#Op_ed: Mask of Deception: Unraveling saga of #Somali region, #ONLF, and #Ethiopia’s political conundrum

In this op-ed, Mohamud A. Ahmed, a columnist and political analyst at Greenlight Advisors Group, examines the political impasse between ONLF Chairman Dr. Abdirahman Maaday and Somali Region President Mustafe M. Omer, describing it as a “duel where the lines between hero and villain blur.” The author argues that the Somali Region’s political trajectory is shaped by two competing forces—ONLF’s legacy of resistance and nationalism versus Mustafe’s governance within Ethiopia’s federal structure. “Who wears the real face of the Somali people’s aspirations, and who is merely a masked actor playing a role in a grand illusion?” he asks.

The piece highlights the precarious position of Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed, likening his challenge to “a mathematician attempting to solve a chaotic system with unknown variables.” Mohamud warns that failure to address the crisis could have far-reaching consequences: “If the federal government fails to engage in a meaningful and strategic resolution, this crisis may not remain confined to a battle of words.” He underscores that ONLF, despite its transition to a political entity, still commands deep loyalty, making its grievances a matter of national concern.

The article further cautions that Ethiopia’s geopolitical rivals could exploit instability in the Somali Region, turning unresolved tensions into a broader security threat. Mohamud stresses that Abiy must intervene decisively, not as a mediator but as an “arbiter of truth.” He concludes with a warning: “The time has come for the masks to fall, for illusions to fade, and for the Somali people to see clearly.” Ignoring this crisis, he argues, risks unraveling Ethiopia’s already fragile political stability.

https://addisstandard.com/?p=49495

#Somalia receives large shipment of military equipment from African Union

Somalia announced on Thursday that it had received a large shipment of military equipment from the African Union (#AU).

The Foreign Ministry said in a statement that the shipment included "armored vehicles, helmets and vests, an armored personnel carrier, fuel and water tankers, engines, medical supplies, and other essential resources." The ministry added that the equipment is intended to "bolster the country’s security infrastructure and contribute to regional stability."

The delivery comes as Somalia prepares for the deployment of the African Union Stabilization Support Mission in Somalia (#AUSSOM), which was authorized by the UN Security Council in December 2024. The mission, set to replace a previous AU force, is expected to operate for an initial one-year period and focus on combating al-Shabaab militants.

https://www.aa.com.tr/en/africa/somalia-receives-large-shipment-of-military-equipment-from-african-union/3522074

#Somalia offers #US exclusive control of air bases, ports

Somalia has proposed granting the United States "exclusive control" over strategic air bases and ports, according to a letter from President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud to U.S. President Donald Trump, seen by Reuters on Friday.

The March 16 letter, "authenticated by a regional diplomat," states that the assets include air bases in #Balidogle and #Berbera as well as the ports of Berbera and #Bosaso. It describes them as "strategically positioned" and presents the proposal as an opportunity to "bolster American engagement in the region." Somalia’s foreign affairs and information ministries did not immediately respond to requests for comment.

The document emphasizes that the agreement would ensure "uninterrupted military and logistical access" for the U.S. while preventing external competitors from establishing a foothold in the region. The proposal includes Berbera, a port located in #Somaliland, an independent region that Somalia claims as part of its territory.

Somaliland’s Foreign Minister, Abdirahman Dahir Aden, rejected the move, stating, "The USA gave up this corrupted regime called Somalia," adding that Washington is "now ready to deal with Somaliland, which has shown the world to be a peaceful, stable, and democratic nation." He further asserted, "The USA is not stupid. They know who they need to deal with when it comes to Berbera port."

https://www.reuters.com/world/africa/somalia-offers-us-exclusive-control-air-bases-ports-2025-03-28/

#Op_ed: #Ethiopia-#Somalia rapprochement and its potential geopolitical implications

