#AS_Analysis: #Ethiopia–#Somaliland MoU - The promise unfulfilled and the stakes of President Abdillahi’s visit to Addis Abeba
Somaliland President Abdirahman Mohamed Abdillahi Irro’svisit to Ethiopia today marks a key moment in the stalled Ethiopia–Somaliland MoU, signed in early 2024 with the promise of granting Ethiopia maritime access through Somaliland’s coast. A year and half later, the deal has produced little beyond headlines.
Former President Muse Bihi Abdi admitted the agreement “collapsed under pressure from the African Union, the Arab League, and major international partners,” saying “Ethiopia was stopped by Africa’s collective voice.”
Although Somalia’sPresident Hassan Sheikh Mohamud recently urged Red Sea states to pursue dialogue and avoid confrontation, he warned that “no nation should infringe on another’s sovereignty.” His remarks highlight Mogadishu’s continued opposition to any move it sees as undermining Somalia’s “territorial integrity.”
Read more: https://addisstandard.com/?p=52899
Somaliland President Abdirahman Mohamed Abdillahi Irro’svisit to Ethiopia today marks a key moment in the stalled Ethiopia–Somaliland MoU, signed in early 2024 with the promise of granting Ethiopia maritime access through Somaliland’s coast. A year and half later, the deal has produced little beyond headlines.
Former President Muse Bihi Abdi admitted the agreement “collapsed under pressure from the African Union, the Arab League, and major international partners,” saying “Ethiopia was stopped by Africa’s collective voice.”
Although Somalia’sPresident Hassan Sheikh Mohamud recently urged Red Sea states to pursue dialogue and avoid confrontation, he warned that “no nation should infringe on another’s sovereignty.” His remarks highlight Mogadishu’s continued opposition to any move it sees as undermining Somalia’s “territorial integrity.”
Read more: https://addisstandard.com/?p=52899
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#Just_In: #Ethiopia's debt restructuring hits impasse, bondholders eye legal action
Ethiopia said on Tuesday that its debt restructuring talks with bondholders have stalled due to disagreements over key terms, prolonging the country’s financial uncertainty that has persisted for nearly two years, #Reuters reported Tuesday night.
Ethiopia defaulted on its only international bond in late 2023 after seeking relief under the G20’s Common Framework initiative. Despite the deadlock, the government said “substantial progress” had been achieved and expressed hope that negotiations would resume “in the foreseeable future,” according to the news.
The news cited rhe statement as saying that progress included bondholders agreeing to a 15% haircut on their loans and the introduction of a Value Recovery Instrument, a mechanism that would allow them to recoup losses if Ethiopia’s export sector performs strongly in the coming years.
However, the bondholder committee, comprising Morgan Stanley Investment Management, Franklin Templeton, VR Capital, and Farallon Capital, expressed disappointment at the breakdown of talks.
Ethiopia’s $1 billion Eurobond fell by more than one cent on Tuesday, though it remains near its highest level since early 2021, trading at around 95 cents on the dollar.
The International Monetary Fund (IMF) welcomed the progress made and encouraged both sides to continue discussions. But analysts say the impasse highlights the limitations of the Common Framework, which was launched in 2020 to coordinate debt relief efforts among traditional and emerging creditors, including China, a major lender to African economies.
“The Common Framework lacks the teeth to make private creditors take part in debt cancellation,” said Tim Jones, policy director at the London-based campaign group Debt Justice.
Ethiopia’s case has also been complicated by disagreements over the IMF’s economic forecasts, which bondholders argue fail to account for the surge in gold and coffee prices - two of the country’s main export commodities. The government recently reported record export earnings of $8.3 billion for the 2024/25 fiscal year, significantly higher than the IMF’s projection of $6.37 billion.
“The debt rescheduling process will be dragged out,” said Abdulmenan Mohammed, a UK-based Ethiopian economic analyst. “The Ethiopian government should consider treating the bondholders on different terms.”
https://www.reuters.com/world/africa/ethiopias-debt-restructuring-hits-impasse-bondholders-eye-legal-action-2025-10-14/
Ethiopia said on Tuesday that its debt restructuring talks with bondholders have stalled due to disagreements over key terms, prolonging the country’s financial uncertainty that has persisted for nearly two years, #Reuters reported Tuesday night.
Ethiopia defaulted on its only international bond in late 2023 after seeking relief under the G20’s Common Framework initiative. Despite the deadlock, the government said “substantial progress” had been achieved and expressed hope that negotiations would resume “in the foreseeable future,” according to the news.
The news cited rhe statement as saying that progress included bondholders agreeing to a 15% haircut on their loans and the introduction of a Value Recovery Instrument, a mechanism that would allow them to recoup losses if Ethiopia’s export sector performs strongly in the coming years.
However, the bondholder committee, comprising Morgan Stanley Investment Management, Franklin Templeton, VR Capital, and Farallon Capital, expressed disappointment at the breakdown of talks.
Ethiopia’s $1 billion Eurobond fell by more than one cent on Tuesday, though it remains near its highest level since early 2021, trading at around 95 cents on the dollar.
The International Monetary Fund (IMF) welcomed the progress made and encouraged both sides to continue discussions. But analysts say the impasse highlights the limitations of the Common Framework, which was launched in 2020 to coordinate debt relief efforts among traditional and emerging creditors, including China, a major lender to African economies.
“The Common Framework lacks the teeth to make private creditors take part in debt cancellation,” said Tim Jones, policy director at the London-based campaign group Debt Justice.
