Nile Council of Ministers Meeting: A Step towards Forming the Nile River Basin Commission
Ethiopian Airlines Receives U.S President’s Lifetime Achievement Award
USA Pledges about $97 to Support Ethiopia in Hosting over 1.8 Million Refugees
Ethiopian Securities Exchange Set to Launch Operations in October
NEWS IN BRIEF
Ethiopia
President Sahle-Work Zewde presented recognition and awards to the country’s delegation that competed in the 33rd Olympic Games in Paris, France, during a ceremony held at the National Palace on Tuesday (August 13).
Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed launched the “Addis Tomorrow Special Economic Zone” on Wednesday (August 14). He stated that the ongoing mega projects in the capital city will transform the future image of Addis Ababa and make it more suitable for living.
Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed held a phone conversation with Türkiye President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan on Saturday (August 10). The leaders discussed enhancing bilateral ties, particularly focusing on doubling trade volume as well as facilitating a resolution to the misunderstanding between Ethiopia and Somalia.
Ambassador Taye Atske Selassie, welcomed a delegation on Friday (August 16) led by Lassina Zerbo, former Prime Minister of Burkina Faso and Board member of Tana Security Forum. The two officials exchanged views on ways to hold the Tana Forum.
Ambassador Taye Atske-Selassie on his social media post on Tuesday (August 13) stated that Ethiopia and Somalia concluded the two-day bilateral discussions brokered by Türkiye in Ankara.
Similarly, Foreign Ministry of Ethiopia in a Press Release on Wednesday (August 14) extended its deep gratitude to the Government of the sisterly Republic of Türkiye, particularly President Reccep Tayyip Erdogan, for his initiative to bring the two neighborly countries, Ethiopia and Somalia, to find amicable solution to recent differences.
In a subsequent Press Briefing on Thursday (August 15), Spokesperson of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Ambassador Nebiyu Tedla, stated that Ethiopia will continue to strengthen diplomatic efforts to secure dependable and secure access to and from the sea. (See Article)
Foreign Minister, Ambassador Taye Atske-Selassie, met with the U.S. Under Secretary of State for Civilian Security, Democracy, and Human Rights, Uzra Zeya on Friday (August 9). On the occasion, the two sides discussed a range of bilateral issues, including human rights, security and development.
State Minister Ambassador Mesganu received FAO’s Chief Economist, Maximo Torero on Wednesday (August 14). Both sides discussed to strengthen the longstanding partnership and stressed the necessity of collaboration to improve agricultural productivity, which is crucial for Ethiopia’s transformation.
Ministers of the Nile river basin States gathered in Uganda, Kampala for the 32nd annual Nile Council of Ministers’ meeting as Member States are getting closer to forming the first ever legal and institutional framework by pushing for the formation of the Nile River Commission. (See Article)
In a significant move to address the humanitarian emergency in Ethiopia, the United States has pledged nearly $97 million in aid to support Ethiopia’s efforts in hosting over 1.8 million refugees. (See Article)
The Government Communication Service (GCS) stated on Monday (August 12) that the Pretoria Agreement is based on adherence to the constitution. It also clarified that the TPLF’s legal status as a political party was restored by the National Election Board of Ethiopia (NEBE) under amended laws, following discussions between the government, NEBE, and the TPLF.
Ethiopian Airlines awarded the prestigious U.S. President’s Lifetime Achievement Award, marking a significant milestone in its 25-year relationship with the United States. (See Article)
Deputy Prime Minister Temesgen Tiruneh highlighted the government’s commitment to unlock the country’s agriculture potential by modernizing the sector and boosting investment. The Deputy Prime Minister stated this on Wednesday (August 14) when the National agricultural Investment Forum kicked off in Addis Ababa under the theme “Tapping Ethiopia’s Investment Potential.”
The Ethiopian Securities Exchange (ESX) is set to commence operations in October 2024, following extensive preparations to secure a license from the Capital Market Authority. (See Article)
Ethiopia signed a Memorandum of Understanding on Tuesday (August 14) in the presence of stakeholders to cooperate with the East and Southern African Market Coordinating Agency (COMESA) in avocado, red onion and potato products.
Ethiopia’s Minister of Agriculture, Girma Amente on Tuesday (August 13) met with a delegation from the UN World Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) at his office.
The National Green Legacy Initiative Technical Committee announced on Wednesday (August 14) that a one-day Green Legacy planting campaign will take place nationwide on August 23.
Djibouti
On Sunday (August 11), Djibouti’s President Ismail Omar Guelleh attended the swearing-in ceremony of his re-elected counterpart, Rwandan President Paul Kagame.
The Ethio-Djibouti Railway S.C. announced on Wednesday (August 14) that it has successfully completed transportation of soil fertilizer for the current Ethiopian agricultural season.
Kenya
The second Joint Technical Committee (JTC) meeting of the LAPSSET Corridor Program was held in Nairobi, Kenya on Sunday (August 11). The meeting was attended by representatives from the footprint countries of Ethiopia, Kenya and South Sudan, including partners from the NEPAD/APRM Secretariat and the ECA.
Somalia
President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud carried out a two-day official visit to Cairo and met with his Egyptian counterpart, President Abdelfatah El-Sisi, this week.
On Monday (August 12) Somali President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud met with Rwandan President Paul Kagame in Kigali to discuss ways to enhance bilateral relations between the two nations.
The President also met with Kenyan President William Ruto on Monday (August 12) engaging in extensive discussions focusing on counter-terrorism efforts and avenues for further cooperation.
South Sudan
On Monday (August 12), the United States, through USAID, announced $95 million in additional humanitarian assistance to support crisis-affected populations in South Sudan.
