#Sudanese refugees imprisoned and impoverished by #Ethiopian visa policy

Sudanese refugees living in Ethiopian cities say they are struggling to afford visa renewal fees introduced last year, with some facing arrest for failing to make the payments. The Ethiopian government requires Sudanese refugees outside designated camps to renew their visas monthly for $100, with fines of $10 per day for overdue payments. Many refugees say they cannot afford these costs, leaving them at risk of detention.

“The police regularly arrest Sudanese people and throw them in jail because they haven’t paid the monthly fees,” said a Sudanese refugee who has been unable to renew her visa since arriving in Ethiopia last July. A former high school teacher in Sudan, she said she now relies on her son in France to cover her housing. “I try not to leave the house because I’m afraid of being arrested,” she added.

According to UNHCR communications officer Tarik Argaz, Sudanese nationals who do not register as refugees may “lack legal protection and face deportation or detention.” He added that they also “won’t have access to essential services like healthcare, education, or work opportunities and may be vulnerable to exploitation.” A Sudanese journalist who was detained for two months over unpaid visa fees said he now fears re-arrest. “There is no logic in asking us to pay such amounts when we fled a war,” he said.

https://www.thenewhumanitarian.org/news-feature/2025/02/20/sudanese-refugees-imprisoned-and-impoverished-ethiopian-visa-policy

#Opinion: Seeds of War: Conflict looms over #Tigray as regional military forces side with political factions

In this opinion piece, Benedict Michael warns that Tigray is facing a growing political and military crisis, threatening the fragile stability since the Pretoria Peace Agreement in 2022. "The ongoing political crisis, marked by a factional split within the #TPLF, has escalated into military involvement, with commanders openly taking sides," he writes, describing it as "a dangerous and destabilizing move." The author notes that this has sparked widespread condemnation, with critics arguing that "the military’s role is to protect the region, not to interfere in partisan disputes."

Michael traces the crisis back to an August 2024 congress led by a faction of the TPLF under Debretsion Gebremichael (PhD), which he states "did not follow the legal procedures set by the National Election Board of Ethiopia (#NEBE)." As a result, he explains, "the board did not recognize it, leading many to consider it an illegitimate gathering." According to the article, this congress sidelined Tigray Interim Administration President Getachew Reda, triggering opposition from the interim government and other political actors. He highlights that military commanders aligned with the faction have since called for restructuring the administration, with some even threatening to "enforce the faction’s decisions by force."

The article also details an incident in Seharti district, where, according to Michael, "armed forces from Army 26, loyal to the faction that held the unrecognized congress, stormed the district administration." He reports that "they forcibly took the government seal—an act seen as a clear attempt to seize administrative control." When farmers protested, the armed forces responded with violence. "One farmer was shot and seriously injured, while several others were beaten with rifle butts," he writes. The author warns that "the army’s direct involvement in political affairs threatens to fragment Tigray’s defense forces" and could lead to a broader conflict. He calls for urgent international action, stating, "If the situation is not defused immediately, Tigray could descend into another devastating civil war."

https://addisstandard.com/?p=48689

#Sudan recalls ambassador from #Kenya over meeting to form ‘parallel government’

Sudan recalled its ambassador from Kenya on Thursday in protest against Nairobi’s hosting of a meeting to discuss the formation of a parallel government.

A Foreign Ministry statement said Kamal Jabara was summoned “for consultations in response to Kenya’s hosting of meetings involving the Rapid Support Forces (#RSF) militia and its allies, in a hostile move against Sudan.”

The ministry urged Nairobi to abandon what it called a “dangerous course” that threatens regional peace and security and promotes “terrorism and genocide.”

Sudan earlier accused Kenya’s presidency of “embracing and encouraging a conspiracy” to establish an RSF-led government.

https://www.aa.com.tr/en/africa/sudan-recalls-ambassador-from-kenya-over-meeting-to-form-parallel-government-/3488256

#Ethiopia: #Tigray Interim Admin accuses some leaders of Tigray military forces of “dismantling” local gov’t structures, warns of “severe crisis”

The Tigray Interim Administration has accused some leaders within the Tigray military forces of working to “dismantle” local government structures, warning that such actions could lead to a “severe crisis.” The accusation follows an incident in Seharti district, where “security forces” allegedly used force to seize a kebele administration stamp, injuring 17 people, according to the district administrator.

