#Somalia's parliamentary committee criticises oil deal with #Turkey; cites lack of transparency
Somalia’s parliamentary Natural Resources Committee has expressed strong opposition to a controversial oil and gas deal signed with Turkey, following leaked documents indicating that Ankara would receive 90% of the revenue from offshore oil and gas production, while Somalia would earn only 5%.
In a statement issued on Thursday, the committee said the agreement—reportedly signed by former petroleum minister Abdirisak Omar Mohamed in early 2024—was concluded “without prior consultation with Parliament.” It added that “lawmakers were not informed of the deal,” and claimed the agreement contravenes “Somalia’s legal and constitutional frameworks.”
Committee members further alleged that the deal was “pushed through without proper scrutiny,” and said the public and civil society have only recently become aware of its contents. “The fact that Turkey gets the lion’s share while Somalia receives just 5% is unacceptable and shocking,” said one member of the committee, adding that the arrangement “raises questions about whose interest this deal really serves.”
https://www.garoweonline.com/en/news/somalia/somalia-s-parliamentary-committee-opposes-secretive-oil-deal-with-turkey
Somalia’s parliamentary Natural Resources Committee has expressed strong opposition to a controversial oil and gas deal signed with Turkey, following leaked documents indicating that Ankara would receive 90% of the revenue from offshore oil and gas production, while Somalia would earn only 5%.
In a statement issued on Thursday, the committee said the agreement—reportedly signed by former petroleum minister Abdirisak Omar Mohamed in early 2024—was concluded “without prior consultation with Parliament.” It added that “lawmakers were not informed of the deal,” and claimed the agreement contravenes “Somalia’s legal and constitutional frameworks.”
Committee members further alleged that the deal was “pushed through without proper scrutiny,” and said the public and civil society have only recently become aware of its contents. “The fact that Turkey gets the lion’s share while Somalia receives just 5% is unacceptable and shocking,” said one member of the committee, adding that the arrangement “raises questions about whose interest this deal really serves.”
https://www.garoweonline.com/en/news/somalia/somalia-s-parliamentary-committee-opposes-secretive-oil-deal-with-turkey
Garowe Online
Somalia’s Parliamentary Committee Opposes Secretive Oil Deal With Turkey
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#Ethiopia: #ONLF accuses #Somali region security forces of disrupting women’s meeting, reports injuries and detentions
The Ogaden National Liberation Front (ONLF) chaired by Abdirahman Mahdi has accused security forces in the Somali Region of disrupting a women’s meeting in #Jigjiga, detaining its members and injuring others. In a statement issued on April 24, the group said the incident was part of a “widening crackdown” on its supporters and political space.
The statement said “a peaceful meeting” of the Ogaden Women’s Association held at its “regional office in Jigjiga” was “violently disrupted by armed security forces.” It claimed that “several ONLF members were injured,” a “renowned cultural figure” was hospitalized, and “a number of ONLF officers” were detained. The group described the incident as “an attack” on “unarmed civilians and legitimate political actors.”
https://addisstandard.com/?p=49873
The Ogaden National Liberation Front (ONLF) chaired by Abdirahman Mahdi has accused security forces in the Somali Region of disrupting a women’s meeting in #Jigjiga, detaining its members and injuring others. In a statement issued on April 24, the group said the incident was part of a “widening crackdown” on its supporters and political space.
The statement said “a peaceful meeting” of the Ogaden Women’s Association held at its “regional office in Jigjiga” was “violently disrupted by armed security forces.” It claimed that “several ONLF members were injured,” a “renowned cultural figure” was hospitalized, and “a number of ONLF officers” were detained. The group described the incident as “an attack” on “unarmed civilians and legitimate political actors.”
https://addisstandard.com/?p=49873
Addis Standard
ONLF accuses Somali region security forces of disrupting women’s meeting, reports injuries and detentions - Addis Standard
ONLF accuses Somali region security forces of disrupting women’s meeting, reports injuries and detentions Addis Standard News -
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Al-Shabaab terrorists attack strategic army base in #Somalia, multiple casualties on both sides
Al-Shabaab militants launched a pre-dawn assault on a National Army base in #Wargaadhi village, Middle Shabelle region, on Thursday, leading to what officials described as “fierce combat” between government forces and the al-Qaeda-linked group. The attack, which targeted one of the most strategic bases in the area, reportedly caused multiple casualties on both sides.
A security official, who spoke to Anadolu Agency on condition of anonymity, said the army, supported by local militias, “engaged in heavy fighting” after the group attempted to overrun the base. While al-Shabaab claimed it had seized control of the village, the Defense Ministry rejected the assertion, stating that Wargaadhi “remains fully under the control of the National Army and local forces.”
Wargaadhi, the second-largest army base in Middle Shabelle after Adan Yabaal, is seen as a critical location due to its connection with other military sites in Eel-Dheer and Masagaway, located in the neighboring Galmudug state. The group has escalated its operations in the region, particularly targeting military infrastructure, since the beginning of Ramadan.
https://www.aa.com.tr/en/africa/al-shabaab-terrorists-attack-strategic-army-base-in-somalia-multiple-casualties-on-both-sides/3547720
Al-Shabaab militants launched a pre-dawn assault on a National Army base in #Wargaadhi village, Middle Shabelle region, on Thursday, leading to what officials described as “fierce combat” between government forces and the al-Qaeda-linked group. The attack, which targeted one of the most strategic bases in the area, reportedly caused multiple casualties on both sides.
