#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

#Op_ed: What Lies Ahead for #Ethiopia-#Eritrea Relations: Advancing cooperation or returning to deadlock?

In this op-ed, Miessa Elema Robe (PhD), political science and international relations expert, examines the historical and contemporary factors shaping Ethiopia-Eritrea relations. The article explores whether the 2018 peace agreement has fostered long-term cooperation or if unresolved tensions may lead to renewed deadlock. "The factors affecting relations between Ethiopia and Eritrea were divergent," Miessa writes, citing colonial legacies, competing national narratives, and power struggles among political elites as key influences.

The piece revisits critical moments, including the Eritrean War of Independence and the 1998–2000 border war, arguing that political decisions such as Emperor Haile Selassie’s annexation of Eritrea and the exclusion of broader stakeholders from post-independence agreements deepened hostilities. "If the successive regimes had taken a different path—through democratic mechanisms like national dialogue or a referendum—it might have prevented the deep-rooted animosity and political instability that still affect Ethiopia-Eritrea relations today," Miessa asserts. He contends that the rushed nature of Eritrea’s independence, without binding agreements on borders, trade, and economic cooperation, contributed to future conflicts.

Discussing Ethiopia’s ongoing quest for #Red_Sea access, the article highlights how recent diplomatic efforts have focused on negotiations with Somaliland and Somalia rather than Eritrea. "Given Ethiopia’s irreversible quest for access to the Red Sea, any political entity—domestic or foreign—that attempts to obstruct this aspiration will likely face strong resistance," Miessa argues. While noting that the 2018 peace agreement initially signaled a shift towards stability, the op-ed questions Eritrea’s current stance, suggesting that "if President Isaias’ government had a commitment to genuine peace and mutually beneficial cooperation, as witnessed in 2018, it could pave the way for lasting regional stability."

https://addisstandard.com/?p=48761

#Ethiopia, #Kenya, #Nigeria leaders to lead unified #DRC peace efforts

The Joint Summit of the Southern African Development Community (SADC) and the East African Community (EAC) has appointed former Ethiopian Prime Minister Hailemariam Desalegn, former Kenyan President Uhuru Kenyatta, and former Nigerian President Olusegun Obasanjo as facilitators in the peace process for eastern Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC). The summit, co-chaired by Zimbabwean President Emmerson Mnangagwa and Kenyan President William Ruto, took place in Dar es Salaam on February 8, 2025.

The appointment of the three leaders marks a move to unify the separate Luanda and Nairobi peace processes, signaling a renewed push for stability in the conflict-affected region. The decision follows consultations among SADC and EAC heads of state, who emphasized the need for a coordinated regional approach to security in eastern DRC.

Preparatory meetings in Nairobi and Dar es Salaam have brought together the EAC and SADC Chiefs of Defence Forces (CDFs) to discuss security strategies, including ceasefire implementation, humanitarian aid delivery, and the reopening of supply routes. A joint EAC-SADC CDF meeting is set for February 24 in Dar es Salaam, followed by a ministerial meeting on February 28 to review further steps.

https://www.citizen.digital/news/uhuru-obasanjo-and-desalegn-appointed-to-lead-unified-drc-peace-efforts-n358175

#Ethiopia: Water minister says Nile Basin ministers visit #GERD despite #Egypt’s objections, “false propaganda”

Water ministers from #Nile Basin countries visited the Grand Ethiopian Renaissance Dam (GERD) despite Egypt’s efforts to dissuade them, according to Ethiopia’s Water and Energy Minister, Habtamu Itefa (PhD). He said the visit helped “undermine those who stand against Ethiopia” and allowed officials to assess the project firsthand.

Habtamu stated that while attending the Nile Basin Initiative (NBI) ministerial meeting in Addis Ababa on 22 February, he invited member states to tour the GERD. However, he said Egypt’s Minister of Water Resources and Irrigation, Hani Sewilam, urged them “not to accept Ethiopia’s invitation.” Despite this, Habtamu noted that “all visiting ministers,” except Tanzania’s, who left for urgent matters, toured the dam at the ministerial level.


https://addisstandard.com/?p=48784

#Sudan army ends two-year siege of key city

The Sudanese army says it has ended the nearly two-year siege imposed by the paramilitary Rapid Support Forces (#RSF) on el-Obeid, the capital of North Kordofan state. The announcement came shortly after the RSF signed a political charter in Nairobi to establish an administration in areas under its control.

