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#Ethiopia: A randomly built mud house does not constitute a historical heritage- PM Abiy Ahmed
The #Addis_Abeba administration is currently undertaking a 40-kilometer-long road corridor development project, which has sparked public discourse and faced criticism from certain quarters. The concerns primarily revolve around the potential disruption of social ties and the preservation of the city's historical heritage.
During a televised meeting with city administration staff on Wednesday, PM Abiy Ahmed reviewed a report on the corridor project and addressed some of the circulating criticisms.
Watch!
The #Addis_Abeba administration is currently undertaking a 40-kilometer-long road corridor development project, which has sparked public discourse and faced criticism from certain quarters. The concerns primarily revolve around the potential disruption of social ties and the preservation of the city's historical heritage.
During a televised meeting with city administration staff on Wednesday, PM Abiy Ahmed reviewed a report on the corridor project and addressed some of the circulating criticisms.
Watch!
#Ethiopia: From Shadows to Spotlight: Why Ethiopia became latest scene for cryptocurrency rush
Ethiopia, a nation often overlooked in the tech world, is rapidly gaining global attention as a major player in #Cryptocurrency mining. With abundant renewable energy resources and government eagerness for foreign investment, the country is becoming a magnet for #Bitcoin miners worldwide. Recent reports highlight the influx of miners, including 21 from #China, attracted by Ethiopia's low electricity costs and hydroelectric potential. BitCluster, a #Russian company, also plans a $250 million Bitcoin mining facility near #Addis_Abeba.
Ethiopia's state-owned Ethiopian Investment Holdings has partnered with Data Center Service to develop a $250 million infrastructure project supporting data mining and AI training. The country has already garnered over $2 million in foreign currency payments from Bitcoin mining firms, with more lining up to collaborate with Ethiopian Electric Power.
Bitcoin mining, the process of validating transactions, is energy-intensive, requiring specialized hardware and significant electricity. Ethiopia's appeal lies in its abundant renewable energy, which reduces operating costs for miners. The country's surplus energy could potentially generate significant revenue, surpassing earnings from key exports like coffee. Additionally, its terrain and climate mitigate cooling expenses for mining equipment. The impending Bitcoin halving event in April 2024 is expected to reshape global mining operations.
While the economic incentives are substantial, concerns linger regarding environmental impact, and infrastructure deficiencies. Ethiopia's legal framework for cryptocurrency regulation also remains underdeveloped, presenting obstacles to the sector's growth.
https://addisstandard.com/from-shadows-to-spotlight-why-ethiopia-became-latest-scene-for-cryptocurrency-rush/
Ethiopia, a nation often overlooked in the tech world, is rapidly gaining global attention as a major player in #Cryptocurrency mining. With abundant renewable energy resources and government eagerness for foreign investment, the country is becoming a magnet for #Bitcoin miners worldwide. Recent reports highlight the influx of miners, including 21 from #China, attracted by Ethiopia's low electricity costs and hydroelectric potential. BitCluster, a #Russian company, also plans a $250 million Bitcoin mining facility near #Addis_Abeba.
Ethiopia's state-owned Ethiopian Investment Holdings has partnered with Data Center Service to develop a $250 million infrastructure project supporting data mining and AI training. The country has already garnered over $2 million in foreign currency payments from Bitcoin mining firms, with more lining up to collaborate with Ethiopian Electric Power.
Bitcoin mining, the process of validating transactions, is energy-intensive, requiring specialized hardware and significant electricity. Ethiopia's appeal lies in its abundant renewable energy, which reduces operating costs for miners. The country's surplus energy could potentially generate significant revenue, surpassing earnings from key exports like coffee. Additionally, its terrain and climate mitigate cooling expenses for mining equipment. The impending Bitcoin halving event in April 2024 is expected to reshape global mining operations.
While the economic incentives are substantial, concerns linger regarding environmental impact, and infrastructure deficiencies. Ethiopia's legal framework for cryptocurrency regulation also remains underdeveloped, presenting obstacles to the sector's growth.
https://addisstandard.com/from-shadows-to-spotlight-why-ethiopia-became-latest-scene-for-cryptocurrency-rush/
Addis Standard
From Shadows to Spotlight: Why Ethiopia became latest scene for cryptocurrency rush - Addis Standard
From Shadows to Spotlight: Why Ethiopia became latest scene for cryptocurrency rush Addis Standard -
#Ethiopian Skaters defy gender norms, inspiring change in #Africa
A group of young women in Ethiopia are breaking barriers and challenging societal norms by pursuing their passion for skateboarding, a sport traditionally dominated by men in the region.
In a #YouTube video shared by #AFP News, Challa, one of the skaters, highlighted the difficulties faced by women and girls who venture into male-dominated spaces. She expressed, "When you are a woman or a girl, it's very hard to skate around the boys because people think that girls should have to help their parents at the house."