A security official, who spoke to Anadolu Agency on condition of anonymity, said the army, supported by local militias, “engaged in heavy fighting” after the group attempted to overrun the base. While al-Shabaab claimed it had seized control of the village, the Defense Ministry rejected the assertion, stating that Wargaadhi “remains fully under the control of the National Army and local forces.”
Wargaadhi, the second-largest army base in Middle Shabelle after Adan Yabaal, is seen as a critical location due to its connection with other military sites in Eel-Dheer and Masagaway, located in the neighboring Galmudug state. The group has escalated its operations in the region, particularly targeting military infrastructure, since the beginning of Ramadan.
https://www.aa.com.tr/en/africa/al-shabaab-terrorists-attack-strategic-army-base-in-somalia-multiple-casualties-on-both-sides/3547720
Anadolu Agency
Al-Shabaab terrorists attack strategic army base in Somalia, multiple casualties on both sides
Al-Qaeda-affiliated group claims to have overrun army base in Wargaadhi, but Somali Defense Ministry denies and says it remains under military control
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#Ethiopia's inflation rate to decline to 10% in 2025/2026 fiscal year, central bank governor says
Ethiopia’s annual inflation rate is projected to decline to 10% in the 2025/26 fiscal year, National Bank Governor Mamo Mihretu said on Thursday, attributing the expected drop to a set of economic reforms underway. Speaking during the IMF and World Bank Spring Meetings in Washington, Mamo stated that the current trajectory marks the lowest inflation in ten years.
The East African nation struck a four-year, $3.4 billion program deal with the International Monetary Fund last July and is undertaking far-reaching reforms which included the floatation of its birr currency and getting its debt restructuring back on track.
Mamo said inflation, which had remained around 30% for three consecutive years, fell to 13% in March. He also said the government’s reform agenda has begun to stabilize key macroeconomic indicators. “One of the most serious issues that we faced before the reform was the dwindling and falling reserves that we had to worry about on a daily basis,” he said. “After the reform, our reserves level increased threefold.”
He projected a doubling of exports and at least a 25% increase in remittance inflows, and said foreign currency reserves had shown “a clear impact” from the reforms, with reserves across the banking system rising significantly.
https://www.reuters.com/world/africa/ethiopias-inflation-rate-decline-10-20252026-fiscal-year-2025-04-24/
Ethiopia’s annual inflation rate is projected to decline to 10% in the 2025/26 fiscal year, National Bank Governor Mamo Mihretu said on Thursday, attributing the expected drop to a set of economic reforms underway. Speaking during the IMF and World Bank Spring Meetings in Washington, Mamo stated that the current trajectory marks the lowest inflation in ten years.
The East African nation struck a four-year, $3.4 billion program deal with the International Monetary Fund last July and is undertaking far-reaching reforms which included the floatation of its birr currency and getting its debt restructuring back on track.
Mamo said inflation, which had remained around 30% for three consecutive years, fell to 13% in March. He also said the government’s reform agenda has begun to stabilize key macroeconomic indicators. “One of the most serious issues that we faced before the reform was the dwindling and falling reserves that we had to worry about on a daily basis,” he said. “After the reform, our reserves level increased threefold.”
He projected a doubling of exports and at least a 25% increase in remittance inflows, and said foreign currency reserves had shown “a clear impact” from the reforms, with reserves across the banking system rising significantly.
https://www.reuters.com/world/africa/ethiopias-inflation-rate-decline-10-20252026-fiscal-year-2025-04-24/
Reuters
Ethiopia's inflation rate to decline to 10% in 2025/2026 fiscal year
Ethiopia's inflation is expected to decline to 10% in the coming financial year, the country's central bank chief Mamo Mihretu said on Thursday, the lowest level in a decade thanks to the government's reform programme.
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#Rwandan beekeeper arrested in #US over #genocide charges
A Rwandan beekeeper living in the US has been arrested over his alleged involvement in the 1994 genocide in his country.
Faustin Nsabumukunzi is accused of committing "heinous acts of violence abroad" when he served as a local leader at the start of genocide, the Justice Department said.
The 65-year-old suspect was also charged with visa fraud and attempted naturalization fraud when he moved to the US in 2003. He pleaded not guilty to the charges and was released on bail.
"Nsabumukunzi repeatedly lied to conceal his involvement in the horrific Rwandan genocide while seeking to become a lawful permanent resident and citizen of the United States," said John Durham, a federal prosecutor.
In just 100 days in 1994, about 800,000 people were killed in Rwanda by ethnic Hutu extremists.
The mainly Tutsi forces who took power following the genocide were alleged to have killed thousands of Hutu people in Rwanda in retaliation.
Nsabumukunzi is alleged to have set up roadblocks during the genocide to detain and kill Tutsis and to have participated in killings, prosecutors said, citing witnesses.
"Nsabumukunzi used his leadership position to oversee the violence and killings of Tutsis in his local area and directed groups of armed Hutus to kill Tutsis," the federal prosecutors said.
He was subsequently convicted and sentenced to life in prison in absentia by a Rwandan genocide court, according to US legal papers.
https://www.bbc.com/news/articles/c0el7z58xzlo
A Rwandan beekeeper living in the US has been arrested over his alleged involvement in the 1994 genocide in his country.
