#Ethiopia: At least 23 die of #cholera in #Somali region as outbreak continues posing deadly threat to thousands
In the worst hit district of Kelafo in the Somali region, Save the Children teams are reporting a huge spike in cholera cases among children under five, who account for nearly 80% of the confirmed cases.
For the better part of this year, when the impacted region was engulfed by drought, cases of the waterborne disease were on the decline, with the Somali region reporting zero cases of cholera for 11 straight weeks until mid-September, when the rains started. Now, a deadly combination of flooded water systems, a lack of basic sanitation services and damaged water treatment plants has driven the spike in the deadly illness.
At least 91 districts across Ethiopia are reporting cases of cholera, with the situation expected to worsen as rains continue to fall in the #Gambella, #Afar and #Somali regions. https://addisstandard.com/?p=39735
In the worst hit district of Kelafo in the Somali region, Save the Children teams are reporting a huge spike in cholera cases among children under five, who account for nearly 80% of the confirmed cases.
For the better part of this year, when the impacted region was engulfed by drought, cases of the waterborne disease were on the decline, with the Somali region reporting zero cases of cholera for 11 straight weeks until mid-September, when the rains started. Now, a deadly combination of flooded water systems, a lack of basic sanitation services and damaged water treatment plants has driven the spike in the deadly illness.
At least 91 districts across Ethiopia are reporting cases of cholera, with the situation expected to worsen as rains continue to fall in the #Gambella, #Afar and #Somali regions. https://addisstandard.com/?p=39735
Addis Standard
News: At least 23 die of cholera in Somali region as outbreak continues posing deadly threat to thousands - Addis Standard
News: At least 23 die of cholera in Somali region as outbreak continues posing deadly threat to thousands Addis Standard News -
#Brazil donates food and water assistance for refugees in #Ethiopia
The Government of Brazil has donated 18 tons of food supplies and 65 water purifiers to provide aid for thousands of refugees in Ethiopia's #Gambella region.
Gambella hosts over 385,000 refugees, mainly from #South_Sudan, and struggles with food insecurity. The donation came during a visit by Brazil's First Lady Janja Lula da Silva, who remarked that "it is a priority to fight against hunger and poverty in Africa."
The food assistance and water purifiers will provide nutritional support and clean water access to vulnerable refugee groups in five camps across Gambella. This includes women, children, the chronically ill and recent arrivals fleeing conflict in South Sudan and #Sudan. The aid will also help host communities embracing the refugees.
Brazil's contribution was welcomed by Ethiopia's Refugees and Returnees Service Director General Teyiba Hassen, who thanked the First Lady. She said the assistance means a lot to refugees who rely on aid to survive. The UNHCR's Representative in Ethiopia also expressed gratitude, hoping this marks greater cooperation with Brazil on solutions for displaced populations.
https://www.unhcr.org/africa/news/press-releases/brazil-provides-18-tons-kind-food-donation-and-water-purifiers-unhcr-thousands
The Government of Brazil has donated 18 tons of food supplies and 65 water purifiers to provide aid for thousands of refugees in Ethiopia's #Gambella region.
Gambella hosts over 385,000 refugees, mainly from #South_Sudan, and struggles with food insecurity. The donation came during a visit by Brazil's First Lady Janja Lula da Silva, who remarked that "it is a priority to fight against hunger and poverty in Africa."
The food assistance and water purifiers will provide nutritional support and clean water access to vulnerable refugee groups in five camps across Gambella. This includes women, children, the chronically ill and recent arrivals fleeing conflict in South Sudan and #Sudan. The aid will also help host communities embracing the refugees.