Hanna Bless, another member of the group, acknowledged the societal resistance they encounter but emphasized their trailblazing role. "It's not really common for a girl to start skating because people don't support you. But somebody had to be the first. Some groups had to start. And we were the first one, and I feel honored to be part of that," she told Olympics.com.
Despite facing harassment and stereotypes surrounding skateboarding, these courageous girls remain undeterred. Solomon, one of the skaters, emphasized the societal perception, stating, "Our society doesn't support skateboarding. It is seen as a sport practiced by ill-mannered boys, and so it was hard for a young girl like me to go against them."
https://globalvoices.org/2024/03/28/ethiopian-girls-are-changing-tradition-through-skateboarding/
A group of young women in Ethiopia are breaking barriers and challenging societal norms by pursuing their passion for skateboarding, a sport traditionally dominated by men in the region.
In a #YouTube video shared by #AFP News, Challa, one of the skaters, highlighted the difficulties faced by women and girls who venture into male-dominated spaces. She expressed, "When you are a woman or a girl, it's very hard to skate around the boys because people think that girls should have to help their parents at the house."
Hanna Bless, another member of the group, acknowledged the societal resistance they encounter but emphasized their trailblazing role. "It's not really common for a girl to start skating because people don't support you. But somebody had to be the first. Some groups had to start. And we were the first one, and I feel honored to be part of that," she told Olympics.com.
Despite facing harassment and stereotypes surrounding skateboarding, these courageous girls remain undeterred. Solomon, one of the skaters, emphasized the societal perception, stating, "Our society doesn't support skateboarding. It is seen as a sport practiced by ill-mannered boys, and so it was hard for a young girl like me to go against them."
https://globalvoices.org/2024/03/28/ethiopian-girls-are-changing-tradition-through-skateboarding/
Global Voices
Ethiopian girls are changing tradition through skateboarding
"... [O]ur society doesn’t support skateboarding. It is seen as a sport practiced by ill-mannered boys, and so it was hard for a young girl like me to go against them.”
As starvation looms, #Ethiopia’s social safety net programme faces a funding gap
Ethiopia's vital social protection program, the Productive Safety Net Programme (#PSNP), is facing severe cutbacks, leaving millions at risk of hunger. The PSNP, aiding around eight million vulnerable citizens, is one of Africa's largest welfare schemes.
Due to escalating costs and reduced international support, the program is grappling with a staggering $195 million deficit over the next two years. Consequently, beneficiaries will see a significant reduction in food and cash assistance, with support dwindling by a third.
These cutbacks couldn't come at a worse time as Ethiopia confronts looming starvation threats, particularly in the northern highlands ravaged by drought and conflict. The situation is dire, with regions like #Tigray experiencing "emergency" levels of hunger.
https://www.thenewhumanitarian.org/news-feature/2024/03/28/starvation-looms-ethiopias-social-safety-net-programme-faces-funding-gap
Ethiopia's vital social protection program, the Productive Safety Net Programme (#PSNP), is facing severe cutbacks, leaving millions at risk of hunger. The PSNP, aiding around eight million vulnerable citizens, is one of Africa's largest welfare schemes.
Due to escalating costs and reduced international support, the program is grappling with a staggering $195 million deficit over the next two years. Consequently, beneficiaries will see a significant reduction in food and cash assistance, with support dwindling by a third.
These cutbacks couldn't come at a worse time as Ethiopia confronts looming starvation threats, particularly in the northern highlands ravaged by drought and conflict. The situation is dire, with regions like #Tigray experiencing "emergency" levels of hunger.
https://www.thenewhumanitarian.org/news-feature/2024/03/28/starvation-looms-ethiopias-social-safety-net-programme-faces-funding-gap
The New Humanitarian
As starvation looms, Ethiopia’s social safety net programme faces a funding gap
Eight million vulnerable Ethiopians depend on Africa’s largest welfare programme.
#Ethiopia: Conflict in Ethiopia's #Amhara region disrupts education for over half a million students
The East Gojam Zone Administration in Ethiopia's Amhara region announced on Thursday that the ongoing militarized conflict has left over 500,000 students unable to attend school.
Nurilgn Berhanu, Chief Administrator of #East_Gojam Zone, told state media that the months-long conflict has severely impacted various sectors, including education, economic development, and social services.
According to Nurilgn, agricultural production in the zone reported a 4 million quintal decline this season due to security-related supply disruptions.
Additionally, revenue collection fell significantly short of targets, with only around 500 million birr collected by mid-March out of a 3.2 billion birr goal for the fiscal year.
To address these challenges, Nurilgn emphasized the zone's focus on restoring peace and recovering from conflict-induced setbacks.
The East Gojam Zone Administration in Ethiopia's Amhara region announced on Thursday that the ongoing militarized conflict has left over 500,000 students unable to attend school.
Nurilgn Berhanu, Chief Administrator of #East_Gojam Zone, told state media that the months-long conflict has severely impacted various sectors, including education, economic development, and social services.
