#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.

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#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/

People affected by violence and cholera in #South_Sudan arrive exhausted in #Ethiopia

A humanitarian crisis is rapidly unfolding on both sides of the South Sudan-Ethiopia border, as escalating violence, displacement and a widespread cholera outbreak are pushing communities to the brink, Médecins Sans Frontières (MSF) warns.

Clashes between government forces and armed groups, which initially began in Upper Nile state, South Sudan, now risk spreading to other parts of the country. Across the border, Ethiopia's #Gambella region is experiencing the effects of this violence. According to the United Nations, approximately 10,000 displaced people have crossed into Ethiopia since the start of March.

“We have already witnessed how this violence has fueled the spread of cholera in several areas, but a larger, escalating conflict could push the entire country into an unprecedented humanitarian catastrophe,” says Zakaria https://www.msf.org/people-affected-violence-and-cholera-south-sudan-arrive-exhausted-ethiopia

#Op_ed: Progress with Perspective: Embracing criticism, recognizing change in #Ethiopia's #Somali region

In this op-ed, Hussien Mohamed Yusuf examines the evolving governance landscape in Ethiopia's Somali Region, acknowledging both progress and persistent challenges. The article seeks to offer a balanced reflection, emphasizing that constructive criticism is essential to meaningful reform. “Having carefully considered arguments from both sides,” he writes, “I have chosen to pen this piece as an impartial observation, aiming to offer a balanced reflection that acknowledges progress while also underscoring the importance of critique.”

According to Yusuf, the political shift of 2018 ended a decade-long authoritarian rule and raised hopes for a more inclusive and accountable administration. He argues that over the past seven years, governance in the region has seen both significant improvements and enduring issues. The op-ed notes, citing public discourse, that positive developments include increased political openness, the absence of political prisoners, and the rise of civic engagement. Yusuf states that institutional transparency has also improved, with measures like public procurement announcements and restructuring of regional bureaus. He adds that economic gains, including enhanced trade and service sector growth, have further signaled progress. However, the author cautions that “reform cannot rest solely on symbolism or relative improvement,” stressing that tangible benefits must reach local communities.

Despite advancements, the article outlines key areas where governance gaps remain, as highlighted by local feedback and reports. Yusuf points out that the justice sector, service delivery, and merit-based public service appointments continue to face scrutiny. He references internal audits that question the fairness of procurement practices, noting that while transparency has improved, concerns about consistency persist. Additionally, he states that rural areas lag in infrastructure and essential services, exposing disparities in development. “Leaders who embrace critique signal confidence in their governance; those who reject it outright risk insulating themselves from reality,” Yusuf asserts.

https://addisstandard.com/?p=49540

#Ethiopia: Fuel tanker shot, drivers abducted in #Amhara; regional officials blame ‘extremists’

A fuel tanker parked along a main highway in Ethiopia's Amhara region was found riddled with bullet holes, with fuel leaking onto the ground. The regional government blamed the attack on what it called “extremists,” further alleging that the assailants “robbed” the truck and “abducted” the drivers.

According to the authorities, two drivers were taken, while another was “shot and severely injured,” receiving medical care at Gayint Hospital. The attack comes amid renewed militarized conflict in Ethiopia’s Amhara region involving government forces and various #Fano armed groups, which began in the summer of 2023.

Last month, another attack on heavy trucks transporting sesame from Gondar to Bahir Dar resulted in one driver’s death and the burning of more than six vehicles. “Many trucks were burned,” a resident told Addis Standard, adding that the financial losses amounted to “millions.”

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#Djibouti appoints new foreign minister after Mahamoud Ali Youssouf's election as head of #AU

Djibouti has appointed Abdoulkader Houssein Omar, a former ambassador to Kuwait and Jordan, as minister of foreign affairs and international cooperation, replacing Mahamoud Ali Youssouf, who was elected as Chairperson of the African Union Commission in February, according to a presidential decree published Tuesday.

Alexis Mohamed, a spokesperson for the Djibouti presidency, told AFP that "we are not talking about a ministerial reshuffle," emphasizing that "this is the only change within the government." The decree was signed by President Ismail Omar Guelleh, who has been in power since 1999 and is expected to step down in 2026.

Youssouf had served as Djibouti’s top diplomat for nearly 20 years.

https://www.trt.global/afrika-english/article/92eb2b2a57df

Report finds 43 journalists arrested, imprisoned, or kidnapped in #Ethiopia in 2024 amid rising threats to press freedom

At least 43 journalists in Ethiopia were arrested, imprisoned, or kidnapped in 2024, according to the Journalists’ Safety Assessment Report by International Media Support (#IMS). The report states that press freedom has been “increasingly threatened,” with journalists facing “intimidation, detention, and harassment” from both state and non-state actors. It highlights particular risks in conflict zones like #Amhara, #Oromia, and Benishangul-Gumuz, where journalists have been “arbitrarily detained” or abducted by armed groups “to control media narratives.”

