#Op_ed: Torch Passed, Headwinds Ahead: Eyob Tekalign takes helm of #NBE at critical juncture

In September 2025, Eyob Tekalign (PhD) was appointed Governor of the National Bank of #Ethiopia (NBE), succeeding Mamo Mihretu. In this op-ed, Abreham Tesfaye reflects on the “daunting” task facing the new central bank chief, emphasizing that Eyob assumes leadership “at a critical juncture,” inheriting an economy of over 120 million people grappling with high inflation, foreign exchange shortages, and deep-seated financial vulnerabilities. He notes, “The decisions he makes in the months and years ahead will be pivotal in determining whether Ethiopia can stabilize its economy, restore investor confidence, and chart a sustainable path toward long-term growth.”

The author argues that the new governor’s foremost mandate must be price stability, given that “inflation is more than a mere economic statistic—it functions as a hidden tax on the poor.” To achieve this, he calls for a tighter monetary policy, including higher interest rates and slowing the expansion of credit. While acknowledging that such measures will inevitably impose “near-term hardships” upon both businesses and households, Abreham contends that these costs must be carefully weighed against “the far graver consequences of unchecked inflation.”

Furthermore, the article states that monetary policy, in isolation, is insufficient; it necessitates complementary supply-side reforms in key sectors such as agriculture and logistics. For this overarching strategy to prove successful, Abreham underscores that the NBE must adhere to three fundamental pillars: clarity of purpose through the establishment of explicit inflation targets; transparency and proactive communication to effectively manage public and market expectations; and close coordination with fiscal policy to ensure government expenditure does not undermine efforts to tighten monetary conditions.

The author emphasizes that Eyob’s professional background, which integrates rigorous economic training with extensive high-level policymaking experience, “uniquely equips him to navigate these complex challenges.” Yet Abreham cautions, “His success will be measured not merely in economic indicators, but in the trust he cultivates and the opportunities he creates for millions of Ethiopians.”

https://addisstandard.com/?p=52680

News: KEFI’s #Tulu_Kapi Gold Project to launch full development in October 2025

KEFI Gold and Copper has announced that its Tulu Kapi Gold Project in western #Oromia, #Ethiopia, is on track to begin full-scale development in October 2025, with site preparations nearing completion and key infrastructure and community programs already underway.

The project, 95% beneficially owned by KEFI through its UK subsidiary KME, is advancing with a phased approach designed to meet international environmental, social, and governance (ESG) standards while maintaining strong engagement with local communities and authorities.

According to KEFI, a new all-weather road to the site is nearing completion, with construction of an additional access road for heavy loads scheduled within the next two months. Procurement for the electricity connection has been finalized, and construction mobilization has already commenced.

The Tulu Kapi project was temporarily halted in 2021 ....

https://addisstandard.com/?p=52686

#Ethiopia: Fatal accident at Church construction site in #Amhara region claims over 30 lives; more casualties feared

More than 30 people have been confirmed dead following a fatal accident this morning at a #church construction site in Minjar Shenkora district, North Shewa Zone of the Amhara region.
Authorities have warned that the death toll is expected to rise further.

The #Minjar Shenkora District Police Office earlier today said the accident occurred at the Arerti Mariam Church construction site when a wooden scaffolding platform, heavily crowded with people, collapsed.

He cautioned that the number of fatalities could increase as some of the injured remain in critical condition.

The Government Communication Service (GCS) has issued a message of condolence over the casualties and underscored the need to prioritize safety in all construction projects. It stressed that safeguarding the well-being of workers and communities around building sites must remain paramount.

https://addisstandard.com/?p=52689

Getachew Reda hints #Ethiopia won’t be first to recognize #Somaliland

#Getachew Reda, Advisor to the Prime Minister on East African Affairs, suggested Ethiopia would not be the first country to recognize Somaliland but hinted it may not be far behind.

Speaking to journalist Jim Steinman on Global Power Shift, he recalled late Prime Minister Meles Zenawi’s remark that Ethiopia “won’t be the first, but it won’t be the third either.”Ethiopia and Somaliland signed an MoU in January 2024, which Addis Abeba said included provisions for assessing Somaliland’s recognition bid.

