#Opinion: Shadows of Power: Corruption, nepotism, and push for reform in #Ethiopia’s #Somali region

In this opinion piece, Mohamud A. Ahmed, a columnist and political analyst at Greenlight Advisors Group, examines governance challenges in Ethiopia’s Somali region, focusing on corruption, nepotism, and the prospects for reform.

The article argues that “true leadership demands the courage to prioritize principles over power,” yet in the Somali region, dissent is often met with hostility rather than engagement. Mohamud draws on Bertrand Russell’s observation that “the most intense disputes are fueled not by facts but by beliefs held without sufficient evidence,” likening the region’s political culture to a system where loyalty is mistaken for legitimacy. According to the author, the reluctance to accept criticism not only stifles governance but also deepens societal divisions, hindering meaningful reform.

At the same time, the piece highlights a significant shift—greater openness to public discourse. Mohamud notes that “for the first time in decades, voices of discontent rise openly,” indicating progress toward a more transparent governance model. However, the article cautions that this progress remains fragile, urging leaders to ensure that setbacks, such as the arrest of critics, do not overshadow broader democratic gains. “A society that can express its grievances is one that can begin to heal them,” the author contends, but only if leaders embrace free expression as a tool for growth rather than a threat to authority.

https://addisstandard.com/?p=49300

#Ethiopia: More than 230 livestock dead in #Gofa zone as unknown epidemic spreads in South Ethiopia region

More than 230 livestock have died in Uba Debretsehay district, Gofa Zone, #South_Ethiopia Region, due to an epidemic that began on 14 March, pastoralists and animal health professionals told Addis Standard. The outbreak has also affected Zala district and Sawula town. Enkele Belachew, a pastoralist from Shala Kebele, described the disease as having “reached every pastoralist’s home” and spreading rapidly. He noted that “first, the urination doesn’t stop, a white fluid like foam comes out, and there’s coughing.” While the cause remains unknown, he said professionals have arrived to examine the affected animals.

Dr. Chernet Lebene, a veterinarian in Gofa Zone, said the epidemic has affected Uba Debretsehay and Zala districts as well as Sawula town since 14 March, resulting in “more than 246” livestock deaths. “We are conducting laboratory tests to determine the exact cause,” he said, adding that experts suspect “bovine pasteurellosis, a lung disease linked to sudden climate changes.”

https://addisstandard.com/?p=49304

#Somalia militants attack presidential convoy, president unharmed

Al Shabaab militants targeted Somalia President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud's motorcade in a bomb attack in #Mogadishu on Tuesday, the Islamist group said. Two senior government and military officials told Reuters that the president was safe, while his adviser, Zakariye Hussein, stated on X that Mohamud was “good and well on his way to the front lines.”

Soldiers and local residents who witnessed the attack confirmed that the convoy had been hit. A Reuters journalist at the scene reported seeing the bodies of four people near the presidential palace. Al Shabaab, in a statement on its Telegram channel, claimed responsibility, saying its “fighters targeted a convoy of vehicles carrying Hassan Sheikh Mohamud.”

While al Shabaab frequently carries out attacks in Somalia, Tuesday’s incident was the first direct attempt on Mohamud since 2014, when a hotel where he was speaking was bombed. Hours later, state media broadcast images of the president in Adan Yabal, a district where government forces are engaged in a three-week battle against the group.

https://www.reuters.com/world/africa/somali-militants-target-presidential-convoy-bomb-attack-president-safe-2025-03-18/

Trump, Putin agree to broader talks ― but limited ceasefire in #Ukraine

#Russian President Vladimir Putin agreed Tuesday to "halt strikes on Ukrainian energy infrastructure" after a lengthy conversation with #US President Donald Trump. The move, described as a "first step" toward de-escalation, falls short of the "fuller ceasefire" Trump had championed and Ukraine had endorsed.

The limited agreement highlights the challenges Trump may face in fulfilling his campaign promise to end the war in Ukraine within "24 hours." Nonetheless, the Kremlin welcomed the broader talks with Trump, viewing them as a sign that Russia is being "welcomed back into the club of global superpowers" despite its controversial foreign policies.

