News: Fresh armed attack left 31 dead, 20 injured in #Gambella, regional cabinet enacts indefinite curfew

An armed militia attack on Nuer village in the city of Gambella, the capital of Gambella regional state has resulted in at least 31 fatalities and 20 injuries, according to a source who spoke with Addis Standard. The informant, wishing to remain unidentified for their safety, indicated that the attack began on 18 July around 4:50 pm.

Among the dead is Kwang Nial Poh, a respected member of the psychology department at Gambella University.

In response to this escalating crisis, the Gambella regional cabinet, in an emergency meeting on 19 July, has enacted an indefinite curfew, prohibiting all movement between 1:00AM and 12:00PM, except for designated security personnel.

Read more at: https://addisstandard.com/news-fresh-armed-attack-left-31-dead-20-injured-in-gambella-regional-cabinet-enacts-indefinite-curfew/

News: Security crisis in #Gambella region severely impacts human rights, needs urgent attention – EHRC

The Ethiopian Human Rights Commission (EHRC) has brought to light a pressing security crisis in the Gambella region, emphasizing its severe consequences on human rights. In a statement released on Sunday, the commission underscored the urgent need for attention and intervention.

The EHRC expressed deep concern about the deteriorating security situation, which arose following recent armed attacks by ethnic militias across different parts of the region. Particularly affected areas include Itang Special Woreda, Gambella Woreda, Gog Woreda, and Gambella City. These attacks have resulted in significant harm to residents and various human rights violations.

Stressing the seriousness of the issue, the EHRC urged the relevant authorities to take immediate action and collectively address the situation to prevent further deterioration. The commission also expressed concern regarding the potential human rights implications of the recently enacted indefinite curfew by the regional cabinet as a response to the crisis.

https://addisstandard.com/news-security-crisis-in-gambella-region-severely-impacts-human-rights-needs-urgent-attention-ehrc/

#Ethiopia - Normalcy returns to Godere district, #Gambella region after deadly attack claims six lives

Tensions were high this week in Godere district of Majang zone in Gambella region following consecutive attacks that occurred on Monday evening, 04 September, and the next morning, killing six farmers.

Properties were damaged and many have been displaced from their homes in Goshne and Akash kebeles/villages following the attack orchestrated by unidentified armed groups.

Residents now report gradual return of normalcy as a zonal security task force pledges to hold the perpetrators accountable.

https://addisstandard.com/news-normalcy-returns-to-godere-district-gambella-region-after-deadly-attack-claims-six-lives/

News: Floods displace thousands in #Gambella, regional gov’t calls for relief

Thousands displaced as heavy flooding in #Ethiopia's Gambella region causes extensive property damage.

Overflowing rivers impact nine districts, prompting calls for government and NGO support.

Last year, 79,631 people were affected by flooding in the area.

https://addisstandard.com/news-floods-displace-thousands-in-gambella-regional-govt-calls-for-relief/

News: At least 30 died of hunger in #Gambella refugee camps amid “increasingly concerning” food shortage – EHRC

Over 30 refugees in #Ethiopia's Gambella region have died of hunger since May when food aid was halted, according to the Ethiopian Human Rights Commission.

The lack of food aid has also led to malnutrition and attacks on refugees leaving camps to search for food.

The commission has called for urgent action to resume food assistance and prevent further loss of life.

https://addisstandard.com/news-at-least-30-died-of-hunger-in-gambella-refugee-camps-amid-increasingly-concerning-food-shortage-ehrc/

Commission requires $850 million for ex-combatant rehabilitation in #Ethiopia

The National Rehabilitation Commission (#NRC) has announced that $850 million is required to facilitate the rehabilitation of ex-combatants in Ethiopia. Lulseged Belayneh, the NRC's Communication and International Relations Director, revealed to the Ethiopian News Agency that the commission has registered a total of 371,971 ex-combatants from eight regional states.

The majority, around 274,000 individuals (constituting 75% of the total), are from the #Tigray region, with the remainder distributed across #Amhara, #Oromia, #Benishangul_Gumuz, #Afar, and #Gambella regions.

Lulseged further disclosed that the NRC originally planned to rehabilitate 50,000 ex-combatants in the Tigray region last year. However, due to an inability to secure the necessary funding of $162 million, the commission was unable to execute this plan.

