting venue this morning.
https://addisstandard.com/update-us-igad-kenya-ola-southern-command-chief-arrives-in-dar-es-salaam/
Addis Standard
Update: US, IGAD, Kenya & Norway key peace talk facilitators; OLA southern command chief arrives in Dar es Salaam - Addis Standard
Update: US, IGAD, Kenya & Norway key peace talk facilitators; OLA southern command chief arrives in Dar es Salaam Addis Standard Politics -
#Ethiopia: Residents report gunfire in Ethiopian holy city, but govt says all peaceful
"Fighting broke out (in #Lalibela) an hour ago and I am now hiding in my home," one resident said by telephone, with the crackle of gunfire in the background.
A deacon at one of Lalibela's 11 churches, which date back to the 12th and 13th centuries and are a major attraction for Coptic Christians and tourists alike, said the fighting started around 8 a.m. "in all parts of the city".
A metal shelter built to protect one of the churches had been hit three times by stray gunfire, he said.
"They are using all kinds of weapons. I could feel the vibrations," the deacon said.
Government spokesperson Legesse Tulu disputed the reports of violence, saying that the city and its surroundings were peaceful. https://www.reuters.com/world/africa/residents-report-gunfire-ethiopian-holy-city-govt-says-all-peaceful-2023-11-08/
"Fighting broke out (in #Lalibela) an hour ago and I am now hiding in my home," one resident said by telephone, with the crackle of gunfire in the background.
A deacon at one of Lalibela's 11 churches, which date back to the 12th and 13th centuries and are a major attraction for Coptic Christians and tourists alike, said the fighting started around 8 a.m. "in all parts of the city".
A metal shelter built to protect one of the churches had been hit three times by stray gunfire, he said.
"They are using all kinds of weapons. I could feel the vibrations," the deacon said.
Government spokesperson Legesse Tulu disputed the reports of violence, saying that the city and its surroundings were peaceful. https://www.reuters.com/world/africa/residents-report-gunfire-ethiopian-holy-city-govt-says-all-peaceful-2023-11-08/
#Ethiopia: #Opal production in South Wollo Zone disrupted by conflict in #Amhara region
The administration of #South_Wollo_Zone, a major producer of opals, has reported that the mining of the precious gemstone has been disrupted by the ongoing conflict in the Amhara region. This disruption in opal production is impacting the local economy and the livelihoods of those involved in the industry.
In the South Wollo Zone, nearly 30 minerals, including opal, amber, jasper, onyx, tourmaline, quartz, and gypsum, have been identified. Currently, 12 high-potential production licenses have been granted, with four in good standing and the remaining not operational.
Over the past three months, the zone has exported 6,532 kilograms of opal to international markets, resulting in a revenue of almost six million birr.
The administration of #South_Wollo_Zone, a major producer of opals, has reported that the mining of the precious gemstone has been disrupted by the ongoing conflict in the Amhara region. This disruption in opal production is impacting the local economy and the livelihoods of those involved in the industry.
In the South Wollo Zone, nearly 30 minerals, including opal, amber, jasper, onyx, tourmaline, quartz, and gypsum, have been identified. Currently, 12 high-potential production licenses have been granted, with four in good standing and the remaining not operational.
Over the past three months, the zone has exported 6,532 kilograms of opal to international markets, resulting in a revenue of almost six million birr.
Safaricom Ethiopia registers 1.2 million M-PESA customers since launch in August, transaction values reach $286.7 million
#Safaricom_Ethiopia Plc has achieved a significant milestone by registering 1.2 million M-PESA customers since launching its mobile money service in the country in August this year. This announcement was made during the release of the company's 2023/2024 half-year results on Thursday.
On 16 August 2023, M-PESA was launched in #Ethiopia after acquiring the payment instrument issuer license from the National Bank of Ethiopia. This launch was a major boost for Safaricom as it aims to expand its services in one of #Africa's most populous countries.
Furthermore, Safaricom disclosed that transaction values have reached $286.7 million (Ksh. 43.7 billion) since the launch. Additionally, 23,000 M-PESA agents and 12,000 merchants have been onboarded to the service.
"This confirms our belief in the growth potential of Ethiopia and how it will greatly support our future expansion. We intend to maintain this momentum in the second half of the year," stated Peter Ndegwa, CEO of Safaricom.
During the results announcement, Safaricom also revealed that its customer base has grown to 4.1 million users, with operations now extended to 22 cities across the country.
https://techtrendske.co.ke/2023/11/09/safaricom-now-has-1-2-million-m-pesa-customers-in-ethiopia/
#Safaricom_Ethiopia Plc has achieved a significant milestone by registering 1.2 million M-PESA customers since launching its mobile money service in the country in August this year. This announcement was made during the release of the company's 2023/2024 half-year results on Thursday.
On 16 August 2023, M-PESA was launched in #Ethiopia after acquiring the payment instrument issuer license from the National Bank of Ethiopia. This launch was a major boost for Safaricom as it aims to expand its services in one of #Africa's most populous countries.
Furthermore, Safaricom disclosed that transaction values have reached $286.7 million (Ksh. 43.7 billion) since the launch. Additionally, 23,000 M-PESA agents and 12,000 merchants have been onboarded to the service.
"This confirms our belief in the growth potential of Ethiopia and how it will greatly support our future expansion. We intend to maintain this momentum in the second half of the year," stated Peter Ndegwa, CEO of Safaricom.
During the results announcement, Safaricom also revealed that its customer base has grown to 4.1 million users, with operations now extended to 22 cities across the country.
https://techtrendske.co.ke/2023/11/09/safaricom-now-has-1-2-million-m-pesa-customers-in-ethiopia/
TechTrendsKE
Safaricom now has 1.2 million M-PESA customers in Ethiopia
Safaricom has now registered 1.2 million M-PESA customers since launching the mobile money service in the country in August this year.