The recent rapprochement between Ethiopia and Somalia, marked by the Ankara Declaration and subsequent diplomatic engagements, signals a major shift in regional dynamics. This oped states that "this development signifies a major shift in regional alliances," with Ethiopia balancing its engagement with both Somalia and Somaliland. The piece highlights that while Somalia maintains strong ties with #Egypt and #Eritrea, "its renewed relations with Ethiopia may lead to a recalibrated foreign policy, potentially reducing its involvement in regional rivalries." Ethiopian Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed's visit to Mogadishu in February 2025, the article notes, "crowned a series of positive bilateral interactions" and marked a significant step in restoring ties following high-level meetings in #Addis_Abeba. These interactions "underscore both nations’ commitment to resolving past disputes, restoring relations, and starting a new phase of cooperation."

The piece outlines key motivations behind this rapprochement, particularly Mogadishu’s concerns over Ethiopia’s stance on #Somaliland and its interest in securing cooperation on security and intelligence matters. The oped asserts that "Mogadishu sought to secure Addis Abeba’s support in stabilizing Somalia, addressing internal divisions, and fostering a conducive environment for democratic transition." Additionally, the piece argues that "Somalia aimed to neutralize potential Ethiopian interference and its role in exacerbating Somalia’s divisions by supporting regional states, especially #Puntland and #Jubaland." Critics of Somalia President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud claim that "this rapprochement compromises national sovereignty and serves his political ambitions to consolidate power."

The oped examines Ethiopia’s strategic gains, particularly in maritime access, security influence, and regional power dynamics. The piece notes that "Ethiopia has advanced its plans to establish maritime influence through Somalia," citing the Ankara Declaration, in which "Mogadishu committed to exploring the possibility of granting Ethiopia access to the sea needed for trade based on a win-win formula." The article further details Ethiopia’s expanded military presence under the African Union Support and Stabilization Mission in Somalia (#AUSSOM), where "Ethiopia is assigned a significant role, contributing approximately 2,500 troops – the second-largest contingent after Uganda."

The broader regional impact is also explored, including uncertainties in Ethiopia-Somaliland relations and potential ramifications for the Egyptian-Eritrean-Somalia alliance. The oped suggests that "while Ethiopia’s pivot toward Somalia may signal a recalibration of regional policies, the broader geopolitical landscape remains fluid, shaped by strategic calculations and competing interests."

https://addisstandard.com/?p=49500

Month of giving: #Syrians in #Ethiopia keep #Ramadan iftar tradition alive

In a modest restaurant in Bole Michael, a working-class neighborhood near #Addis_Abeba’s international airport, the aroma of roasting shawarma fills the air as Arabic and Amharic chatter blend with the sizzling of food. Syrian chef Ahmed Ibrahim, alongside his assistants, prepares for the evening rush. As the sun sets, they set out bowls of hummus and dates, packing takeaway meals for those in need. Ibrahim says Ramadan is a time to give back. “When I first came to Ethiopia in 2020, I didn’t have a penny to my name,” he says. “This country has become a home to me.”

The small Syrian community in Ethiopia, numbering fewer than 1,500, has faced challenges, with many living in limbo due to unregistered status. Despite this, Bole Michael has become known for its Syrian presence, with businesses like Ibrahim’s restaurant adding their culture to the area. During Ramadan, the tradition of generosity takes center stage. “It would’ve been great if I could host a free iftar for everyone in need,” Ibrahim says, recalling the street banquets in Syria. “But that would be difficult here.” Instead, his restaurant provides free meals during Ramadan. “It’s about community and helping however you can,” he adds.

For Zeynab Mohammed, a Syrian mother of four who fled #Sudan’s war, the shared meals offer comfort. “Life here isn’t easy,” she says. “But moments like this remind me of home.” Sitting beside her, Ethiopian friend Salem Berhanu often joins Syrian newcomers at local eateries, sometimes paying for their meals. “It’s beautiful, especially during Ramadan,” he says. Another refugee, Aisha Abdul, recalls arriving in Ethiopia after fleeing Sudan. Three years ago, she attended an iftar hosted by Ethiopia’s prime minister, a moment she describes as a lifeline. Now, she sells scented charcoal to make a living. “Ethiopia is welcoming, but it can also feel like a dead end,” she says.