This lack of funding has hindered the progress of ex-combatants' reintegration efforts, as highlighted in a recent article published by Addis Standard. The article shed light on the challenges faced by ex-fighters in the Tigray region, where thousands are still awaiting their certificates, including disabled combatants.

For more information on the challenges faced by ex-fighters in Tigray and the current state of the rehabilitation program, you can follow the link to read the full article.

https://addisstandard.com/feature-a-year-after-pretoria-peace-agreement-challenges-persist-in-rehabilitation-of-tigrays-ex-fighters/

#Ethiopia: Akobo Minerals hits gold ore body at #Segele mine in #Gambella, set to start pilot production

#Akobo_Minerals has announced a major milestone in its history with the discovery of a gold ore body at the Segele mine in Gambella region after 13 years of exploration.

The Scandinavian-based Ethiopian gold exploration and boutique mining company revealed that the mine has one of the world's highest concentrations of gold resources, with an average grade of 22.7 grams of gold per ton of ore.

The company is set to begin production from the pilot plant and commission the main plant soon. CEO Jørgen Evjen described the discovery as a significant moment for the organization and its supporters. In March, the company also intersected visible gold at 282 meters vertical depth. This achievement marks Akobo Minerals as one of the few mining companies to successfully transition from exploration to mining.

https://addisstandard.com/news-akobo-minerals-hits-gold-ore-body-at-segele-mine-in-gambella-set-to-start-pilot-production/

#Ethiopia: At least 23 die of #cholera in #Somali region as outbreak continues posing deadly threat to thousands
In the worst hit district of Kelafo in the Somali region, Save the Children teams are reporting a huge spike in cholera cases among children under five, who account for nearly 80% of the confirmed cases.

For the better part of this year, when the impacted region was engulfed by drought, cases of the waterborne disease were on the decline, with the Somali region reporting zero cases of cholera for 11 straight weeks until mid-September, when the rains started. Now, a deadly combination of flooded water systems, a lack of basic sanitation services and damaged water treatment plants has driven the spike in the deadly illness.

At least 91 districts across Ethiopia are reporting cases of cholera, with the situation expected to worsen as rains continue to fall in the #Gambella, #Afar and #Somali regions. https://addisstandard.com/?p=39735

#Brazil donates food and water assistance for refugees in #Ethiopia

The Government of Brazil has donated 18 tons of food supplies and 65 water purifiers to provide aid for thousands of refugees in Ethiopia's #Gambella region.

Gambella hosts over 385,000 refugees, mainly from #South_Sudan, and struggles with food insecurity. The donation came during a visit by Brazil's First Lady Janja Lula da Silva, who remarked that "it is a priority to fight against hunger and poverty in Africa."

The food assistance and water purifiers will provide nutritional support and clean water access to vulnerable refugee groups in five camps across Gambella. This includes women, children, the chronically ill and recent arrivals fleeing conflict in South Sudan and #Sudan. The aid will also help host communities embracing the refugees.

Brazil's contribution was welcomed by Ethiopia's Refugees and Returnees Service Director General Teyiba Hassen, who thanked the First Lady. She said the assistance means a lot to refugees who rely on aid to survive. The UNHCR's Representative in Ethiopia also expressed gratitude, hoping this marks greater cooperation with Brazil on solutions for displaced populations.

https://www.unhcr.org/africa/news/press-releases/brazil-provides-18-tons-kind-food-donation-and-water-purifiers-unhcr-thousands

News: 138 dead, 113 injured in #Gambella region over nine months: #EHRC report

The Ethiopian Human Rights Commission (EHRC) released a detailed report on Wednesday, revealing that since May 2023, 138 individuals have lost their lives and 113 have been injured in the Gambella region due to clashes between communities and attacks on refugees.

The report, spanning 15 pages, outlines the human rights violations occurring in various districts of the region, shedding light on the unrest that has plagued areas such as Itang Special District, Gambella District, Gog District, and Gambella City.

Despite efforts by the regional government to initiate peace talks and deploy additional security forces, the EHRC underscores the importance of continued accountability and compensation for victims.

https://addisstandard.com/news-138-dead-113-injured-in-gambella-region-over-nine-months-ehrc-report/

#Ethiopia: Tension mounts in #Gambella city over shooting of traffic police officer

Tension grips Gambella City after a traffic police officer was shot on March 18, 2024, leaving him critically wounded. The attack, suspected to be by armed men, has shut down transportation, banks, and other services.