Getachew noted U.S. recognition could trigger a domino effect, while underscoring the inevitability of Ethiopia’s pursuit of sea access for its 130 million citizens. Warning against rising tensions with Eritrea, he urged pragmatic “give and take” to prevent what he called a potential “descent into all-out war.”

Watch

News: Drone strike on health post in #North_Wollo kills four civilians, including pregnant woman, over ten injured

A drone strike on #Sanka health post in Gubalafto Woreda, North Wollo Zone of the #Amhara Regional State, on 27 September 2025, killed four civilians, including a pregnant woman, and left more than ten others injured, eyewitnesses and health professionals told the BBC Amharic.

The attack occurred around 12:00 AM local time and targeted the Sanka Health Post, a cluster town located 20 kilometers from #Woldia, the zonal and woreda capital. Local residents and four eyewitnesses confirmed the strike.

Residents said there were no clashes between government forces and Fano fighters inside Sanka town at the time of the strike. However, heavy fighting was reported in areas surrounding Woldia, particularly near Tikur Wuha. Addis Standard previously reported on 26 September that movement in areas around Woldia city had been disrupted by exchanges of heavy weapon fire.

https://addisstandard.com/?p=52693

#Belarus, #Ethiopia discuss military cooperation

To advance interstate and military ties with Ethiopia, Belarusian Defense Minister Viktor Khrenin held a working meeting with Commander of the Ethiopian Air Force Yilma Merdasa Gnapa, with Belarusian Deputy Prime Minister Viktor Karankevich also part of the meeting, BelTA learned from the press service of the Belarusian Defense Ministry.

During the meeting, Viktor Khrenin noted that, according to the head of state, Ethiopia is one of the most important states in East Africa for Belarus and that Belarus wants to establish a mutually beneficial presence there. “This also applies to the military and military-technical cooperation. Therefore, we, the representatives of the armed forces of Belarus and Ethiopia, must clearly follow the lead of our heads of state. I am convinced that effective and fruitful cooperation in various areas and frequent engagement will allow us to successfully implement joint plans,” the Belarusian defense minister said.

Yilma Merdasa Gnapa expressed confidence in the deepening of bilateral relations.

The parties noted the similarity of Belarus’ and Ethiopia’s approaches to assessing the most pressing problems of international security and the friendly nature of bilateral relations at the highest level, which creates favorable conditions for building further interaction. In addition, the meeting outlined issues of bilateral military cooperation of mutual interest, with an emphasis on specific practical measures.

https://eng.belta.by/society/view/belarus-ethiopia-discuss-military-cooperation-172051-2025/

#Puntland accuses #Somali president of abandoning democratic principles amid ongoing political rift

Puntland’s regional administration has renewed its sharp criticism of Somalia’s Federal Government, accusing President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud of straying from the path of democratic governance and breaching foundational agreements that underpin the federal system.

In a press briefing held in the regional capital Garowe, Puntland’s Minister of Information, Mahmoud Aydid Dirir, said the time had come for honesty about the growing political tensions between the two levels of government.

He accused the federal leadership of disregarding inclusive governance and acting unilaterally.

“It is no longer a time for sugarcoating. The Federal Government has continued down a path far removed from consultation and consensus,” said Dirir. “You cannot claim to build a government while actively undermining it. The President is clearly pursuing personal ambitions and has veered off the road of democracy and cooperation.”

https://shabellemedia.com/puntland-accuses-somali-president-of-abandoning-democratic-principles-amid-ongoing-political-rif/

News: #US pledges support for $10bn airport project in #Ethiopia, considered Trump’s first major Horn of Africa initiative

The United States has pledged support for the construction of a $10 billion international airport in Ethiopia, in what marks President Donald Trump’s first major business initiative in the Horn of Africa.

U.S. Senior Advisor for Africa, Massad Boulos, announced the commitment during a recent visit to Ethiopia ahead of the United Nations General Assembly. He confirmed that the U.S. International Development Finance Corporation (DFC) is involved in the project and working in collaboration with Boeing on initiatives linked to Ethiopian Airlines and other ventures across Africa.

