#BRICS expansion: The group is getting stronger

The 15th BRICS summit held in #South_Africa attracted great interest from the global community. During the summit, it was announced that #Argentina, #UAE, #Ethiopia, #Iran, #Egypt, and #Saudi_Arabia will join the group as full members from January 1, 2024, expanding the number of BRICS countries to 11.

Discussions on the creation of a new common currency and the reform of the international monetary system were also highlighted.

The summit showcased a clear divergence between the world represented by the West and the world represented by BRICS, with #China and #Russia as dominant poles.

https://moderndiplomacy.eu/2023/08/29/brics-expansion-the-group-is-getting-stronger/

#African leaders at odds over climate plans as crucial #Nairobi summit opens

African leaders and campaigners are divided over the future of the continent as a critical climate summit commences in Nairobi. While some countries like #Ethiopia, #Kenya, #Egypt, and #South_Africa have been expanding renewable energy access and leading transition efforts, others argue that oil and natural gas reserves should be used for economic growth and increased energy access.

Climate campaigners are concerned about new investments in fossil fuels and are advocating for a fossil fuel phaseout. The African climate summit, hosted by Kenya and the African Union Commission, will bring together African heads of state and government, ministers, and UN leaders, to discuss energy transitions and barriers to access.

A joint declaration is expected to outline the continent's position on climate finance and green growth.

https://www.theguardian.com/environment/2023/sep/04/africa-leaders-climate-crisis-plans-nairobi-summit-opens

Tragic accident claims lives of #Ethiopian migrants in #Tanzania

At least seven Ethiopian migrants lost their lives in the #Njombe region of Tanzania. The incident occurred on 14 September, 2023, when a truck carrying 29 Ethiopian migrants was traveling towards the border town of #Tunduma, adjacent to #Zambia. Regrettably, seven migrants were fatalities in the accident, while nine others sustained injuries.

Additionally, 13 individuals remain unaccounted for, according to the International Organization for Migration (#IOM).

The IOM emphasized that this devastating incident underscores the urgent need for comprehensive measures to address the complex challenges faced by migrants along the perilous "southern route" from the Horn of #Africa to #South_Africa.

https://eastandhornofafrica.iom.int/news/migrants-killed-tanzania-road-accident

In-depth: Ethiopia's surprising admission into the #BRICS elite circle: Exploring the role of geopolitics, economics

The recent BRICS Summit held in #South_Africa made headlines as it unexpectedly welcomed six new nations into its ranks. Starting in January 2024, #Argentina, #Iran, #Saudi_Arabia, the #UAE, #Egypt, and #Ethiopia will officially join the bloc. While this surprising move has sparked intense discussions and debates among experts, it is Ethiopia's invitation that has left many questioning the criteria behind its selection.

Ethiopia's interest in joining BRICS has been relatively recent. The country made its debut at the 14th BRICS Summit in 2022 and subsequently submitted an official application to join in early 2023. Despite having the largest economy in East Africa, Ethiopia's selection was unexpected, especially considering the absence of #Nigeria, Algeria and Morocco from the selection process.

Experts believe that politics, rather than economics, played a significant role in the selection process. The establishment of BRICS is rooted more in geopolitics than economic benefits. However, some argue that the decision to include Ethiopia and Egypt is a calculated move to achieve equilibrium and promote harmony and impartiality within the bloc.

https://addisstandard.com/in-depth-ethiopias-surprising-admission-into-the-brics-elite-circle-exploring-the-role-of-geopolitics-economics/

49 #Ethiopian nationals nabbed in #Nairobi while being smuggled to South Africa

A group of 49 Ethiopian nationals was recently apprehended in two estates in Nairobi as they attempted to be smuggled to #South_Africa. The first group of 31 individuals was discovered in a house in #Komarock while waiting for their smuggler to transport them. Security agencies express concern about the increasing number of Ethiopians being caught in various parts of the country while en route to other destinations. Most of those arrested lack proper immigration documents, causing some stations to hold them for extended periods.

Officials are calling for urgent action to address this issue, as many immigrants are defrauded and subjected to appalling living conditions as they await transportation. The latest group, consisting of individuals aged between 14 and 45, was apprehended in two separate locations. They are currently being held at Kayole police station.

These recent arrests are part of an ongoing trend involving Ethiopian migrants. Many of them use the #Moyale route to enter #Kenya and then attempt to travel to South Africa or the Middle East.

https://www.the-star.co.ke/counties/nairobi/2023-11-05-49-ethiopians-arrested-in-nairobi-heading-to-s-africa/

#South_Africa recalls all diplomats from #Israel

Foreign Minister Naledi Pandor told a press conference that South Africa was withdrawing its diplomats, saying: "We are... extremely concerned at the continued killing of children and innocent civilians in the Palestinian territories and we believe the nature of response by Israel has become one of collective punishment.

