News in Brief
Ethiopian Diaspora Trust Fund Board of Directors to grant $4m to 22 Projects
Bomb Attack in Mogadishu-the Worst in two Years…
…and AU & UN Condemned the attack in Mogadishu
The Signing of Darfur Framework Agreement…
…and UN Mission Envoy Commends Signing of Darfur Framework Agreement
A glimpse to Key achievement of Ethiopia in 2019
Africa and the African Union
The African Union expressed its condolences to the people of Somalia who have lost their lives and injured due to the bomb attack in Mogadishu on Saturday (December 31). In a statement issued on Saturday, the Chairperson of the Commission said that he was deeply shocked by the attack that claimed the lives of innocent people. Meanwhile, António Guterres, the Secretary-General of the United Nations stressed that the perpetrators of this horrendous crime must be brought to justice. The Prime Minister of Ethiopia, Dr. Abiy Ahmed pictured the attack as a brutal act which is another reminder that violent extremist groups still constitute the potent threat to the security and stability of Somalia and the region. (See article)
The African Union Mission in Somalia (AMISOM) has conducted an induction training to orient 37 newly deployed police officers. The police officers from Ghana, Kenya, Sierra Leone, Uganda, and Zambia completed an eight-day mandatory induction training before they commence work under AMISOM. The AMISOM Police Commissioner, Assistant Inspector General of Police (AIGP), Augustine Magnus Kailie, on Monday (December 30) addressed the police officers at the end of the training in Mogadishu. During their time of service in AMISOM, the police officers will train, mentor, and advise their Somali police counterparts to help to build their capacity in order for them to take effective charge of policing in the country.
Ethiopia
A cornerstone has been laid for the construction of a cooking oil factory at a cost of 4 billion birr on Saturday (December 28) in Addis Ababa city. The factory, which has a production capacity of 600,000 litters per day, will be built by MIDROC Ethiopia in partnership with the city administration. Deputy Mayor of Addis Ababa city, Engineer Takele Uma, commended MIDROC and called on other investors to follow suit.
The Ethiopian Broadcasting Authority (EBA) said it is preparing to allocate airtime and print space of media for electoral campaigning. Dr. Getachew Dinku, Director General of EBA last week on Thursday (December 26) said the allocation of timetable for the forthcoming general election will be carried out using new technology. Dr. Getachew noted his authority is waiting for the formula that the National Electoral Board of Ethiopia (NEBE) would present to it after consulting political parties.
Former Ethiopian President Mulatu Teshome met with Prince Faisal bin Farhan bin Abdullah, Minister of Foreign Affairs of Saudi Arabia in Riyadh on Monday (December 30). The two sides reviewed the bilateral relations that bind the two countries and exchanged views on topics of common concern. The meeting was attended by Ahmed bin Abdulaziz Qattan, Minister of State for African Countries Affairs. Meanwhile, Dr. Mulatu has also delivered on Tuesday (December 31) messages from President Sahle-Work Zewde and Prime Minister Dr. Abiy Ahmed of Ethiopia to the Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques King Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud.
An Ethiopian delegation led by Ahmed Shide, Minister of Finance, has concluded its visit to China on Monday (December 30). During the visit, the delegation met with heads of Chinese ICBC, SINOSURE, NDRC, MOFCOM, EXIM Bank, CDB, and CADFund to discuss bilateral development cooperation between the two countries. The two countries agreed to further boost development and investment cooperation under the frameworks of Forum on China Africa Cooperation (FOCAC), and the Belt and Road Initiative.
A panel discussion on the new revised excise tax law of Ethiopia was held on Tuesday (December 31). In her opening remark, Adanech Abebe, Minister of Revenues said the panel was organized to gather additional information and create clarity on the new law. The Minister stated that the revised law would help improve the socio-economic benefit of the community by increasing the amount of tax revenues. It would also increase Ethiopia’s competitiveness in international export markets by expanding the tax base and eliminating double taxation, she added.
An Ethiopian delegation led by Minister of Transport Dagmawit Moges met with Sudan’s Minister of Infrastructure and Transport Hashem Tahir Sheikh Taha. During the talks held in Khartoum on Monday (December 30), the two sides discussed means to strengthen cooperation between the two countries. The talks touched on the possibility of using Port Sudan to export and import Ethiopian products through the Port Sudan corridor which links the two nations.