Russia’s actions in Ukraine, along with its efforts to "undermine democratic elections" and strengthen ties with adversaries in Beijing, Tehran, and Pyongyang, have led to international isolation. However, Moscow sees the dialogue with Trump as an opportunity to reassert its global influence.

https://www.washingtonpost.com/politics/2025/03/18/trump-putin-agree-partial-ceasefire-ukraine-plan-needs-kyiv-sign-off/

#Ethiopian trade delegation seeks expanded market access in key talks with #US, #EU amid push for #WTO accession

Ethiopia’s trade delegation, led by Minister of Trade and Regional Integration Kassahun Gofe (PhD), conducted bilateral negotiations with a U.S. delegation in Geneva, Switzerland, focusing on “market opportunities in services, agriculture, and other products.” Kassahun stated that “appropriate explanations and answers were provided” to questions raised by the U.S., adding that a “common understanding was reached on how to strengthen trade relations” between the two countries. The delegation also met with European Union representatives for discussions on trade matters, according to state media.

The meeting comes as Ethiopia continues efforts to rejoin the African Growth and Opportunity Act (#AGOA), from which it was excluded due to the conflict in Tigray. Before its removal, Ethiopia exported goods worth $400 million annually under AGOA. Despite repeated attempts, Ethiopia has not yet regained eligibility. Kassahun previously stated that Ethiopia is “creating a roadmap to enable” its WTO accession by 2026, with preparations underway for the “fifth accession meeting.”

https://addisstandard.com/?p=49310

#Eritrea slams #Ethiopia's maritime ambitions as "misguided and outdated," calls for international pressure

Eritrea has dismissed Ethiopia’s push for maritime access as “misguided and outdated,” urging the international community to ensure Ethiopia respects “the sovereignty and territorial integrity of its neighbors.” Eritrean Foreign Minister Osman Saleh made the remarks during a briefing in Asmara, addressing concerns over Ethiopia’s efforts to secure a naval base “through diplomacy or military force” and what he called “false accusations” regarding Eritrea’s alleged military activities.

The briefing, shared by Eritrea’s Minister of Information Yemane Gebremeskel on X, also touched on the Pretoria Agreement and rising tensions between the two countries. Osman reiterated that Eritrean forces had “redeployed to Eritrea’s internationally recognized borders” following the end of the “two-year war in Tigray in November 2022” and dismissed claims of involvement in Ethiopia’s internal affairs. The statement comes amid growing diplomatic friction, with former President Mulatu Teshome accusing Eritrea of trying to “exploit divisions within the TPLF” and Tigray Interim Administration President Getachew Reda asserting that Asmara is among those “who think they can benefit from turmoil” in Tigray.

https://addisstandard.com/?p=49316

#South_Sudan Machar’s party pulls out of peace process

The South Sudan People’s Liberation Movement-In Opposition (SPLM-IO) has announced its withdrawal from security arrangements under the 2018 peace deal, citing the detention of its senior leaders and the presence of Ugandan troops in the country. The move signals further tensions within the coalition government led by President Salva Kiir and First Vice President Riek Machar.

In a letter dated March 17, SPLM-IO deputy chairman Oyet Nathaniel Pierino stated: “All participation by the members of the security and political mechanisms is hereby frozen with immediate effect” until its “political detainees are unconditionally released.” The withdrawal affects the Joint Defence Board, the High-Level Political Committee, the Joint Military Ceasefire Committee, and the Joint Transitional Security Committee, weakening coordination efforts. Pierino also criticized the deployment of the Uganda People’s Defence Forces (UPDF), saying it “complicates the geopolitical situation of South Sudan” and amounts to a “declaration of war on the peace partners and the people of South Sudan.”