Faustin Nsabumukunzi is accused of committing "heinous acts of violence abroad" when he served as a local leader at the start of genocide, the Justice Department said.
The 65-year-old suspect was also charged with visa fraud and attempted naturalization fraud when he moved to the US in 2003. He pleaded not guilty to the charges and was released on bail.
"Nsabumukunzi repeatedly lied to conceal his involvement in the horrific Rwandan genocide while seeking to become a lawful permanent resident and citizen of the United States," said John Durham, a federal prosecutor.
In just 100 days in 1994, about 800,000 people were killed in Rwanda by ethnic Hutu extremists.
The mainly Tutsi forces who took power following the genocide were alleged to have killed thousands of Hutu people in Rwanda in retaliation.
Nsabumukunzi is alleged to have set up roadblocks during the genocide to detain and kill Tutsis and to have participated in killings, prosecutors said, citing witnesses.
"Nsabumukunzi used his leadership position to oversee the violence and killings of Tutsis in his local area and directed groups of armed Hutus to kill Tutsis," the federal prosecutors said.
He was subsequently convicted and sentenced to life in prison in absentia by a Rwandan genocide court, according to US legal papers.
https://www.bbc.com/news/articles/c0el7z58xzlo
Bbc
Rwandan beekeeper arrested in US over genocide charges
The 65-year-old suspect is also charged with visa fraud while seeking to become a US citizen in 2003.
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#Opinion - Fueling fragility: #Turkey’s #Somalia oil deal could risk new crisis in the Horn
Turkey’s recently revealed hydrocarbons deal with Somalia has sparked outrage across the Horn of #Africa, with critics calling it opaque, exploitative, and destabilizing. Granting Turkey near-total control over Somalia’s oil sector - 90% cost recovery, unchecked revenue repatriation, and third-party rights without Somali oversight - the agreement bypasses domestic consensus and international norms.
The deal’s unveiling has drawn fierce condemnation from #Somaliland, which views the move as an illegitimate intrusion into its sovereign territory and a direct threat to regional peace.
In this piece the writer argues that from a win-win partnership, the agreement reveals #Ankara’s deeper strategic ambitions under its “Africa Opening Strategy,” risking new crises in a region already burdened by conflict and contested sovereignties. “It fuels not just oil exploration, but also fragility- exacerbating historical grievances, violating international norms, and undermining efforts toward long-term peace and cooperation.”
With #Ethiopia, China, and #Egypt also active in the Horn, Turkey’s militarized oil push, which now faces rising backlash may ignite geopolitical flashpoints rather than foster stability. Inclusive diplomacy and regional dialogue are urgently needed to defuse tensions and prevent escalation.
https://addisstandard.com/fueling-fragility-how-turkeys-somalia-oil-deal-could-risk-new-crisis-in-the-horn/
Turkey’s recently revealed hydrocarbons deal with Somalia has sparked outrage across the Horn of #Africa, with critics calling it opaque, exploitative, and destabilizing. Granting Turkey near-total control over Somalia’s oil sector - 90% cost recovery, unchecked revenue repatriation, and third-party rights without Somali oversight - the agreement bypasses domestic consensus and international norms.
The deal’s unveiling has drawn fierce condemnation from #Somaliland, which views the move as an illegitimate intrusion into its sovereign territory and a direct threat to regional peace.
In this piece the writer argues that from a win-win partnership, the agreement reveals #Ankara’s deeper strategic ambitions under its “Africa Opening Strategy,” risking new crises in a region already burdened by conflict and contested sovereignties. “It fuels not just oil exploration, but also fragility- exacerbating historical grievances, violating international norms, and undermining efforts toward long-term peace and cooperation.”
With #Ethiopia, China, and #Egypt also active in the Horn, Turkey’s militarized oil push, which now faces rising backlash may ignite geopolitical flashpoints rather than foster stability. Inclusive diplomacy and regional dialogue are urgently needed to defuse tensions and prevent escalation.
https://addisstandard.com/fueling-fragility-how-turkeys-somalia-oil-deal-could-risk-new-crisis-in-the-horn/
Addis Standard
Opinion - Fueling fragility: Turkey’s Somalia oil deal could risk new crisis in the Horn - Addis Standard
Opinion - Fueling fragility: Turkey’s Somalia oil deal could risk new crisis in the Horn Addis Standard Opinion -
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#Beijing International Film Festival spotlights #African voices in global cinema
The 15th edition of the Beijing International Film Festival (BJIFF), held from 18–26 April, has drawn global attention not only for marking cinema’s 130th anniversary, but also for showcasing diverse narratives from around the world—including African cinema, according to Chen Ziqi, a journalist with CGTN. Among the 15 finalists for the festival’s top honor, the Tiantan Award, 12 are international films, selected from nearly 1,800 submissions spanning 103 countries and regions, Ziqi wrote.
One of the finalists is Nawi: Dear Future Me, a #Kenya-#Germany co-production set in rural Turkana, Kenya. The film follows a 13-year-old girl whose hopes of studying in Nairobi are derailed when her father arranges her marriage in exchange for livestock. Co-director Kevin Schmutzler, quoted by Ziqi, said the film seeks to “raise awareness among policymakers” and aims at “ultimately changing lives,” particularly in relation to the issue of child marriage. According to UNICEF data cited in the report, over four million cases have been reported in Kenya despite laws prohibiting the practice.