Ethiopia’s Minister of Foreign Affairs Gedu Andargachew held talks on Tuesday (December 31) with Edward Xolisa Makaya, Ambassador of South Africa to Ethiopia. Gedu hailed the longstanding multifaceted cooperation between Ethiopia and South Africa. The Foreign Minister has also brought to the forefront the issue of Ethiopians residing in South Africa and explained the importance of ascertaining their dignity, safety and reasonable working and living environment as it would be mutually advantageous to do so. The South African ambassador emphasized the need to strengthening bilateral relations especially the political level and consolidating the joint Ministerial Commission which is vital to promote mutually beneficial cooperation.
The Government of Ethiopia is going to establish an independent national Council of Economic Advisors. The establishment of the Council is meant to ensure successful implementation of the ambitious and comprehensive reform program recently unveiled by the government to address macro imbalance and sustain growth according to the announcement made on Tuesday (December 31) by the Prime Minister Office of Ethiopia.
The Board of Directors of the Ethiopian Diaspora Trust Fund (BoD-EDTF) announced the completion of project proposal reviews. The Ethiopian Diaspora Trust Fund Secretariat (EDTF-Sec) coordinated the project review process following receipt of over 300 project proposals in mid-September 2019. According to a statement issued on Tuesday (December 31) 22 shortlisted projects were identified and they would undergo a final implementation capacity assessment and budget review focusing on organizational resources, management and effectiveness to deliver on proposed project outcomes. (See article)
Reiterating remarkable achievements in China-Ethiopia relations in the year 2019, including the cooperation on successful launch of Ethiopia’s first ever remote sensing satellite, dubbed ETRSS-1, this month, the Chinese ambassador to Ethiopia Tan Jian said the coming 2020 year would be historic, whereby the two countries elevate the ties to a higher level, with realization of more achievements in different projects. Tan Jian was speaking to a press conference last week on Friday (December 27) in Addis Ababa, where he mentioned achievements in different arenas, including in the political, economic, capacity building, health, education, and hi-tech areas.
The House of Peoples Representatives of Ethiopia (HPR) on Thursday (January 2) approved the anti-terrorism draft bill. It endorsed the bill, which was drafted by the Attorney General and forwarded to it by the Council of Ministers, in majority vote with one abstention. It was noted that the law would help prevent and control terrorism, protect the country from threats of terrorism and fill the gaps in the previous law. Meanwhile the House is said to deliberate and refer to pertinent Standing Committee the bill drafted to approve the deal signed between Ethiopian and Qatar for investment promotion and protection.
Looking back at 2019 it can be said that Ethiopia has spent a very successful year in its citizen’s initiatives and the Government’s efforts to score sweeping changes that have got huge impacts on the lives of many and the image of the country too. (See article)
Eritrea
Commendable development projects including ensuring potable water supply, construction and renovation of roads and bridges, enhancing agricultural produce and livestock, supporting disadvantaged families, forestation and water conservation activities have been conducted in Gash Barka region through the coordination of the Western Command Development Front. The comment was made during an activity assessment meeting the Western Command Development Front conducted on Saturday (December 25) in Barentu.
Djibouti
Every year, a peace march takes place in the mountainous region of Djibouti-Arta Region to emphasize the value of peace and environmental protection in Africa. During the 13th Anniversary of the Art peace March, Ethiopia took part and showcased its unwavering commitments to regional, continental as well as global peace. Ethiopia’s Ambassador to Djibouti, H.E Abdulaziz Mohammed and diplomats, as well as Ethiopians and Ethiopian-origins participated in the 10-kilometer march. Djiboutian ministers, senior government officials, representatives of various missions, Djiboutians and foreign nationals have participated in the event as well. The Ethiopian peace walkers have waved their flags high following finishing the challenging trekking earlier than the other marchers. “One people: two countries”, “Ethiopia and Djibouti: Shipping love to one another”, “Arta-Harar: Historical sister cities” were among the messages heard at the peace walk.