Ethiopia’s case has also been complicated by disagreements over the IMF’s economic forecasts, which bondholders argue fail to account for the surge in gold and coffee prices - two of the country’s main export commodities. The government recently reported record export earnings of $8.3 billion for the 2024/25 fiscal year, significantly higher than the IMF’s projection of $6.37 billion.
“The debt rescheduling process will be dragged out,” said Abdulmenan Mohammed, a UK-based Ethiopian economic analyst. “The Ethiopian government should consider treating the bondholders on different terms.”
https://www.reuters.com/world/africa/ethiopias-debt-restructuring-hits-impasse-bondholders-eye-legal-action-2025-10-14/
Reuters
Ethiopia's debt restructuring hits impasse, bondholders eye legal action
Ethiopia said on Tuesday that debt restructuring negotiations with its bondholders had failed for the time being due to differences over the key terms that have kept the country in financial limbo for almost two years.
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#Ethiopia becomes one of #Africa’s first to deploy #AI-powered digital X-ray system for national #TB screening
Ethiopia among pioneers in rolling out AI-powered digital X-ray for TB screening WHO Ethiopia receives commendation for its contribution to adopting innovations and supporting national efforts to end tuberculosis.
Ethiopia has taken a major step forward in the fight against tuberculosis (TB) by launching a national AI-powered digital X-ray system for TB screening. The launch, held on 18 September 2025 during the Annual Tuberculosis, Leprosy and Other Lung Diseases Review Meeting, was officiated by Dr Dereje Duguma, State Minister of Health.
The World Health Organization (WHO) Ethiopia was recognized and commended for its critical contribution to this national milestone. WHO played a central role in developing the National Implementation Guideline on AI-Powered Digital X-ray for Tuberculosis Screening and in building the capacity of health workers across the country.
To facilitate the national rollout, WHO Ethiopia supported the training of 75 health-care workers, including radiology personnel and program officers, to effectively operate the machines for TB screening and ensure linkage to diagnosis and care.
“Ethiopia is one of the first countries in Africa to adopt and implement this new innovation at such a large scale,” said Dr Dereje Duguma, State Minister of Health. “The country has procured and distributed 225 AI-powered digital X-ray machines to health facilities across all regions to support early TB screening and detection. Strong government commitment and partner collaboration are the backbones of this major milestone in our national efforts to end the TB epidemic.”
https://www.afro.who.int/countries/ethiopia/news/ethiopia-among-pioneers-rolling-out-ai-powered-digital-x-ray-tb-screening-who-ethiopia-receives
Ethiopia among pioneers in rolling out AI-powered digital X-ray for TB screening WHO Ethiopia receives commendation for its contribution to adopting innovations and supporting national efforts to end tuberculosis.
Ethiopia has taken a major step forward in the fight against tuberculosis (TB) by launching a national AI-powered digital X-ray system for TB screening. The launch, held on 18 September 2025 during the Annual Tuberculosis, Leprosy and Other Lung Diseases Review Meeting, was officiated by Dr Dereje Duguma, State Minister of Health.
The World Health Organization (WHO) Ethiopia was recognized and commended for its critical contribution to this national milestone. WHO played a central role in developing the National Implementation Guideline on AI-Powered Digital X-ray for Tuberculosis Screening and in building the capacity of health workers across the country.
To facilitate the national rollout, WHO Ethiopia supported the training of 75 health-care workers, including radiology personnel and program officers, to effectively operate the machines for TB screening and ensure linkage to diagnosis and care.
“Ethiopia is one of the first countries in Africa to adopt and implement this new innovation at such a large scale,” said Dr Dereje Duguma, State Minister of Health. “The country has procured and distributed 225 AI-powered digital X-ray machines to health facilities across all regions to support early TB screening and detection. Strong government commitment and partner collaboration are the backbones of this major milestone in our national efforts to end the TB epidemic.”
https://www.afro.who.int/countries/ethiopia/news/ethiopia-among-pioneers-rolling-out-ai-powered-digital-x-ray-tb-screening-who-ethiopia-receives
WHO | Regional Office for Africa
Ethiopia among pioneers in rolling out AI-powered digital X-ray for TB screening WHO Ethiopia receives commendation for its contribution…
Addis Ababa, 14 October 2025 — Ethiopia has taken a major step forward in the fight against tuberculosis (TB) by launching a national AI-powered digital X-ray system for TB screening. The launch, held on 18 September 2025 during the Annual Tuberculosis, Leprosy…
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#Op_ed: Beneath #Ogaden Sands: #Somali region’s pursuit of rightful share in #Ethiopia’s energy awakening
Earlier this month, Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed inaugurated the first phase of the Ogaden LNG Project in #Calub, Somali Regional State, which has an estimated annual production capacity of 111 million liters. He also laid the foundation for a $2.5 billion fertilizer factory and a fuel refinery in #Gode. In this op-ed, Kamaludin Hassan argues that “without transparent governance and regional participation,” these new ventures “risk becoming yet another chapter in a tragic saga of extraction without equity.”
To substantiate his argument, the author references historical grievances, ranging from colonial-era exploitation to decades of federal control over the region’s extensive gas reserves, which he contends “have fueled repression rather than prosperity.” Highlighting Ethiopia’s recent shift from “failed export fantasies” to “a domestic-first strategy,” Kamaludin states that the federal government must confront a stark truth: “Without justice for the Somali region, this pivot will ignite, not illuminate, the path forward."
In a bid to avert a “resource curse” in the region, the article calls for the enactment of a Resource-Sharing Law requiring that 30% of revenues generated from Somali region projects be allocated locally, alongside transparent audits and community oversight. It also proposes the establishment of a Tripartite Oversight Council and a Somali Resource Governance Authority to ensure accountability and local participation.