According to Nurilgn, agricultural production in the zone reported a 4 million quintal decline this season due to security-related supply disruptions.
Additionally, revenue collection fell significantly short of targets, with only around 500 million birr collected by mid-March out of a 3.2 billion birr goal for the fiscal year.
To address these challenges, Nurilgn emphasized the zone's focus on restoring peace and recovering from conflict-induced setbacks.
#Sudanese women fight against the use of rape as weapon of war
Violence against women, including rape, has become widespread in Sudan's civil war, especially in #Darfur. The Sudanese women who helped lead the 2019 uprising against Omar al-Bashir are now fighting to stop wartime sexual violence. Known as "Kendake" (Nubian Queens), they play vital roles in the political movement despite escalating conflict.
Since clashes erupted in April 2023 between the military and paramilitary Rapid Support Forces (#RSF), the war has killed over 12,000, injured 33,000, and displaced nearly 7 million, according to the #UN. Sexual violence against women and girls has been rampant, particularly in Darfur. Sudanese women have become victims and activists, campaigning for women, children, and the displaced while assisting survivors.
Women's groups are promoting a protection plan developed in #Kampala, #Uganda. It aims to safeguard women from sexual violence, document rights violations, and allocate 25% of humanitarian aid to empowerment projects in refugee camps and conflict zones. Despite challenges, they continue dialogue with both sides, provide aid, support victims, and seek political representation in peace efforts.
Undeterred by violations, Sudanese women's organizations intensify activities to end the suffering. They uncover abuses by combatants, push for political solutions to stop the fighting, and craft a roadmap for Sudan's future that upholds women's rights and human dignity.
https://worldcrunch.com/women-worldwide/sudan-war-women
Violence against women, including rape, has become widespread in Sudan's civil war, especially in #Darfur. The Sudanese women who helped lead the 2019 uprising against Omar al-Bashir are now fighting to stop wartime sexual violence. Known as "Kendake" (Nubian Queens), they play vital roles in the political movement despite escalating conflict.
Since clashes erupted in April 2023 between the military and paramilitary Rapid Support Forces (#RSF), the war has killed over 12,000, injured 33,000, and displaced nearly 7 million, according to the #UN. Sexual violence against women and girls has been rampant, particularly in Darfur. Sudanese women have become victims and activists, campaigning for women, children, and the displaced while assisting survivors.
Women's groups are promoting a protection plan developed in #Kampala, #Uganda. It aims to safeguard women from sexual violence, document rights violations, and allocate 25% of humanitarian aid to empowerment projects in refugee camps and conflict zones. Despite challenges, they continue dialogue with both sides, provide aid, support victims, and seek political representation in peace efforts.
Undeterred by violations, Sudanese women's organizations intensify activities to end the suffering. They uncover abuses by combatants, push for political solutions to stop the fighting, and craft a roadmap for Sudan's future that upholds women's rights and human dignity.
https://worldcrunch.com/women-worldwide/sudan-war-women
Worldcrunch
Nubian Queen Revolt: Sudanese Women Fight Against The Use Of Rape As Weapon Of War
Violence against women, including rape, has been widespread in the war in Sudan, especially in the western region of Darfur. Now the women who led the uprising that toppled Omar al-Bashir in April 2019 are fighting to stop wartime sexual violence.
#Ethiopia: Gov’t grants mining licenses to four companies with a combined registered capital of over three billion birr
The Ministry of Mines has just granted mining licenses to four dynamic companies, signaling a major step forward in Ethiopia's mining sector. With a combined registered capital exceeding three billion birr, these enterprises are set to drive significant growth and development.
The licenses were ceremoniously bestowed upon company representatives by Minister of Mining, Habtamu Tegegne, yesterday. These licenses, in line with the Council of Ministers' decision, aim to boost bromine, granite, coal, and alluvial gold mining activities.
Among the recipients is Jereh Chemical Industrial PLC, gearing up for bromine production with a hefty investment of over $39 million.
https://addisstandard.com/govt-grants-mining-licenses-to-four-companies-with-a-combined-registered-capital-of-over-three-billion-birr/
The Ministry of Mines has just granted mining licenses to four dynamic companies, signaling a major step forward in Ethiopia's mining sector. With a combined registered capital exceeding three billion birr, these enterprises are set to drive significant growth and development.
The licenses were ceremoniously bestowed upon company representatives by Minister of Mining, Habtamu Tegegne, yesterday. These licenses, in line with the Council of Ministers' decision, aim to boost bromine, granite, coal, and alluvial gold mining activities.
