Acute Watery Diarrhea outbreak claims nine lives, infects 136 in #Ethiopia’s #Gambella region

An outbreak of Acute Watery Diarrhea (#AWD) has killed nine people and infected 136 others in Gambella Region’s Nuer Zone, affecting Akobo,Wentawo, Makuey, and Lare districts, the regional health bureau said. Dr. Abel Assefa, the bureau’s head, noted that “the disease had previously occurred in neighboring South Sudan.”

He said 31 patients are receiving treatment while 96 have recovered, adding that medical teams have been deployed with supplies. To contain the outbreak, he urged residents to maintain hygiene and treat water before use, emphasizing that it should be “purified with medicine or boiled.”

https://addisstandard.com/?p=48544

Former #Ethiopian President accuses Isaias Afwerki of exploiting “divisions within the #TPLF,” warns of “reigniting conflict” in the region

Former Ethiopian President Mulatu Teshome has accused #Eritrean President Isaias Afwerki of attempting to “exploit divisions within the TPLF” to weaken the Pretoria Peace Agreement, warning that such actions could “reignite war in northern Ethiopia.” In an opinion piece published by Al Jazeera on February 17, he alleged that Isaias is engaged in “manoeuvres that are as destructive as they are predictable” and has “joined forces with elements within the TPLF who were unhappy with the peace agreement,” a move he warned could “tear up the whole peace deal” and destabilize the region.

Mulatu further accused Isaias of “engineering a militia in Ethiopia’s #Amhara state” and supporting divisions within the TPLF, warning that this could lead to “the dismantling of the interim administration set up as per the peace agreement.” He argued that “Eritrea has been involved in almost every major conflict in the Horn of Africa” and described the 2022 Pretoria Agreement as a “personal setback” for Isaias, who, he claimed, views peace as “an obstacle to his efforts to expand influence.” Calling for diplomatic action, he urged global and regional actors to “deter those who want to see an end to peace, like Isaias.”

https://addisstandard.com/?p=48550

#Sudan’s Burhan says will not accept ‘foreign-imposed solutions’

Sudan's Sovereign Council leader, Abdel Fattah al-Burhan, said the Sudanese people "will not accept any foreign-imposed solutions," stressing that any governing authority must emerge from within the country. Speaking at a conference in Darfur, Burhan asserted that "the Sudanese people will ultimately prevail, whether others like it or not."

He rejected the reinstatement of former Prime Minister Abdalla Hamdok or "any other individual" through external arrangements. Hamdok, who served between 2019 and 2022, now leads Taqaddum, a coalition of democratic forces.

Burhan criticized mediation efforts by the African Union and #IGAD, saying their actions "will not gain the approval of the Sudanese people." He questioned how mediators could "bring figures rejected by the Sudanese people and attempt to impose them on Sudan again."

https://www.aa.com.tr/en/africa/sudan-s-burhan-says-will-not-accept-foreign-imposed-solutions-/348

#Op_ed: Transforming #Addis: Confronting urban challenges by tackling housing, transport, and green space deficits head-on

In this op-ed, Kedir Adem Bedasso, an advisor at the #Addis_Abeba Mayor’s Office, examines the ongoing urban transformation in #Ethiopia’s capital, focusing on the second phase of the corridor development project and its broader impact. The piece discusses key infrastructure expansions, including transport, housing, and green spaces, while also addressing concerns over displacement, environmental impact, and heritage preservation.

The article attributes the urban renewal efforts to the city’s strategic vision of becoming a “livable, inclusive, modern, resilient, and prosperous metropolis.” According to the author, the second-phase corridor development projects include eight major initiatives such as the Meskel-Mexico-Churchill-Arat Kilo-Estifanos Corridor, the Southgate-Megenagna-Meskel Square Corridor, and the Arat Kilo-Shiromeda-Gulele Botanical Garden Corridor. These projects, he notes, involve significantly more work than the first phase, “with some activities doubling and others more than doubling in scope.” The piece highlights housing challenges, stating that 70% of the city's housing stock is categorized as slums, while “over 78% of homes are built with non-durable materials.” He acknowledges concerns regarding relocation but asserts that “6,915 improved housing units have been allocated to relocated individuals.”