Somalia
At least 80 people were killed in Mogadishu on Saturday (December 28) when a car bomb was detonated at a busy security checkpoint in the Somali capital. At least 90 civilians, mostly students, were injured in the blast at the security and taxation checkpoint, Mogadishu Mayor Omar Muhamoud told reporters at the scene. (See article)
The South West State of Somalia on Sunday (December 29) passed out 385 police officers who completed six months of training at the General Kahiye Police Training Academy in Mogadishu. The police officers are the first group to be trained for Lower Shabelle region of the South West State. They will be part of the South West State Police Force, to secure liberated areas. The President of South West State, Abdiaziz Hassan Mohamed ‘Laftagareen,’ who was chief guest at the passing out parade, congratulated the graduating officers who comprised of 24 women and 371 men.
A US airstrike against the al-Qaida-linked al-Shabab militant group on Sunday (December 29) killed at least four “terrorists,” US Africa Command said in a statement. “In coordination with the federal government of Somalia, US Africa Command conducted three airstrikes in two locations targeting al-Shabab militants in the vicinity of Qunyo Barrow and Caliyoow Barrow, Somalia, respectively, December 29,” AFRICOM said. The US strike came one day after a busy area in Somalia’s capital Mogadishu was rocked by a car bomb that killed at least 79 people.
The Lower House of Somalia’s Parliament has approved the election law, a significant step towards universal suffrage elections next year. During a session on Saturday (December 28), 171 lawmakers voted in favor of the legislation, 5 rejected and 2 abstained. The voting came after the bill was presented by a special review parliamentary committee. The draft law will become a law if passed by the senate (upper house) and assented by President Mohamed Abdullahi Farmajo. Somalia last held one-person, one-vote elections in March 1969 when the government was overthrown in a bloodless military coup, according to the UN.
South Sudan
Localized clashes between armed forces in South Sudan’s Maiwut State have led to a new influx of refugees into Ethiopia’s Gambella region, a new report indicates. The European Commission for Humanitarian Aid Operations, (ECHO) said on Saturday (December 28) since November, over 3600 refugees, including unaccompanied or separated minors, have arrived in Pamdong reception centre, which is now hosting around 4000 refugees. South Sudanese remain the largest refugee population in Ethiopia, totaling 320,957 persons as of end November 2019, with 32% of the refugee population living in Pamdong being children below 4 years.
South Sudan’s President SalvaKiir has urged citizens to embrace peace and reconciliation as they welcome the New Year to strive for a strong foundation for Africa’s newest nation. Kiir was speaking during an annual event held in Juba on the eve of New Year.
The Archbishop of the Episcopal Church of South Sudan, Rev. Justin Badi Arama on Wednesday (January 1) has urged South Sudanese to shun tribalism and hatred for peace and reconciliation to prevail in the New Year. The cleric urged citizens to hopeful that the current political instability and the economic challenges in the country will soon come to pass.
Sudan
The Sudanese Council of Ministers last week on Friday (December 27) approved the 2020 budget, which includes a progressive liberalization of fuel prices but continues to subsidize wheat and cooking gas, as part of its drive to repair public finances. In a press conference, Finance Minister Ibrahim al-Badawi did not reveal the total figures of the budget, saying that they are preliminary and subject to modifications.
Sudanese government and Sudanese Revolutionary Front (Darfur Track) on Saturday (December 28) have signed a framework agreement on the issues they will discuss in the direct talks for peace in Darfur. The ongoing discussions for peace in Darfur come after the signing on 11 September of confidence-building measures including the cessation of hostilities and humanitarian access. (See article)
The joint chief mediator for the African Union-United Nations Hybrid Operation in Darfur, (UNAMID), Jeremiah Mamabolo welcomed on Monday (December 30) a framework agreement between the Transitional Government of Sudan and the Darfur armed movements that was signed during peace talks in Juba, South Sudan, on Saturday. (See article)
Minister of Finance Ibrahim Al-Badawi on Sunday (December 29) denied reports saying he gave the monopoly over Sudan’s gold export to one private company. Recently, there were reports about a deal signed between the finance ministry and the Al Fakher Company granting to the latter the complete monopoly to export of gold abroad.
A Sudanese court handed death sentences to 29 members of the security service on Monday (December 30) for their role in the torture and murder of a political detainee during the popular uprising against the former regime. Ahmed Khair, a school teacher in Kassala, in eastern Sudan was detained on 31 January and died two days later while in detention last February. His case was a symbol of the crackdown and violence practised by the former regime against peaceful protesters.
The Deputy Governor of South Darfur state, on Tuesday (December 31), decided to form a committee to investigate into the looting and vandalism of the former headquarters of the United Nations and African Union Mission in Darfur (UNAMID). The site was supposed to be allocated to the University of Nyala.