Brazil's contribution was welcomed by Ethiopia's Refugees and Returnees Service Director General Teyiba Hassen, who thanked the First Lady. She said the assistance means a lot to refugees who rely on aid to survive. The UNHCR's Representative in Ethiopia also expressed gratitude, hoping this marks greater cooperation with Brazil on solutions for displaced populations.
https://www.unhcr.org/africa/news/press-releases/brazil-provides-18-tons-kind-food-donation-and-water-purifiers-unhcr-thousands
UNHCR
Brazil provides 18 tons in-kind food donation and water purifiers to UNHCR for thousands of refugees affected by food insecurity…
The Government of Brazil announced it is donating food assistance and water purifiers in support of refugees and host communities residing in the Gambella region of Ethiopia. Gambella is the largest refugee hosting region in Ethiopia, home to 385,000 refugees…
News: 138 dead, 113 injured in #Gambella region over nine months: #EHRC report
The Ethiopian Human Rights Commission (EHRC) released a detailed report on Wednesday, revealing that since May 2023, 138 individuals have lost their lives and 113 have been injured in the Gambella region due to clashes between communities and attacks on refugees.
The report, spanning 15 pages, outlines the human rights violations occurring in various districts of the region, shedding light on the unrest that has plagued areas such as Itang Special District, Gambella District, Gog District, and Gambella City.
Despite efforts by the regional government to initiate peace talks and deploy additional security forces, the EHRC underscores the importance of continued accountability and compensation for victims.
https://addisstandard.com/news-138-dead-113-injured-in-gambella-region-over-nine-months-ehrc-report/
The Ethiopian Human Rights Commission (EHRC) released a detailed report on Wednesday, revealing that since May 2023, 138 individuals have lost their lives and 113 have been injured in the Gambella region due to clashes between communities and attacks on refugees.
The report, spanning 15 pages, outlines the human rights violations occurring in various districts of the region, shedding light on the unrest that has plagued areas such as Itang Special District, Gambella District, Gog District, and Gambella City.
Despite efforts by the regional government to initiate peace talks and deploy additional security forces, the EHRC underscores the importance of continued accountability and compensation for victims.
https://addisstandard.com/news-138-dead-113-injured-in-gambella-region-over-nine-months-ehrc-report/
Addis Standard
News: 138 killed, 113 injured in Gambella region over nine months: EHRC report - Addis Standard
News: 138 killed, 113 injured in Gambella region over nine months: EHRC report Addis Standard -
#Ethiopia: Tension mounts in #Gambella city over shooting of traffic police officer
Tension grips Gambella City after a traffic police officer was shot on March 18, 2024, leaving him critically wounded. The attack, suspected to be by armed men, has shut down transportation, banks, and other services.
The officer, Chuol Gatkuoth, was shot in the neck while on duty. Rumors swirl, with some attributing the attack to "Anyuak militants."
This incident adds to escalating violence in the region since last year, with previous attacks on public buses and armed militias. According to the Ethiopian Human Rights Commission, clashes and attacks have claimed 138 lives and injured 113 since May 2023.
https://addisstandard.com/tension-mounts-in-gambela-city-over-shooting-of-traffic-police-officer/
Tension grips Gambella City after a traffic police officer was shot on March 18, 2024, leaving him critically wounded. The attack, suspected to be by armed men, has shut down transportation, banks, and other services.
The officer, Chuol Gatkuoth, was shot in the neck while on duty. Rumors swirl, with some attributing the attack to "Anyuak militants."
This incident adds to escalating violence in the region since last year, with previous attacks on public buses and armed militias. According to the Ethiopian Human Rights Commission, clashes and attacks have claimed 138 lives and injured 113 since May 2023.
https://addisstandard.com/tension-mounts-in-gambela-city-over-shooting-of-traffic-police-officer/
Addis Standard
Tension mounts in Gambella city over shooting of traffic police officer - Addis Standard
Tension mounts in Gambella city over shooting of traffic police officer Addis Standard -
#Ethiopia unveils 517 tons of gold reserves
The Ministry of Mines has revealed a discovery of over 517 tons of gold reserves in Ethiopia. State Minister for Mines, Million Mathios, disclosed that extensive surveys conducted over the past 15 years have led to the identification of rich gold ore deposits in various regions including #Benishangul_Gumuz, #Gambella, #Oromia, and #Tigray.