On transportation, the article underscores severe mobility issues caused by congestion and inadequate pedestrian infrastructure. The second phase of development, according to the author, includes “119.9 km of asphalt roads, 140.7 km of bike lanes, and 246.3 km of pedestrian walkways” to improve accessibility. While some argue that non-motorized transport options remain insufficient, the piece suggests that the new projects aim to integrate safer pedestrian pathways and better transport terminals. It also highlights efforts to expand green spaces, with “431 hectares of new green areas and 110 public plazas” planned.

https://addisstandard.com/?p=48506

#Ethiopia’s wealth fund, #UK firm partner in $600 million dairy project

Ethiopian Investment Holdings (EIH) has signed a shareholder agreement with UK-based private equity firm Asset Green for a $600 million dairy farming and processing project, EIH CEO Brook Taye said Monday in #Addis_Abeba.

EIH and Asset Green will jointly raise funds for the project, with the UK firm holding a majority stake. Brook stated that they are also considering bringing in additional investors to support the initiative.

The project will be carried out in two phases, with the first stage establishing a 15,000-hectare dairy farm and processing plant. The second phase will involve the cultivation of cotton, oilseeds, and rice. EIH oversees several state-owned enterprises, including Ethiopian Airlines and Ethio Telecom.

https://www.bloomberg.com/news/articles/2025-02-17/ethiopia-private-equity-partner-in-600-million-dairy-project?leadSource=uverify%20wall

#Ethiopia, #Somalia begin technical talks on #Ankara Declaration in Türkiye

Ethiopia and Somalia have launched technical negotiations on implementing the Ankara Declaration, with the first round of discussions taking place in Ankara, #Türkiye. Somalia’s Minister of Information, Culture, and Tourism, Daud Aweis, wrote on X on 17 February that he had arrived in Ankara to join Somalia’s delegation for the talks, which aim to “explore ways to implement the Ankara Declaration.” He added that Somalia remains committed to “fostering peace, strengthening cooperation, and building diplomatic relations” based on mutual understanding.

The negotiations follow a meeting between Ethiopia’s Minister of Foreign Affairs, Gedion Timotheos, and Türkiye’s Deputy Foreign Minister, Burhanettin Duran, on 6 February. Ethiopia’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs stated that the two sides “exchanged views on the technical aspects” of the agreement, adding that Gedion “expressed Ethiopia’s commitment to the full implementation” of the deal and thanked Türkiye for facilitating the tripartite agreement.

https://addisstandard.com/?p=48558

#Ethiopia: 13 teachers held hostage in #Amhara’s North Gojjam Zone for nearly a week; families say '#Fano militants' demand 50,000 birr ransom per captive

Thirteen teachers from Kore Elementary School in the Gonji Qolela district of North #Gojjam Zone, Amhara region, have been held hostage since last Wednesday by individuals described by family members as “Fano militants.” A parent of one abductee said the militants, who had previously ordered schools to remain closed, seized the teachers on 14 February and told them, “We are fighting against the system; why are you teaching?” He added that the captors are demanding 50,000 birr per teacher for their release.

Another parent, whose daughter was among those taken, expressed distress, saying, “I don’t even have five birr, let alone 50,000 birr.” He said his daughter had relocated to the district after being assigned to teach but was abducted last Wednesday. “I miss my child’s voice. The child I relied on, the one I thought would care for me, is the one they have taken from me,” he said, adding that he feels powerless. The incident comes amid growing security concerns in the region, where teachers have faced threats, unpaid salaries, and targeted attacks.

https://addisstandard.com/?p=48568

#US, #Russia hold talks in Saudi Arabia; #Ukraine, Europe not invited

The United States and Russia are holding talks in #Saudi_Arabia regarding the war in Ukraine, marking the first in-person meeting between the two countries since Moscow's full-scale invasion three years ago. US Secretary of State Marco Rubio is meeting with Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov, but neither Ukraine nor European nations are participating in the discussions.

The US has described the talks as a preliminary step to assess whether Russia is "serious" about ending the war. Meanwhile, Russia says it hopes to "normalize" relations with Washington. However, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has stated that his country will not recognize any agreements reached in talks where it is not represented.

European leaders have also expressed concerns over being excluded from the negotiations. On the eve of the meeting, they held an emergency summit to discuss the situation.

https://www.bbc.com/news/live/c62e2158mkpt

#Ethiopia: Tempest of Turmoil: #Tigray’s economic crisis deepens amid soaring prices, political chaos

Residents of Tigray face an escalating economic crisis as inflation soars, with the price of basic commodities rising sharply in recent months. Local traders report that the cost of staple goods such as teff and cooking oil has surged, making daily survival increasingly difficult. Many attribute the crisis to "a combination of supply shortages and political instability," as tensions within the Tigray People’s Liberation Front (#TPLF) persist.