IMS documented “nine cases of arbitrary detention in Amhara” during the state of emergency, where journalists were accused of “aiding illegal forces” or spreading “false information.” In Benishangul-Gumuz, a TV cameraperson was “abducted by armed groups” while traveling with his wife. Two journalists remain missing.

IMS calls on the Ethiopian government to “end arbitrary arrest, detention, and intimidation of journalists” and urges security agencies to “refrain from unlawful surveillance.” It warns against amendments to media laws without public consultation and calls for “effective, impartial investigations” into attacks on journalists. Warring groups must “stop abducting, abusing, and threatening journalists” and adhere to international guidelines on media safety.

https://addisstandard.com/?p=49552

Heavy clashes reported in southern #Sudan; army claims gains against #RSF

Fierce clashes were reported Tuesday between the Sudanese army and its rival paramilitary Rapid Support Forces (RSF) in the strategic city of El-Obeid, the capital of North Kordofan state in southern Sudan.

A military source told Anadolu that the army inflicted "heavy losses" on RSF troops and equipment, forcing them to "flee positions." Witnesses reported that clashes with "heavy weapons" broke out in the city's western areas early in the morning, though calm was later restored.

The RSF has not yet commented on the army's claims. The city had recently been subjected to "intensified artillery shelling" by RSF forces, resulting in deaths and injuries. Meanwhile, the army announced last week that it had "cleared the last RSF pockets" in Khartoum, regaining control of key locations for the first time since April 2023.

https://www.aa.com.tr/en/africa/heavy-fighting-reported-between-sudanese-army-rival-rsf-in-southern-sudan/3525417

#Commentary: Locked Out, Not Backing Down: #Ethiopia’s strategic maritime interests amid #Red_Sea power struggle

In this commentary, Yohanan Yokamo, a lecturer and researcher at the College of Law and Governance at Hawassa University, examines Ethiopia’s strategic concerns regarding the Red Sea amid regional power struggles. The writer underscores Ethiopia’s long-standing geopolitical interests in the waterway and its diplomatic engagements to secure its role in maritime governance.

The commentary highlights how the Red Sea has historically attracted various global and regional actors due to its strategic significance. The piece notes that in recent years, port expansions and foreign military bases have turned the Red Sea coastline into what the writer describes as a "military garrison." Ethiopia, being a landlocked country, relies heavily on this maritime route for trade and has thus intensified its diplomatic efforts with regional bodies such as the African Union (#AU) and the Intergovernmental Authority on Development (#IGAD). "Ethiopia has deep concerns over activities in the region," the article states, emphasizing the country's proactive engagement in maritime governance.

The writer points to Ethiopia’s historical engagement with Red Sea affairs, arguing that the country has long been affected by geopolitical competition in the region. "Any effort to govern the Red Sea and the Gulf of Aden that does not include us will not be fair or realistic; the Red Sea is a natural and strategic outlet for us," the article quotes a high-ranking Ethiopian diplomat in response to Ethiopia’s exclusion from the Saudi-Egyptian-led Red Sea Forum. According to the writer, "Ethiopia’s exclusion from such a framework could severely impede the development of ports, infrastructure, and energy resources across the Horn, as well as its expanding engagement with the Gulf States."

The piece outlines the shifting power dynamics in the Red Sea region, emphasizing that the competition among Gulf States has had immediate implications for stability. "Maintaining a balanced approach through neutrality or non-alignment is essential in managing these tensions," the writer asserts, adding that this strategy "enables Ethiopia to expand its network of partnerships while ensuring stability in the maritime region." The commentary further suggests that Ethiopia must establish an early warning system and a proactive policy to counter potential security threats. Additionally, the article underscores the need for Ethiopia to strengthen its domestic stability, engage in economic diplomacy, and enhance its naval capabilities to safeguard its long-term interests in the region.

https://addisstandard.com/?p=49559

#Ethiopia: #UN designates several districts in #Amhara as "hard-to-reach" for aid access, warns of worsening crisis despite some improvements

The UN Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (OCHA) says that while aid access has improved in parts of eastern Amhara, "many areas remain inaccessible," limiting food distribution, medical aid, and essential services. OCHA identifies districts such as Tach Gayint in South Gondar, Mehal Sayint in South Wello, Wemberma in West Gojam, and Dewa Chefa in the Oromo Special Zone as "hard-to-reach," leaving vulnerable populations facing "severe constraints on humanitarian assistance."

In its update, OCHA reported that access breakthroughs in Bugna and Raya Kobo districts have allowed humanitarian actors to reach "health centers in need of assistance" and deliver "limited but critical nutrition supplies." However, it warned that in other areas, "malnutrition is worsening," particularly in North Wello, South Wello, North Gondar, South Gondar, and Wag Hamra.