Sudanese civil society activist Dallia Abdelmoniem described the development as "significant," stating that RSF forces had "held the civilians captive for nearly two years." She noted that the humanitarian situation in the city had been "difficult," with no medical or food aid reaching the population, in an area considered "at risk of famine and malnutrition."

Ahmed Hussein, a trader in el-Obeid, said that reopening access to the city would "bring life back." Finance Minister Jibril Ibrahim called the army’s advance an "important step" that could also help ease the RSF’s control of el-Fasher, the capital of North Darfur.

https://www.bbc.com/news/articles/ce8ve60r53yo

#Op_ed: Digging Out of Disaster: Hidden cost of illegal mining in #Tigray, pathways to sustainable solutions

In this op-ed, Batseba Seifu, a human rights advocate, examines the far-reaching effects of illegal mining in Tigray, calling for urgent reforms to address its economic, social, and environmental consequences. “In the aftermath of the recent war, illegal mining has surged, exacerbating economic hardship and political instability,” she writes, emphasizing how unregulated activities have intensified existing vulnerabilities.

The article outlines the historical trajectory of mining in Tigray, from traditional artisanal practices to state-controlled operations following the 1974 revolution. The writer notes that “the 2020 war devastated the formal mining sector, allowing illegal activities to flourish in the absence of regulatory oversight.” She highlights how many young people, struggling with economic desperation, have turned to illegal mining despite its exploitative conditions. “Despite generating short-term income, these operations undermine long-term community prosperity as gold is smuggled out of Tigray and Ethiopia, depriving local economies of revenue.” The op-ed also references a report by Tigray Liberty Media, which alleges that corrupt officials have facilitated unauthorized mining in exchange for bribes.

The environmental toll of illegal mining is another central concern. “The use of mercury and cyanide in gold extraction has poisoned water sources, posing severe risks to human health and local ecosystems,” the writer warns. She argues that addressing these issues requires a comprehensive approach: “Formalizing the artisanal mining sector can provide legal protections and economic stability for miners.” Additionally, the op-ed calls for governance reforms, community engagement, and investment in sustainable mining practices, concluding that “Tigray stands at a crossroads—either allowing illegal mining to perpetuate instability or seizing the opportunity to establish a responsible and equitable mining industry.”

https://addisstandard.com/?p=48777

#Ethiopia: Salsay Woyane Tigray to join #Tigray Interim Council after reforms grant decision-making powers

Salsay Woyane Tigray, an opposition party in the Tigray region, has decided to join the Tigray Regional Interim Council after initially refusing to participate. The party stated on February 24 that its concerns over the council’s framework were "addressed through changes" introduced in Regulation 10/2024, which granted the council decision-making authority instead of its previous advisory role. Party chairman Alula Hailu said the council would serve as "a platform for addressing all of Tigray’s challenges," while Yemane Kassa, Head of Constitutional and Legal Affairs, noted that several issues raised by the party were incorporated into the revised framework.

The amendments also expanded the council from 105 to 152 members and introduced seven standing committees, including one focused on monitoring the implementation of the Pretoria Agreement. Getachew Reda, President of the Tigray Interim Administration, previously stated that the revised regulation shifted the council’s accountability from the president to "conscience, law, and the people." Salsay Woyane Tigray had earlier accused the interim administration of "structuring the council’s regulations to serve its own interests," but now says its participation will help "shape the council’s role" in addressing key regional issues.

https://addisstandard.com/?p=48795

#Germany pledges €50 million for humanitarian efforts in #Ethiopia

Jens Hanefeld, Germany's Ambassador to Ethiopia and Permanent Observer to the African Union, announced 50 million euros in additional funding for humanitarian efforts across the country. Speaking at a press conference at the UN Conference Center in Addis Abeba on 25 February 2025, he noted that "new political priorities and geopolitical shifts" have led to funding constraints globally but added, "Given these developments, which affect us all, I am glad to say that the Federal Republic of Germany remains committed in its support of the UN system in Ethiopia."

