#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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#Ethiopia: #TPLF warns of "serious threat" to Pretoria deal as it faces revocation by NEBE in two weeks
The Tigray People’s Liberation Front (TPLF) warned that the failure to reinstate its legal recognition poses a "serious threat" to the Pretoria peace agreement, two weeks before the National Election Board of Ethiopia (#NEBE) is set to revoke its legal status. In a statement issued on 26 April, the party said stakeholders, including "the African Union Panel and the international community," should recognize the "serious threat" and urged them to "withdraw from their share of responsibility" if the situation worsens. TPLF reiterated that it "will not conduct any form of re-registration," maintaining that it sought only the restoration of its "legal identity" as stipulated under the Pretoria deal.
TPLF accused the federal government of "attempting to register TPLF as a new entity through NEBE," a move it said violates the Pretoria agreement by introducing "new regulations and declarations outside the framework" of the accord. Criticizing NEBE’s actions, TPLF said the Board "has been selectively quoting laws that do not apply to TPLF," and stressed that it "will not compromise the Tigrayan people’s struggle" for legal recognition.
https://addisstandard.com/?p=49908
The Tigray People’s Liberation Front (TPLF) warned that the failure to reinstate its legal recognition poses a "serious threat" to the Pretoria peace agreement, two weeks before the National Election Board of Ethiopia (#NEBE) is set to revoke its legal status. In a statement issued on 26 April, the party said stakeholders, including "the African Union Panel and the international community," should recognize the "serious threat" and urged them to "withdraw from their share of responsibility" if the situation worsens. TPLF reiterated that it "will not conduct any form of re-registration," maintaining that it sought only the restoration of its "legal identity" as stipulated under the Pretoria deal.
TPLF accused the federal government of "attempting to register TPLF as a new entity through NEBE," a move it said violates the Pretoria agreement by introducing "new regulations and declarations outside the framework" of the accord. Criticizing NEBE’s actions, TPLF said the Board "has been selectively quoting laws that do not apply to TPLF," and stressed that it "will not compromise the Tigrayan people’s struggle" for legal recognition.
https://addisstandard.com/?p=49908
Addis Standard
TPLF warns of "serious threat" to Pretoria deal as it faces revocation by NEBE in two weeks - Addis Standard
TPLF warns of "serious threat" to Pretoria deal as it faces revocation by NEBE in two weeks Addis Standard News -
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#Sudan’s Burhan, #Egypt’s Sisi discuss post-war reconstruction, water security in #Cairo
Sudan’s leader, General Abdel Fattah al-Burhan, and Egyptian President Abdel Fattah al-Sisi held talks in Cairo on Monday, focusing on Sudan’s post-war reconstruction and regional water security, according to official statements from both countries.
In a statement, Sudan’s Sovereign Council said the talks “covered bilateral relations and ways to support and enhance prospects for joint cooperation in various fields,” including “the possibility of Egypt contributing to the efforts of reconstructing and rehabilitating what was destroyed by the war in Sudan.” The Council added that both sides agreed to advance joint projects in electricity interconnection, railways, trade exchange, as well as in health, agriculture, industry, and mining to “enhance integration.”
The Sovereign Council noted that Burhan and Sisi reviewed the Sudanese army’s “progress” in operations to “retake the Sudanese capital, Khartoum,” and stressed the “need to intensify efforts to provide the necessary support and assistance to Sudanese people residing in war zones.”
On regional issues, the Council said the two leaders exchanged views on the Nile River basin and the Horn of Africa, and agreed to continue coordination “to preserve the water security of both nations.”
https://sudantribune.com/article300226/
Sudan’s leader, General Abdel Fattah al-Burhan, and Egyptian President Abdel Fattah al-Sisi held talks in Cairo on Monday, focusing on Sudan’s post-war reconstruction and regional water security, according to official statements from both countries.