Ziqi noted that African films have previously been nominated for the Tiantan Award, including Krotoa in 2018 and Night of the Kings in 2021. While African cinema has had limited exposure in Chinese theaters, the report emphasized that festivals like BJIFF have become “essential platforms” for introducing such works to local audiences. Luc Bendza, actor and representative of the African Film Association in China, was quoted as saying the festival provides “a valuable platform for Chinese audiences to engage with the African film industry and explore its growing creative landscape.”
https://addisstandard.com/beijing-international-film-festival-spotlights-african-voices-in-global-cinema/
The 15th edition of the Beijing International Film Festival (BJIFF), held from 18–26 April, has drawn global attention not only for marking cinema’s 130th anniversary, but also for showcasing diverse narratives from around the world—including African cinema, according to Chen Ziqi, a journalist with CGTN. Among the 15 finalists for the festival’s top honor, the Tiantan Award, 12 are international films, selected from nearly 1,800 submissions spanning 103 countries and regions, Ziqi wrote.
One of the finalists is Nawi: Dear Future Me, a #Kenya-#Germany co-production set in rural Turkana, Kenya. The film follows a 13-year-old girl whose hopes of studying in Nairobi are derailed when her father arranges her marriage in exchange for livestock. Co-director Kevin Schmutzler, quoted by Ziqi, said the film seeks to “raise awareness among policymakers” and aims at “ultimately changing lives,” particularly in relation to the issue of child marriage. According to UNICEF data cited in the report, over four million cases have been reported in Kenya despite laws prohibiting the practice.
Ziqi noted that African films have previously been nominated for the Tiantan Award, including Krotoa in 2018 and Night of the Kings in 2021. While African cinema has had limited exposure in Chinese theaters, the report emphasized that festivals like BJIFF have become “essential platforms” for introducing such works to local audiences. Luc Bendza, actor and representative of the African Film Association in China, was quoted as saying the festival provides “a valuable platform for Chinese audiences to engage with the African film industry and explore its growing creative landscape.”
https://addisstandard.com/beijing-international-film-festival-spotlights-african-voices-in-global-cinema/
Addis Standard
Beijing International Film Festival spotlights African voices in global cinema - Addis Standard
Beijing International Film Festival spotlights African voices in global cinema Addis Standard Art & Culture -
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#Ethio_Telecom collects 3.2 billion birr from share sale; over 47,000 individuals participated
Ethio Telecom announced it has raised 3.2 billion birr from the sale of a 10 percent stake to Ethiopian nationals, following a four-month public offering.
In a statement given to the media on April 25, 2025, CEO Frehiwot Tamiru said the offering, which ran from October 16, 2024, to February 14, 2025, attracted 47,377 participants who purchased a total of 10.7 million shares.
Frehiwot said 100 million shares had been made available during the offering period, with a purchase limit of one million birr per individual to encourage broader participation.
She also stated that requests were submitted by banks and individuals of Ethiopian origin, noting that the process involving these participants “will be made public in the future.”
Read more: https://x.com/addisstandard/status/1915798499288899775
Ethio Telecom announced it has raised 3.2 billion birr from the sale of a 10 percent stake to Ethiopian nationals, following a four-month public offering.
In a statement given to the media on April 25, 2025, CEO Frehiwot Tamiru said the offering, which ran from October 16, 2024, to February 14, 2025, attracted 47,377 participants who purchased a total of 10.7 million shares.
Frehiwot said 100 million shares had been made available during the offering period, with a purchase limit of one million birr per individual to encourage broader participation.
She also stated that requests were submitted by banks and individuals of Ethiopian origin, noting that the process involving these participants “will be made public in the future.”
Read more: https://x.com/addisstandard/status/1915798499288899775
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#Turkey doubles troops in #Somalia amid Al-Shabab offensive
Turkey has nearly doubled its military personnel in Somalia this week, deploying close to 500 additional soldiers, following Al-Shabab’s recent territorial gains near #Mogadishu, several sources familiar with the matter told Middle East Eye. The deployment, which includes armed drones, commandos, and ammunition, comes amid growing concerns in #Ankara over what sources described as "the deteriorating security situation" in Somalia. Despite the increased presence, Turkey has avoided direct ground engagement with Al-Shabab fighters.
Al-Shabab reportedly captured several villages south of Mogadishu last month, areas described by sources as "strategically important" for the Somali government as they serve as a defensive buffer against attacks such as car bombings. In response, Turkey deployed nearly 500 additional troops tasked with safeguarding the Turkish military base, Turksom, operating armed drones, and protecting Mogadishu’s port facilities.
A Turkish source told MEE that Ankara’s forces "are there solely to protect Turkish assets and to train and advise Somali forces," emphasizing that direct engagement with Al-Shabab would occur "only if absolutely necessary and in self-defence."
https://www.middleeasteye.net/news/turkey-doubles-troops-somalia-amid-al-shabab-offensive
Turkey has nearly doubled its military personnel in Somalia this week, deploying close to 500 additional soldiers, following Al-Shabab’s recent territorial gains near #Mogadishu, several sources familiar with the matter told Middle East Eye. The deployment, which includes armed drones, commandos, and ammunition, comes amid growing concerns in #Ankara over what sources described as "the deteriorating security situation" in Somalia. Despite the increased presence, Turkey has avoided direct ground engagement with Al-Shabab fighters.