The author emphasizes that “The Somali region is no peripheral pawn in Ethiopia’s energy chessboard; it is the queen.” True, sustainable progress, he contends, hinges on whether these ambitious projects will ultimately “become monuments to mutual flourishing, not marginalization.”
https://addisstandard.com/?p=52873
Earlier this month, Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed inaugurated the first phase of the Ogaden LNG Project in #Calub, Somali Regional State, which has an estimated annual production capacity of 111 million liters. He also laid the foundation for a $2.5 billion fertilizer factory and a fuel refinery in #Gode. In this op-ed, Kamaludin Hassan argues that “without transparent governance and regional participation,” these new ventures “risk becoming yet another chapter in a tragic saga of extraction without equity.”
To substantiate his argument, the author references historical grievances, ranging from colonial-era exploitation to decades of federal control over the region’s extensive gas reserves, which he contends “have fueled repression rather than prosperity.” Highlighting Ethiopia’s recent shift from “failed export fantasies” to “a domestic-first strategy,” Kamaludin states that the federal government must confront a stark truth: “Without justice for the Somali region, this pivot will ignite, not illuminate, the path forward."
In a bid to avert a “resource curse” in the region, the article calls for the enactment of a Resource-Sharing Law requiring that 30% of revenues generated from Somali region projects be allocated locally, alongside transparent audits and community oversight. It also proposes the establishment of a Tripartite Oversight Council and a Somali Resource Governance Authority to ensure accountability and local participation.
The author emphasizes that “The Somali region is no peripheral pawn in Ethiopia’s energy chessboard; it is the queen.” True, sustainable progress, he contends, hinges on whether these ambitious projects will ultimately “become monuments to mutual flourishing, not marginalization.”
https://addisstandard.com/?p=52873
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Former #Kenyan Prime Minister Raila Odinga dies at 80, due to heart attack
#Raila Amolo Odinga, whose death at 80 was announced on Wednesday, spent most of his adult life in politics, including 8 years in prison as a pro-democracy campaigner -- but never achieved his goal of becoming Kenya's president, despite five attempts.
Odinga, who died during a trip to an Ayurvedic health clinic in India according to local police, cast himself as an anti-establishment firebrand despite belonging to one of Kenya's top political dynasties, AFP reports.
Born on January 7, 1945, he spent his early years in politics either in jail or in exile, fighting for democracy during the autocratic rule of president Daniel arap Moi.
A member of the Luo tribe, he entered parliament in 1992 and ran unsuccessfully for the presidency in 1997, 2007, 2013, 2017 and 2022, claiming to have been cheated of victory...
https://web.facebook.com/AddisstandardEng/posts/pfbid0mrAEpxhuf2XH9ahPKit5ASKkAK2LjewSbDSY4VWPH3jSESNU9zpv8TudTWeQUH2zl
#Raila Amolo Odinga, whose death at 80 was announced on Wednesday, spent most of his adult life in politics, including 8 years in prison as a pro-democracy campaigner -- but never achieved his goal of becoming Kenya's president, despite five attempts.
Odinga, who died during a trip to an Ayurvedic health clinic in India according to local police, cast himself as an anti-establishment firebrand despite belonging to one of Kenya's top political dynasties, AFP reports.
Born on January 7, 1945, he spent his early years in politics either in jail or in exile, fighting for democracy during the autocratic rule of president Daniel arap Moi.
A member of the Luo tribe, he entered parliament in 1992 and ran unsuccessfully for the presidency in 1997, 2007, 2013, 2017 and 2022, claiming to have been cheated of victory...
https://web.facebook.com/AddisstandardEng/posts/pfbid0mrAEpxhuf2XH9ahPKit5ASKkAK2LjewSbDSY4VWPH3jSESNU9zpv8TudTWeQUH2zl
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President Taye receives credentials of new #Egyptian Ambassador, says outstanding issues within reach
President Taye Atske-Selassie yesterday received the credentials of the newly appointed Ambassador of the Arab Republic of Egypt, Obaida A. El Dandarawy, at the National Palace, Minister of Foreign Affairs disclosed.
The ceremony was attended by Minister of Foreign Affairs Gedion Timothewos and State Minister of Foreign Affairs Ambassador Berhanu Tsegaye.
During the meeting, President Taye underscored the long-standing and multifaceted relations between #Ethiopia and Egypt, highlighting areas of cooperation including agriculture, industry, and manufacturing.
He noted that while some technical issues remain outstanding, “they are always within reach of our wisdom,” reflecting optimism that both countries can address remaining matters through dialogue, local media reports.
https://web.facebook.com/AddisstandardEng/posts/pfbid02rP8siXZwtz5MPx5LEMwpsUK4TaPLSVAw7pqGQcwBKQFN3dxWsyTGHvhwNwCafqotl
President Taye Atske-Selassie yesterday received the credentials of the newly appointed Ambassador of the Arab Republic of Egypt, Obaida A. El Dandarawy, at the National Palace, Minister of Foreign Affairs disclosed.
The ceremony was attended by Minister of Foreign Affairs Gedion Timothewos and State Minister of Foreign Affairs Ambassador Berhanu Tsegaye.
During the meeting, President Taye underscored the long-standing and multifaceted relations between #Ethiopia and Egypt, highlighting areas of cooperation including agriculture, industry, and manufacturing.