"We felt it important that we do signal the concern of South Africa while continuing to call for a comprehensive cessation [of hostilities]."
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The recall of the diplomats was "normal practice", Foreign Minister Pandor said, adding that the envoys would give a "full briefing" to the government. After this, the government will decide whether it can be of assistance or if a "continued relationship is actually able to be sustained", Ms Pandor said.

South Africa's cabinet also accused Israeli ambassador Eliav Belotsercovsky of making derogatory remarks about South Africans, including members of government, who had criticized Israel's government.

"The disparaging remarks against those speaking up against the atrocities and the country's leaders make ambassador Belotsercovsky position more and more untenable," the cabinet statement said. https://www.bbc.com/news/world-africa-67334698

#Ethiopia: Glass half-full or half-empty? Exploring the #Pretoria Peace Agreement’s achievements, failures

The #Tigray war ended a year ago after lasting for two tumultuous years, resulting in over half a million lives lost. The cessation of hostilities took place in Pretoria, #South_Africa, with the signing of a peace agreement by the federal government and Tigray forces. Although the accord received acclaim for bringing relief and hope, the implementation of critical elements has been delayed. Intellectuals and analysts from the Tigray region are reflecting on their initial expectations, successes achieved so far, and the challenges ahead.

Expectations included immediate humanitarian access and the return of displaced people, withdrawal of forces, and peaceful reintegration of ex-fighters. Progress has fallen short, but there have been modest achievements like partial resumption of schooling and basic health services. Observers say the major achievement of the agreement has been the cessation of hostilities, shifting the focus from war to peaceful dialogue.

However, there are shortcomings. Unrestricted access to aid and medicine has not been ensured, impacting the population. Displaced individuals have not been able to return home as anticipated. Concerns remain over ongoing violence and repression by occupying forces.

https://addisstandard.com/glass-half-full-or-half-empty-exploring-the-pretoria-peace-agreements-achievements-failures/

#Argentina far-right Javier Milei wins presidency, not to join #BRICS

Far-right candidate Javier Milei achieved a decisive victory over Economy Minister Sergio Massa in the recent presidential runoff elections in Argentina.

Previously, Milei has expressed opposition to Argentina joining BRICS, an international economic bloc consisting of #Brazil, #Russia, #India, #China, and #South_Africa. Despite Argentina's main trading partners being China and Brazil, Diana Mondino, Milei’s candidate for Argentine Foreign Minister, said that collaborations with these nations will cease, as Argentina intends to remain within the South American trade bloc Mercosur.

Earlier this year, Argentina was invited to join BRICS alongside other countries such as #Ethiopia, #Egypt, #Iran, #UAE, and #Saudi_Arabia. However, Mondino emphasized that there is no interest from Argentina to pursue BRICS membership, focusing instead on addressing the ongoing economic crisis.

https://english.almayadeen.net/news/politics/argentina-far-right-javier-milei-wins-presidency--not-to-joi

From #Ethiopia to #South_Africa: The human cost of a neglected migration route

Recently, tragedy struck as 29 Ethiopian men suffocated in the back of a truck and were hastily buried in shallow graves in #Malawi. These men were victims of a transnational smuggling network that funnels tens of thousands of people into southern #Africa each year, with little regard for their safety.

The deceased, still to be identified, had come from southern Ethiopia and had hoped to reach South Africa for work. This southern migration route is often overlooked by experts and aid agencies, leading to a lack of support for comprehensive data and research along this route. The dangers of the journey are considerable, with travelers being packed in airless fuel tankers and containers, and facing threats of violence, extortion, and kidnapping.

The dehumanizing nature of the business is evident as smugglers commonly refer to migrants as "goods". This emerging picture of a booming organized crime business is having a growing political and economic impact in countries along the corridor's path.

https://www.thenewhumanitarian.org/news-feature/2023/11/22/ethiopia-south-africa-human-cost-neglected-south-south-migration-route

The final meeting of the #BRICS Sherpas, Sous-Sherpas Year was held in South Africa

The final meeting of this year's BRICS Sherpas and Sous Sherpas took place in #Durban, #South_Africa from 30 November to 3 December. The meeting focused on the development and strengthening of strategic partnership within the BRICS framework, with discussions on the forthcoming expansion of the association.

The South African side presented a report on the results of its presidency, covering political, economic, financial, cultural, and humanitarian aspects of the partnership. The #Russian delegation presented the BRICS work plans for 2024, with a focus on the inclusion of new participants in multipolar cooperation and the development of modalities for a new category of "partner states" of the association.