While emphasizing the strategic significance of this find, Million explained that the extraction of these gold reserves will be carried out gradually over the coming years. He further highlighted that new companies entering the sector will be thoroughly vetted for their experience, expertise, manpower, financial capacity, and credibility before being granted licenses.
Developments are also underway, with the construction of Ethiopia's largest gold company factory in the Benshangul Gumuz region. Furthermore, plans are in place to establish gold mining operations in Oromia, Benishangul-Gumuz, Gambella, and Tigray regions.
The Ministry of Mines has revealed a discovery of over 517 tons of gold reserves in Ethiopia. State Minister for Mines, Million Mathios, disclosed that extensive surveys conducted over the past 15 years have led to the identification of rich gold ore deposits in various regions including #Benishangul_Gumuz, #Gambella, #Oromia, and #Tigray.
While emphasizing the strategic significance of this find, Million explained that the extraction of these gold reserves will be carried out gradually over the coming years. He further highlighted that new companies entering the sector will be thoroughly vetted for their experience, expertise, manpower, financial capacity, and credibility before being granted licenses.
Developments are also underway, with the construction of Ethiopia's largest gold company factory in the Benshangul Gumuz region. Furthermore, plans are in place to establish gold mining operations in Oromia, Benishangul-Gumuz, Gambella, and Tigray regions.
#Ethiopia: Deadly armed attack on bus in #Gambella region leaves three dead, several injured
A devastating incident unfolded early today as an armed attack targeted a bus traveling from Gambella city to #Lare district in the #Nuer Zone, Gambella region. The assault led to the loss of three lives and left several others injured. Sources revealed that the attack occurred between #Abol district and #Tharpam Refugee Camp around 10 a.m. while the bus was en route.
Reports suggest that multiple buses left Gambella City in a convoy this morning. Unfortunately, one bus faced a delay at the start of its journey, making it a prime target for the assailants. The casualties included a woman, a child, and the bus driver, all fatally shot. According to sources, five individuals were reported to have been killed yesterday in the #Abobo district, located 50 kilometers from Gambella city.
These tragic events follow a string of violent incidents in the region, with escalating intercommunal violence since last year. The Ethiopian Human Rights Commission's recent report highlights a concerning trend of confrontations and attacks, resulting in numerous casualties.
https://addisstandard.com/deadly-armed-attack-on-bus-in-gambella-region-leaves-three-dead-several-injured/
A devastating incident unfolded early today as an armed attack targeted a bus traveling from Gambella city to #Lare district in the #Nuer Zone, Gambella region. The assault led to the loss of three lives and left several others injured. Sources revealed that the attack occurred between #Abol district and #Tharpam Refugee Camp around 10 a.m. while the bus was en route.
Reports suggest that multiple buses left Gambella City in a convoy this morning. Unfortunately, one bus faced a delay at the start of its journey, making it a prime target for the assailants. The casualties included a woman, a child, and the bus driver, all fatally shot. According to sources, five individuals were reported to have been killed yesterday in the #Abobo district, located 50 kilometers from Gambella city.
These tragic events follow a string of violent incidents in the region, with escalating intercommunal violence since last year. The Ethiopian Human Rights Commission's recent report highlights a concerning trend of confrontations and attacks, resulting in numerous casualties.
https://addisstandard.com/deadly-armed-attack-on-bus-in-gambella-region-leaves-three-dead-several-injured/
Addis Standard
Deadly armed attack on bus in Gambella region leaves three dead, several injured - Addis Standard
Deadly armed attack on bus in Gambella region leaves three dead, several injured Addis Standard -
#Ethiopia: Gambella regional government vows 'decisive action' amid escalating violence
The #Gambella regional government in Ethiopia issued a statement on 29 March, warning that it will take "decisive action" against those who attempt to seize power in the region by force.
In the statement, the regional administration noted an increase in incidents of "ethnic conflict, terrorism, serious crimes and illegal arms trafficking" in various areas of the region, including the capital Gambella city, since 2022. It identified the leadership as "the main bearer of the problems of ethnic extremism," coupled with "informal organizations" and "abroad based unaccountable social medias."