Hassen Mensur, a father of five in #Mekelle, described the struggle to afford basic necessities, stating that “every week, prices climb higher, sometimes by hundreds or even thousands of birr.” Rent costs have also risen significantly, he added, noting that a small room in the city is now unaffordable for many low-income families. Economic constraints have forced some residents to sell personal property or rely on remittances from relatives abroad.

Officials warn that fuel shortages are exacerbating the crisis, with gasoline unavailable at regular stations and being sold illegally at three times the standard price. Gebremeskel Tareke, head of the Tigray Trade and Export Agency, acknowledged that "fuel deliveries have repeatedly fallen short of demand," limiting transportation and further disrupting economic recovery. Additionally, infrastructure damage from the war has hindered trade, leaving Tigray "in a state of partial lockdown" with severe consequences for food and essential goods supply.

https://addisstandard.com/?p=48557

#Ethiopia: Despite criticisms over legitimacy, inclusivity Ethiopian parliament extends Dialogue Commission’s mandate by one more year

The House of Peoples’ Representatives has extended the National Dialogue Commission’s mandate for another year, citing the need to “complete its remaining tasks,” state media reported. The extension was approved during the House’s first emergency session of its fourth working year, as the Commission neared the end of its initial mandate. Established in 2022, it has been engaged in identifying participants and gathering agendas for discussions on key national issues across several regions.

However, its work has faced criticism, particularly from opposition groups who argue it lacks inclusivity. The Caucus of Opposition Parties (#CoP), a coalition of 11 opposition groups, has accused the Commission of being “used for political purposes” by the ruling party and failing to ensure a “genuinely inclusive process.” Similarly, major opposition parties in Oromia, including the Oromo Liberation Front (#OLF) and the Oromo Federalist Congress (#OFC), have opted out, citing concerns over its “approach” and overall credibility.

https://addisstandard.com/parliament-extends-national-dialogue-commissions-mandate-by-one-year-amid-criticism-over-inclusivity/

#Ethiopia: Hilton signs deal with Brighton Hotels to open DoubleTree hotels in #Adama, #Dire_Dawa

Hilton has signed an agreement with Brighton Hotels and Business Plc. to open two DoubleTree by Hilton hotels in Adama and Dire Dawa, which it described as “the first internationally branded hotels” in the cities. The hotels, expected to open in 2028, are part of Hilton’s broader expansion plan in Ethiopia, where it currently operates Hilton Addis Abeba and plans to open DoubleTree by Hilton Addis Abeba Airport.

Carlos Khneisser, Hilton’s vice president of development for the Middle East and Africa, said the company was “thrilled to partner with Brighton Hotels and Business Plc.” to establish the hotels, which would “complement” Hilton’s existing and upcoming properties. Yadeta Bekri, founder of Brighton Hotels, said they were “delighted to be working with Hilton” to introduce an international brand to Adama and Dire Dawa, adding that both hotels would “offer spacious accommodation, modern amenities, and elevated food and drink options.”

https://addisstandard.com/?p=48589

#Eritrea rejects former #Ethiopia President accusations of ‘reigniting’ regional conflict

Eritrea’s Ministry of Information has dismissed accusations by former Ethiopian President Mulatu Teshome, a close ally of Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed, who alleged that Eritrea is involved “in almost every major conflict in the Horn of Africa” and could “reignite war in northern Ethiopia.” In a statement, Eritrea said Ethiopia’s internal crises should not be externalized or blamed on #Asmara.

Yemane G. Meskel, Eritrea’s Minister of Information, described Mulatu’s remarks as an “audacious claim… precisely intended to conceal and rationalize a war-mongering agenda.” He added that Eritrea has “acted in accordance with international law” and has no interest in interfering in Ethiopia’s internal affairs. The statement also rejected allegations of continued Eritrean military presence in Ethiopian border areas and dismissed claims that Eritrea was unhappy witg the #Pretoria agreement, calling it “an internal Ethiopian matter.”

https://addisstandard.com/?p=48597

#Ethiopia aims for #WTO membership by 2026, minister says

Kassahun Gofe (PhD), Minister of Trade and Regional Integration, said Ethiopia is working to join the World Trade Organization (WTO) by 2026, following discussions with WTO Director-General Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala on the country’s accession process.

"We are working on a roadmap that will enable Ethiopia to join the World Trade Organization at the Ministerial Conference set to take place in Cameroon in 2026," Kassahun said.

He added that preparations are underway for the fifth accession meeting.

Watch!

Villagers killed execution-style in #Sudan, activists say

More than 200 civilians were killed in al-Kadaris and al-Khelwat, northern White Nile state, over three days, the Emergency Lawyers network said, accusing the Rapid Support Forces (#RSF) of "executions, kidnappings, enforced disappearances and property looting." The group stated that the military had no presence in the area at the time of the attacks.