The Interim Administration stated that the Tigray military forces were created to “ensure the survival of its people” and not to serve “any group’s pursuit of power.” It warned that continued interference could push Tigray into a “crisis we cannot escape from as a people.” The dispute comes amid growing divisions within the Tigray People’s Liberation Front (#TPLF), with factions emerging between those aligned with Interim Administration President Getachew Reda and others supporting former TPLF chairman Debretsion Gebremichael. some senior Tigray military officials have called for dissolving and restructuring the interim administration, further complicating the region’s political landscape.

https://addisstandard.com/?p=48681

Volcano in #Ethiopia is releasing unusually large plumes of methane

Satellites have detected "unusually large volumes" of methane emissions from Mount Fentale in Ethiopia, following months of seismic activity that displaced tens of thousands of people. Scientists say the source of the methane remains unclear, but its scale is unexpected.

A European Union satellite first identified methane in the area around the volcano, located about 120 kilometers east of Addis Ababa. The detection prompted GHGSat, a Canadian company specializing in methane monitoring, to focus its high-resolution satellites on the site. On 31 January, they recorded methane rising from the crater "at a rate of 58 tonnes per hour," which is roughly 1,400 metric tonnes per day—comparable to the emissions from burning about 20 million kilograms of coal.

John Stix, a volcanologist at McGill University, said that while volcanoes commonly emit gases like carbon dioxide and sulphur dioxide, "it's unusual" to see this level of methane associated with volcanic activity. He noted that such measurements were only possible due to the increasing number of satellites monitoring methane emissions from sources like oil fields and coal mines.

https://www.newscientist.com/article/2468644-volcano-in-ethiopia-is-releasing-unusually-large-plumes-of-methane/

#Ethiopia: #Oromia regional government appoints three former #OLA commanders after peace deal

The Oromia regional government has appointed three former commanders of the Oromo Liberation Army (OLA) following a peace agreement signed on December 1, 2024. Among them, Yadesa Negassa, also known as Sagni Nagasa, has been named Security Advisor to the President of Oromia at the bureau head level. Oromiya Rebuma has been appointed Deputy Head of the Oromia Attorney General’s Office, while Tolera Regasaa will serve as Deputy Head of the Bureau of Administration and Security.

The appointments come after Sagni Nagasa and his faction distanced themselves from the OLA leadership, accusing its commander, Kumsa Diriba (Jaal Marroo), of authoritarianism. The OLA dismissed the peace deal, claiming it was made with former members expelled “months earlier for misconduct.” Sagni, however, stated that the agreement would be implemented “within two days” and highlighted its focus on “security matters and military integration,” along with measures for “compensating war-related damages and addressing harm caused.”

https://addisstandard.com/?p=48695

#Ethiopia: Cholera outbreak in #Gambella region claims 14 lives; over 200 cases reported

The cholera outbreak in Ethiopia's Gambella region has resulted in 14 fatalities and over 200 reported cases, according to regional health officials. Initially detected in four districts of the Nuer Zone, the outbreak has spread to additional areas. Gatbel Girmal, head of the Nuer Zone Health Bureau, highlighted the challenges of gathering data in Akobo district, where “officials must travel by boat to collect information,” a process that “takes up to three days.”

The Gambella Regional Health Bureau initially classified the outbreak as “acute watery diarrhea” (AWD) until laboratory tests confirmed it as cholera. Dr. Abel Assefa, head of the regional health bureau, announced that the World Health Organization (WHO) has supplied medical resources valued at “approximately 1.6 million birr” to assist with containment efforts.

https://addisstandard.com/?p=48703

#USAID freeze disrupts aid in #Ethiopia, officials warn of 'devastating' consequences

The suspension of USAID funding under an executive order by U.S. President Donald Trump has severely disrupted aid operations in Ethiopia, affecting food distribution, healthcare, and refugee support. Aid organizations warn that the freeze could worsen an already dire humanitarian situation.