Read more at: https://twitter.com/addisstandard/status/1774017179165372730?t=Sn1LTRAuhS__ZfTQKWFTjQ&s=19
The #Gambella regional government in Ethiopia issued a statement on 29 March, warning that it will take "decisive action" against those who attempt to seize power in the region by force.
In the statement, the regional administration noted an increase in incidents of "ethnic conflict, terrorism, serious crimes and illegal arms trafficking" in various areas of the region, including the capital Gambella city, since 2022. It identified the leadership as "the main bearer of the problems of ethnic extremism," coupled with "informal organizations" and "abroad based unaccountable social medias."
Read more at: https://twitter.com/addisstandard/status/1774017179165372730?t=Sn1LTRAuhS__ZfTQKWFTjQ&s=19
#Ethiopia: 10 people killed, 19 others wounded in #Gambella attack
An unknown armed group mercilessly attacked #Panyiduk Refugee Camp in the Gambella region, leaving 10 people dead and 19 others wounded. Peter Maker, Chairman of Panyiduk Camp, revealed in an exclusive interview that the assailants targeted refugees at around 9 a.m. local time on Friday.
The community, settled in Zone Seven by #UNHCR in 2014, has been left devastated by this senseless act of violence. Maker suspects the perpetrators could be armed youth from the “Murle” community, fleeing towards #Bongak of the #Pibor Administrative area after the assault.
The injured have been rushed to Panyiduk camp’s main hospital for urgent medical care. Maker expressed grave concern over the lack of police presence in the camp, leaving residents vulnerable to such attacks.
https://cityreviewss.com/10-people-killed-19-others-wounded-in-gambella-attack/
An unknown armed group mercilessly attacked #Panyiduk Refugee Camp in the Gambella region, leaving 10 people dead and 19 others wounded. Peter Maker, Chairman of Panyiduk Camp, revealed in an exclusive interview that the assailants targeted refugees at around 9 a.m. local time on Friday.
The community, settled in Zone Seven by #UNHCR in 2014, has been left devastated by this senseless act of violence. Maker suspects the perpetrators could be armed youth from the “Murle” community, fleeing towards #Bongak of the #Pibor Administrative area after the assault.
The injured have been rushed to Panyiduk camp’s main hospital for urgent medical care. Maker expressed grave concern over the lack of police presence in the camp, leaving residents vulnerable to such attacks.
https://cityreviewss.com/10-people-killed-19-others-wounded-in-gambella-attack/
The City Review South Sudan
10 people killed, 19 others wounded in Gambella attack - The City Review South Sudan
At least 10 people were killed and 19 others injured by an unknown armed group in the Panyiduk camp in Gambella, Ethiopia on Friday.
#Ethiopia: #Gambella police arrest 14 officials, a civilian linked to ‘security breaches’ in Jor and Itang districts
The Gambella Police Commission has taken action, announcing the arrest of 14 officials and one civilian allegedly involved in security breaches in the #Jor and #Itang special districts of the Gambella region. According to Regional Police Commissioner Umod Umod, the arrests stem from incidents on 04 April that led to casualties and property damage in Jor district. Among those apprehended are two senior zone administrators and five district officials implicated in the Jor district's security situation.
Additionally, seven officials from Itang district face charges for impeding justice by preventing wanted suspects from facing legal consequences. Commissioner Umod emphasized ongoing investigations into the matter. Furthermore, an individual accused of attempting to incite ethnic clashes in Gambella city forums has been detained alongside the officials.
These arrests follow the removal of three regional bureau heads and one zonal administration leader due to their failure to fulfill governmental responsibilities amid escalating security concerns.
https://addisstandard.com/gambella-police-arrest-14-officials-civilians-linked-to-security-breaches-in-jor-and-itang-districts/
The Gambella Police Commission has taken action, announcing the arrest of 14 officials and one civilian allegedly involved in security breaches in the #Jor and #Itang special districts of the Gambella region. According to Regional Police Commissioner Umod Umod, the arrests stem from incidents on 04 April that led to casualties and property damage in Jor district. Among those apprehended are two senior zone administrators and five district officials implicated in the Jor district's security situation.