Al-Shabab reportedly captured several villages south of Mogadishu last month, areas described by sources as "strategically important" for the Somali government as they serve as a defensive buffer against attacks such as car bombings. In response, Turkey deployed nearly 500 additional troops tasked with safeguarding the Turkish military base, Turksom, operating armed drones, and protecting Mogadishu’s port facilities.
A Turkish source told MEE that Ankara’s forces "are there solely to protect Turkish assets and to train and advise Somali forces," emphasizing that direct engagement with Al-Shabab would occur "only if absolutely necessary and in self-defence."
https://www.middleeasteye.net/news/turkey-doubles-troops-somalia-amid-al-shabab-offensive
Middle East Eye
Turkey doubles troops in Somalia amid Al-Shabab offensive
Ankara sends drones, ammunition, commandos but still avoids directly engaging the armed Somali group on the ground
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#Ethiopia, #Morocco defense cooperation eyes cybersecurity, AI, and defense industries
Ethiopia and Morocco are pushing to deepen their defense cooperation, with a focus on cybersecurity, artificial intelligence, and defense industries.
This was indicated during four-day visit to Ethiopia by Inspector General of Morocco’s Royal Armed Forces and Commander of the Southern Zone, General Mohamed Berrid, and his delegation that included high-level talks with army chief Field Marshal Birhanu Jula, as well as tours of key military sites. Both sides agreed on a draft partnership to expand military ties, building on a series of exchanges that started in August 2024.
This visit comes as Ethiopia pushes for regional and international defense partnerships, recently signing a defense agreement with Rwanda and strengthening ties with Kenya, South Africa, South Sudan, and the United Arab Emirates.
https://addisstandard.com/?p=49900
Ethiopia and Morocco are pushing to deepen their defense cooperation, with a focus on cybersecurity, artificial intelligence, and defense industries.
This was indicated during four-day visit to Ethiopia by Inspector General of Morocco’s Royal Armed Forces and Commander of the Southern Zone, General Mohamed Berrid, and his delegation that included high-level talks with army chief Field Marshal Birhanu Jula, as well as tours of key military sites. Both sides agreed on a draft partnership to expand military ties, building on a series of exchanges that started in August 2024.
This visit comes as Ethiopia pushes for regional and international defense partnerships, recently signing a defense agreement with Rwanda and strengthening ties with Kenya, South Africa, South Sudan, and the United Arab Emirates.
https://addisstandard.com/?p=49900
World Council of Churches condemns drone attack in #Ethiopia's #Amhara region
World Council of Churches (WCC) general secretary Rev. Prof. Dr Jerry Pillay expressed deep concern and sorrow over the tragic loss of civilian lives resulting from a recent drone strike in the town of Gedeb, Amhara region, Ethiopia.
“This atrocity adds to a growing list of similar incidents in recent months, including another devastating drone strike in 2024 that targeted civilians,” said Pillay.
“The World Council of Churches condemns in the strongest possible terms such attacks on civilian-populated areas.”
Pillay also expressed concern over the increasing use of autonomous or semi-autonomous armed drones in conflict settings, without strict adherence to international humanitarian law and safeguards to protect non-combatants.
https://www.oikoumene.org/news/wcc-condemns-drone-attack-in-ethiopia
World Council of Churches (WCC) general secretary Rev. Prof. Dr Jerry Pillay expressed deep concern and sorrow over the tragic loss of civilian lives resulting from a recent drone strike in the town of Gedeb, Amhara region, Ethiopia.
“This atrocity adds to a growing list of similar incidents in recent months, including another devastating drone strike in 2024 that targeted civilians,” said Pillay.
“The World Council of Churches condemns in the strongest possible terms such attacks on civilian-populated areas.”
Pillay also expressed concern over the increasing use of autonomous or semi-autonomous armed drones in conflict settings, without strict adherence to international humanitarian law and safeguards to protect non-combatants.
https://www.oikoumene.org/news/wcc-condemns-drone-attack-in-ethiopia
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A planned #EU rule has #coffee growers in #Ethiopia scrambling
Farmers in Africa that produce some of the world’s most prized coffee are in a scramble to comply with new European Union environmental rules that require them to document the origin of every shipment of beans.
The new measure, coming into force at the end of this year, is designed to prevent deforestation driven by agricultural expansion. To comply, farmers must provide geolocation data to show that their coffee was not grown on land where forests have recently been cut down.
After Dec. 31, any producers that cannot will lose access to the vast European market.
Europe consumes more coffee than any country or bloc in the world and experts say the new rule, formally known as the E.U. Deforestation Regulation, is a potentially powerful tool to promote sustainable agriculture and prevent forest destruction.
But it also represents what some are calling a “green squeeze” that imposes heavy burdens on millions of small farmers in developing countries that have contributed the least to climate change, and tests ability of policymakers to balance the needs of people and the needs of nature.
“Of course data is very important to us, but what we are just saying is we need support,” said Dejene Dadi, head of the Oromia Coffee Farmers Cooperative Union. “It’s very challenging and costly and we don’t have any help.”