In a statement, Sudan’s Sovereign Council said the talks “covered bilateral relations and ways to support and enhance prospects for joint cooperation in various fields,” including “the possibility of Egypt contributing to the efforts of reconstructing and rehabilitating what was destroyed by the war in Sudan.” The Council added that both sides agreed to advance joint projects in electricity interconnection, railways, trade exchange, as well as in health, agriculture, industry, and mining to “enhance integration.”
The Sovereign Council noted that Burhan and Sisi reviewed the Sudanese army’s “progress” in operations to “retake the Sudanese capital, Khartoum,” and stressed the “need to intensify efforts to provide the necessary support and assistance to Sudanese people residing in war zones.”
On regional issues, the Council said the two leaders exchanged views on the Nile River basin and the Horn of Africa, and agreed to continue coordination “to preserve the water security of both nations.”
https://sudantribune.com/article300226/
Sudan Tribune
Sudan’s Burhan, Egypt’s Sisi discuss post-war reconstruction, water security in Cairo
April 28, 2025 (KHARTOUM) – Sudan’s leader, General Abdel Fattah al-Burhan and Egyptian President Abdel Fattah al-Sisi held talks in Cairo on Monday, according to official statements from both countries. The talks focused on Sudan’s post-war reconstruction…
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#Puntland reaffirms boycott of #Somalia's federal gov't, calls for constitutional order
Puntland will not reconsider its decision to sever cooperation with the Federal Government of Somalia until “genuine dialogue” is held to address its longstanding concerns, regional President Said Abdullahi Deni said on Saturday, adding that the state remains committed to peace despite ongoing tensions.
President Deni reaffirmed Puntland’s March 2024 position to distance itself from Mogadishu, citing what he described as the “blatant mutilation” of Somalia’s constitution. He said the federal administration “must respect the constitution” and not serve “the interests of a specific group or individuals.” Puntland has also opted out of the latest round of the National Consultative Council (NCC) meeting convened by President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud.
Puntland, alongside #Jubaland, has opposed recent federal government-backed constitutional amendments, particularly those introducing universal suffrage. The two states have boycotted both the NCC and the ratification process, criticizing what they call an “unconstitutional” approach to governance and resource sharing. Deni also expressed rare support for #Somaliland’s self-rule aspirations, advocating peaceful coexistence between both administrations and Mogadishu, which he accused of “high-handedness” in its federal dealings.
https://www.garoweonline.com/en/news/somalia/somalia-the-federal-government-must-respect-the-constitution-says-puntland
Puntland will not reconsider its decision to sever cooperation with the Federal Government of Somalia until “genuine dialogue” is held to address its longstanding concerns, regional President Said Abdullahi Deni said on Saturday, adding that the state remains committed to peace despite ongoing tensions.
President Deni reaffirmed Puntland’s March 2024 position to distance itself from Mogadishu, citing what he described as the “blatant mutilation” of Somalia’s constitution. He said the federal administration “must respect the constitution” and not serve “the interests of a specific group or individuals.” Puntland has also opted out of the latest round of the National Consultative Council (NCC) meeting convened by President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud.
Puntland, alongside #Jubaland, has opposed recent federal government-backed constitutional amendments, particularly those introducing universal suffrage. The two states have boycotted both the NCC and the ratification process, criticizing what they call an “unconstitutional” approach to governance and resource sharing. Deni also expressed rare support for #Somaliland’s self-rule aspirations, advocating peaceful coexistence between both administrations and Mogadishu, which he accused of “high-handedness” in its federal dealings.
https://www.garoweonline.com/en/news/somalia/somalia-the-federal-government-must-respect-the-constitution-says-puntland
Garowe Online
Somalia: The Federal Government must respect the constitution, says Puntland
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#Ethiopia’s war on its future: A generational crisis in the making
In this must-read commentary, Beniam Daniel Darge, outlines the alarming trajectories Ethiopia’s silent but devastating war on its future: a war against its own human capital. With over 9 million children out of school and 35% of school-aged youth not in classrooms, the collapse of education systems - especially in the war-hit regions like #Amhara, #Oromia, and #Tigray- is setting the stage for generational setbacks. The deliberate targeting of educators and the repurposing of schools into military camps deepen this crisis. "Empty schools," he warns, "mean empty futures," as missed early education disrupts brain development, emotional regulation, and cognitive resilience.