The political standoff follows recent clashes in Nasir, near the #Ethiopian border, where South Sudanese forces engaged with local White Army militias. Security forces arrested several SPLM-IO officials earlier this month, including Petroleum Minister Puot Kang Chol and General Gabriel Duop Lam. Government spokesman Michael Makuei announced on Monday that the State had “revoked the immunity of the detained opposition officials,” “declared war on the White Army” and urged civilians to “evacuate Nasir.”

https://www.theeastafrican.co.ke/tea/news/east-africa/south-sudan-machar-party-pulls-out-of-peace-process-4970290

#Somaliland does not rule out absorption of #Gazan residents - KAN

Somaliland’s Foreign Minister, Abdirahman Dahir Adan, said the self-declared state does not rule out discussions on absorbing displaced Gazan residents but emphasized the need for diplomatic recognition, Israel’s public broadcaster KAN reported on Wednesday.

"We are open to discussion on any matter," Adan said in a written statement to KAN. However, he added that Somaliland does "not want to speculate on matters that have not yet been discussed." He further stated, "All countries that are interested in discussing certain issues with us must first establish working relations with us and open diplomatic missions in Somaliland."

The Associated Press reported on March 14 that US and Israeli officials had reached out to Sudan, Somalia, and Somaliland regarding the possible resettlement of displaced Gazan Palestinians. While AP reported that Sudan rejected the proposal, officials from #Somalia and Somaliland stated they had not been contacted on the matter.

KAN reported that Somaliland is "trying to leverage the situation in Gaza and the Palestinian arena" to gain political recognition from the United States and Israel. Adan reportedly suggested that "if the American administration recognized Somaliland, it would be possible to talk about everything," though he did not explicitly mention the absorption of Palestinians.

https://www.jpost.com/israel-news/article-846656

#Ethiopia: Health Minister says cholera cases detected in major cities, denies gov't concealment claims

Mekdes Daba, Minister of Health, said cholera cases have been reported in major urban areas, including #Addis_Abeba, while rejecting claims that the government had concealed the outbreak. She explained that in previous years, the disease was commonly referred to as acute watery diarrhea (AWD). "Cholera was not a term used in previous years," she said, adding that many people "know it as acute watery diarrhea."

Mekdes stressed that cholera remains a public health priority, with prevention efforts including vaccinations and community engagement. While about 200 woredas were considered vulnerable last year, she said the number has now dropped to 14 due to intensified prevention measures. She also noted that the disease remains a challenge in border areas where healthcare systems are weak, making regional collaboration essential.

Watch!

#Op_ed: Geopolitical Prize of the Horn: Why #US recognition of #Somaliland matters

In an op-ed analyzing U.S. recognition of Somaliland, Adam Daud Ahmed, a political security analyst in the Horn of Africa, argues that the decision "provides a welcome chance to reshape the geopolitical realities within the Horn of Africa, with enormous strategic, economic, and security benefits." The piece contends that Somaliland, which "gained independence in 1991," has maintained "comparative political stability and democratic rule," unlike #Somalia, which "is still plagued by violence, insecurity, and a weak central government."

The writer highlights Somaliland’s strategic position, stating, "The strongest argument for United States recognition of Somaliland may be its strategic position at the intersection of vital maritime trade routes." He describes #Berbera Port as being on the Gulf of Aden with "direct access to the Bab el-Mandeb Strait, a significant maritime chokepoint that joins the Red Sea with the Gulf of Aden and the Arabian Sea." The article argues that "a Berbera base would offer a forward presence to defend and monitor these vital maritime corridors," enabling the U.S. to "take a more active role in guaranteeing the free flow of commerce, discouraging adversary powers from menacing them, and enhancing maritime security in one of the most important areas of the globe."

Beyond security concerns, the op-ed also discusses economic opportunities, stating, "Somaliland is replete with untapped natural resources, which also translates to immense economic opportunities for both Somaliland and the U.S." Ahmed argues that recognition would place the U.S. "at the head of the line in securing supply chains for critical minerals," which are essential for technology and defense industries. The article further asserts that "Somaliland recognition would enable the U.S. to offset China’s expanding influence in East Africa" and "forestall China’s monopoly of strategic infrastructure and seaborne trade routes in the region."

https://addisstandard.com/?p=49313

#Ethiopia: Over 56 passengers abducted in armed attack on bus en route from #Addis_Abeba to Debre Markos in North Shewa zone, #Oromia

More than 56 passengers were reportedly abducted after armed men attacked a bus traveling from Addis Abeba to Debre Markos in Degem district, North Shewa zone of Oromia, near Ali Doro town, on March 17, 2025. Eyewitnesses told Addis Standard that the attackers "opened fire on the bus," forcing it to stop, before "taking passengers to an unknown location." Some witnesses said the attackers engaged in combat with regional security forces, while others "forcibly removed passengers from the vehicle."