At Syriana, another Syrian restaurant in Addis Abeba, owner Ahmed Abdulkader, who arrived as a child, continues the tradition of giving. Fluent in Amharic, he has turned his family’s business into a well-known spot, popularized through social media. “We donate all we can, including meals throughout Ramadan,” he says. Despite the difficulties Syrians face in Ethiopia, many, like Abdulkader and Ibrahim, see it as home. “Ramadan allows me to connect with my customers and offer food to anyone, regardless of their ability to pay,” Abdulkader says, reflecting on the spirit of giving that defines the holy month.

https://www.aljazeera.com/features/2025/3/29/month-of-giving-syrians-in-ethiopia-keep-ramadan-iftar-tradition-alive

#Ethiopia reports 1,278 measles cases in February, outbreaks persist in 26 districts

The Ethiopia Health Cluster reports that as of February 24, 2025, a total of 1,278 measles cases and six deaths have been recorded.

According to the report, the outbreak has been successfully controlled in Malle district, South Ethiopia Regional State, and Mekdela district, #Amhara region. However, new outbreaks have emerged in Chirome district and Daye Town, #Sidama Region, as well as Dale Wabara district, #Oromia Region.

The Health Cluster further noted that measles outbreaks remain active in 26 districts across the country.

#Op_ed: Beyond Denial: Why downplaying Al-Shabaab’s growing influence in #Somalia is dangerous

In this op-ed, Adam Daud Ahmed, a political and security analyst in the Horn of Africa, challenges the arguments put forth by Professor Abdinasir Ali Osman in his recent piece, “Countering Alarmist Narratives: Debunking Al-Shabaab’s Perceived ‘Power Grab’ in Somalia.” Ahmed asserts that his original article, “From Insurgency to Power Grab: Al-Shabaab’s deadly advance on Mogadishu signals Somalia’s descent into disaster,” was based on concrete evidence rather than alarmist rhetoric. “My article was not driven by exaggeration or fearmongering,” he writes, “but by factual analysis of Al-Shabaab’s territorial expansion and its broader implications for Somalia’s security.”

Ahmed highlights that Al-Shabaab has recently recaptured key towns in the Middle and Lower Shabelle regions, including Adale, Ruun-Nirgood, and parts of Kurtunwaarey district. These areas, previously declared ‘liberated’ by government and allied forces, fell back under militant control with little resistance. “This is not an isolated setback,” he warns, “but part of a recurring pattern that underscores the fragility of Somalia’s security landscape.” He emphasizes that Al-Shabaab is more than an insurgent group—it has embedded itself within Somalia society by establishing governance structures, collecting taxes, and administering justice. “Dismissing these activities as minor,” he argues, “ignores the reality of Al-Shabaab’s growing influence.”

The op-ed critiques the Somalia Federal Government’s security strategy, arguing that military victories against Al-Shabaab remain short-lived without a sustainable governance framework. Ahmed points to President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud’s recent appeal to Turkey for additional military assistance as evidence of the crisis’s severity. However, he cautions, “While external support may provide temporary relief, it does not address the fundamental issues of governance, security sector reform, and political cohesion.” Without a comprehensive strategy that includes engagement with local communities, stronger governance in reclaimed areas, and long-term counterterrorism efforts, Somalia risks deeper instability. “Denial and sugarcoating the crisis will not lead to progress,” Ahmed concludes. “The first step toward meaningful reform is acknowledging the scale of the problem rather than minimizing its impact.”

https://addisstandard.com/beyond-denial-why-downplaying-al-shabaabs-growing-influence-in-somalia-is-dangerous/?noamp=mobile

#Somaliland rejects #Somalia offer of key port to #US

Somaliland has rejected an attempt by Somalia's federal government to offer the United States "exclusive control" of a port and airbase in #Berbera, saying Mogadishu has no authority over the facilities.