Once completed, Bishoftu International Airport will be the largest and most expensive airport project on the continent, surpassing #Johannesburg’s O.R. Tambo International Airport in scale and handling capacity.

https://addisstandard.com/?p=52710

#Sudan announces review of GERD deal with #Ethiopia and #Egypt

Sudanese Prime Minister Kamil Idris has announced his country’s intention to conduct a “detailed review” of the Grand Ethiopian Renaissance Dam (#GERD) with Ethiopia and Egypt, in a move he said was aimed at “avoiding future disasters.”

Speaking at a press conference in Port Sudan on Wednesday 1 0ctober 2025 after returning from the United Nations General Assembly, Idris confirmed that the GERD review would form part of renewed engagement with Ethiopia and Egypt.

Alongside the GERD discussions, Idris revealed that he had presented a portfolio of 100 partnership projects valued at $100 billion to Saudi Arabia, largely focused on Red Sea resources and investment opportunities.

https://sudantribune.com/article/305610

#Commentary: Transform or Fade: #Ethiopian #CSOs navigating external pressure, internal weakness

Civil society organizations (CSOs) are central to Ethiopia’s humanitarian and development landscape, serving as “vital bridges between citizens, communities, and government” while promoting accountability and participation. Yet, Nigussie Tefera, the author of this commentary, contends that the sector faces a dual crisis: restrictive laws and political pressures compounded by internal weaknesses in governance, leadership, and accountability. He writes, “Founder capture, weak oversight, corruption, and financial fragility coexist alongside mounting regulatory and political pressures,” underscoring the tangible costs of inaction.

The author explains that the government’s draft amendments to the 2019 Proclamation threaten to grant sweeping authority over CSOs’ operations, governance, and funding, raising fears of a contraction of civic space beyond the repressive 2009 Charities and Societies Proclamation. At the same time, the 2024 revocation of more than 1,500 CSO licenses for failing to submit reports highlights both the sector’s fragility and the necessity of compliance. “Accountability is not optional,” Nigussie argues, adding that “even if inactive or unfunded, CSOs should demonstrate transparency and visibility.”

The article highlights that many CSOs suffer from “founders’ syndrome,” in which a single individual maintains control for decades, stifling innovation and new talent. Boards, legally mandated to provide oversight, often function as mere “ceremonial signatories,” failing to hold leadership accountable. Heavy reliance on foreign donors further exacerbates fragility, as CSOs operate more as project implementers than as institutions rooted in their communities.

The author emphasizes that “Ethiopian CSOs stand at a decisive crossroads… either embrace internal reform or risk irrelevance, further closures, and externally imposed changes.” He notes that the future of civil society in Ethiopia depends on CSOs’ “willingness to embrace internal reform” to survive and remain relevant.

https://addisstandard.com/?p=52699

News: #Ethiopia’s exports to US surge 95% amid global trade disruptions

Ethiopia has emerged as one of the leading beneficiaries of shifting global trade flows, with exports to the #United_States soaring by 95 percent between April and July 2025 compared to the same period last year, according to new data from the United Nations Economic Commission for Africa (#UNECA).

The surge follows sweeping US tariffs imposed in April under the “Liberation Day” package, which levied duties of up to 30 percent on major Asian exporters. While Ethiopia and #Kenya were subject to lower tariffs of around 10 percent, China faced the steepest hikes, leading to a sharp 35.6 percent fall in its exports to the US.

Beyond the US market, Ethiopia is also reinforcing its regional trade ties. The upgrade of the Moyale One-Stop Border Post and expansion of industrial parks are part of Addis Abeba’s strategy to deepen integration under the AfCFTA.

https://x.com/addisstandard/status/1973727488552448306

News: Six arrested over harassment of women wearing trousers in #Wondo_Genet town, Sidama region

Authorities in Wondo Genet town, #Sidama region, said six individuals have been taken into custody after a widely circulated video showed women wearing trousers being harassed in the town.

The footage, which surfaced earlier this week on social media, depicted groups of children and youths attempting to forcibly undress women in the street, claiming that “elders had decided women should not wear trousers.” The images sparked widespread outrage.