The RSF, previously allied with Sudan’s military before war broke out in April 2023, has not commented on the allegations. The paramilitary group has faced repeated accusations of human rights violations, as both it and the army have been blamed for atrocities throughout the conflict.

Meanwhile, senior RSF leaders are in Kenya to discuss forming a rival
administration, referring to it as a "political charter for the Government of Peace and Unity." The move comes after the army regained key areas in Khartoum and nearly full control of Gezira state. Sudan’s de facto leader, Gen Abdel Fattah al-Burhan, has rejected the RSF's plans and vowed to reclaim the entire capital.

https://www.bbc.com/news/articles/c0rzw8wqn8vo

#Ethiopia, #Somalia to hold next round of technical negotiations on Ankara #Declaration in March 2025

Ethiopia and Somalia have agreed to hold the next round of technical negotiations on the Ankara Declaration in March 2025, following initial discussions in Ankara on 17 February. In a joint statement, both sides reaffirmed their commitment to “the letter and spirit” of the declaration and emphasized efforts to “lay the ground for mutually beneficial sustainable development.”

Signed on 11 December 2024 by Ethiopian Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed and Somalia’s President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud, with Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan as a mediator, the Ankara Declaration reaffirmed “respect and commitment to one another’s sovereignty, unity, independence, and territorial integrity.” The agreement set a four-month timeline for technical negotiations on Ethiopia’s sea access while underscoring Somalia’s sovereign authority over any commercial arrangements.

https://addisstandard.com/?p=48608

#Kenya’s tourism poised for record growth in 2025

Kenya’s tourism sector is poised for a strong performance in 2025, with international arrivals surging by 15% in 2024, according to the Kenya National Bureau of Statistics (#KNBS). The increase, which saw visitors exceed two million, is largely attributed to “aggressive digital marketing campaigns” by the Kenya Tourism Board and enhanced collaboration with the private sector.

Kenya’s standing in the global tourism industry has been reinforced by prestigious accolades. Nairobi was recognized as “Africa’s Leading Business Travel Destination” at the 2024 World Travel Awards, while the Maasai Mara continues to be among “the world’s most sought-after safari destinations.” The country’s coastline also remains a key draw for beach tourism.

However, Kenya faces stiff competition from regional players such as Rwanda, Tanzania, and South Africa, which have intensified their tourism marketing strategies. Rwanda’s partnership with Arsenal Football Club and Tanzania’s positioning of Zanzibar as a premier beach destination are examples of how “strategic branding” is shaping regional competition.

Beyond competition, financing and security concerns remain key challenges. Smaller tourism operators, particularly in eco-tourism, struggle with access to credit due to “high collateral demands and elevated credit risks,” KNBS notes. Additionally, travel advisories from major markets like the US and China continue to highlight security risks, despite Kenya’s efforts to “enhance security measures.”

https://www.businessdailyafrica.com/bd/opinion-analysis/columnists/kenya-s-tourism-poised-for-record-growth-in-2025-4932060

#Ethiopia: Judges’ association in #Amhara welcomes legislation granting legal immunity, says five judges still in custody

The Amhara Region Judges’ Association has welcomed the regional council’s approval of a proclamation granting judges immunity from prosecution, stating that it will enable them to work “without any internal or external influences.” The Association’s chairman, Birhanu Asessa, highlighted concerns over the detention of judges, noting that “judges have often been removed from their positions and coerced into reversing decisions.” He emphasized that of the 13 judges recently detained, eight have been released, while five remain in custody.

Supreme Court Justice Saba Abera clarified that the immunity law does not mean “judges will become unaccountable” but rather seeks to reduce undue pressure and safeguard judicial independence. The Ethiopian Human Rights Commission (#EHRC) welcomed the law, stating that “judicial independence is fundamental” for democracy and human rights protection.

https://addisstandard.com/?p=48615

#Ethiopia: Gov’t defends wheat ‘self-sufficiency’ claims, says aid agencies may continue imports amid persistent humanitarian concern

The Ethiopian government defended its data on wheat self-sufficiency but said that it “does not mean that wheat imports will entirely disappear,” as humanitarian organizations “may still choose to import wheat” based on their “operational needs and strategies.” This comes amid growing concerns over food insecurity, as the latest Famine Early Warning Systems Network (FEWS NET) report, released in January 2025, projects that food insecurity will worsen in early to mid-2025, particularly in conflict-affected and pastoral regions. The report highlights that Crisis (IPC Phase 3) or Emergency (IPC Phase 4) food insecurity persists in #Afar, #Tigray, #Amhara, #Oromia, and #Somali, with worsening conditions expected if the March-May gu/genna rains also fail.