The city, located on the strategic Gulf of Aden, is administered by Somaliland, which declared independence in 1991 as Somalia descended into civil war. Somaliland’s Foreign Affairs Minister Abdirahman Dahir Aden dismissed the move as "desperate."

In a letter to U.S. President Donald Trump, seen by Reuters, Somalia's President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud reportedly proposed the "exclusive control" of four ports and airbases, including those in Somaliland and others within Somalia. The letter argued that these sites would help "bolster American engagement in the region" while countering the influence of "external competitors."

Responding to the letter, Minister Aden said, "There is nothing they can do to stop the upcoming recognition of Somaliland," adding on X that the U.S. understands "who they need to deal with when it comes to Berbera port."

https://www.bbc.com/news/articles/c8d4dzq87rpo

#Ethiopia: Over 4.5 million students still out of school despite extended registration in war-torn #Amhara region

The Amhara Regional Education Bureau has reported that over 4.5 million students remain out of school despite an extended registration period, citing “security problems” as a key factor. Deputy Head of the Bureau, Dems Endris, stated that “over 3,600 schools have been closed” due to ongoing conflict in the region.

Dems warned that if the situation persists, “tomorrow, an Amhara mother will not have a child to graduate from university.” He further claimed that teachers and administrators who “accepted national citizenship obligations” and are “fulfilling their professional oaths” have faced “killings, detentions, and harassment.” The Bureau emphasized that educators, whom Dems described as “second parents,” are enduring “terrible abuses” while striving to “transition generations to the light of knowledge.”

https://addisstandard.com/?p=49515

#Ethiopia implements over 80 reforms to accelerate #WTO accession, trade minister says

Kassahun Gofe, Minister for Trade and Regional Integration, stated at the 5th WTO Accession Meeting in #Geneva on March 19, 2025, that Ethiopia has introduced more than 80 legal and administrative reforms to facilitate its accession to the World Trade Organization (WTO).

He explained that the reforms include opening the telecommunications sector, expanding private sector participation in financial services, allowing foreign investors in trade, and liberalizing the logistics sector. He also noted that Ethiopian Investment Holdings was established to ensure state-owned enterprises operate transparently and commercially.

"Despite global protectionist trends, Ethiopia remains fully committed to joining the WTO," Kassahun said, adding that the country aims to complete its accession in the coming months and join the organization at the 14th Ministerial Conference in Yaoundé, Cameroon.

Watch!

#Ethiopia Fed. Police, #Dubai Police hold high-level talks on criminal extradition, joint investigations

Ethiopian Federal Police Commissioner General Demelash Gebremichael recently held high-level discussions with Lieutenant Colonel Abdullah Mohammed, Chief of Dubai Police Forensic Investigation, focusing on extradition and joint criminal investigations.

Commissioner General Demelash “suspects who committed crimes in Dubai and later sought refuge in Ethiopia”, the Federal Police said. The Commissioner also stated the continuation of efforts to “extradite wanted criminals from both countries to ensure they face justice.”

The discussions also explored the formation of “a joint criminal investigation team” and experience-sharing initiatives between the two countries.

This follows Ethiopia’s May 2023 approval of a law governing extradition agreements with the UAE, which aims to establish a “legal framework for bilateral cooperation in criminal matters.”

Despite its objectives, the extradition agreement has faced criticism, with concerns raised about potential human rights implications. Critics, including MP Desalegn Chane of the National Movement of Amhara (NaMA) party, argue that the law could be used to target individuals with differing political views.

In January this year UAE experts trained Ethiopian federal police officers in areas including counter-terrorism, cybercrime investigations, and VIP security.

https://addisstandard.com/?p=49524

#Ethiopia: Central bank rolls out bi-weekly forex auctions as reserves surge 200%

The National Bank of Ethiopia (#NBE) has launched bi-weekly foreign exchange auctions, aimed at directing a portion of the bank’s foreign currency reserves to the private sector. The auctions are expected to continue until the end of the current fiscal year, with the central bank citing recent improvements in forex inflows as a driving factor.