The writer also highlights how war and neglect are eroding Ethiopia’s brain capital through severe malnutrition and trauma. With nearly 37% of children under five stunted and 22% of the population undernourished, the cognitive potential of an entire generation is being compromised. He connects early-life undernutrition with irreversible damage to brain volume, memory, and learning.
He warns that unless urgent and unified action is taken, Ethiopia risks losing its brightest minds to brain drain and disillusionment. Young people, uneducated and unemployed, face a growing risk of recruitment by militant groups, trafficking, and substance abuse. This is not just a youth crisis- it’s a national emergency.
“The cost of inaction,” Beniam warns, “is unthinkable: a country robbed of its brightest minds is consigned to stagnation.”
https://addisstandard.com/?p=49922
In this must-read commentary, Beniam Daniel Darge, outlines the alarming trajectories Ethiopia’s silent but devastating war on its future: a war against its own human capital. With over 9 million children out of school and 35% of school-aged youth not in classrooms, the collapse of education systems - especially in the war-hit regions like #Amhara, #Oromia, and #Tigray- is setting the stage for generational setbacks. The deliberate targeting of educators and the repurposing of schools into military camps deepen this crisis. "Empty schools," he warns, "mean empty futures," as missed early education disrupts brain development, emotional regulation, and cognitive resilience.
The writer also highlights how war and neglect are eroding Ethiopia’s brain capital through severe malnutrition and trauma. With nearly 37% of children under five stunted and 22% of the population undernourished, the cognitive potential of an entire generation is being compromised. He connects early-life undernutrition with irreversible damage to brain volume, memory, and learning.
He warns that unless urgent and unified action is taken, Ethiopia risks losing its brightest minds to brain drain and disillusionment. Young people, uneducated and unemployed, face a growing risk of recruitment by militant groups, trafficking, and substance abuse. This is not just a youth crisis- it’s a national emergency.
“The cost of inaction,” Beniam warns, “is unthinkable: a country robbed of its brightest minds is consigned to stagnation.”
https://addisstandard.com/?p=49922
Addis Standard
Ethiopia’s war on its future: A generational crisis in the making - Addis Standard
Ethiopia’s war on its future: A generational crisis in the making Addis Standard Commentary -
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#In_Pictures: As of Tuesday, 28 April, #Ethiopian Embassy in #Djibouti registering Ethiopian nationals for voluntary return
The ongoing registration follows warnings from Djiboutian authorities that foreign nationals without valid residency permits, including many Ethiopians, will face deportation after a set deadline.
Djibouti has given foreign nationals without legal status a window from April 3 to May 2, 2025 to leave the country voluntarily. After this period, authorities have warned that forced repatriations will take place.
Efforts through the Ethiopian Embassy including “high-level discussions with the Djiboutian Ministry of Interior,” failed to persuade Djibouti, which reinforced its decision that all foreign nationals without valid permits will be subject to removal after the deadline.
The ongoing registration follows warnings from Djiboutian authorities that foreign nationals without valid residency permits, including many Ethiopians, will face deportation after a set deadline.
Djibouti has given foreign nationals without legal status a window from April 3 to May 2, 2025 to leave the country voluntarily. After this period, authorities have warned that forced repatriations will take place.
Efforts through the Ethiopian Embassy including “high-level discussions with the Djiboutian Ministry of Interior,” failed to persuade Djibouti, which reinforced its decision that all foreign nationals without valid permits will be subject to removal after the deadline.
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