He noted that while some technical issues remain outstanding, “they are always within reach of our wisdom,” reflecting optimism that both countries can address remaining matters through dialogue, local media reports.
https://web.facebook.com/AddisstandardEng/posts/pfbid02rP8siXZwtz5MPx5LEMwpsUK4TaPLSVAw7pqGQcwBKQFN3dxWsyTGHvhwNwCafqotl
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#Ethiopia's weavers struggle to keep garment tradition alive
In a small workshop in Addis Abeba, dozens of artisans continue the centuries-old craft of weaving habesha kemis—traditional white cotton dresses decorated with colorful embroidery.
Once in high demand for religious and festive occasions, the intricate garments now face declining sales as Ethiopia’s economic hardship and high inflation take their toll. Weavers like Asefaw Yemu, who has spent 30 years at the loom earning about 10,000 to 15,000 birr a month, say the work is exhausting and increasingly unsustainable as demand drops and the cost of materials rises.
About 39 percent of Ethiopia's 130 million people lived below the poverty line -- less than $3 a day -- in 2021, a figure the World Bank projected will rise to 43 percent this year. At the same workshop, Getu Derza, 48, carefully embroiders colourful silk threads.....
https://web.facebook.com/AddisstandardEng/posts/pfbid0W7i64SFoHZ6z7o9Lz7pk9oWQH8gyxJNHubkRZPfcxqmjcFnTn3qnGRzBpZJBsiVhl
In a small workshop in Addis Abeba, dozens of artisans continue the centuries-old craft of weaving habesha kemis—traditional white cotton dresses decorated with colorful embroidery.
Once in high demand for religious and festive occasions, the intricate garments now face declining sales as Ethiopia’s economic hardship and high inflation take their toll. Weavers like Asefaw Yemu, who has spent 30 years at the loom earning about 10,000 to 15,000 birr a month, say the work is exhausting and increasingly unsustainable as demand drops and the cost of materials rises.
About 39 percent of Ethiopia's 130 million people lived below the poverty line -- less than $3 a day -- in 2021, a figure the World Bank projected will rise to 43 percent this year. At the same workshop, Getu Derza, 48, carefully embroiders colourful silk threads.....
https://web.facebook.com/AddisstandardEng/posts/pfbid0W7i64SFoHZ6z7o9Lz7pk9oWQH8gyxJNHubkRZPfcxqmjcFnTn3qnGRzBpZJBsiVhl
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#Opinion: Sixty Years of Estrangement: Breaking cycle of #Ethiopia-#Eritrea perennial conflict
For over six decades, Ethiopia and Eritrea have been caught in recurring cycles of conflict, spanning Eritrea’s struggle for independence to the devastating 1998–2000 war and its prolonged aftermath of proxy confrontations. Jafar Bedru Geletu, the author of this opinion piece, writes, “Despite changes in Ethiopia’s leadership—from an emperor to a Marxist regime to successive prime ministers—the Eritrean problem has persisted.” Although a 2018 peace agreement briefly raised hopes, he emphasizes that currently “the two countries seem to be back to their usual posture of hostility against one another.”
While Eritrean President Isaias Afeworki’s “intransigence lies behind a lot of the problematic aspects of the relationship” between the two nations, the author states that the underlying issues are deeper, involving two fundamental factors: the first is “the insecurity of the Eritrean state about its independence and continued statehood,” and the second is “the deep-rooted resentment of most Ethiopians to their landlocked status.”
Jafar contends that “if the current and future generations are to avoid repeating the bloody history of the last sixty years, new approaches that take into full account the sensitivities, interests, and needs of both countries must be adopted.” He further notes, "Ethiopia and Eritrea need a long-term framework for coexistence that promotes interdependence and institutionalized cooperation.”
https://addisstandard.com/?p=52908
For over six decades, Ethiopia and Eritrea have been caught in recurring cycles of conflict, spanning Eritrea’s struggle for independence to the devastating 1998–2000 war and its prolonged aftermath of proxy confrontations. Jafar Bedru Geletu, the author of this opinion piece, writes, “Despite changes in Ethiopia’s leadership—from an emperor to a Marxist regime to successive prime ministers—the Eritrean problem has persisted.” Although a 2018 peace agreement briefly raised hopes, he emphasizes that currently “the two countries seem to be back to their usual posture of hostility against one another.”
While Eritrean President Isaias Afeworki’s “intransigence lies behind a lot of the problematic aspects of the relationship” between the two nations, the author states that the underlying issues are deeper, involving two fundamental factors: the first is “the insecurity of the Eritrean state about its independence and continued statehood,” and the second is “the deep-rooted resentment of most Ethiopians to their landlocked status.”
Jafar contends that “if the current and future generations are to avoid repeating the bloody history of the last sixty years, new approaches that take into full account the sensitivities, interests, and needs of both countries must be adopted.” He further notes, "Ethiopia and Eritrea need a long-term framework for coexistence that promotes interdependence and institutionalized cooperation.”
https://addisstandard.com/?p=52908
Addis Standard
Sixty Years of Estrangement: Breaking cycle of Ethiopia-Eritrea perennial conflict - Addis Standard
Sixty Years of Estrangement: Breaking cycle of Ethiopia-Eritrea perennial conflict Addis Standard Opinion -
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President Ruto announces 7-day mourning, state funeral for ‘democracy giant’ Raila Odinga
President #William_Ruto has announced a seven-day national mourning period for the late Raila Odinga, during which the Kenyan flag will be flown at half-mast in honour of the former Prime Minister who died on Wednesday morning in India.
In a televised afternoon address at State House, #Nairobi, Ruto announced that the former Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) party leader will be accorded a state funeral with all attendant honours.
“We have lost one of Africa’s greatest leaders, a giant of democracy, a fearless fighter, and a tireless warrior of good governance,” Ruto said.