In a statement issued yesterday, 1 October 2025, the Wondo Genet town administration accused “elements opposed to changes in our city” of orchestrating the incident. It alleged that the perpetrators mobilized daily laborers to stage unrest aimed at restricting women’s right “to move freely with the attire of their choice.”

This development comes at a time when women and girls are facing increasing sexual harassment .......

https://addisstandard.com/?p=52720

News: #Tigray Interim Administration reiterates appeal to armed groups in #Afar “to return home and commit to dialogue”

The Interim Administration of Tigray has renewed its call on armed groups operating in Afar Regional State to lay down their weapons and commit to dialogue, stressing that “Tigray’s problem must be solved by Tigrayans within Tigray.”

In a statement issued following recent clashes with an armed group identified as Hara Meret (“Free Land”), the administration said attempts to escalate tensions undermine efforts to maintain stability between the peoples of Tigray and Afar.

According to the statement, the group tried to advance through the Berahle route toward Konaba to attack Tigray, but Afar residents opposed the move. The administration further alleges the situation escalated when the group opened fire on civilians, causing unrest.

The Interim Admin condemned the incident as “unacceptable” and praised Afar residents, especially in Berahle and Konaba...

https://addisstandard.com/?p=52723

WHO recognizes #Ethiopia among only nine African nations with stable medicines regulatory system

The World Health Organization (#WHO) has recognized Ethiopia for achieving Maturity Level 3 (ML3) in medicines regulation, placing the country among just nine African nations with what WHO describes as a “stable, well-functioning, and integrated” regulatory system.

According to WHO, the milestone follows a comprehensive assessment completed in September 2025 using its Global Benchmarking Tool, which evaluates national regulatory authorities against more than 250 indicators.

WHO defines Maturity Level 3 as the stage at which a regulatory authority has a stable and integrated system capable of authorizing medical products, conducting market surveillance, and monitoring safety events effectively. The highest designation, Maturity Level 4, is reserved for “advanced” systems ........

https://web.facebook.com/AddisstandardEng/posts/pfbid02iZoFJFnkxuaUboRPre65AYdqPmEPWY1XzZKpUMtpqfwbfEbWbpjVPXyVjvSLCh7Gl

PM #Abiy inaugurates first phase of Ogaden LNG project, lays foundation for fertilizer and refinery plants in #Somali Region

- “All mega projects inaugurated in the Somali Region today, collectively valued at #USD 10 billion”

Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed (PhD) today announced the inauguration of the first phase of the Ogaden Liquified Natural Gas (LNG) Project in Calub, Somali Regional State, with an annual production capacity of 111 million liters.

“At the same time, we launch the second phase, which will add a capacity of 1.33 billion liters per year,” the Prime Minister stated on his official social media accounts.

According to Abiy, the LNG facility goes beyond gas production. “This facility also contributes significantly to energy generation, with a production capacity of 1,000 megawatts. Importantly, the plant is not just a gas facility.

https://web.facebook.com/AddisstandardEng/posts/pfbid024HSvw3uv84DEz45f8NVEtDT7f6EC4SoU4qXuf8xBcjGxfB3q6k8z1qJzFRrnoReVl

#UN says at least 91 killed in besieged #Darfur city last month

At least 91 civilians, were killed in Sudan’s besieged city of el-Fasher in attacks by the paramilitary force Rapid Support Forces, or RSF, within 10 days last month, the United Nations said Thursday.

The series of attacks were the latest in the intensified fighting between the army and rival paramilitaries seeking to control the city as civil war rages on.

The war between the RSF and the military began in 2023 when tensions erupted between the two previous allies that were meant to oversee a democratic transition after a 2019 uprising.

The fighting has killed at least 40,000 people, according to the World Health Organization, and displaced as many as 12 million others. Over 24 million people are facing acute food insecurity, according to the World Food Program.

https://apnews.com/article/el-fasher-sudan-darfur-rapid-support-forces-military-hunger-civilians-02d1b1912c9f28c804fe1caee073fb31

#Jubaland, #Puntland leaders and #Somali opposition form Somali Future Council in #Nairobi

Regional leaders of Jubaland and Puntland, along with prominent opposition figures under the Somali Salvation Forum, convened a meeting in Nairobi on Thursday to discuss Somalia’s political and security situation.