Donald Trump's executive order pausing USAID funding for 90 days has stalled key programs, leaving aid groups scrambling to secure waivers. "This directly affects millions of Ethiopians," said Ahmed Hussein from the Ethiopian Civil Society Organisations Council. "If the funding does not resume, it could lead to deaths and an even larger humanitarian crisis."

In 2023, Ethiopia received over $1 billion in American aid, making it the largest recipient in sub-Saharan Africa. Most of these funds were directed toward emergency food supplies, healthcare, and development projects.

The funding freeze has also disrupted food distribution. Nearly 16 million Ethiopians relied on donated grain in 2024, with USAID as the largest donor. Although some food shipments have resumed, a senior aid official noted a "huge liquidity crisis," explaining that "thousands of bags of food can’t be distributed and will sit there, rotting or at risk of being looted." Currently, 34,880 metric tonnes of sorghum, pulses, and vegetable oil—enough to feed 2.1 million people for a month—are stuck at Djibouti’s port. Without funds to pay transport contractors, the supplies risk spoiling before reaching those in need.

Healthcare services have also been affected, with Ethiopia seeing rising cases of malaria and measles. USAID's support for disease surveillance, HIV treatment, and maternal health programs has been halted, leaving thousands without medical assistance. Refugee support has been similarly impacted, with most non-life-saving aid, such as mental health programs and hygiene initiatives, suspended.

In #Tigray, the Centre for Victims of Torture had to stop therapy sessions for rape survivors. "Having to stop suddenly was shocking," said Yohannes Fisseha, a project coordinator who was furloughed without pay. "It just adds to the survivor’s trauma."

https://www.theguardian.com/global-development/ng-interactive/2025/feb/21/the-impact-has-been-devastating-how-usaid-freeze-sent-shockwaves-through-ethiopia

#Op_ed: Macron in #Djibouti and #Ethiopia: Is there Anything New in #France’s Approach to the Horn of Africa?

French President Emmanuel Macron’s visit to Djibouti and Ethiopia in December 2024 raised questions about whether it signals a shift in France’s approach to the Horn of Africa. As Paris faces declining influence in West and Central Africa, it seeks to strengthen ties in the east and south of the continent. However, this piece notes that France’s engagement in the Horn remains largely security-driven rather than focused on economic cooperation. Macron’s visit underscored France’s strategic interest in the region but also highlighted the challenges it faces in adapting to shifting geopolitical dynamics.

The op-ed discusses how France’s role in its former colonies, particularly in the Sahel, has weakened following a series of military coups and troop expulsions. Several countries, including Mali, Niger, and Burkina Faso, have ordered the withdrawal of French forces, reducing Paris’ military footprint. Meanwhile, tensions in the Horn of Africa—including Ethiopia’s maritime ambitions and security threats in the #Red_Sea—have increased. Macron acknowledged these developments, stating that France remains committed to “security cooperation and strategic partnerships” in the region.

In Djibouti, where France maintains its largest military base in Africa, Macron reaffirmed the defense partnership between the two countries, emphasizing that the base remains “a strategic gateway to both Africa and the Indo-Pacific.” His visit included the signing of agreements on infrastructure and space collaboration. Djiboutian President Ismail Omar Guelleh described the agreements as “evidence of the distinguished relationship” between the two countries. While Djibouti’s space ambitions remain modest, the article notes that the initiative serves as a geopolitical tool for France to maintain its influence, particularly amid growing competition from China, Russia, and Türkiye.