“Raila Amolo Odinga’s name will forever be etched in the story of our republic: a story of struggle, sacrifice, courage, rule of law, hope, and our pursuit for excellence.”
Ruto described Odinga as a patriot who dedicated.
https://citizen.digital/article/president-ruto-announces-7-day-mourning-state-funeral-for-democracy-giant-raila-odinga-n371464
President #William_Ruto has announced a seven-day national mourning period for the late Raila Odinga, during which the Kenyan flag will be flown at half-mast in honour of the former Prime Minister who died on Wednesday morning in India.
In a televised afternoon address at State House, #Nairobi, Ruto announced that the former Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) party leader will be accorded a state funeral with all attendant honours.
“We have lost one of Africa’s greatest leaders, a giant of democracy, a fearless fighter, and a tireless warrior of good governance,” Ruto said.
“Raila Amolo Odinga’s name will forever be etched in the story of our republic: a story of struggle, sacrifice, courage, rule of law, hope, and our pursuit for excellence.”
Ruto described Odinga as a patriot who dedicated.
https://citizen.digital/article/president-ruto-announces-7-day-mourning-state-funeral-for-democracy-giant-raila-odinga-n371464
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#Ethiopian government calls EHRC report on movement restrictions “unbalanced,” admits mobility limitations in some areas due to insecurity
The Ethiopian government has described the recent report by the Ethiopian Human Rights Commission (#EHRC) documenting widespread restrictions on people’s freedom of movement as “unbalanced,” while admitting that limitations on mobility persist in some areas due to security challenges.
Kebede Desisa, State Minister of the Government Communication Service, told Deutsche Welle that while the government acknowledges restrictions in certain parts of the country, the EHRC report failed to present the full context and to recognize the measures being taken to restore peace and security.
“The country’s overall peace and security situation has been assessed, and challenges are being addressed gradually over time,” Kebede said, adding that “major changes......
https://web.facebook.com/AddisstandardEng/posts/pfbid02twmj9bQKFHD7vhWac7EZv1d4NSJK73SA279D2jksZsragGi3uP4jmdibk4ygM5aol
The Ethiopian government has described the recent report by the Ethiopian Human Rights Commission (#EHRC) documenting widespread restrictions on people’s freedom of movement as “unbalanced,” while admitting that limitations on mobility persist in some areas due to security challenges.
Kebede Desisa, State Minister of the Government Communication Service, told Deutsche Welle that while the government acknowledges restrictions in certain parts of the country, the EHRC report failed to present the full context and to recognize the measures being taken to restore peace and security.
“The country’s overall peace and security situation has been assessed, and challenges are being addressed gradually over time,” Kebede said, adding that “major changes......
https://web.facebook.com/AddisstandardEng/posts/pfbid02twmj9bQKFHD7vhWac7EZv1d4NSJK73SA279D2jksZsragGi3uP4jmdibk4ygM5aol
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#Red_Sea ambition by force not #Oromo people’s agenda; foreign-driven motives behind #Ethiopia’s push: senior #OLA leader
Jaal Jiregna Gudeta, senior adviser to Jaal Marroo, the leader of the Oromo Liberation Army (OLA), said that the Ethiopian government’s narrative to “seize” the Red Sea port of Assab amounts to rejecting internationally recognized (colonial) borders and does not represent Oromo aspirations.
“Ethiopia recognized, signed, and ceded #Assab as part of #Eritrea,” he said, adding that any attempt to “seize Assab” is tantamount to saying that “we oppose the colonial border.”
“The Oromo people have no intention of invading or crossing the borders of another area or another country,” Jaal Jiregna said, adding that the Red Sea issue is being driven by external interests.
“The government of Abiy Ahmed is well aware that this issue is not an Oromo question. The Red Sea question is a rivalry between Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates.”
Watch
Jaal Jiregna Gudeta, senior adviser to Jaal Marroo, the leader of the Oromo Liberation Army (OLA), said that the Ethiopian government’s narrative to “seize” the Red Sea port of Assab amounts to rejecting internationally recognized (colonial) borders and does not represent Oromo aspirations.
“Ethiopia recognized, signed, and ceded #Assab as part of #Eritrea,” he said, adding that any attempt to “seize Assab” is tantamount to saying that “we oppose the colonial border.”
“The Oromo people have no intention of invading or crossing the borders of another area or another country,” Jaal Jiregna said, adding that the Red Sea issue is being driven by external interests.
“The government of Abiy Ahmed is well aware that this issue is not an Oromo question. The Red Sea question is a rivalry between Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates.”
Watch
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Analysis: #East_Borana residents report two month closure of Nagelle Borana–Moyale road amid conflicting official claims and stalled peace efforts
Residents of the East Borana Zone in #Oromia say the main road linking #Nagelle_Borana to #Moyale has been closed for more than two months due to renewed border insecurity between the Oromia & Somali regions. Local authorities have offered conflicting accounts regarding the road’s status.
Locals who spoke to Addis Standard said the closure has severely disrupted transport & livelihoods, as peace efforts between the two communities have yet to yield tangible results. An official from the East Borana Zone confirmed that the road remains closed. However, a Somali regional official insisted that “the road remains open.”
Residents attribute the disruption of movement to a peace and reconciliation process that has failed to materialize on the ground. Those interviewed described the process as “only between regional security forces,”
https://addisstandard.com/?p=52919
Residents of the East Borana Zone in #Oromia say the main road linking #Nagelle_Borana to #Moyale has been closed for more than two months due to renewed border insecurity between the Oromia & Somali regions. Local authorities have offered conflicting accounts regarding the road’s status.