Among the recipients is Jereh Chemical Industrial PLC, gearing up for bromine production with a hefty investment of over $39 million.
https://addisstandard.com/govt-grants-mining-licenses-to-four-companies-with-a-combined-registered-capital-of-over-three-billion-birr/
Addis Standard
Gov’t grants mining licenses to four companies with a combined registered capital of over three billion birr - Addis Standard
Gov’t grants mining licenses to four companies with a combined registered capital of over three billion birr Addis Standard -
#Ethiopia's National Dialogue Commission plans 'peaceful path' for dialogue with Militants
Ethiopia's National Dialogue Commission has announced its efforts to pave a "peaceful path" for armed groups to participate in the country's national dialogue process, urging militants to "set aside their arms" and engage in talks.
Chief Commissioner of the #ENDC, Professor Mesfen Araya, told the BBC about the commission's interest in negotiating with armed groups to ensure an inclusive and "win-win" national dialogue process. However, he emphasized that the armed groups must first lay down their weapons and be prepared for peaceful communication.
The commission asserts that including all parties, including militant groups, is vital for a successful national dialogue. However, no armed group has agreed to take part so far. "Their involvement requires first getting permission from the armed groups themselves," Commissioner Mesfin Araya said. "We'll then work through issues like meeting locations step-by-step with the government."
The chief commissioner further added that "If legal issues arise, we can negotiate with authorities based on our mandate to facilitate a peaceful path for armed groups to disarm and join the national dialogue safely."
https://www.bbc.com/amharic/articles/c4ndjq7rqlzo
Ethiopia's National Dialogue Commission has announced its efforts to pave a "peaceful path" for armed groups to participate in the country's national dialogue process, urging militants to "set aside their arms" and engage in talks.
Chief Commissioner of the #ENDC, Professor Mesfen Araya, told the BBC about the commission's interest in negotiating with armed groups to ensure an inclusive and "win-win" national dialogue process. However, he emphasized that the armed groups must first lay down their weapons and be prepared for peaceful communication.
The commission asserts that including all parties, including militant groups, is vital for a successful national dialogue. However, no armed group has agreed to take part so far. "Their involvement requires first getting permission from the armed groups themselves," Commissioner Mesfin Araya said. "We'll then work through issues like meeting locations step-by-step with the government."
The chief commissioner further added that "If legal issues arise, we can negotiate with authorities based on our mandate to facilitate a peaceful path for armed groups to disarm and join the national dialogue safely."
https://www.bbc.com/amharic/articles/c4ndjq7rqlzo
BBC News አማርኛ
የኢትዮጵያ አገራዊ የምክክር ኮሚሽን ከታጣቂዎች ጋር ለመነጋገር “የሰላም መንገድ” አመቻቻለሁ አለ
በአገሪቱ ውስጥ ያሉ አለመግባባቶች እና ችግሮችን በሕዝባዊ ውይይት ለመለየት እና መፍትሔ ለማፈላለግ የተቋቋመው የኢትዮጵያ ሀገራዊ ምክክር ኮሚሽን ሁለት ዓመት ሆነው። ነገር ግን በአገሪቱ ያሉ ችግሮች እየተወሳሰቡ በመሄድ ላይ ናቸው። በዚህም በኮሚሽኑ ሥራ እና ሚና ላይ ጥያቄ የሚያነሱ ወገኖች አሉ። ከሚነሱ ነገሮች መካከል ቢቢሲ የተወሰኑትን አንስቶ ኮሚሽነሩን ፕሮፌሰር መሥፍን አርአያን ጠይቋል።
Human Rights Watch warns of risks to children's rights in #Somalia's constitutional proposals
Human Rights Watch (#HRW) has urged Somalia's parliament to reject any proposed constitutional amendments, fearing that they may reinforce existing ambiguities in the country's law regarding the age of majority, potentially increasing children's vulnerabilities.
The proposed constitutional amendments, which have not been made public, are expected to address several issues, including the age of majority and the legal status of children in various contexts. However, Human Rights Watch fears that these amendments may perpetuate ambiguities in Somalia's law, further endangering children's rights.
The organization highlighted historical issues where children in Somalia have been subjected to arrest, detention, and custodial sentences as adults, including in capital cases. During President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud’s first term, Human Rights Watch found that authorities across Somalia had treated boys suspected of affiliation with the armed Islamist group Al-Shabab as adults in violation of international law.
"Somalia's parliament appears poised to adopt amendments that could subject generations of children to harmful practices," said Laetitia Bader, deputy Africa director at Human Rights Watch. "Constitutional reform should instead assist the government in better protecting the rights of children."
The proposed amendments also raise concerns about harmful practices like Female Genital Mutilation (#FGM). Somalia already has one of the highest rates of FGM globally, with #UNICEF reporting nearly all girls and women having undergone the procedure. HRW emphasizes the need for a clear constitutional ban on all forms of FGM, allowing the government to develop stronger legislation to eradicate the practice.
https://www.hrw.org/news/2024/03/29/somalia-constitutional-proposals-put-children-risk
Human Rights Watch (#HRW) has urged Somalia's parliament to reject any proposed constitutional amendments, fearing that they may reinforce existing ambiguities in the country's law regarding the age of majority, potentially increasing children's vulnerabilities.