Dejene said his group, the largest coffee growers’ cooperative in Ethiopia, with more than half a million members based in the central part of the country, probably could not prepare all its farms by the deadline without additional support.
https://www.nytimes.com/2025/04/24/climate/ethiopia-coffee-europe-deforestation.html
Farmers in Africa that produce some of the world’s most prized coffee are in a scramble to comply with new European Union environmental rules that require them to document the origin of every shipment of beans.
The new measure, coming into force at the end of this year, is designed to prevent deforestation driven by agricultural expansion. To comply, farmers must provide geolocation data to show that their coffee was not grown on land where forests have recently been cut down.
After Dec. 31, any producers that cannot will lose access to the vast European market.
Europe consumes more coffee than any country or bloc in the world and experts say the new rule, formally known as the E.U. Deforestation Regulation, is a potentially powerful tool to promote sustainable agriculture and prevent forest destruction.
But it also represents what some are calling a “green squeeze” that imposes heavy burdens on millions of small farmers in developing countries that have contributed the least to climate change, and tests ability of policymakers to balance the needs of people and the needs of nature.
“Of course data is very important to us, but what we are just saying is we need support,” said Dejene Dadi, head of the Oromia Coffee Farmers Cooperative Union. “It’s very challenging and costly and we don’t have any help.”
Dejene said his group, the largest coffee growers’ cooperative in Ethiopia, with more than half a million members based in the central part of the country, probably could not prepare all its farms by the deadline without additional support.
https://www.nytimes.com/2025/04/24/climate/ethiopia-coffee-europe-deforestation.html
NY Times
A Planned E.U. Rule Has Coffee Growers in Ethiopia Scrambling
The measure will require geolocation data to show that beans aren’t linked to deforestation. Farmers say they need more time to prepare.
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#Somalia’s Prime Minister appoints new Defence Minister amid security challenges
Somalia’s Prime Minister, Hamza Abdi Barre, appointed Ahmed Moallim Fiqi Ahmed as defence minister on Sunday, replacing Jibril Abdirashid, as his government tries to stem an "Islamist insurgency," according to a statement read by the government spokesperson.
The reshuffle, announced in a video posted on the government's official Facebook page, did not include an explanation. Ahmed, who previously served as foreign minister and national security chief, was among several new appointments, including Jibril Abdirashid Haji Abdi as second deputy prime minister and Abdisaalan Abdi Ali Daay as foreign minister.
The appointment of a new defence minister comes as the government "struggles to halt recent gains by al Shabaab" in an offensive by the al Qaeda-allied group. Al Shabaab "briefly captured villages within 50 km (30 miles) of Mogadishu," raising fears that the city could be targeted.
https://www.reuters.com/world/africa/somalias-prime-minister-appoints-new-defence-minister-reshuffle-2025-04-27/
Somalia’s Prime Minister, Hamza Abdi Barre, appointed Ahmed Moallim Fiqi Ahmed as defence minister on Sunday, replacing Jibril Abdirashid, as his government tries to stem an "Islamist insurgency," according to a statement read by the government spokesperson.
The reshuffle, announced in a video posted on the government's official Facebook page, did not include an explanation. Ahmed, who previously served as foreign minister and national security chief, was among several new appointments, including Jibril Abdirashid Haji Abdi as second deputy prime minister and Abdisaalan Abdi Ali Daay as foreign minister.
The appointment of a new defence minister comes as the government "struggles to halt recent gains by al Shabaab" in an offensive by the al Qaeda-allied group. Al Shabaab "briefly captured villages within 50 km (30 miles) of Mogadishu," raising fears that the city could be targeted.
https://www.reuters.com/world/africa/somalias-prime-minister-appoints-new-defence-minister-reshuffle-2025-04-27/
Reuters
Somalia's prime minister appoints new defence minister in reshuffle
Ahmed Moallim Fiqi Ahmed, who previously served as foreign minister and national security chief, was appointed defense minister, replacing Jibril Abdirashid. The prime minister did not give a reason for the change.
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#Ethiopia expects preliminary deal on #IMF review within days, finance minister says
Ethiopia expects to reach a preliminary agreement on the third review of its $3.4 billion loan programme with the International Monetary Fund early this week and sees formal debt talks with bondholders starting in summer, State Finance Minister Eyob Tekalign told Reuters.
The East African country, which struck a four-year, $3.4 billion program IMF deal last July, is in the midst of a far-reaching reform push, including the floatation of its birr currency and a push to get its debt restructuring over the line.
Speaking on the sidelines of the IMF and World Bank Group spring meetings in Washington, Eyob said he had met IMF Managing Director Kristalina Georgieva as well as other staff to discuss progress on reforms.
https://www.reuters.com/world/africa/ethiopia-expects-preliminary-deal-imf-review-within-days-finance-minister-says-2025-04-28/
Ethiopia expects to reach a preliminary agreement on the third review of its $3.4 billion loan programme with the International Monetary Fund early this week and sees formal debt talks with bondholders starting in summer, State Finance Minister Eyob Tekalign told Reuters.
The East African country, which struck a four-year, $3.4 billion program IMF deal last July, is in the midst of a far-reaching reform push, including the floatation of its birr currency and a push to get its debt restructuring over the line.