In Ethiopia, Macron’s engagement took on a cultural and diplomatic dimension. The article highlights his participation in the inauguration of the renovated National Palace in Addis Abeba, a project funded by the French Development Agency. Macron also expressed support for Ethiopia’s pursuit of sea access, stating that any agreement “must adhere to international law.” He further emphasized France’s backing for Ethiopia’s economic reforms, noting that debt restructuring, including €3 billion owed to France, “will be finalized in the coming weeks.” While the visit signaled France’s intent to deepen ties, the op-ed concludes that Paris still faces major challenges, including financial constraints, regional instability, and increasing foreign competition, which may limit its ability to expand its influence in the Horn of Africa.

https://addisstandard.com/?p=48713

#Ethiopia: Despite legitimacy concerns, Dialogue Commission vows to complete tasks within a year

The Ethiopian National Dialogue Commission has pledged to finalize its work within a year, following the House of Peoples’ Representatives’ decision to extend its mandate. Chief Commissioner Professor Mesfin Araya stated that multiple activities will be carried out in parallel, adding that progress in the Tigray and Amhara regions will depend on “enabling conditions.”

He also underscored the importance of including armed groups, political parties, and other societal segments in the dialogue, emphasizing that their participation is “crucial to its success.”

The Commission has faced criticism over its legitimacy and inclusivity, with opposition groups arguing that it serves political interests rather than fostering a genuinely inclusive process.

#Ethiopia: #Tigray’s Ayder Hospital suspends services as staff strike enters third day over unpaid salaries, transport shortages

Health workers at Ayder Referral Hospital in #Mekelle have been on strike since February 20, citing unpaid salaries, disrupted benefits, and lack of transportation services. The protest has led to the suspension of hospital services, including emergency care, according to hospital officials. Rishan Kahsay, a nurse at the hospital, told Addis Standard that employees marched to Mekelle University on the first day of the strike to present their grievances but received an "unsatisfactory response," leading them to continue their protest within the hospital compound.

Berhane Gebremeskel, Public Relations Head at Ayder Referral Hospital, told Addis Standard that hospital services "have been disrupted due to the strike." He attributed the crisis to "rising fuel prices" and employees' demands for "17 months of unpaid salaries." He added that workers are also calling for "reliable transportation to ensure timely arrival at the hospital." A previous Addis Standard report noted that Ayder Hospital has been struggling with shortages of medicine, food, and funding due to budget cuts following the Pretoria peace agreement, which, according to the report, reduced capital expenditures by 50% and recurrent spending by 40%.

https://addisstandard.com/?p=48726

#Somaliland begins deportation of 'undocumented' #Ethiopian migrants

Somaliland police have launched a campaign to deport "undocumented Ethiopian migrants," weeks after Puntland authorities expelled over 1,000 Ethiopian nationals from Garowe and Bosaso towns.

On Sunday morning, police vehicles were seen patrolling market areas in #Hargeisa, the capital of Somaliland, "arresting Ethiopians who are in Somaliland illegally." While many Ethiopians hold refugee cards, visas, or work permits, authorities say a significant number enter the region unlawfully each year.

Somaliland authorities have not officially commented on the latest deportation efforts. Many of the migrants are from Ethiopia’s Oromo ethnic group, working in "low-income jobs such as car washing."

In Puntland, a region in Somalia, authorities have also intensified crackdowns on "undocumented migrants," citing security concerns. Officials have linked some foreigners to the "ISIS faction operating in the Bari region."

https://www.hiiraan.com/news4/2025/Feb/200382/somaliland_begins_deportation_of_undocumented_ethiopian_migrants.aspx

#Ethiopia: Luxury in Poverty: Psychology behind lavish spending in poor countries like Ethiopia

In this op-ed, Demessie Girma, a technologist and researcher, examines the psychology behind extravagant spending in economically struggling nations like Ethiopia. Citing examples from entertainment media and personal observations, the author highlights the increasing trend of lavish expenditures on luxury goods, oversized homes, and grand social events. “Why is wealth in such societies so often tied to visible, grandiose displays rather than productive investment?” the author asks, arguing that such spending is more about social status than economic logic.