The officer, Chuol Gatkuoth, was shot in the neck while on duty. Rumors swirl, with some attributing the attack to "Anyuak militants."

This incident adds to escalating violence in the region since last year, with previous attacks on public buses and armed militias. According to the Ethiopian Human Rights Commission, clashes and attacks have claimed 138 lives and injured 113 since May 2023.

https://addisstandard.com/tension-mounts-in-gambela-city-over-shooting-of-traffic-police-officer/

#Ethiopia unveils 517 tons of gold reserves

The Ministry of Mines has revealed a discovery of over 517 tons of gold reserves in Ethiopia. State Minister for Mines, Million Mathios, disclosed that extensive surveys conducted over the past 15 years have led to the identification of rich gold ore deposits in various regions including #Benishangul_Gumuz, #Gambella, #Oromia, and #Tigray.

While emphasizing the strategic significance of this find, Million explained that the extraction of these gold reserves will be carried out gradually over the coming years. He further highlighted that new companies entering the sector will be thoroughly vetted for their experience, expertise, manpower, financial capacity, and credibility before being granted licenses.

Developments are also underway, with the construction of Ethiopia's largest gold company factory in the Benshangul Gumuz region. Furthermore, plans are in place to establish gold mining operations in Oromia, Benishangul-Gumuz, Gambella, and Tigray regions.

#Ethiopia: Deadly armed attack on bus in #Gambella region leaves three dead, several injured

A devastating incident unfolded early today as an armed attack targeted a bus traveling from Gambella city to #Lare district in the #Nuer Zone, Gambella region. The assault led to the loss of three lives and left several others injured. Sources revealed that the attack occurred between #Abol district and #Tharpam Refugee Camp around 10 a.m. while the bus was en route.

Reports suggest that multiple buses left Gambella City in a convoy this morning. Unfortunately, one bus faced a delay at the start of its journey, making it a prime target for the assailants. The casualties included a woman, a child, and the bus driver, all fatally shot. According to sources, five individuals were reported to have been killed yesterday in the #Abobo district, located 50 kilometers from Gambella city.

These tragic events follow a string of violent incidents in the region, with escalating intercommunal violence since last year. The Ethiopian Human Rights Commission's recent report highlights a concerning trend of confrontations and attacks, resulting in numerous casualties.

https://addisstandard.com/deadly-armed-attack-on-bus-in-gambella-region-leaves-three-dead-several-injured/

#Ethiopia: Gambella regional government vows 'decisive action' amid escalating violence

The #Gambella regional government in Ethiopia issued a statement on 29 March, warning that it will take "decisive action" against those who attempt to seize power in the region by force.

In the statement, the regional administration noted an increase in incidents of "ethnic conflict, terrorism, serious crimes and illegal arms trafficking" in various areas of the region, including the capital Gambella city, since 2022. It identified the leadership as "the main bearer of the problems of ethnic extremism," coupled with "informal organizations" and "abroad based unaccountable social medias."


Read more at: https://twitter.com/addisstandard/status/1774017179165372730?t=Sn1LTRAuhS__ZfTQKWFTjQ&s=19

#Ethiopia: 10 people killed, 19 others wounded in #Gambella attack

An unknown armed group mercilessly attacked #Panyiduk Refugee Camp in the Gambella region, leaving 10 people dead and 19 others wounded. Peter Maker, Chairman of Panyiduk Camp, revealed in an exclusive interview that the assailants targeted refugees at around 9 a.m. local time on Friday.

The community, settled in Zone Seven by #UNHCR in 2014, has been left devastated by this senseless act of violence. Maker suspects the perpetrators could be armed youth from the “Murle” community, fleeing towards #Bongak of the #Pibor Administrative area after the assault.

The injured have been rushed to Panyiduk camp’s main hospital for urgent medical care. Maker expressed grave concern over the lack of police presence in the camp, leaving residents vulnerable to such attacks.

https://cityreviewss.com/10-people-killed-19-others-wounded-in-gambella-attack/

#Ethiopia: #Gambella police arrest 14 officials, a civilian linked to ‘security breaches’ in Jor and Itang districts

The Gambella Police Commission has taken action, announcing the arrest of 14 officials and one civilian allegedly involved in security breaches in the #Jor and #Itang special districts of the Gambella region. According to Regional Police Commissioner Umod Umod, the arrests stem from incidents on 04 April that led to casualties and property damage in Jor district. Among those apprehended are two senior zone administrators and five district officials implicated in the Jor district's security situation.