A witness traveling in a separate vehicle described the attack as “horrific,” recalling "intense gunfire" and the bus being "hit in the tires." "They were severely beating the passengers as they forced them off," he said. Another source, an employee of the bus company, confirmed the attack and reported that "a driver was shot," with "many passengers, including the driver’s assistant, abducted." The incident follows a pattern of kidnappings along this route, with a similar abduction of over 100 university students in July 2024.

https://addisstandard.com/?p=49327

#Puntland rejects #Somalia’s national ID, calls it politically motivated

Puntland has rejected the Federal Government of Somalia’s National Identification Card registration initiative, calling it “politically driven” and a threat to the region’s autonomy. The administration warned residents against participating in the program, arguing that it was “legally questionable” and imposed an unnecessary financial burden.

In a statement on Tuesday, Puntland’s Ministry of Interior, Federal Affairs, and Democratization reiterated that the regional administration does not recognize “any law imposed without prior agreement.” The ministry accused the Federal Government of using the National ID project to “facilitate illegitimate elections” without broad political consensus. The statement further claimed that the initiative served as a distraction from Somalia’s “actual security and national unity challenges.”

Puntland also raised concerns over data security, stating that the information collected under the program was “neither secure nor safeguarded from falling into unreliable hands.” The Somalia government, however, has denied that the ID system is designed solely to support one-person, one-vote elections. It maintains that the initiative is meant to “strengthen governance, improve service delivery, and enhance security.” Puntland, however, insists that the project is “a wealth accumulation scheme” that adds to the economic burden on Somali citizens.

https://www.hiiraan.com/news4/2025/Mar/200764/puntland_rejects_somalia_s_national_id_calls_it_politically_motivated.aspx

#Ethiopia: New bill tabled to legislators proposes salary deductions from gov’t, private employees for disaster relief funding

A draft proclamation requiring “monthly salary deductions” from government and private sector employees to fund disaster relief has been presented to lawmakers. Introduced on 18 March 2025, the bill seeks to establish the Ethiopian Disaster Risk Management Commission as an independent federal body, with provisions mandating financial contributions from various sectors. The Ethiopian Disaster Risk Response Fund, according to the bill, will be used for “disaster risk reduction, response, and rehabilitation efforts” across different phases of disaster management.

The legislation also requires contributions from banks, microfinance institutions, digital banking providers, and insurance companies through “service charges such as loan fees, digital banking service fees, premium payments, and dividends.” Additional revenue sources include “airline ticket sales, telecom services, fuel suppliers, passport and visa services, and business permit fees.” Entities failing to comply will face penalties, including the principal amount, a “10% surcharge,” and accrued bank interest. After a brief discussion, lawmakers referred the bill to the House’s Standing Committee on Foreign Relations and Peace Affairs for further review.

https://addisstandard.com/?p=49335

#Ethiopia: #Tigray interim admin to stay another year, leadership overhaul possible —PM Abiy

Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed told lawmakers that the Tigray Interim Administration’s mandate, which recently expired, will be extended for “another year,” though he indicated that “there may be changes” in its leadership. He emphasized that any extension would require “legal amendments” but noted that further assessment is necessary before making changes. “Based on this assessment, and in a manner that respects the existing agreements, the interim administration will continue to function until the upcoming elections,” he stated.