Additionally, seven officials from Itang district face charges for impeding justice by preventing wanted suspects from facing legal consequences. Commissioner Umod emphasized ongoing investigations into the matter. Furthermore, an individual accused of attempting to incite ethnic clashes in Gambella city forums has been detained alongside the officials.
These arrests follow the removal of three regional bureau heads and one zonal administration leader due to their failure to fulfill governmental responsibilities amid escalating security concerns.
https://addisstandard.com/gambella-police-arrest-14-officials-civilians-linked-to-security-breaches-in-jor-and-itang-districts/
Addis Standard
Gambella police arrest 14 officials, a civilian linked to ‘security breaches’ in Jor and Itang districts - Addis Standard
Gambella police arrest 14 officials, a civilian linked to ‘security breaches’ in Jor and Itang districts Addis Standard -
#Ethiopia: #Gambella regional gov’t appoints eight new officials in the wake of a series of security incidents
In a bid to address the pressing issues of peace and development in Gambella, the regional government has appointed eight new officials. President Umod Ujulu announced the appointments, highlighting the importance of effective governance in response to the community's demands.
The newly appointed officials include Bagwal Jok, heading the Peace and Security Administration Bureau; Cham Ubong, leading the Justice Bureau; and Dr. Chol Ked, appointed as the director-general of the Gambella Rural Roads Authority. These appointments aim to bolster leadership capacity and tackle challenges in the region.
This decision comes after the removal of several senior officials two weeks ago, including Akwai Ubuti, Chol Kun, and Bitew Dak. The government cited security incidents as the reason for their dismissals, with reports of escalating violence and attacks by armed groups in the region.
https://addisstandard.com/gambella-regional-govt-appoints-eight-new-officials-in-the-wake-of-a-series-of-security-incidents/
In a bid to address the pressing issues of peace and development in Gambella, the regional government has appointed eight new officials. President Umod Ujulu announced the appointments, highlighting the importance of effective governance in response to the community's demands.
The newly appointed officials include Bagwal Jok, heading the Peace and Security Administration Bureau; Cham Ubong, leading the Justice Bureau; and Dr. Chol Ked, appointed as the director-general of the Gambella Rural Roads Authority. These appointments aim to bolster leadership capacity and tackle challenges in the region.
This decision comes after the removal of several senior officials two weeks ago, including Akwai Ubuti, Chol Kun, and Bitew Dak. The government cited security incidents as the reason for their dismissals, with reports of escalating violence and attacks by armed groups in the region.
https://addisstandard.com/gambella-regional-govt-appoints-eight-new-officials-in-the-wake-of-a-series-of-security-incidents/
Addis Standard
Gambella regional gov’t appoints eight new officials in the wake of a series of security incidents - Addis Standard
Gambella regional gov’t appoints eight new officials in the wake of a series of security incidents Addis Standard -
#Ethiopian meteorologists warn of heavy rainfall impact on health, agriculture
The Ethiopian Meteorology Institute (#EMI) forecasts above-normal rainfall this Kiremt season (June to September), particularly in central and south #Tigray, Afar, East #Amhara, northern #Somali, and eastern regions. Authorities are urged to stay vigilant against potential flooding and disruptions in agriculture, healthcare, water supply, and livestock.
During the National Climate Outlook Forum in #Adama, EMI experts highlighted record rainfall over the past decade. They predict heavy rains in western Tigray, west Amhara, Benishangul-Gumuz, west #Oromia, #Gambella, and southwestern regions.
Desalegn Tarekegn from EMI warned that heavy rainfall will heighten malaria transmission risk, especially in southern Afar and southwest Ethiopia. Cholera and dengue fever outbreaks are also potential threats due to extreme weather. Health challenges related to heat are expected in #Afar, Southern Somali, and South Ethiopia. Heavy rains may cause floods, soil erosion, and landslides, impacting farming operations and infrastructure.
https://www.downtoearth.org.in/news/africa/ethiopian-meteorologists-warn-of-heavy-rainfall-impact-on-health-agriculture-96252
The Ethiopian Meteorology Institute (#EMI) forecasts above-normal rainfall this Kiremt season (June to September), particularly in central and south #Tigray, Afar, East #Amhara, northern #Somali, and eastern regions. Authorities are urged to stay vigilant against potential flooding and disruptions in agriculture, healthcare, water supply, and livestock.