Additionally, seven officials from Itang district face charges for impeding justice by preventing wanted suspects from facing legal consequences. Commissioner Umod emphasized ongoing investigations into the matter. Furthermore, an individual accused of attempting to incite ethnic clashes in Gambella city forums has been detained alongside the officials.

These arrests follow the removal of three regional bureau heads and one zonal administration leader due to their failure to fulfill governmental responsibilities amid escalating security concerns.

https://addisstandard.com/gambella-police-arrest-14-officials-civilians-linked-to-security-breaches-in-jor-and-itang-districts/

#Ethiopia: #Gambella regional gov’t appoints eight new officials in the wake of a series of security incidents

In a bid to address the pressing issues of peace and development in Gambella, the regional government has appointed eight new officials. President Umod Ujulu announced the appointments, highlighting the importance of effective governance in response to the community's demands.

The newly appointed officials include Bagwal Jok, heading the Peace and Security Administration Bureau; Cham Ubong, leading the Justice Bureau; and Dr. Chol Ked, appointed as the director-general of the Gambella Rural Roads Authority. These appointments aim to bolster leadership capacity and tackle challenges in the region.

This decision comes after the removal of several senior officials two weeks ago, including Akwai Ubuti, Chol Kun, and Bitew Dak. The government cited security incidents as the reason for their dismissals, with reports of escalating violence and attacks by armed groups in the region.

https://addisstandard.com/gambella-regional-govt-appoints-eight-new-officials-in-the-wake-of-a-series-of-security-incidents/

#Ethiopian meteorologists warn of heavy rainfall impact on health, agriculture

The Ethiopian Meteorology Institute (#EMI) forecasts above-normal rainfall this Kiremt season (June to September), particularly in central and south #Tigray, Afar, East #Amhara, northern #Somali, and eastern regions. Authorities are urged to stay vigilant against potential flooding and disruptions in agriculture, healthcare, water supply, and livestock.

During the National Climate Outlook Forum in #Adama, EMI experts highlighted record rainfall over the past decade. They predict heavy rains in western Tigray, west Amhara, Benishangul-Gumuz, west #Oromia, #Gambella, and southwestern regions.

Desalegn Tarekegn from EMI warned that heavy rainfall will heighten malaria transmission risk, especially in southern Afar and southwest Ethiopia. Cholera and dengue fever outbreaks are also potential threats due to extreme weather. Health challenges related to heat are expected in #Afar, Southern Somali, and South Ethiopia. Heavy rains may cause floods, soil erosion, and landslides, impacting farming operations and infrastructure.

https://www.downtoearth.org.in/news/africa/ethiopian-meteorologists-warn-of-heavy-rainfall-impact-on-health-agriculture-96252

#Ethiopia: Federal High Court sets former #Gambella regional police commissioner Abula Ubang free

The Federal High Court Lideta Division acquitted former Gambella Police Commissioner Abula Ubang due to insufficient evidence, media reports say.

In March, 2023, Abula Ubang and 14 others were arrested for alleged human rights violations during the 14 June, 2022, incident, which killed at least 50 civilians.

While Obang and two others were acquitted, 12 suspects were found guilty. Sentencing for the convicted individuals is set for 17 July, 2024.

https://addisstandard.com/?p=44544

#Ethiopia: Court convicts 12 former #Gambella region police members, passes stiffer prison terms

The Federal High Court Lideta Division has sentenced 12 former Gambella police and special forces members to 14 to 22 years in prison for their roles in civilian deaths in June 2022. Convicted individuals include former Deputy Commissioner Tut Khor, Chief Inspector Kong Rek, and Special Forces Deputy Commander Chief Inspector Ujed Bare.

Former Gambella Police Commissioner Abula Ubang and two others were acquitted due to insufficient evidence. To read the full news, click the link. https://addisstandard.com/court-convicts-12-former-gambella-region-police-members-passes-stiffer-prison-terms/