The proposed constitutional amendments, which have not been made public, are expected to address several issues, including the age of majority and the legal status of children in various contexts. However, Human Rights Watch fears that these amendments may perpetuate ambiguities in Somalia's law, further endangering children's rights.
The organization highlighted historical issues where children in Somalia have been subjected to arrest, detention, and custodial sentences as adults, including in capital cases. During President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud’s first term, Human Rights Watch found that authorities across Somalia had treated boys suspected of affiliation with the armed Islamist group Al-Shabab as adults in violation of international law.
"Somalia's parliament appears poised to adopt amendments that could subject generations of children to harmful practices," said Laetitia Bader, deputy Africa director at Human Rights Watch. "Constitutional reform should instead assist the government in better protecting the rights of children."
The proposed amendments also raise concerns about harmful practices like Female Genital Mutilation (#FGM). Somalia already has one of the highest rates of FGM globally, with #UNICEF reporting nearly all girls and women having undergone the procedure. HRW emphasizes the need for a clear constitutional ban on all forms of FGM, allowing the government to develop stronger legislation to eradicate the practice.
https://www.hrw.org/news/2024/03/29/somalia-constitutional-proposals-put-children-risk
Human Rights Watch
Somalia: Constitutional Proposals Put Children at Risk
Somalia’s parliament should reject any proposed constitutional amendments that would weaken rights protections for children.
#Ethiopia: Ministry of Tourism reveals star ratings for 31 hotels; no five-star ratings awarded
The Ministry of Tourism has disclosed the star classification results for 31 hotels, out of the total 64 that have satisfied the mandatory criteria established by the World Tourism Organization (#WTO). None of the 31 hotels attained a five-star rating. These hotels are situated in #Addis_Abeba, #Adama, and #Bishoftu cities.
From the total of 64 hotels evaluated within the past two years, seven were granted a 4-star rating, while nine received a 3-star designation. Furthermore, five hotels were categorized as 2-star accommodations, and eight were identified as 1-star establishments. Two hotels were determined to fall below the prescribed rating standards.
During the ceremony conducted yesterday to unveil the hotel rankings, Tourism Minister Ambassador Nassise Chali disclosed that the hotel ratings will persist in aligning with the 12 international criteria stipulated by the WTO.
The Ministry of Tourism has disclosed the star classification results for 31 hotels, out of the total 64 that have satisfied the mandatory criteria established by the World Tourism Organization (#WTO). None of the 31 hotels attained a five-star rating. These hotels are situated in #Addis_Abeba, #Adama, and #Bishoftu cities.
From the total of 64 hotels evaluated within the past two years, seven were granted a 4-star rating, while nine received a 3-star designation. Furthermore, five hotels were categorized as 2-star accommodations, and eight were identified as 1-star establishments. Two hotels were determined to fall below the prescribed rating standards.
During the ceremony conducted yesterday to unveil the hotel rankings, Tourism Minister Ambassador Nassise Chali disclosed that the hotel ratings will persist in aligning with the 12 international criteria stipulated by the WTO.
#Ethiopia: From Shadows to Spotlight: Why Ethiopia became latest scene for cryptocurrency rush
In #Africa, Ethiopia is stepping onto the global stage as a leading force in #Cryptocurrency. With abundant renewable energy and a government eager for investment, Ethiopia is becoming a magnet for #Bitcoin miners worldwide. Renowned media outlets like Bloomberg are reporting on Ethiopia's rise as a Bitcoin mining hub. Last month, Bloomberg revealed that 21 Bitcoin miners, mainly from #China, secured affordable power agreements in Ethiopia, capitalizing on the nation's hydroelectric resources.
The country is welcoming collaboration with cryptocurrency enterprises, as evident in a recent $250 million deal between Ethiopian Investment Holdings and Data Center Service to develop advanced infrastructure supporting mining and artificial intelligence.
Ethiopian Electric Power has seen a surge in foreign currency payments from Bitcoin miners, with 25 mining firms seeking collaboration. Among them, plans for a $250 million Bitcoin mining facility on the outskirts of #Addis_Abeba by #Russian company #BitCluster highlight the sector's potential.
The mining process, which is essential for validating transactions, is energy-intensive. Ethiopia's low electricity costs, currently at 3 cents per kWh, offer a competitive edge with the potential to generate substantial revenue, exceeding earnings from key export commodities like coffee, which amounted to a maximum of $1.1 billion annually. However, challenges remain, including environmental concerns and regulatory hurdles. Effective governance is essential to balancing economic benefits with social and environmental impacts.
https://addisstandard.com/from-shadows-to-spotlight-why-ethiopia-became-latest-scene-for-cryptocurrency-rush/
In #Africa, Ethiopia is stepping onto the global stage as a leading force in #Cryptocurrency. With abundant renewable energy and a government eager for investment, Ethiopia is becoming a magnet for #Bitcoin miners worldwide. Renowned media outlets like Bloomberg are reporting on Ethiopia's rise as a Bitcoin mining hub. Last month, Bloomberg revealed that 21 Bitcoin miners, mainly from #China, secured affordable power agreements in Ethiopia, capitalizing on the nation's hydroelectric resources.