The Sudan People’s Liberation Movement-North led by Abdel Aziz al-Hilu (SPLM-N al-Hilu) has extended for three months a unilateral cessation of hostilities, as the peace talks are stalled in Juba. The unilateral extension is “A gesture of goodwill towards a peaceful resolution of the Sudanese conflict, and in order to give the ongoing peace talks an opportunity for success,” said al-Hilu in a statement issued on Wednesday (January 1).
Abdel Aziz al-Hilu, the head of the SPLM-N, discussed with Emirati officials the lack of progress in the ongoing peace talks to end the war in Sudan’s Two Areas, his group said on Tuesday (December 31). Abdel Aziz al-Hilu was in an unannounced two-day visit to the United Arab Emirates upon an invitation from the Emirati government to discuss ways to break the deadlock in the Juba process for peace in Sudan.
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Ethiopian Diaspora Trust Fund Board of Directors to grant $4m to 22 Projects
The Board of Directors of the Ethiopian Diaspora Trust Fund (BoD-EDTF) announced the completion of project proposal reviews. The Ethiopian Diaspora Trust Fund Secretariat (EDTF-Sec) coordinated the project review process following receipt of over 300 project proposals in mid-September 2019. According to a statement issued on Tuesday (December 31) 22 shortlisted projects were identified and they would undergo a final implementation capacity assessment and budget review focusing on organizational resources, management and effectiveness to deliver on proposed project outcomes.
A total of 4,000,000 USD is allocated to finance projects in the first round of funding. The minimum and maximum amount that will be granted per project is approximately ETB 6,400,000 (USD $200,000) and ETB 11,200,000 (USD $350,000) respectively. Final project awards will be announced following the signing of project implementation contracts with grantees on the 30th of January 2020.
Project proposals were reviewed by volunteer Ethiopian experts in a variety of fields recruited from Ethiopia and the global Ethiopian Diaspora community. These experts were organized in 26 Project Review Teams (PRTs), each team consisting of panels of 3 members. The PRTs reviewed and ranked each proposal according to criteria set for proposal submissions. After the PRTs performed a full review of 242 proposals, 68 were found to meet the established criteria, out of which the Secretariat presented 22 projects to the Board of Directors for their consideration and approval.
Among the key proposal evaluation criteria included are sustainability of the proposed project, potential impact, relevance, scalability, innovation and creativity, cost efficiency (value for money), accountability, transparency and communication. Regional equity was also taken into consideration in deciding the short-listed applicants.
The shortlisted projects covered a range of services including water sanitation, education, women empowerment, protection of underprivileged and disabled groups, child protection, Health services on HIV, agriculture and agribusiness sectors. The selection covered all regional states in Ethiopia including Addis Ababa and Dire Dawa cities.
Ato Zafu Eyesuswork Zafu, Chairman of EDTF Board of Directors said, “Thanks to the relentless effort of the Board of Directors, Advisory Council, Volunteers and the Secretariat, the initial project review process has been completed successfully and qualified projects that meet EDTF’s publicly announced project selection criteria and scoring system have been shortlisted. These approved projects will be advanced for an assessment by an independent consultant for their Organizational Capacity and Budget Proposal before the final grantees are identified”.
Ato Zafu affirmed, “It is with full confidence that I confirm to all stakeholders that all the donated funds will be fairly allocated among projects selected through a transparent and comprehensive review process for its critical need, project design, practicality of implementation and financial soundness”.
The Ethiopia Diaspora Trust Fund is a non-profit organization working in coordination with the Ethiopian government to directly involve Diaspora Ethiopians from all walks of life in improving the lives of the Ethiopian people by raising funds for vital socio-economic projects in Ethiopia.
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Bomb Attack in Mogadishu – the Worst in two Years…
A suicide truck bomber killed at least 85 people on Saturday (28 December), at the Ex-Control Afgoye police checkpoint in Mogadishu, Somalia. More than 140 others were wounded and, as of 31 December, 12 people remained missing. In an audio message, al Qaeda-allied al Shabaab claimed responsibility for the bombing. “The blast targeted a convoy of Turkish and Somali forces and they suffered great loss,” Ali Mohamud Rage, al Shabaab’s spokesman said in the message. The attack was the deadliest in Somalia since the 14 October 2017 Mogadishu bombings, which killed 587 people.