The meeting brought together Jubaland President Ahmed Mohamed Islam, Puntland President Said Abdullahi Deni, former Prime Ministers Hassan Ali Khayre and Saacid Shirdoon, and Member of Parliament Abdirahman Abdishakur.

In a joint resolution, the leaders announced the establishment of the Somali Future Council, uniting the Salvation Forum with the governments of Jubaland and Puntland. They agreed to hold a follow-up conference inside Somalia as soon as possible to finalize the Council’s structure and discuss the country’s political transition.

The leaders also urged Somalis to safeguard national unity, work towards stability, and resist any actions that could harm the country’s cohesion. They expressed gratitude to the Government of Kenya for supporting efforts to ensure Somalia’s stability and development.

https://hiiraan.com/news4/2025/Oct/203153/jubaland_puntland_leaders_and_somali_opposition_form_somali_future_council_in_nairobi.aspx

News: Experts link #Sudan’s record Nile floods to climate change, #GERD water release, and weakened embankments

Sudan is facing some of the worst Nile flooding in years, with experts warning that a combination of intensified rainfall, weak flood defenses, and the growing impact of climate change has created a dangerous new reality for communities along the river.

Experts told Xinhua that the flooding cannot be attributed to a single cause. Environmental expert Abdul Azim Haraka said Sudan’s worsening flood patterns were linked to “intensified rainfall and the growing impact of climate change in recent years.”

“Urgent plans are needed to rebuild embankments with modern engineering and early warning systems,” water resources specialist Sami Abdel Rahim told Xinhua, noting that areas such as Wad Ramli—long known as natural flood pathways of the Nile—will remain exposed without permanent barriers.

https://addisstandard.com/?p=52730

#Ethiopia: The final year of parliamentary session to open Monday; President Taye to present annual work plan

The joint opening ceremony of the House of Peoples’ Representatives (#HPR) and the House of Federation (#HoF) for the fifth year of the sixth parliamentary term—marking its final legislative year—is scheduled for Monday, 6 October 2025.

According to information from the HPR, the ceremony will begin at 8:00 p.m. in the presence of President Taye Atske Selassie. In line with constitutional provisions, the President will formally announce the opening of the annual legislative session of both Houses and present the federal government’s annual work plan for the 2018 Ethiopian calendar year.

#Ambassadors, representatives of international organizations, religious leaders, community elders, opposition party leaders, and other invited guests are expected to attend the joint session.


https://web.facebook.com/AddisstandardEng/posts/pfbid02CbcPT4hziGXEUtnKjbttagKXDQZaLjzX9RqAbj4QPRuSaJC8j7beeLM2zNgySx5nl

🌿On Saturday and Sunday, the Oromo nation come together to celebrate Irrechaa, the annual celebrations of the Oromo nation.

But its philosophy runs deeper: Namummaa- the essence of being fully human.

👉 Watch our captivating visualization of “Namummaa: Reviving humanity through Oromo wisdom”: https://youtu.be/mwfh3vBiheQ

Team JAKENN and Addis Standard wish the Oromo nation and everyone celebrating this unique heritage a Happy Irrechaa!

#Ethiopia: PM Abiy announces ban on importing diesel-powered trucks; transport costs projected to drop 50% next year

Prime Minister #Abiy Ahmed (PhD) has announced a nationwide ban on the import of diesel-powered heavy vehicles, effective 2 October 2025, and revealed that about 2,000 buses operating in Addis Ababa and on inter-regional routes will be converted from fuel to gas this year.

“When these two thousand vehicles are converted, transport costs will decrease by at least 50 percent next year compared to the current price,” he said, adding that the measure will “greatly help the livelihoods of low-income citizens who commute for work in the city.”

The decision was unveiled on Thursday during the inauguration of the Ogaden Liquefied Natural Gas (LNG) Project in Kallub, Somali Regional State.

He noted that private investors importing gas-powered trucks will be eligible for government support, including duty-free incentives.

https://addisstandard.com/?p=52733