The country is welcoming collaboration with cryptocurrency enterprises, as evident in a recent $250 million deal between Ethiopian Investment Holdings and Data Center Service to develop advanced infrastructure supporting mining and artificial intelligence.
Ethiopian Electric Power has seen a surge in foreign currency payments from Bitcoin miners, with 25 mining firms seeking collaboration. Among them, plans for a $250 million Bitcoin mining facility on the outskirts of #Addis_Abeba by #Russian company #BitCluster highlight the sector's potential.
The mining process, which is essential for validating transactions, is energy-intensive. Ethiopia's low electricity costs, currently at 3 cents per kWh, offer a competitive edge with the potential to generate substantial revenue, exceeding earnings from key export commodities like coffee, which amounted to a maximum of $1.1 billion annually. However, challenges remain, including environmental concerns and regulatory hurdles. Effective governance is essential to balancing economic benefits with social and environmental impacts.
https://addisstandard.com/from-shadows-to-spotlight-why-ethiopia-became-latest-scene-for-cryptocurrency-rush/
Addis Standard
From Shadows to Spotlight: Why Ethiopia became latest scene for cryptocurrency rush - Addis Standard
From Shadows to Spotlight: Why Ethiopia became latest scene for cryptocurrency rush Addis Standard -
Ruto appoints 2 #Kenyans to lead #South_Sudan peace process
Kenyan President William Ruto has named former Army Commander Lazarus Sumbeiywo as the Chief Mediator for the South Sudan Mediation Peace Process, following a request from President Salva Kiir of South Sudan. Additionally, Ambassador Mohammed Ali Guyo has been appointed as the Assistant Mediator.
President Ruto stated that with South Sudan's elections scheduled for December this year, President Kiir sought assistance in facilitating talks in #Nairobi with various opposition groups, religious entities, and civil society. These discussions aim to foster consensus and peace in preparation for the elections.
Sumbeiywo was chosen for his extensive experience in the South Sudan peace process, particularly his role in negotiating and signing the Comprehensive Peace Agreement in 2005.
https://www.kdrtv.co.ke/politics/ruto-appoints-2-kenyans-to-lead-south-sudan-peace-process/
Kenyan President William Ruto has named former Army Commander Lazarus Sumbeiywo as the Chief Mediator for the South Sudan Mediation Peace Process, following a request from President Salva Kiir of South Sudan. Additionally, Ambassador Mohammed Ali Guyo has been appointed as the Assistant Mediator.
President Ruto stated that with South Sudan's elections scheduled for December this year, President Kiir sought assistance in facilitating talks in #Nairobi with various opposition groups, religious entities, and civil society. These discussions aim to foster consensus and peace in preparation for the elections.
Sumbeiywo was chosen for his extensive experience in the South Sudan peace process, particularly his role in negotiating and signing the Comprehensive Peace Agreement in 2005.
https://www.kdrtv.co.ke/politics/ruto-appoints-2-kenyans-to-lead-south-sudan-peace-process/
#Ethiopia explores electricity export opportunities with additional neighboring nations
Ashebir Balcha, the Chief Executive Officer of Ethiopian Electric Power (#EEP), has revealed ongoing discussions with neighboring countries like #Uganda, #Rwanda, and #South_Sudan, regarding the possibility of importing electricity from Ethiopia.
In an interview with the Ethiopian News Agency, Ashebir disclosed that agreements have been initiated to supply electric power to #Tanzania. Additionally, the CEO unveiled plans for passive electric power exports to #South_Africa through the East African Power Pool.
Presently, Ethiopia is actively providing energy to #Sudan, #Djibouti, and #Kenya. In 2022, EEP exported 1701 GW of electricity to these countries, generating $182 million in revenue. Recent reports also highlight Ethiopia's growing significance in the Horn of Africa's power sector, contributing to 11% of Kenya's daily electricity consumption.
Ashebir Balcha, the Chief Executive Officer of Ethiopian Electric Power (#EEP), has revealed ongoing discussions with neighboring countries like #Uganda, #Rwanda, and #South_Sudan, regarding the possibility of importing electricity from Ethiopia.
In an interview with the Ethiopian News Agency, Ashebir disclosed that agreements have been initiated to supply electric power to #Tanzania. Additionally, the CEO unveiled plans for passive electric power exports to #South_Africa through the East African Power Pool.
Presently, Ethiopia is actively providing energy to #Sudan, #Djibouti, and #Kenya. In 2022, EEP exported 1701 GW of electricity to these countries, generating $182 million in revenue. Recent reports also highlight Ethiopia's growing significance in the Horn of Africa's power sector, contributing to 11% of Kenya's daily electricity consumption.