The attack occurred at a busy intersection on the western outskirts of Mogadishu, at a police checkpoint during local rush hour. The major intersection connects Mogadishu with the rest of southern and south-western Somalia. The Ex-Control Afgoye checkpoint is located near a tax office, and is used by vehicles entering Mogadishu from nearby Afgoye town.
The truck bomb explosion caused massive damage to the surrounding areas, and left many of the dead burned beyond recognition. At least 15 of those killed were university students returning to class at Benadir University, whose minibus was demolished in the explosion. Two Turkish engineers, who were constructing a road from the checkpoint into the city, were also killed in the bombing. Many others were wounded. Fifteen critically injured people, including an eight month old baby, were airlifted to Istanbul, Turkey for further medical treatment; thirty other critically injured people received medical treatment in Qatar and other neighboring countries.
The Prime Minister of Somalia Hassan Khaire announced the establishment of a national response committee to help the injured and offer support to those who lost family members in the attack.
Initially, no group claimed responsibility for the attack. On 30 December, two days after the attack, radical Islamist group Al-Shabaab, which had carried out previous suicide attacks in Mogadishu, claimed responsibility. Through spokesman Ali Mohamud Rageh (also known as Ali Dhere), the group stated that they targeted a convoy of Turkish and Somali forces in the attack, noting that they “inflicted heavy losses on the Turks and the apostate militias who were protecting them.” Somalia’s National Intelligence and Security Agency (NISA) stated that a foreign country helped organize the attack, issuing a statement that, “We have submitted to the national leaders a preliminary report indicating that the massacre against the Somali people in Mogadishu on 28 December 2019 was planned by a foreign country. To complete the ongoing investigation we will seek cooperation from some of the international intelligence agencies.” However, the statement did not name the country suspected to be involved or provide additional evidence.
The Somali government, in coordination with U.S. Africa Command, conducted three retaliatory airstrikes targeting Al-Shabaab leaders in the Lower Shabelle region after the attack. The airstrikes, in the villages of Kunyo Barrow and Aliyow Barrow, killed four militants and destroyed two vehicles.
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…and AU & UN Condemned the attack in Mogadishu
In a statement issued on Saturday (December 28) Mr Moussa Faki Mahamat, Chairperson of the African Union Commission, said he was deeply shocked by the attack in Mogadishu in which dozens of innocent people who were going about their normal businesses were killed. He condemned the cowardly acts of the attack that claimed the precious lives of university students; women and children the very future of Somalia, as well as Somali national security forces.
He said, “Our hearts and thoughts are with the families and loved ones of those killed in this horrific attack. We commiserate with the Federal Government of Somalia. We pray for the speedy healing and recovery of the injured.”
The chairperson said the attack was another shocking disregard for the sanctity of life displayed by the forces of terror, destruction and darkness. “As has been their practice all along,” he said, “the terrorists target innocent and defenceless Somali civilians, who continue to bear the brunt of this senseless bloodshed.”
Mr. Moussa Faki Mahamat said the African Union will not relent in the face of such crimes against humanity, stressing that it will not be intimidated by cowardly acts of violence by terrorists who do not want a peaceful Somalia.
“Our support to the Federal Government of Somalia and our mission in Somalia will maintain its resolve and commitment to see through its mandate and to fulfill the legitimate desire of the people of Somalia to live in freedom, peace and security,” Mr. Mahamat added.
Meanwhile, António Guterres, the Secretary-General of the United Nations also strongly condemned the terrorist attack in Mogadishu. He extended his deepest sympathies and condolences to the families of the victims and wishes a speedy recovery to those injured. He stressed that the perpetrators of this horrendous crime must be brought to justice. The Secretary- General reiterated the full commitment of the United Nations to support the people and Government of Somalia in their pursuit of peace and development.
The Ethiopian Government has also strongly condemned the cowardly bomb attack in Mogadishu. The Prime Minister of Ethiopia, Dr. Abiy Ahmed expressed his condolences and extended his Government’s and the People of Ethiopia’s solidarity to the people and Government of the Federal Republic of Somalia in a letter sent to Mohamed Abdullahi Mohamed, President of the Federal Republic of Somalia. Dr Abiy said his government condemns the heinous terrorist attack on innocent civilians.