During the National Climate Outlook Forum in #Adama, EMI experts highlighted record rainfall over the past decade. They predict heavy rains in western Tigray, west Amhara, Benishangul-Gumuz, west #Oromia, #Gambella, and southwestern regions.
Desalegn Tarekegn from EMI warned that heavy rainfall will heighten malaria transmission risk, especially in southern Afar and southwest Ethiopia. Cholera and dengue fever outbreaks are also potential threats due to extreme weather. Health challenges related to heat are expected in #Afar, Southern Somali, and South Ethiopia. Heavy rains may cause floods, soil erosion, and landslides, impacting farming operations and infrastructure.
https://www.downtoearth.org.in/news/africa/ethiopian-meteorologists-warn-of-heavy-rainfall-impact-on-health-agriculture-96252
DownToEarth
Ethiopian meteorologists warn of heavy rainfall impact on health, agriculture
Above-average rainfall will damage infrastructure, cause migration and lead to outbreaks of vector- and water-borne diseases
#Ethiopia: Federal High Court sets former #Gambella regional police commissioner Abula Ubang free
The Federal High Court Lideta Division acquitted former Gambella Police Commissioner Abula Ubang due to insufficient evidence, media reports say.
In March, 2023, Abula Ubang and 14 others were arrested for alleged human rights violations during the 14 June, 2022, incident, which killed at least 50 civilians.
While Obang and two others were acquitted, 12 suspects were found guilty. Sentencing for the convicted individuals is set for 17 July, 2024.
https://addisstandard.com/?p=44544
The Federal High Court Lideta Division acquitted former Gambella Police Commissioner Abula Ubang due to insufficient evidence, media reports say.
In March, 2023, Abula Ubang and 14 others were arrested for alleged human rights violations during the 14 June, 2022, incident, which killed at least 50 civilians.
While Obang and two others were acquitted, 12 suspects were found guilty. Sentencing for the convicted individuals is set for 17 July, 2024.
https://addisstandard.com/?p=44544
Addis Standard
Federal High Court sets former Gambella regional police commissioner Abula Ubang free - Addis Standard
Federal High Court sets former Gambella regional police commissioner Abula Ubang free Addis Standard -
#Ethiopia: Court convicts 12 former #Gambella region police members, passes stiffer prison terms
The Federal High Court Lideta Division has sentenced 12 former Gambella police and special forces members to 14 to 22 years in prison for their roles in civilian deaths in June 2022. Convicted individuals include former Deputy Commissioner Tut Khor, Chief Inspector Kong Rek, and Special Forces Deputy Commander Chief Inspector Ujed Bare.
Former Gambella Police Commissioner Abula Ubang and two others were acquitted due to insufficient evidence. To read the full news, click the link. https://addisstandard.com/court-convicts-12-former-gambella-region-police-members-passes-stiffer-prison-terms/
The Federal High Court Lideta Division has sentenced 12 former Gambella police and special forces members to 14 to 22 years in prison for their roles in civilian deaths in June 2022. Convicted individuals include former Deputy Commissioner Tut Khor, Chief Inspector Kong Rek, and Special Forces Deputy Commander Chief Inspector Ujed Bare.
Former Gambella Police Commissioner Abula Ubang and two others were acquitted due to insufficient evidence. To read the full news, click the link. https://addisstandard.com/court-convicts-12-former-gambella-region-police-members-passes-stiffer-prison-terms/
Addis Standard
Court convicts 12 former Gambella region police members, passes stiffer prison terms - Addis Standard
Court convicts 12 former Gambella region police members, passes stiffer prison terms Addis Standard -