#Indian navy ships free hijacked Iranian fishing vessel off #Somalia, rescue 23 Pakistani nationals
Indian Naval ships Sumedha and Trishul successfully intercepted and liberated the hijacked #Iranian fishing vessel (FV), Al-Kambar, off Somalia after compelling the pirates to surrender. The Navy spokesperson reported that after over 12 hours of intense tactical measures, the pirates surrendered, and the 23 #Pakistani crew members were safely rescued.
The incident occurred approximately 90 nautical miles southwest of Socotra, where nine armed pirates boarded the vessel. Acting on intelligence regarding a potential piracy threat, INS Sumedha intercepted the Al-Kambar, later joined by INS Trishul.
This rescue is part of ongoing efforts to combat piracy in the #Arabian_Sea and off Somalia, which has seen a resurgence in recent months. Notably, a pirate mother vessel previously hijacked the #Malta-flagged merchant vessel MV Ruen. Currently, the #Bangladeshi-flagged cargo vessel Al Abdullah remains in Somali pirate captivity after being hijacked in March.
https://www.thehindu.com/news/national/indian-navy-ships-free-hijacked-iranian-fishing-vessel-off-somalia-rescue-pakistani-nationals/article68007011.ece
Indian Naval ships Sumedha and Trishul successfully intercepted and liberated the hijacked #Iranian fishing vessel (FV), Al-Kambar, off Somalia after compelling the pirates to surrender. The Navy spokesperson reported that after over 12 hours of intense tactical measures, the pirates surrendered, and the 23 #Pakistani crew members were safely rescued.
The incident occurred approximately 90 nautical miles southwest of Socotra, where nine armed pirates boarded the vessel. Acting on intelligence regarding a potential piracy threat, INS Sumedha intercepted the Al-Kambar, later joined by INS Trishul.
This rescue is part of ongoing efforts to combat piracy in the #Arabian_Sea and off Somalia, which has seen a resurgence in recent months. Notably, a pirate mother vessel previously hijacked the #Malta-flagged merchant vessel MV Ruen. Currently, the #Bangladeshi-flagged cargo vessel Al Abdullah remains in Somali pirate captivity after being hijacked in March.
https://www.thehindu.com/news/national/indian-navy-ships-free-hijacked-iranian-fishing-vessel-off-somalia-rescue-pakistani-nationals/article68007011.ece
The Hindu
Indian Navy ships free hijacked Iranian fishing vessel off Somalia, rescue Pakistani nationals
INS Sumedha intercepted Iranian Fishing Vessel Al-Kambar 786 during the early hours of March 29 and was joined subsequently by guided missile frigate INS Trishul.
#Ethiopia: MP, Councilmen facing terrorism charges appear before court in a closed hearing
In a closed hearing at the Federal High Court’s Lideta branch, Member of Parliament Christian Tadele, #Amhara Regional Council member Yohannes Buyalew, and Addis Abeba City Council member Kassa Teshager, along with other defendants, faced terrorism charges. Out of the 52 individuals accused, 14 were unexpectedly presented in court yesterday, contrary to their scheduled court date of 5 April.
Family members revealed that neither the defendants nor their legal representatives were informed of the rescheduled hearing. Allegations surfaced that the defendants hadn't received formal charges or consulted their lawyers before the proceedings. Christian Tadele, whose parliamentary immunity was revoked in March, had been in custody since August 2023.
The defendants are accused of seeking to reclaim what they viewed as “Amhara lands” through military means with the intent that Ethiopia must be ruled exclusively by “Amhara ideals.”
https://addisstandard.com/mp-councilmen-facing-terrorism-charges-appear-before-court-in-a-closed-hearing/
In a closed hearing at the Federal High Court’s Lideta branch, Member of Parliament Christian Tadele, #Amhara Regional Council member Yohannes Buyalew, and Addis Abeba City Council member Kassa Teshager, along with other defendants, faced terrorism charges. Out of the 52 individuals accused, 14 were unexpectedly presented in court yesterday, contrary to their scheduled court date of 5 April.
Family members revealed that neither the defendants nor their legal representatives were informed of the rescheduled hearing. Allegations surfaced that the defendants hadn't received formal charges or consulted their lawyers before the proceedings. Christian Tadele, whose parliamentary immunity was revoked in March, had been in custody since August 2023.
The defendants are accused of seeking to reclaim what they viewed as “Amhara lands” through military means with the intent that Ethiopia must be ruled exclusively by “Amhara ideals.”
https://addisstandard.com/mp-councilmen-facing-terrorism-charges-appear-before-court-in-a-closed-hearing/
Addis Standard
MP, Councilmen facing terrorism charges appear before court in a closed hearing - Addis Standard
MP, Councilmen facing terrorism charges appear before court in a closed hearing Addis Standard -
#Ethiopia: Illegal settlements pose threat to #Babile Elephants Sanctuary, says administrators
The head of the #Babile_Elephants_Sanctuary have issued a warning, stating that illegal settlements are endangering the existence of mammalian species, particularly the endangered elephants, sheltered within the sanctuary's confines. In an interview with VOA, Banki Budamo, the head of the sanctuary, emphasized that despite the return of land previously allocated to investors, the threat of illegal settlements persists.