Locals who spoke to Addis Standard said the closure has severely disrupted transport & livelihoods, as peace efforts between the two communities have yet to yield tangible results. An official from the East Borana Zone confirmed that the road remains closed. However, a Somali regional official insisted that “the road remains open.”
Residents attribute the disruption of movement to a peace and reconciliation process that has failed to materialize on the ground. Those interviewed described the process as “only between regional security forces,”
https://addisstandard.com/?p=52919
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News: #Tigray forces’ protest enters third day as the interim administration issues statement following emergency cabinet meeting
Protests by members of the Tigray forces demanding improved pay and benefits have entered a third consecutive day, as key roads across the region remain blocked despite efforts by the regional leadership to calm tensions.
On Wednesday, road closures extended beyond the Mekelle–#Wukro–#Adigrat corridor, with protesters also blocking the Mekelle–Alamata route. The continued demonstrations come despite the President of the Tigray Interim Administration, Lt. Gen. Tadesse Werede, addressing the soldiers both in person and through a public statement.
In a statement issued today, President Tadesse announced that the Cabinet of the Tigray Interim Administration held an emergency meeting to discuss the “rights and benefits of the Tigray Security Forces.”
https://addisstandard.com/?p=52921
Protests by members of the Tigray forces demanding improved pay and benefits have entered a third consecutive day, as key roads across the region remain blocked despite efforts by the regional leadership to calm tensions.
On Wednesday, road closures extended beyond the Mekelle–#Wukro–#Adigrat corridor, with protesters also blocking the Mekelle–Alamata route. The continued demonstrations come despite the President of the Tigray Interim Administration, Lt. Gen. Tadesse Werede, addressing the soldiers both in person and through a public statement.
In a statement issued today, President Tadesse announced that the Cabinet of the Tigray Interim Administration held an emergency meeting to discuss the “rights and benefits of the Tigray Security Forces.”
https://addisstandard.com/?p=52921
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#Somalia elects representatives to East African Community parliament for first time
Somalia’s bicameral Federal Parliament on Wednesday elected nine members to the East African Legislative Assembly (EALA), securing the Horn of Africa nation’s first legislative presence in the East African Community (EAC).
The joint sitting, chaired by Sheikh Adan Mohamed Noor (Madobe), Speaker of the House of the People, capped a process hailed as symbolising Somalia’s political integration with the rest of the EAC members. Somalia joined the EAC in March 2024, and was formally admitted into the bloc in November that year.
The nine legislators will join peers from #Kenya, #Uganda, #Tanzania, #Rwanda, Burundi, South Sudan, and the Democratic Republic of Congo at the Assembly’s headquarters in Arusha, Tanzania.
Somalia will also nominate a judge to the East African Court of Justice (EACJ), completing its institutional integration.
https://www.trtafrika.com/english/article/a9de9f6cb385
Somalia’s bicameral Federal Parliament on Wednesday elected nine members to the East African Legislative Assembly (EALA), securing the Horn of Africa nation’s first legislative presence in the East African Community (EAC).
The joint sitting, chaired by Sheikh Adan Mohamed Noor (Madobe), Speaker of the House of the People, capped a process hailed as symbolising Somalia’s political integration with the rest of the EAC members. Somalia joined the EAC in March 2024, and was formally admitted into the bloc in November that year.
The nine legislators will join peers from #Kenya, #Uganda, #Tanzania, #Rwanda, Burundi, South Sudan, and the Democratic Republic of Congo at the Assembly’s headquarters in Arusha, Tanzania.
Somalia will also nominate a judge to the East African Court of Justice (EACJ), completing its institutional integration.
https://www.trtafrika.com/english/article/a9de9f6cb385
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#Ethiopian Airlines resumes flights to Port Sudan
Ethiopian Airlines has resumed its flights to #Port_Sudan, Sudan, effective 15 October 2025.
The national carrier said it will operate a daily flight to Port Sudan & plans to increase the frequency to twice daily starting 1 November 2025.
The resumption marks the latest step in Ethiopian Airlines’ efforts to restore and expand its regional network following disruptions caused by conflict and operational challenges in #Sudan.
Since the eruption of conflict between Sudan’s military and the paramilitary Rapid Support Forces in April 2023, the Sudanese government had been administering the country from a temporary seat in Port Sudan, located in the east.
On 27 August 2025, the Sudanese cabinet convened its first meeting in the capital, Khartoum. The state news agency SUNA described the session as “a symbolic step toward the return of state institutions to the capital,” noting that security arrangements were still underway to ensure stability.
Ethiopian Airlines has resumed its flights to #Port_Sudan, Sudan, effective 15 October 2025.
The national carrier said it will operate a daily flight to Port Sudan & plans to increase the frequency to twice daily starting 1 November 2025.
The resumption marks the latest step in Ethiopian Airlines’ efforts to restore and expand its regional network following disruptions caused by conflict and operational challenges in #Sudan.
Since the eruption of conflict between Sudan’s military and the paramilitary Rapid Support Forces in April 2023, the Sudanese government had been administering the country from a temporary seat in Port Sudan, located in the east.
On 27 August 2025, the Sudanese cabinet convened its first meeting in the capital, Khartoum. The state news agency SUNA described the session as “a symbolic step toward the return of state institutions to the capital,” noting that security arrangements were still underway to ensure stability.
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#Oromia government distributes 6,800 motorcycles to kebele administrations; residents say movement remains restricted in several areas
The Oromia Regional Government has distributed 6,800 motorcycles to kebele administrations as part of efforts to strengthen local governance and improve public service delivery, regional officials announced during the first-quarter performance evaluation meeting held in #Adama city.