According to the Prime Minister, “This brutal act is yet another reminder that violent extremist groups still constitute the potent threat to the security and stability of Somalia and the region. The Government of the Federal Democratic Republic of Ethiopia stands in solidarity with the people and government of the federal republic of Somalia in the fight against terrorism.”
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The Signing of Darfur Framework Agreement…
Sudanese government and Sudanese Revolutionary Front (Darfur Track) on Saturday (December 28) have signed a framework agreement on the issues they will discuss in the direct talks for peace in Darfur. The ongoing discussions for peace in Darfur come after the signing on 11 September of confidence-building measures including the cessation of hostilities and humanitarian access. The same deal was renewed on 14 December as the parties gave themselves further time to achieve a peace agreement and set 14 February for the signing of a final peace agreement.
The framework agreement was signed by the head of the government negotiating team Shams al-Din Kabbashi, the representatives of the four groups from Darfur and the South Sudanese chief mediator Tut Gatluak. According to the framework agreement, the parties identified national matters and issues related to the Darfur region.
On the national level, the parties agreed to discuss issues such the identity, relationship between religion and the state, public freedoms and human rights, the constitutional making process, among others. Also, the parties agreed to discuss wealth and power-sharing during the transitional period.
On Darfur issues, the parties agree to discuss the administrative situation of Darfur during the transitional period, the power-sharing at the regional and state levels; the wealth sharing, land ownership, IDPs and refugees, nomads and herders, compensations, transitional justice, accountability and reconciliation, development and reconstruction, Security arrangements, and Darfur-Darfur dialogue.
The agreement was inked by the 4 armed groups participating in the talks: Justice and Equality Movement of Gibril Ibrahim, Sudan Liberation Movement led by Minni Minnawi, Sudan Liberation Movement Transitional Council and the Sudan Liberation Forces Alliance.
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…and UN Mission Envoy Commends Signing of Darfur Framework Agreement
The joint chief mediator for the African Union-United Nations Hybrid Operation in Darfur (UNAMID), Jeremiah Mamabolo welcomed on Monday (December 30) a framework agreement between the Transitional Government of Sudan and the Darfur armed movements that was signed during peace talks in Juba, South Sudan, on Saturday. The agreement helps to advance the peace process by outlining key issues and principles to guide ongoing negotiations and serves as a basis for a fair and comprehensive peace agreement.
“This is a very positive development confirming the political will and readiness of the parties to reach a comprehensive peace agreement”, said Jeremiah Mamabolo, who is also the Joint Special Representative for the Mission. “We congratulate the Transitional Government of Sudan and the Darfur parties on this step and encourage them to continue in the same vein”.
Mr. Mambolo maintained that UNAMID will “continue to support the peace talks in Juba” in line with Security Council Resolution 2495 of 2019, which authorized the current mandate until 30 October 2020, and within its capability in order to assist all negotiating parties “to achieve the ultimate goal of lasting peace and a prosperous future for all the Sudanese people”.
The Mission was established in 2007, following a brutal civil war that broke out in 2003, which led to the deaths of tens of thousands of Darfuris and the displacement of nearly two million civilians.
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A glimpse to Key achievement of Ethiopia in 2019
Looking back at 2019 it can be said that Ethiopia has spent a very successful year in its citizen’s initiatives and the Government’s efforts to score sweeping changes that have got huge impacts on the lives of many and the image of the country too. The most notable achievements were related with activities to protect the environment, revive hopes in the economy, cooperate with Internet and technology giants and secure internationally acclaimed awards that helped boost the image of the country. Among others, the following lists can be testaments to Ethiopia’s success in 2019.
350m trees planted in a day
About 350m trees have been planted in a single day in Ethiopia 5 months ago. The planting was part of a national “Green Legacy” initiative to grow 4bn trees in the country this summer by encouraging every citizen to plant at least 40 seedlings. Public offices been shut down in order for civil servants to take part. The project aims to tackle the effects of deforestation and climate change in Ethiopia. According to the UN, Ethiopia’s forest coverage was just 4% in the 2000s, down from 35% a century earlier. Ethiopia’s rapidly growing population and the need for more farmland, unsustainable forest use and climate change are often cited as the causes for rapid deforestation. In addition to ordinary Ethiopians, various international organizations and the business community have joined the tree planting campaign.