The meeting also emphasized the importance of strengthening foreign policy coordination, combating terrorism and money laundering, and increasing the role of the BRICS countries in the global financial system. Representatives from South Africa, #China, #Ethiopia, #India, the #UAE, and #Saudi_Arabia expressed their readiness for practical cooperation and strengthening the position of the association in the international arena.

https://tvbrics.com/en/news/the-final-meeting-of-the-brics-sherpas-and-sous-sherpas-year-was-held-in-south-africa/

#BRICS to grow as Saudi, Iran, UAE, Egypt, #Ethiopia join ranks

The BRICS alliance is poised for a significant expansion as #Saudi_Arabia, #Iran, the #UAE, Ethiopia, and #Egypt are set to join the group on 01 January, 2024, according to #South_Africa's representative to the bloc. This move integrates some of the world's leading energy producers with major consumers among developing nations, enhancing the group's global influence.

#Argentina, however, has opted out following a policy reversal by its new President Javier Milei. The five new members have already engaged in a BRICS sherpa meeting in #Durban, signaling their commitment to the group, with plans to participate in an upcoming meeting in #Moscow.

Now, with around 30 countries expressing interest in the bloc and #Nigeria aiming to join within two years, BRICS is set to play an even more prominent role on the world stage.

https://www.bnnbloomberg.ca/brics-to-grow-as-saudi-iran-uae-egypt-ethiopia-join-ranks-1.2016308

#Sudan Recalls Envoy to #Kenya Over Reception of RSF Commander

The Sudanese Ministry of Foreign Affairs has announced the recall of its ambassador to Kenya, Kamal Jubbara, following the reception accorded to Mohamed Hamdan Dagalo "Hemetti," the leader of the Rapid Support Forces (#RSF), by the Kenyan government.

Foreign Minister Ali Al-Sadiq expressed Sudan's disapproval through a formal statement, indicating that the recall is a diplomatic gesture of protest against the recognition given to Hemetti by Kenya, despite Sudan's position on the RSF's conduct.

Moreover, the Foreign Minister criticized the Kenyan government for overlooking the RSF's alleged role in committing serious abuses, including damage to infrastructure and civilian properties. The ambassador's consultations will review Sudan's diplomatic stance towards Kenya, amid accusations of Kenyan support for the paramilitary group.

The incident follows Hemetti's series of meetings with regional leaders in #Ethiopia, #Uganda, #Djibouti, #South_Africa, where he received varying levels of reception. It also comes after Sudan's Sovereign Council President Abdel Fattah al-Burhan's prior warnings against treating Hemetti as a legitimate state representative, with implications for Sudan's diplomatic responses.

https://sudantribune.com/article280985/

#Sudan army chief rejects ceasefire proposal with paramilitary group

Sudan's army chief, Abdel Fattah al-Burhan, has announced his refusal to accept a ceasefire proposal with the Rapid Support Forces (#RSF), signaling a continuation of the nine-month conflict despite ongoing peace efforts.

Earlier this week, RSF leader Mohamed Hamdan Dagalo had conditionally accepted a ceasefire plan put forward by civilian groups, pending military approval. However, observers remained skeptical due to the RSF's history of not following through on previous commitments.

Both the Sudanese army and the RSF have been accused by the United States of committing war crimes. The RSF, in particular, has been implicated in crimes against humanity and ethnic cleansing activities in the region of #Darfur.

In a statement to his forces, Al-Burhan cited the international community's recognition of the RSF's alleged war crimes as a reason to preclude any reconciliation or agreement with the group. He also expressed criticism of some African leaders for meeting with Dagalo recently and treating him as a statesman during visits to #Ethiopia, #South_Africa and #Kenya

https://www.reuters.com/world/africa/sudans-burhan-says-no-reconciliation-with-paramilitary-rsf-2024-01-05/

#South_Africa present a case against Israel at the #ICJ

South Africa has brought forth allegations against #Israel at the International Court of Justice (ICJ), claiming that plans to "destroy" #Gaza have been endorsed at the highest levels of the Israeli government. During the court proceedings, South African lawyers accused Israel of genocide and called on the ICJ to demand an immediate cessation of Israeli military operations in the region.

The claims, which Israel has vehemently denied as "baseless," were made as part of South Africa's case that accuses Israel of intentionally aiming to decimate a significant portion of the #Palestinian population in Gaza. Israel, which will present its defense later, has previously stated that its actions are a response to deadly attacks by #Hamas on October 7.

The court's role in this matter is to provide an advisory opinion on the genocide allegation, a decision that is being closely monitored by the international community. South African representatives at the ICJ have argued that the evidence of Israel's "genocidal intent" is clear from the conduct of its military attacks.