In a statement, NBE Governor Mamo Mihretu explained that the reforms, which followed the July 2024 shift to a market-based exchange rate system, have significantly boosted foreign exchange reserves by 200% over the past nine months. “The plan has been achieved with three months still remaining in the fiscal year,” Mamo said. However, he acknowledged challenges in managing the foreign currency supply, which have created difficulties for businesses and banks. “Uncertainties have emerged, and it is time to address these issues,” he noted.

https://addisstandard.com/?p=49530

#Ethiopia launches mass cholera vaccination in #Gambella amid rising death toll, influx of displaced people from #South_Sudan

Ethiopia has launched a weeklong mass cholera vaccination campaign in Gambella, targeting one million people as cases continue to rise. Health officials say the effort, which began over the weekend, will cover all zones, including refugee shelters housing people displaced by ongoing violence in South Sudan. Minister of Health Dr. Mekdes Daba emphasized the government's commitment to strengthening outbreak response, stating that a “comprehensive national strategy” is in place to prevent and control diseases.

According to the #UN, 1,320 cases and 29 deaths were reported in Gambella as of 08 March, with cholera spreading beyond the initial outbreak areas. The deteriorating health situation has been compounded by an influx of displaced people from South Sudan, where over 36,180 cases and 600 deaths have been recorded since October 2024. #MSF warned of a “rapidly unfolding humanitarian crisis” on both sides of the border, as thousands arrive in Ethiopia in need of urgent medical care.

https://addisstandard.com/?p=49535

#Ethiopia: Parliament amends law enabling one-year extension for #Tigray interim admin

The House of People's Representatives amended a proclamation on Tuesday, allowing interim administrations to be extended twice, each for up to one year. The revision enables the Tigray Interim Administration, whose mandate recently expired, to continue for another year. The amendment, which revises Proclamation No. 359/2003, shifts the authority to approve extensions from the House of Federation to the Speaker of the House, citing the need for "flexibility" in addressing "extremely complex security and political problems."

The explanatory note attached to the amendment argues that the previous timeframe “does not align with the current reality,” highlighting that in Tigray, “even after a two-year term, conditions have not been created to establish a regular regional government through elections.” Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed had earlier indicated that the interim administration’s mandate would be extended, adding that “there may be changes” in its leadership. The administration was formed under the Pretoria Cessation of Hostilities Agreement (#COHA) signed in November 2022, but internal divisions within the TPLF, particularly between Debretsion Gebremichael (PhD) and Getachew Reda, have disrupted its operations since June 2024.

https://addisstandard.com/?p=49545

Citing #Kosovo as a precedent, #Somaliland calls on #Kenya to lead #Africa in recognizing its sovereignty

The government of Somaliland has formally urged Kenya to recognize its independence, citing Kenya’s recent acknowledgment of Kosovo’s sovereignty as a precedent.

In an official statement issued by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation, Somaliland commended Kenya for recognizing Kosovo and encouraged it to take a similar step regarding Somaliland.

The statement underscored Somaliland’s three-decade track record of peace, democratic governance, and functional state institutions - criteria that align with established international legal standards for statehood.

“In this spirit, the Republic of Somaliland calls on the Government of Kenya to make a similarly principled and historic decision by formally recognizing Somaliland’s sovereignty. Such a step would not only reaffirm Kenya’s leadership in regional diplomacy and multilateral engagement but also strengthen bilateral relations and contribute to lasting peace, stability, and cooperation across the Horn of Africa,” the statement read.

https://www.horndiplomat.com/2025/03/somaliland-calls-on-kenya-to-lead-africa-in-recognizing-its-sovereignty-citing-kosovo-as-a-precedent/