Government figures claim Ethiopia produced “151 million quintals (15.1 million tons) of wheat” in 2022/23 and “23 million tons” in 2023/24, attributing the increase to expanded irrigated farming and improved agricultural techniques. However, skepticism persists, especially as the June 2024 FAO-WFP "Hunger Hot Spot" report classified Ethiopia among the world’s hunger hot spots, estimating that 13 million people—including four million internally displaced persons (IDPs)—required urgent food assistance between July and September 2024.

https://addisstandard.com/?p=48625

#Sudan slams #Kenya for hosting #RSF-aligned political event

Sudan’s foreign ministry has condemned Kenya for hosting a political event linked to the paramilitary Rapid Support Forces (RSF), which is engaged in a prolonged conflict with the Sudanese army. The ministry described the event as a violation of Kenya’s commitments and an act of hostility against Sudan.

The gathering, held in Nairobi on Tuesday, was a preliminary step towards establishing a political alliance comprising armed groups and political forces aligned with the RSF. "A political charter is expected to be signed in three days, followed by constitutional arrangements and the formation of a government in RSF-controlled areas," the ministry said.

Sudan’s foreign ministry stated that the event contradicted Kenya’s assurances "at the highest level not to allow hostile activities against Sudan on its territory" and accused Kenya of violating international norms. It further alleged that Kenya’s actions "constituted a declaration of hostility against the Sudanese people" and encouraged divisions within African nations.

The ministry also linked the gathering to ongoing atrocities, saying: “Hosting RSF leaders and allowing them to conduct open political and propaganda activities at a time when they are committing genocide and massacres against civilians on ethnic grounds is an encouragement and participation in the continuation of these atrocities.” It called on the international community to denounce Kenya’s decision and pledged to take steps to address the situation.

https://sudantribune.com/article297623/

A rejoinder: Ports and postponed elections: 'Game over' redux

Semhal Meles responded to the recent article by former Ethiopian President Mulatu Teshome arguing that the article was not only riddled with misleading claims, including the false assertion that #TPLF has ruled #Tigray since 1975, but also contradicted PM Abiy Ahmed’s latest statement praising the TPLF’s role in Ethiopia’s history in a letter marking its 50th year founding anniversary.

The writer also argues that as the former president noted, just a few years ago, #Ethiopia and #Eritrea were chummy allies, an alliance that ultimately culminated in committing various crimes against humanity, war crimes, and the crimes forced deportation, “leaving a wake of devastation in Tigray.”

“The people of Tigray have yet to recover from the savagery of the onslaught, which included, but was not limited to, a two-year siege, the use of starvation and rape as weapons of war, a multi-year total communications blackout, and an endless list of massacres in which the Eritrean government is particularly implicated,” Semhal writes.

But as relations between the two states deteriorate following the Pretoria agreement for cessation of hostilities, fears are growing that Tigray will be sucked into another round of a devastating war.

For all its tremendous failings over the past seven years, TPLF has never expressed aspirations for territorial expansion. Nor have the people of Tigray. “It is imperative that Tigray’s leadership signal its commitment to peaceful coexistence with all residents of the Horn and our cousins on the other side of the Red Sea.”

The international community, too, must recognize the Ethiopian government’s misuse of the TPLF as a scapegoat to justify democratic rollbacks, economic failures, and aggressive regional policies.

Read the full rejoinder: https://addisstandard.com/?p=48650

#Ethiopia: Forest fire rages for over a week on Mount Galama in #Oromia’s #Arsi zone, residents report no gov’t response

A forest fire that started over a week ago on Mount Galama, located between #Bokoji and #Shirka districts in Arsi zone, Oromia region, remains uncontrolled. Residents say no government response has been made so far. A resident near the area told Addis Standard that "the forest has been burning for a week and continues to burn," adding that local efforts to contain the fire were hampered by "difficult terrain." He also noted that no communication had been received from authorities, warning that if the fire persists, "it could destroy many resources."

Hirpha Dhaba, Deputy Administrator of Arsi zone, told state media that the fire has lasted a week but said, "it hasn't been continuous." He explained that community-led attempts to put it out "weren't as successful as hoped" due to the forest’s vast coverage. He warned that the fire threatens wildlife, including "leopards and monkeys," and could cause "major damage" if it continues to spread. He added that relevant authorities at the Oromia regional level have been informed, and discussions are underway with senior officials on measures to contain the fire.

https://addisstandard.com/?p=48660