Speaking on the sidelines of the IMF and World Bank Group spring meetings in Washington, Eyob said he had met IMF Managing Director Kristalina Georgieva as well as other staff to discuss progress on reforms.
https://www.reuters.com/world/africa/ethiopia-expects-preliminary-deal-imf-review-within-days-finance-minister-says-2025-04-28/
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#Ethiopia: Tigist Assefa breaks women-only marathon world record with 2:15:50 in #London
Ethiopia’s Tigist Assefa smashed the women-only world record by 26 seconds at the TCS London Marathon, running 2:15:50* to win the World Athletics Platinum Label road race on Sunday (27).
On a warm and sunny day, the Olympic silver medallist kicked away from Kenya’s Joyciline Jepkosgei to clinch her first London Marathon win after finishing second to Peres Jepchirchir last year.
Jepchirchir’s winning mark of 2:16:16 a year ago had also been a women-only world record and that is the mark Assefa improved, finishing strongly to win by almost three minutes ahead of Jepkosgei (2:18:44). Olympic champion Sifan Hassan of the Netherlands was third (2:19:00).
The men’s race was won by Kenya’s Sabastian Sawe in a dominant 2:02:27 – the second-fastest ever London Marathon time. World half marathon record-holder Jacob Kiplimo was second on his marathon debut, setting a Ugandan record of 2:03:37, and defending champion Alexander Mutiso Munyao of Kenya was third in 2:04:20. The top eight finished inside 2:07.
Given the strength of the field, the women-only world record was always the target. With that in mind, the lead group of Jepkosgei, Assefa, Hassan and Megertu Alemu followed the pacemakers through 5km in a blistering 15:34 – not only inside the targeted 2:15 pace, but on sub-2:12 rhythm.
The quartet maintained that pace through 10km, hitting that mark in 31:16. Hassan dropped back a little after the water station but rejoined the leaders and they all reached 15km in 47:11.
A significant gap opened up after 15km and while Hassan rallied, she was five seconds back at 20km – a deficit that would only increase. Assefa and Jepchirchir broke away by the halfway point, which they passed in 1:06:40, 10 seconds ahead of Hassan. Alemu was running in fourth place, two and a half minutes behind the leaders, but she dropped out before reaching 25km.
https://worldathletics.org/competitions/world-athletics-label-road-races/news/tigist-assefa-women-only-world-marathon-record-london
Ethiopia’s Tigist Assefa smashed the women-only world record by 26 seconds at the TCS London Marathon, running 2:15:50* to win the World Athletics Platinum Label road race on Sunday (27).
On a warm and sunny day, the Olympic silver medallist kicked away from Kenya’s Joyciline Jepkosgei to clinch her first London Marathon win after finishing second to Peres Jepchirchir last year.
Jepchirchir’s winning mark of 2:16:16 a year ago had also been a women-only world record and that is the mark Assefa improved, finishing strongly to win by almost three minutes ahead of Jepkosgei (2:18:44). Olympic champion Sifan Hassan of the Netherlands was third (2:19:00).
The men’s race was won by Kenya’s Sabastian Sawe in a dominant 2:02:27 – the second-fastest ever London Marathon time. World half marathon record-holder Jacob Kiplimo was second on his marathon debut, setting a Ugandan record of 2:03:37, and defending champion Alexander Mutiso Munyao of Kenya was third in 2:04:20. The top eight finished inside 2:07.
Given the strength of the field, the women-only world record was always the target. With that in mind, the lead group of Jepkosgei, Assefa, Hassan and Megertu Alemu followed the pacemakers through 5km in a blistering 15:34 – not only inside the targeted 2:15 pace, but on sub-2:12 rhythm.
The quartet maintained that pace through 10km, hitting that mark in 31:16. Hassan dropped back a little after the water station but rejoined the leaders and they all reached 15km in 47:11.
A significant gap opened up after 15km and while Hassan rallied, she was five seconds back at 20km – a deficit that would only increase. Assefa and Jepchirchir broke away by the halfway point, which they passed in 1:06:40, 10 seconds ahead of Hassan. Alemu was running in fourth place, two and a half minutes behind the leaders, but she dropped out before reaching 25km.
https://worldathletics.org/competitions/world-athletics-label-road-races/news/tigist-assefa-women-only-world-marathon-record-london
World Athletics
Assefa breaks women-only marathon world record with 2:15:50 in London
Ethiopia’s Tigist Assefa smashed the women-only world record by 26 seconds at the TCS London Marathon, running 2:15:50* to win the World Athletics Platinum Label road race on Sunday
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#Ethiopia: Despite target to rehabilitate 75,000 ex-combatants in #Tigray by June, NRC reports only 17,000 reintegrated so far
The National Rehabilitation Commission (#NRC) has revealed that only 17,000 former fighters have completed the Disarmament, Demobilization, and Reintegration (DDR) process in Tigray so far, falling short of the 75,000 target set for June. Commissioner Temesgen Tilahun told Deutsche Welle. (DW) that the program, launched in November, had been "interrupted for months".due to political instability, describing progress as "limited."