Opening the three-day review meeting, which began on 14 October, Oromia Regional President Shimelis Abdisa said the motorcycles were handed over to kebele administrations across 21 zones, 292 districts, and 6,327 kebeles. He said kebele leaders who received the motorcycles are expected to “move within their communities and provide better service to the public.”
State media quoted President Shimelis as saying that the motorcycles “must properly serve all rural kebeles.” ...
https://web.facebook.com/AddisstandardEng/posts/pfbid02BgsPxB3ZapLeR3sVDNpxjUoqSYDMmnPsJN91T5AzCE1P6y5xeLAqMdf6WhARvenNl
The Oromia Regional Government has distributed 6,800 motorcycles to kebele administrations as part of efforts to strengthen local governance and improve public service delivery, regional officials announced during the first-quarter performance evaluation meeting held in #Adama city.
Opening the three-day review meeting, which began on 14 October, Oromia Regional President Shimelis Abdisa said the motorcycles were handed over to kebele administrations across 21 zones, 292 districts, and 6,327 kebeles. He said kebele leaders who received the motorcycles are expected to “move within their communities and provide better service to the public.”
State media quoted President Shimelis as saying that the motorcycles “must properly serve all rural kebeles.” ...
https://web.facebook.com/AddisstandardEng/posts/pfbid02BgsPxB3ZapLeR3sVDNpxjUoqSYDMmnPsJN91T5AzCE1P6y5xeLAqMdf6WhARvenNl
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#Somaliland, #Yemen and #Djibouti Coast Guards Meet in Djibouti to Bolster Red Sea Security
Coast Guard commanders from Somaliland, Yemen and Djibouti met in Djibouti this week to strengthen coordination on maritime security in the #Red_Sea and Gulf of Aden, a region increasingly vital to global trade and regional stability.
The talks, held at the Djibouti Coast Guard headquarters, brought together Admiral Ahmed Hure Hariye of Somaliland, Admiral Khalid Ali Mohamed Salah of Yemen, and Admiral Wa’ays Omar Boqore of Djibouti.
The meeting aimed to deepen cooperation in protecting shared waters, countering maritime threats, and addressing external interference in the region.
The discussions covered joint maritime patrols, intelligence-sharing, and measures to combat piracy, smuggling, and environmental risks in the Red Sea and Gulf of Aden — key arteries linking the Suez Canal to...
https://www.horndiplomat.com/2025/10/somaliland-yemen-and-djibouti-coast-guards-meet-in-djibouti-to-bolster-red-sea-security/
Coast Guard commanders from Somaliland, Yemen and Djibouti met in Djibouti this week to strengthen coordination on maritime security in the #Red_Sea and Gulf of Aden, a region increasingly vital to global trade and regional stability.
The talks, held at the Djibouti Coast Guard headquarters, brought together Admiral Ahmed Hure Hariye of Somaliland, Admiral Khalid Ali Mohamed Salah of Yemen, and Admiral Wa’ays Omar Boqore of Djibouti.
The meeting aimed to deepen cooperation in protecting shared waters, countering maritime threats, and addressing external interference in the region.
The discussions covered joint maritime patrols, intelligence-sharing, and measures to combat piracy, smuggling, and environmental risks in the Red Sea and Gulf of Aden — key arteries linking the Suez Canal to...
https://www.horndiplomat.com/2025/10/somaliland-yemen-and-djibouti-coast-guards-meet-in-djibouti-to-bolster-red-sea-security/
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President El-Sisi, #Sudan’s Al-Burhan discuss Nile water and Sudan crisis
Egyptian President Abdel Fattah El-Sisi on 15 October 2025 received the President of Sudan’s Sovereign Council, Lt. General Abdel Fattah Al-Burhan, at Al-Ittihadiya Palace in Cairo for talks on bilateral relations and regional issues, including the Nile water file and the ongoing conflict in Sudan.
Presidential Spokesman Ambassador Mohamed El-Shennawy said President El-Sisi welcomed Lt. Gen. Al-Burhan’s visit, commending the “deeply rooted fraternal relations” between Egypt and Sudan and the progress achieved in various areas of cooperation.
The two leaders discussed recent developments concerning the Nile water issue and reaffirmed their “categorical rejection of any unilateral measures” on the Blue Nile that contradict international law, reads statement from the president’s office.
https://web.facebook.com/AddisstandardEng/posts/pfbid02unNSVnG2NfmTVUgqhNu5s6XEoVabBbdGeEAyScRTyjjzeq2WDe1cYd5enAdzvfttl
Egyptian President Abdel Fattah El-Sisi on 15 October 2025 received the President of Sudan’s Sovereign Council, Lt. General Abdel Fattah Al-Burhan, at Al-Ittihadiya Palace in Cairo for talks on bilateral relations and regional issues, including the Nile water file and the ongoing conflict in Sudan.
Presidential Spokesman Ambassador Mohamed El-Shennawy said President El-Sisi welcomed Lt. Gen. Al-Burhan’s visit, commending the “deeply rooted fraternal relations” between Egypt and Sudan and the progress achieved in various areas of cooperation.