The op-ed discusses theories such as conspicuous consumption, a term coined by economist Thorstein Veblen, to explain why individuals in low-income countries invest in visible symbols of affluence rather than long-term financial security. The author notes, “In societies with sharp economic divides, the wealthy feel an even stronger urge to distinguish themselves.” The article further suggests that price inflation on luxury goods in Ethiopia does not deter buyers but instead enhances their exclusivity, reinforcing demand.

Examining consumer behavior, the op-ed points to the role of media in normalizing excessive spending, urging a shift toward celebrating productive investments rather than material excess. “Instead of celebrating gold-threaded dresses, why not celebrate entrepreneurs creating jobs?” the author asks. The article calls for cultural and policy changes to promote financial literacy, entrepreneurship, and investment in sectors that contribute to economic stability, warning that without such shifts, visible but economically unproductive assets may continue to dominate wealth accumulation in Ethiopia.

https://addisstandard.com/?p=48731

#AU under fire as Sudanese factions reject #Addis_Abeba peace talks

Political factions and armed groups in Sudan have criticized the African Union (AU), alleging that key stakeholders were excluded from the ongoing peace consultations in Addis Abeba. The groups stated they would not recognize the outcomes of the meetings, insisting that any solution must be “inclusive.”

The consultations, facilitated by the AU, concluded on Friday without consensus. However, factions aligned with the Sudanese army dismissed the talks, arguing they “lacked inclusivity and fairness.” In a joint statement signed by 18 political parties, armed groups, and civil society organizations, the signatories criticized the AU for “failing to invite key political actors.”

“The failure to invite several major forces in the political arena represents a regrettable oversight,” the statement read, adding that it “raises questions about the extent of the African Union’s commitment to the principles of neutrality and inclusiveness in addressing the Sudanese crisis.” The factions also rejected the participation of groups involved in the Nairobi conference, accusing them of “working to divide Sudan” and supporting what they described as the Rapid Support Forces (#RSF) militia. The statement alleged that the RSF has “committed heinous crimes against the Sudanese people” and insisted that groups aligned with the paramilitary force “should be excluded from any political process.”

https://eastleighvoice.co.ke/sudan/118292/au-under-fire-as-sudanese-factions-reject-addis-ababa-peace-talks

#Ethiopia: Growing methane emissions in #Awash Fentale raise concern over ‘possible’ volcanic eruption

A growing release of methane gas in Awash Fentale since 20 January, 2025, has raised concerns over potential volcanic activity, with geosciences professor Tenaalem Ayenew cautioning that the emissions “could trigger a volcanic eruption.” He explained that methane, a gas linked to volcanic activity, is being released due to underground organic matter decomposition. The area has also experienced increased seismic activity, with a series of earthquakes recorded in Ethiopia’s Rift Valley over the past two months. On 14 February, a magnitude 6.0 earthquake struck near Metehara town in #Oromia, adding to concerns about ongoing subterranean movements.

Professor Tenaalem emphasized that continuous methane emissions indicate "significant underground activity" and warned of environmental risks, including rising temperatures and impacts on plant and animal life. He called for enhanced monitoring, early warning systems, and precautionary measures to protect local communities. Recent tremors in the Main Ethiopian Rift have displaced over 55,000 people across the #Afar, #Amhara, and Oromia regions, with affected residents receiving humanitarian assistance.

https://addisstandard.com/?p=48735

#Ethiopia, #Somalia agree on ENDF deployment within #AUSSOM

Ethiopia and Somalia have “agreed on the force disposition of #ENDF” within the African Union Support and Stabilization Mission in Somalia (AUSSOM), following efforts to ease diplomatic tensions, according to a joint communiqué issued after an Ethiopian delegation led by Field Marshal Birhanu Jula, Chief of Ethiopia’s National Defense Force, visited Mogadishu on February 22. The discussions focused on “regional security” and reaffirmed commitments to “maintaining peace, security, and stability” in the Horn of Africa. Both sides also agreed to develop a “Status of Force Agreement (SOFA)” for Ethiopian forces operating in Somalia as part of ongoing defense cooperation.