Dr. Ramiz Alakbarov, UN Assistant Secretary-General and Resident and Humanitarian Coordinator for Ethiopia, welcomed the funding, describing it as a reflection of "Germany's deep commitment to improving the lives of vulnerable populations worldwide."

https://youtu.be/RMfm2Kas8bI

#AU, #Somalia agree on troop numbers for new mission

The African Union (AU) and the federal government of Somalia have agreed on the number of troop-contributing countries for the African Union Support and Stabilization Mission in Somalia (#AUSSOM) after weeks of diplomatic tensions involving Ethiopia, Somalia, and Burundi. An AU official, who requested anonymity, told VOA that Burundian forces, who have been in Somalia since 2007, will be leaving the country following disagreements over the number of troops coming from Burundi.

AUSSOM will have 11,900 personnel operating on the ground in Somalia, including soldiers, police, and civilian support staff, according to Somali and AU officials. The new arrangement allocates 4,500 soldiers to Uganda, 2,500 to Ethiopia, 1,520 to Djibouti, 1,410 to Kenya, and 1,091 to Egypt. Additionally, several hundred police officers from Nigeria, Sierra Leone, and Egypt will be stationed in Mogadishu, Jowhar, and Baidoa.

Diplomatic tensions between Somalia and Ethiopia had previously delayed the agreement, following Ethiopia’s sea access deal with #Somaliland on Jan. 1, 2024. Mogadishu condemned the deal as a violation of its sovereignty and territorial integrity. However, tensions eased after a breakthrough agreement in #Ankara on Dec. 11, mediated by Turkey. This week, Somalia and Ethiopia finalized an agreement allowing Ethiopian troops to participate in AUSSOM, following a visit by an Ethiopian military delegation to Mogadishu.

Ethiopian forces will be stationed in the same Somalia's regions as before—Gedo, Bay, Bakool, and Hiran. Egypt, which supported Somalia in its dispute with Ethiopia, will contribute troops to AUSSOM for the first time. Meanwhile, Ethiopia will maintain additional troops in Somalia under a separate bilateral arrangement. At the bilateral level, the Chiefs agreed to develop a Status of Force Agreement (SOFA) for all the bilateral forces that will operate in Somalia, according to a communique published by Somalia’s National News Agency (SONNA).

https://www.voanews.com/a/au-somalia-agree-on-troop-numbers-for-new-mission/7987913.html

#Opinion: #Tigray at Crossroads: Factionalism, governance paralysis, and looming risk of civil war

In this opinion piece, Benedict Michael, an independent writer, examines the growing political crisis in Tigray, where internal divisions within the Tigray People’s Liberation Front (#TPLF) have led to governance paralysis and heightened the risk of renewed conflict. The piece highlights how the region is now effectively split between two factions, with Debretsion Gebremichael (PhD) controlling the Central and Northwestern Zones while Getachew Reda, president of the Tigray Interim Administration, governs the Southern, Western, Eastern, and Southeastern Zones. The inability to establish a unified administration has further weakened state institutions.

The piece notes that tensions have escalated beyond political disputes, with elements of the Tigray Forces taking sides. A group of military commanders calling themselves “Core and Above Core” publicly declared their support for Debretsion’s faction, while other high-ranking officers, including Generals Wedi Asheber and Wedi Antru, opposed this move. “Military involvement in politics is a dangerous precedent,” the piece warns, adding that the failure to separate party and state has left the regional military vulnerable to fragmentation.

Beyond internal disputes, the article highlights concerns over potential external interference. Reports suggest that Debretsion’s faction is engaging with Eritrea’s ruling party, the People’s Front for Democracy and Justice (PFDJ), while Getachew’s faction has drawn closer to Ethiopia’s ruling Prosperity Party (#PP) and the federal government. The piece warns that such alignments could turn Tigray into a battleground for proxy conflicts, stating that “if these external influences persist, the region could face renewed violence with far-reaching consequences.”

https://addisstandard.com/?p=48803