Abiy acknowledged the administration’s role over the past two years, saying it had worked to “prevent the outbreak of another war” and to “ensure that issues are resolved through dialogue.” However, he suggested that leadership changes are likely, explaining that “some individuals may remain in their positions based on their strengths, while others may be replaced due to their weaknesses.”

https://addisstandard.com/?p=49341

PM Abiy says #Ethiopia has no intention to “invade” #Eritrea, calls Red Sea access “existential”

Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed told parliament on Thursday that Ethiopia has “no desire to invade Eritrea for the sake of the #Red_Sea,” while emphasizing that access to the sea is “existential” for the country. He insisted that Ethiopia seeks a solution based on “give and take” and “market principles,” warning that failure to address the issue could lead to future complications. “We must address it, engage in discussions, not resort to conflict. War is unnecessary,” he said.

His remarks come amid rising tensions between Ethiopia and Eritrea. Eritrean Foreign Minister Osman Saleh recently criticized Ethiopia’s push for maritime access as “misguided and outdated ambitions,” while Tigray’s Vice President, Lt. Gen. Tsadkan Gebretensae, warned that war between Ethiopia and Eritrea “seems inevitable.” Abiy, however, dismissed accusations that Ethiopia is seeking confrontation, stating, “Many accusations have been made, but most do not hold water.” He emphasized Ethiopia’s commitment to “peace and development” while affirming that the country is “fully prepared” to defend itself if necessary.

https://addisstandard.com/?p=49345

#Ethiopia: PM Abiy announces completion of #GERD water filling, says no impact on #Egypt’s Aswan Dam

Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed told legislators today that the Grand Ethiopian Renaissance Dam (GERD) has completed its water filling process, reaching full capacity while ensuring that Egypt’s Aswan Dam is not affected. "Now GERD is 100% full, the same as the Aswan Dam," he said. He added, "I told President Sisi that during the filling of the GERD, the Aswan Dam would not lose a single liter of water."

PM Abiy referenced past discussions with Egyptian officials, noting their concerns about drought and the need for shared water security. "They shared their concerns about drought," he said.

PM Abiy emphasized the importance of cooperation between Ethiopia and Egypt, stating that collaboration would benefit both nations. "We do not believe there is any issue to fight over or to spend resources on disputes," he said, urging Egyptian leaders to work together for mutual progress.

Watch!

#Tigray war survivors file criminal complaint in #Germany, accusing #Ethiopian and #Eritrean officials of war crimes

Eight survivors of the Tigray war have filed a criminal complaint in Germany, accusing twelve senior Ethiopian and Eritrean officials of “war crimes and crimes against humanity,” according to their legal representatives. The complaint, prepared by Legal Action Worldwide (LAW) and its partners, was submitted under Germany’s universal jurisdiction, which “allows states to prosecute international crimes committed abroad” due to their severity.

LAW said the complainants, including “a former humanitarian aid worker and a former interim government official,” suffered “sexual violence, arbitrary detention, torture, and starvation.” The group alleged that Ethiopian and Eritrean forces “predominantly” committed these crimes against Tigrayan civilians, while acknowledging that “other parties to the conflict” were also implicated. Citing a “widely referenced source,” LAW stated that the war’s death toll is estimated at “anywhere between 300,000 and 800,000.”

https://addisstandard.com/?p=49351

#Sudan army close to taking control of Presidential Palace from #RSF, state TV says

Sudan’s army is close to taking control of the Presidential Palace in #Khartoum from the paramilitary Rapid Support Forces (RSF), state television reported on Thursday, marking what could be a major shift in the nearly two-year conflict. The RSF, which took the palace early in the war, has been “fighting fiercely” to hold its position, deploying snipers and engaging in close combat, according to reports.

Witnesses described explosions from airstrikes and drone attacks by the army targeting central Khartoum overnight. Military sources stated that the army, which has maintained an “advantage of air power,” has intensified its assault despite the RSF demonstrating increased drone capabilities. On Telegram, the RSF claimed it was “making advances” towards the Army General Command in response.