The agreement follows a period of strained relations after Ethiopia’s memorandum of understanding (MoU) with Somaliland, which Somalia condemned as an “infringement on Somalia’s territorial sovereignty.” However, tensions have eased since the #Ankara Declaration, mediated by Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan, and a series of diplomatic engagements, including a visit by Ethiopian Defense Minister Aisha Mohammed in January 2025. The latest communiqué emphasized that Ethiopia’s engagements with Somalia will be channeled through “the Federal Government of Somalia,” reaffirming respect for Somalia’s “sovereignty, territorial integrity, and unity.”


https://addisstandard.com/?p=48738

#South_Sudan lifts suspension of #Facebook and #TikTok

South Sudanese authorities have lifted the temporary suspension of Facebook and TikTok, which was imposed last week after videos surfaced allegedly depicting the killings of South Sudanese nationals in Sudan.

According to a Jan. 27 letter from the National Communications Authority, the graphic content that fueled violent protests and retaliatory attacks has now been removed from the platforms. "The rise of violence linked to social media content in South Sudan underscores the need for a balanced approach that addresses the root causes of online incitement while protecting the rights of the population," said Napoleon Adok Gai, director of the authority.

Rights groups have accused the Sudanese army and its allies of carrying out ethnically targeted attacks on civilians in Sudan’s El Gezira state following their capture of the state capital, Wad Madani, from the paramilitary Rapid Support Forces. The Sudanese army, however, condemned what it described as "individual violations" that were recorded and widely circulated online.

https://www.reuters.com/business/media-telecom/south-sudan-lifts-suspension-facebook-tiktok-2025-01-28/#:~:text=JUBA%2C%20Jan%2028%20(Reuters),South%20Sudanese%20nationals%20in

#Ethiopia: #OLF, #OFC announce plan to facilitate "transitional gov't" in #Oromia to address political, security crises

The Oromo Liberation Front (OLF) and the Oromo Federalist Congress (OFC), in collaboration with civil society organizations, have announced plans to establish a "Transitional National Unity Government of Oromia" to address the region’s deepening political and security crises. Following a four-day conference in Addis Abeba, the groups emphasized their commitment to "democratic governance, self-determination, and expanded public services" until a permanent system is established through a popular mandate. They asserted that "the full restoration of the Oromo people’s freedom and rights is essential for lasting peace" and vowed to use "all available means to ensure peace is restored and maintained in Oromia."

A key proposal from the agreement includes integrating the Oromo Liberation Army (OLA) into a formal security structure under the transitional administration. The OLA, described as "Oromo freedom fighters," would be responsible for "maintaining the peace, security, and boundaries of Oromia" through a negotiated process. The statement also reaffirmed "Finfinnee’s status as the rightful capital of Oromia" and warned that Oromo forces "will not disarm our vigilance" while engaging in negotiations.

https://addisstandard.com/?p=48747

At least 13 killed, thousands displaced in violent attacks on #Dasenech district along #Ethiopia-#Kenya border

At least 13 people were killed and two others seriously injured in ongoing violence in Siyes and Sirmeret kebeles of Dasenech district, South Omo zone, along the Ethiopia-Kenya border, according to residents and local officials. They told Addis Standard that the attacks were carried out by what they described as “armed militants from Kenya’s Turkana County.” A resident of Siyes kebele, who requested anonymity, claimed that the attackers also looted six boats, around 130 fishing nets, and approximately 500,000 dried fish. The resident further alleged that the violence had displaced thousands from five kebeles, with many seeking refuge in an area known as Neberemus.

Mesay Leben, the chief government representative for Dasenech district, confirmed the deaths and said the conflict erupted after what he described as “armed militants entering from Kenya’s Loktang and Kokro areas” attacked local pastoralists. He alleged that the attackers were “very organized militias” receiving support from “Kenyan security forces.” Mesay also claimed that previous discussions with Turkana cluster coordinators on 18 February were used as a distraction before launching the attack. Meanwhile, The Standard, a Kenyan newspaper, reported that at least 20 people were killed in a related attack along the border, attributing it to armed individuals from Ethiopia’s Merille area.

https://addisstandard.com/?p=48753