First-ever Satellite was launched
Ethiopia’s first-ever satellite was launched into space early in 20 December 2019 from China space station – some 500 kilometers from the capital Beijing. Ethiopia, under the Ethiopian Space Science and Technology Institute has been collaborating with China to co-develop the 70kg Multi-Spectral Remote Sensing Satellite, known as ETRSS-1. The Ethiopian government envisages that the satellite, once it commences its operations, would help the country’s efforts to modernize its agricultural sector. It is recalled that President Sahle-work addressed the Parliament at the beginning of the fiscal year concerning the launching of the satellite saying: “The satellite will provide all the necessary data on changes in climate and weather-related phenomena that would be utilized for the country’s key targets in agriculture, forestry as well as natural resources protection initiatives.” In an interview with a local newspaper, Space Science and Technology Institute Director-General Solomon Belay revealed that the Ethiopian Government would save over 350 million birr according to an assessment made two years ago on the amount of money spend by 6 ministries for data obtained via space satellites.
PM Abiy Ahmed Received the Nobel Peace Prize
The Ethiopian Prime Minister Dr. Abiy Ahmed on Tuesday (December 10) received the 2019 Nobel Peace Prize at a ceremony held at the Oslo City Hall in Norway’s capital. He also presented a speech which is usually known as “the Nobel Lecture” entitled, “Forging a Durable Peace in the Horn of Africa.” A speech in the ceremony presented by Chair of the Norwegian Nobel Committee, Berit Reiss-Andersen stated three reasons that won Prime Minister Abiy the Nobel Peace Prize. The first one refers to Dr. Abiy’s crucial role in creating peace between Eritrea and Ethiopia. “Second,” said Reiss-Andersen addressing directly to Dr. Abiy, you are awarded “for your efforts to build democracy in Ethiopia by strengthening civil liberties and developing institutions.” “And third, but not least, the award is given to you for your contribution to peace and reconciliation processes in East and North East Africa,” she added. In his speech, the Prime minister thanked the Nobel Committee for recognizing and encouraging his contribution to end the Ethiopia- Eritrea Stalemate which trapped the people in the two countries in the “No peace No war” situation. He also remembered the goodwill, trust, and commitment of his “comrade-in-peace” President of Eritrea, Isaias Afeworki in ending the two-decade deadlock between Ethiopia and Eritrea.
An Electronic World Trade Platform (eWTP) was established
Jack Ma, co-founder and former executive chairman of Alibaba Group arrived in Addis Ababa on Sunday (November 24) leading a large business delegation for a two-day official visit. He met with Prime Minister Dr. Abiy and a number of local start-up owners at a round table discussion and also had talks with the Minister of Innovation and Technology, Dr. Getahun Mekuria. Mr. Ma came to visit Ethiopia following up meetings held with Dr. Abiy at Davos in January and at Alibaba Headquarters in Hangzhou last April. On Monday (November 25) three Memoranda of Understanding were signed to establish a partnership of Ethiopia and the Jack Ma Foundation to establish an Electronic World Trade Platform (eWTP), the second in Africa after Rwanda. Overall these are primarily aimed at enabling Ethiopia to provide smart logistics and services, and conduct cross-border trades targeting small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) by helping them penetrate markets in China and other parts of the world, as well as serve as a center of excellence for training young entrepreneurs.
Prime Minister Dr. Abiy’s launches his book: “Medemer”
Prime Minister Dr Abiy Ahmed’s book, Medemer (synergy) was launched on Saturday (October 19) in 65 cities and towns across the country. In Addis Ababa, the occasion was held at the Millennium Hall in the presence of senior government officials, including the Prime Minister, and invited guests. In his remarks, the Prime Minister said that the idea of medemer believes in scaling up best practices, rectifying past mistakes, and creating a better future. The book was published in Amharic and Afan Oromo with an English version to be released soon. The launch of the book was crucial since it examines and outlines economic, political and foreign policy directions for Ethiopia.
Freweini Mebrahtu was named the 2019 CNN Hero of the Year
CNN has named Freweini Mebrahtu their 2019 Hero of the Year for working to change the cultural stigma around women’s periods. Freweini’s belief that no girl should miss school because of a period has resonated on a global scale in a big way. She has dedicated her life to keeping girls in school by designing a reusable menstrual pad and trying to end the cultural stigma around the issue.