Temesgen stated that operations were suspended over unresolved issues, including combatant screening and weapons handover, noting, "We were forced to suspend our work." By late December, only "around 8,000" ex-combatants had been processed before activities resumed this month. The NRC is now operating through two centers in Mekelle and Edaga Hamus, supporting "350 former fighters daily" with reintegration efforts. The DDR program, part of a nationwide initiative, aims to demobilize over 371,000 ex-combatants.
https://addisstandard.com/?p=49903
The National Rehabilitation Commission (#NRC) has revealed that only 17,000 former fighters have completed the Disarmament, Demobilization, and Reintegration (DDR) process in Tigray so far, falling short of the 75,000 target set for June. Commissioner Temesgen Tilahun told Deutsche Welle. (DW) that the program, launched in November, had been "interrupted for months".due to political instability, describing progress as "limited."
Temesgen stated that operations were suspended over unresolved issues, including combatant screening and weapons handover, noting, "We were forced to suspend our work." By late December, only "around 8,000" ex-combatants had been processed before activities resumed this month. The NRC is now operating through two centers in Mekelle and Edaga Hamus, supporting "350 former fighters daily" with reintegration efforts. The DDR program, part of a nationwide initiative, aims to demobilize over 371,000 ex-combatants.
https://addisstandard.com/?p=49903
Addis Standard
Despite target to rehabilitate 75,000 ex-combatants in Tigray by June, NRC reports only 17,000 reintegrated so far - Addis Standard
Despite target to rehabilitate 75,000 ex-combatants in Tigray by June, NRC reports only 17,000 reintegrated so far Addis Standard News -
#South_Sudan weighs Machar’s removal, gov't says decision depends on investigation
South Sudan’s government has indicated that First Vice President Riek Machar’s position could be "vacated when necessary," depending on the outcome of an investigation into his alleged role in recent violence in Nasir, Information Minister Michael Makuei said on Saturday.
“If the investigation committee finds a case against Riek Machar, they will recommend prosecution," Makuei told reporters in Juba, adding that Machar "cannot be tried while still First Vice President" and must first be "relieved of his position to face the law."
Machar’s detention in March, ordered by President Salva Kiir over accusations of orchestrating attacks by the White Army militia, has deepened divisions within his SPLM-IO party. A faction declared Peacebuilding Minister Stephen Par Kuol as interim chairman, a move boycotted by senior SPLM-IO members and rejected by its armed wing loyal to Machar.
Civil society groups cautioned that removing Machar could breach the 2018 peace agreement. Ter Manyang, of the Center for Peace and Advocacy, said the government's stance is "concerning," noting that Article 1.7.2 stipulates Machar "shall be First Vice President until the transitional period ends."
https://www.radiotamazuj.org/en/news/article/south-sudan-government-eyes-machars-exit
South Sudan’s government has indicated that First Vice President Riek Machar’s position could be "vacated when necessary," depending on the outcome of an investigation into his alleged role in recent violence in Nasir, Information Minister Michael Makuei said on Saturday.
“If the investigation committee finds a case against Riek Machar, they will recommend prosecution," Makuei told reporters in Juba, adding that Machar "cannot be tried while still First Vice President" and must first be "relieved of his position to face the law."
Machar’s detention in March, ordered by President Salva Kiir over accusations of orchestrating attacks by the White Army militia, has deepened divisions within his SPLM-IO party. A faction declared Peacebuilding Minister Stephen Par Kuol as interim chairman, a move boycotted by senior SPLM-IO members and rejected by its armed wing loyal to Machar.
Civil society groups cautioned that removing Machar could breach the 2018 peace agreement. Ter Manyang, of the Center for Peace and Advocacy, said the government's stance is "concerning," noting that Article 1.7.2 stipulates Machar "shall be First Vice President until the transitional period ends."
https://www.radiotamazuj.org/en/news/article/south-sudan-government-eyes-machars-exit
Radio Tamazuj
South Sudan government eyes Machar’s exit
South Sudan’s government has indicated that detained First Vice President Riek Machar could be replaced, pending the
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Dozens of #African migrants killed in #US strike on #Yemen, Houthis say
*One injured man could be heard calling out "My mother" in #Amharic, #Ethiopia's official language, according to Reuters news agency.
At least 68 African migrants have been killed in a US air strike on a detention center in Houthi-controlled north-western Yemen, the armed group's TV channel says.
Al Masirah reported that another 47 migrants were injured, most of them critically, when the center in Saada province was bombed. It posted graphic footage showing multiple bodies covered in the rubble of a destroyed building.
But it came hours after US Central Command announced that its forces had hit more than 800 targets since Trump ordered an intensification of the air campaign against the Houthis on 15 March.
The migrant detention center in Saada was reportedly holding 115 Africans when it was hit four times shortly before 05:00 local time (02:00 GMT) on Monday, according to Al Masirah.
https://www.bbc.com/news/articles/c9qw274w72vo
*One injured man could be heard calling out "My mother" in #Amharic, #Ethiopia's official language, according to Reuters news agency.
At least 68 African migrants have been killed in a US air strike on a detention center in Houthi-controlled north-western Yemen, the armed group's TV channel says.
Al Masirah reported that another 47 migrants were injured, most of them critically, when the center in Saada province was bombed. It posted graphic footage showing multiple bodies covered in the rubble of a destroyed building.
But it came hours after US Central Command announced that its forces had hit more than 800 targets since Trump ordered an intensification of the air campaign against the Houthis on 15 March.
The migrant detention center in Saada was reportedly holding 115 Africans when it was hit four times shortly before 05:00 local time (02:00 GMT) on Monday, according to Al Masirah.
https://www.bbc.com/news/articles/c9qw274w72vo
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