Currently, 75% of the sanctuary's land is occupied by illegal settlers, placing its existence in peril, according to the sanctuary's head. Banki attributed the escalation of illegal settlements, especially since 2016, to political instability in the #Oromia and #Somali regions.
He lamented the significant loss of land, with the sanctuary's original expanse of over 6,980 square kilometers greatly diminished.
Read more at: https://twitter.com/addisstandard/status/1773991143014912187
The head of the #Babile_Elephants_Sanctuary have issued a warning, stating that illegal settlements are endangering the existence of mammalian species, particularly the endangered elephants, sheltered within the sanctuary's confines. In an interview with VOA, Banki Budamo, the head of the sanctuary, emphasized that despite the return of land previously allocated to investors, the threat of illegal settlements persists.
Currently, 75% of the sanctuary's land is occupied by illegal settlers, placing its existence in peril, according to the sanctuary's head. Banki attributed the escalation of illegal settlements, especially since 2016, to political instability in the #Oromia and #Somali regions.
He lamented the significant loss of land, with the sanctuary's original expanse of over 6,980 square kilometers greatly diminished.
Read more at: https://twitter.com/addisstandard/status/1773991143014912187
#Ethiopia: Debre Tabor command post relaxes curfew hours amid ‘improved security situation’ in #Amhara region
The military command post overseeing the state of emergency in #Debre_Tabor has revised the city's curfew timings. Effective immediately, the vehicular curfew has been extended from 7 PM to 8 PM, and the pedestrian curfew from 8 PM to 9 PM.
In a recent statement, the command post attributed the decision to an evaluation of the city's security conditions and thanked the community for their collaborative efforts in improving security.
Debre Tabor, located in the Amhara region, has been significantly impacted by the conflict between the federal government and the #Fano militia. The state of emergency, initially declared in August 2023 and extended in February 2024, has led to similar curfews in other urban areas in response to escalating hostilities.
https://addisstandard.com/debre-tabor-command-post-relaxes-curfew-hours-amid-improved-security-situation-in-amhara-region/
The military command post overseeing the state of emergency in #Debre_Tabor has revised the city's curfew timings. Effective immediately, the vehicular curfew has been extended from 7 PM to 8 PM, and the pedestrian curfew from 8 PM to 9 PM.
In a recent statement, the command post attributed the decision to an evaluation of the city's security conditions and thanked the community for their collaborative efforts in improving security.
Debre Tabor, located in the Amhara region, has been significantly impacted by the conflict between the federal government and the #Fano militia. The state of emergency, initially declared in August 2023 and extended in February 2024, has led to similar curfews in other urban areas in response to escalating hostilities.
https://addisstandard.com/debre-tabor-command-post-relaxes-curfew-hours-amid-improved-security-situation-in-amhara-region/
Addis Standard
Debre Tabor command post relaxes curfew hours amid ‘improved security situation’ in Amhara region - Addis Standard
Debre Tabor command post relaxes curfew hours amid ‘improved security situation’ in Amhara region Addis Standard -
#Ethiopia: #Tigray Interim Admin. President tells visiting #US #Senate members need for full implementation of Pretoria Agreement
Getachew Reda, President of Tigray Interim Regional Administration (TIRA), told members of the US Senate Foreign Relations Committee who are in the Tigray region that the Pretoria Cessation of Hostilities Agreement (#CoHA), requires great efforts by all stakeholders to be fully implemented.
Regional media reported that Getachew told the visiting Senate members that the people of Tigray "have not been able to enjoy full peace due to the lack of full implementation" of the Pretoria Agreement. The international community, including the US government, should help to end the suffering of the people of Tigray by ensuring the restoration of the constitutional sovereignty of the Tigray regional state and helping the return of the displaced people to their homes, the report cited Getachew as saying.
Read more at: https://x.com/addisstandard/status/1774000101435773194?s=20
Getachew Reda, President of Tigray Interim Regional Administration (TIRA), told members of the US Senate Foreign Relations Committee who are in the Tigray region that the Pretoria Cessation of Hostilities Agreement (#CoHA), requires great efforts by all stakeholders to be fully implemented.
Regional media reported that Getachew told the visiting Senate members that the people of Tigray "have not been able to enjoy full peace due to the lack of full implementation" of the Pretoria Agreement. The international community, including the US government, should help to end the suffering of the people of Tigray by ensuring the restoration of the constitutional sovereignty of the Tigray regional state and helping the return of the displaced people to their homes, the report cited Getachew as saying.
Read more at: https://x.com/addisstandard/status/1774000101435773194?s=20