The conflict has created what the U.N. calls the “world’s largest humanitarian crisis,” with famine and disease spreading across Sudan. Both sides face allegations of war crimes, while the RSF has also been accused of genocide—charges they deny. Meanwhile, civilians in central Sudan have started returning home, though activists in Omdurman warned of robbery by some soldiers. The military has routinely denied such accusations.

https://www.reuters.com/world/africa/sudan-tv-says-army-close-taking-control-presidential-palace-paramilitary-rsf-2025-03-20/

#Op_ed: From Insurgency to Power Grab: Al-Shabaab’s deadly advance on #Mogadishu signals #Somalia’s descent into disaster

In this op-ed, Adam Daud Ahmed, a political and security analyst in the Horn of Africa, argues that Al-Shabaab is no longer just an insurgency but “an alternative government in the making.” Citing the group’s territorial gains, he states that it is enforcing laws, collecting taxes, and providing security in captured towns, while Somalia’s government remains weak. He warns, “This is not just an extremist movement; this is a power shift in real-time.”

Ahmed contends that Somalia’s leadership is failing to confront Al-Shabaab, instead focusing on internal disputes. He claims that tensions between President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud’s administration and regional states like #Puntland and #Jubaland are deepening the crisis. “Simply put, the country’s leaders are too busy fighting each other to fight Al-Shabaab,” he asserts. He also points to the recent visit of #Ethiopian Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed, noting that Mogadishu came under mortar attack just hours after his arrival. According to him, this incident underscores that “even with maximum security, Mogadishu is too dangerous for foreign leaders.”

The article warns that Al-Shabaab’s potential takeover would have regional and global consequences. Citing the suspension of flights by Turkish Airlines and Qatar Airways, Ahmed suggests that international actors already recognize the deteriorating security. “If Al-Shabaab marches into Mogadishu, the scenario will be eerily similar to the Taliban’s takeover of Kabul in 2021,” he cautions. He calls for urgent intervention, stating, “If Mogadishu is lost, it will not be because Al-Shabaab was too strong—it will be because Somalia’s leaders were too weak.”

https://addisstandard.com/?p=49371

Fire at #Sudan refugee camp sheltering displaced from #Ethiopia’s #Tigray region claims life of six-year-old, causes property damage

A fire broke out on March 20 at Um Rakuba refugee camp in Sudan, where thousands of Tigrayan refugees displaced by the war in Tigray have sought shelter, killing a six-year-old child and causing property damage, Tigray TV reported. The regional media outlet stated that the fire “claimed the life of a six-year-old boy,” while a two-year-old child “sustained injuries and was rushed to a nearby medical facility for urgent treatment.”

Thousands of Tigrayan refugees fled to Sudan following the outbreak of war in Tigray in November 2020, seeking safety in camps such as Um Rakuba and Tunaydbah. Their situation has worsened due to ongoing conflict in Sudan since April 2023, which has led to the evacuation of humanitarian workers and aid shortages. Human Rights First Ethiopia previously called for the protection and relocation of Tigrayan refugees, warning of “extreme distress and danger” amid the fighting between the Sudanese Armed Forces (#SAF) and the Rapid Support Forces (#RSF).

https://addisstandard.com/?p=49376

#Ethiopia licenses first investment banks, expands capital market services

The Ethiopian Capital Market Authority (#ECMA) has licensed five new capital market service providers, including Ethiopia’s first investment banks, calling it a “significant step” for the country’s financial sector. The newly licensed firms include #CBE Capital S.C. and Wegagen Capital Investment Bank S.C., designated as investment banks, as well as Ethio-Fidelity Securities S.C., licensed as a securities dealer. Additionally, HST Investment Advisory Services PLC and Equation Securities Investment Advisor PLC have been approved as securities investment advisors. ECMA stated that the licensing “marks a historic milestone” by expanding the country’s capital market beyond advisory services.

ECMA noted that the introduction of investment banks follows regulatory reforms, particularly National Bank of Ethiopia (#NBE) Directive SBB/92/2024, which allows commercial banks to fully own capital market service providers. “CBE Capital and Wegagen Capital,” the authority said, “are the first institutions to operate under this directive.” It also highlighted the “increasing role of women” in the financial sector, pointing out that two of the newly licensed firms are led by female CEOs—an indication of “growing inclusivity.”

https://addisstandard.com/?p=49387