South Africa's involvement in this case is driven by its history of opposing what it views as the "ongoing slaughter of the people of Gaza," drawing parallels to its own past struggles against apartheid. The final ruling on whether Israel is committing genocide could take years, but the ICJ may rule more swiftly on South Africa's request to suspend Israel's military campaign.

https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/world-middle-east-67942983

#African Nations Navigate Debt Markets Amidst Repayments; #Ethiopia Defaults

Sub-Saharan African nations eye return to debt markets after 22 months, grappling with looming repayments. #South_Africa grapples with a $1.5 billion bond repayment this month, and #Kenya faces a $2 billion maturity in June. The extended drought in international bond sales, from April 2022 to 2023, is an anomaly since 2009 amid the global financial crisis. However, Ethiopia's December default adds complexity, signaling heightened risk for investors and trade partners.

Despite the need for funding, caution prevails among nations and high-yield investors. Elevated borrowing costs remain a limiting factor for most African sovereigns, according to Shamaila Khan, UBS Asset Management Americas' head of fixed income. While potential demand for new issues exists, limited issuance may persist due to these constraints.

Read more at: https://x.com/addisstandard/status/1746909112053485578?s=20

#Ethiopia explores electricity export opportunities with additional neighboring nations

Ashebir Balcha, the Chief Executive Officer of Ethiopian Electric Power (#EEP), has revealed ongoing discussions with neighboring countries like #Uganda, #Rwanda, and #South_Sudan, regarding the possibility of importing electricity from Ethiopia.

In an interview with the Ethiopian News Agency, Ashebir disclosed that agreements have been initiated to supply electric power to #Tanzania. Additionally, the CEO unveiled plans for passive electric power exports to #South_Africa through the East African Power Pool.

Presently, Ethiopia is actively providing energy to #Sudan, #Djibouti, and #Kenya. In 2022, EEP exported 1701 GW of electricity to these countries, generating $182 million in revenue. Recent reports also highlight Ethiopia's growing significance in the Horn of Africa's power sector, contributing to 11% of Kenya's daily electricity consumption.

#Ethiopian asylum seeker duped by immigration official in #South_Africa

An Ethiopian asylum seeker, Tsegaye Esyas, was deceived by a senior immigration official in South Africa. Tsegaye, who speaks no English, believed he was paying for bail but was instead coerced into admitting guilt for being in the country illegally.

The Western Cape High Court judges, James Lekhuleni and Patricia Goliath, have condemned the official's "deplorable" actions and overturned the fine imposed on Tsegaye. They have also demanded that the immigration official, Annelise van Dyk, be removed from the case.

Tsegaye recounted feeling like an animal under Van Dyk's treatment, which drove him to attempt suicide while in police custody. The judges criticized Van Dyk for failing to address the serious allegations against her and emphasized the need for a fair hearing with a competent interpreter for Tsegaye.

The court has ordered a refund of the fine paid by Tsegaye and a reevaluation of his case by a different magistrate. The judges expressed dismay at the behavior of a high-ranking government official, stating that such actions are contrary to the principles expected of someone in her position.

https://groundup.org.za/article/judges-slam-deplorable-conduct-of-immigration-officer/

New #BRICS members not keen to support #India, #Brazil’s claim to UNSC permanent seat

India's aspiration for support from new BRICS bloc members in its bid for a permanent seat on the #UN Security Council faces challenges, with countries like Egypt and Ethiopia expressing reluctance, according to sources familiar with the matter. The expansion of the BRICS grouping last year to include #Egypt, #Iran, the #UAE, #Saudi_Arabia, and #Ethiopia was anticipated to strengthen India's position. However, disagreements have emerged regarding the support for India, Brazil, and South Africa's UNSC aspirations.

Initially, there was an understanding that new members would back these aspirations. However, Egypt and Ethiopia, among others, argue that this condition wasn't explicitly communicated to them. Efforts to garner support for UNSC reforms, including backing for India's permanent membership, were highlighted in the Johannesburg Declaration 2023. Despite this, consensus among new members remains elusive.

Russia, set to host the BRICS Summit in October 2024, faces the challenge of aligning all members' positions on UNSC reform. India, alongside Brazil and #South_Africa, continues to advocate for expanded representation of developing countries. The upcoming BRICS Foreign Ministers meeting in Nizhny Novgorod will provide an opportunity to reassess members' stances on UNSC reforms and membership.

https://www.thehindubusinessline.com/economy/new-brics-members-not-keen-to-support-india-brazils-claim-to-unsc-permanent-seat/article68167729.ece