The two leaders discussed recent developments concerning the Nile water issue and reaffirmed their “categorical rejection of any unilateral measures” on the Blue Nile that contradict international law, reads statement from the president’s office.
https://web.facebook.com/AddisstandardEng/posts/pfbid02unNSVnG2NfmTVUgqhNu5s6XEoVabBbdGeEAyScRTyjjzeq2WDe1cYd5enAdzvfttl
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#Commentary: Language Matters: Complicity in the #Tigray genocide
Since the war on Tigray began in November 2020, “the international community has often adopted the language of Abiy Ahmed’s regime,” which was “deliberately weaponized against the Tigrayan people,” writes Desta Haileselassie in this commentary. Instead of naming the atrocities, he notes, “many international organizations, humanitarian agencies, global media outlets, and even some foreign governments” reduced the war to a vague “conflict in northern #Ethiopia” or “civil war in northern Ethiopia.” Desta emphasizes that “this was not careless wording” but a “calculated narrative strategy that amounted to complicity,” as it obscured Tigray’s identity and helped legitimize the destruction of its people.
The author points out that major humanitarian organizations, including the #UN’s Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (#OCHA), repeatedly referred to Tigray only as “northern Ethiopia,” effectively “erasing” its name. Desta states that this “word choice” eroded the “political and legal identity” of Tigray and provided “cover for mass atrocities” by portraying them merely as a “regional conflict.”
Furthermore, the article cites OCHA’s repeated use of maps and public statements describing Tigray’s constitutional borders as “contested” or “disputed” as another example of this pattern. According to the author, such language remains in use today, as Ethiopia’s federal institutions continue to “deliberately misrepresent” internationally recognized Tigrayan territories—including #Humera, #Welkait, and #Raya—as “part of the #Amhara region.” He argues that labeling these areas “contested” instead of “occupied land” or “Western and Southern Tigray” has helped to “legitimize the ethnic cleansing" that "forcibly expelled Tigrayans.”
Desta concludes that “language matters,” noting that the international community’s reliance on “softened terminology” has historically “shielded perpetrators” and “slowed decisive action,” as witnessed in #Rwanda and #Darfur. To ensure justice in Tigray, he urges the international community to "start by calling things by their real names" and unequivocally reject “any attempts to mask annexation” under the guise of “a border commission process or a local referendum.”
https://addisstandard.com/?p=52926
Since the war on Tigray began in November 2020, “the international community has often adopted the language of Abiy Ahmed’s regime,” which was “deliberately weaponized against the Tigrayan people,” writes Desta Haileselassie in this commentary. Instead of naming the atrocities, he notes, “many international organizations, humanitarian agencies, global media outlets, and even some foreign governments” reduced the war to a vague “conflict in northern #Ethiopia” or “civil war in northern Ethiopia.” Desta emphasizes that “this was not careless wording” but a “calculated narrative strategy that amounted to complicity,” as it obscured Tigray’s identity and helped legitimize the destruction of its people.
The author points out that major humanitarian organizations, including the #UN’s Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (#OCHA), repeatedly referred to Tigray only as “northern Ethiopia,” effectively “erasing” its name. Desta states that this “word choice” eroded the “political and legal identity” of Tigray and provided “cover for mass atrocities” by portraying them merely as a “regional conflict.”
Furthermore, the article cites OCHA’s repeated use of maps and public statements describing Tigray’s constitutional borders as “contested” or “disputed” as another example of this pattern. According to the author, such language remains in use today, as Ethiopia’s federal institutions continue to “deliberately misrepresent” internationally recognized Tigrayan territories—including #Humera, #Welkait, and #Raya—as “part of the #Amhara region.” He argues that labeling these areas “contested” instead of “occupied land” or “Western and Southern Tigray” has helped to “legitimize the ethnic cleansing" that "forcibly expelled Tigrayans.”
Desta concludes that “language matters,” noting that the international community’s reliance on “softened terminology” has historically “shielded perpetrators” and “slowed decisive action,” as witnessed in #Rwanda and #Darfur. To ensure justice in Tigray, he urges the international community to "start by calling things by their real names" and unequivocally reject “any attempts to mask annexation” under the guise of “a border commission process or a local referendum.”
https://addisstandard.com/?p=52926
Addis Standard
Language Matters: Complicity in the Tigray genocide - Addis Standard
Language Matters: Complicity in the Tigray genocide Addis Standard Commentary -
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#India, #Ethiopia hold inaugural Joint Defense Cooperation meeting in New Delhi
India and Ethiopia held their first-ever Joint Defense Cooperation (JDC) meeting in #New_Delhi on Wednesday, marking a new milestone in the long-standing bilateral defense relationship between the two countries.
The meeting was co-chaired by Amitabh Prasad, Joint Secretary (International Cooperation) at India’s Ministry of Defense, and Major General Teshome Gemechu, Director General for Defense Foreign Relations and Military Cooperation of Ethiopia.
According to India's Public Service Broadcaster, DD News, both sides reviewed ongoing defense cooperation and discussed new areas for collaboration, including training, joint military exercises, medical cooperation, and defense industry engagement.
Last week, Ethiopia and Pakistan have reached a similar agreement to enhance cooperation in defense and aviation as part of efforts to further strengthen their bilateral relations.
https://addisstandard.com/?p=52932
India and Ethiopia held their first-ever Joint Defense Cooperation (JDC) meeting in #New_Delhi on Wednesday, marking a new milestone in the long-standing bilateral defense relationship between the two countries.
The meeting was co-chaired by Amitabh Prasad, Joint Secretary (International Cooperation) at India’s Ministry of Defense, and Major General Teshome Gemechu, Director General for Defense Foreign Relations and Military Cooperation of Ethiopia.
According to India's Public Service Broadcaster, DD News, both sides reviewed ongoing defense cooperation and discussed new areas for collaboration, including training, joint military exercises, medical cooperation, and defense industry engagement.
Last week, Ethiopia and Pakistan have reached a similar agreement to enhance cooperation in defense and aviation as part of efforts to further strengthen their bilateral relations.
https://addisstandard.com/?p=52932
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