Sudan
The President of the Sovereign Council of Sudan, General Abdel Fattah Burhan, paid visits to Rwanda and Angola on Monday (August 12) to hold a working meeting with President Paul Kagame of Rwanda and the Angolan Head of State, João Lourenço.
Africa and the African Union
On Monday (August 12) Mohamed Ibn Chambas, Chair of the African Union High-Level Panel on Sudan, announced that Sudanese are preparing to conduct political dialogue following sufficient consultations with key civilians and political actors. Consultations for the Inter-Sudanese Political Dialogue took place in Addis Ababa.
The African Union Commission marked International Youth Day 2024 on Monday (August 12) under the theme “From Clicks to Progress: Youth Digital Pathways for Sustainable Development,” highlighting the critical role of youth in driving Africa’s digital revolution.
The Africa Centres for Disease Control and Prevention (Africa CDC) on Tuesday (August 13) officially declared the ongoing Mpox outbreak a Public Health Emergency of Continental Security (PHECS).
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Ethiopia’s Diplomatic Efforts Will Continue to Secure Sea Access, Spokesperson of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs Says
Spokesperson of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Ambassador Nebiyu Tedla, stated that Ethiopia will continue to strengthen diplomatic efforts to secure dependable and secure access to and from the sea. The spokesperson stated that during the weekly media briefing of the Ministry on Thursday (August 15).
Regarding the recent talks between Ethiopia and Somalia in Ankara, he reiterated the head of Ethiopia’s delegation, Foreign Minister Ambassador Taye Atske-Selassie’s gratitude to the Turkish government for taking the initiative and arranging the talks. Ethiopia and Somalia have agreed to hold a third round of talks, the ambassador said.
Speaking about the steps taken so far to protect Ethiopian migrants in Lebanon, the Spokesperson stated that there is no imminent threat to leave the country. He also stated that the Lebanese government has not asked countries to evacuate their citizens. He did, however, state that the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and the Consulate in Beirut are monitoring the situation in Lebanon, and he advised citizens to exercise caution.
Regarding the arrangements of the new upcoming peacekeeping mission in Somalia, the Spokesperson stated that Ethiopia is closely monitoring the situation as a neighbor, troop contributor and key party for the region’s security and stability. He explained that as the countries that currently contribute troops to ATMIS are important stakeholders in the matter, their views and concerns should be considered to facilitate a smooth transition to any post-ATMIS mission.
He further expressed Ethiopia’s belief that concerned institutions, including the AU and the UN, will ensure the necessary consultation with all stakeholders, including the ATMIS Troop Contributing Countries (TCC), and careful deployment to avoid unnecessary misunderstandings and unexpected regional tensions while taking into account relevant Security Council resolutions.
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Nile Council of Ministers Meeting: A Step towards Forming the Nile River Basin Commission
Member States of the Nile Basin Initiative (NBI) are getting closer to forming the first ever legal and institutional framework by pushing for the formation of the Nile River Commission. South Sudan’s recent announcement of its ratification boosted this collective effort.
As the establishment of this commission requires the ratification of the Cooperative Framework Agreement (CFA) by six basin states, South Sudan’s historic decision brings member states closer to forming the commission. It is in this context that Ministers of the Nile river basin States gathered in Uganda, Kampala for the 32nd annual Nile Council of Ministers’ meeting.
The formation of the Nile River Basin Commission was at the heart of the discussion during this meeting. Member states expressed their commitment to realize this common objective through their collective efforts. Specifically, heads of delegations of riparian states congratulated the Republic of South Sudan for ratifying the CFA and called for an expedited and smooth transition from the Nile Basin Initiative to the Nile River Basin Commission.
Furthermore, member states have also encouraged remaining basin states that are yet to ratify and accede to the CFA to complete this process and be part of the founding members of the first ever legal and institutional framework for the Nile River Basin.
Jessica Alupo, Vice President of the Republic of Uganda and guest of honor at the Ministerial meeting, made a strong appeal in this regard. While applauding Burundi and South Sudan for ratifying the CFA and demonstrating their commitment to cooperation, she“call [ed] up on Egypt that froze its participation in NBI activities to resume its participation in order to provide an opportunity to discuss her concerns and find ways of effectively resolving any pending issues.”
The vice president further stated that even when the basin states have differences, they should not lose sight of the need to work together to address common problems.
The Vice President’s call, shared by basin States representatives, underlines the importance of collective action to deal with the challenges the Nile basin is facing. As a strong advocate for the formation of a legal and institutional framework that would work towards ensuring equitable and reasonable utilization of the shared water resource, Ethiopia joined the call through its Minister of Water and Energy.
In his opening remarks, Habtamu Itefa noted the multifaceted challenges the basin states face. He further applauded the recent ratification of the CFA by the Republic of South Sudan and stated that the basin states are now closer to the establishment of the Nile River Commission than ever before.
He further expressed Ethiopia’s readiness to play an active role in ensuring the smooth transition from the Nile Basin Initiative to the Nile River Basin Commission.
Over the years, basin states have seen the cost of inaction as well as the gains of their collective efforts. The Nile Basin Initiative, the transitional arrangement set up by member states, has made a considerable contribution to helping the basin states deal with the challenges they face. The Council of Ministers meeting recognized this achievement, as member states were considerate of the positive gains made through the activities of the Nile Basin Initiative.
Since the establishment of the NBI in 1999, major achievements have been realized in power generation and interconnection, river basin management, agricultural productivity, watershed management, flood preparedness and early warning, as well as capacity building to deal with extreme climate conditions.
Member states are aware that these achievements will only increase with the formation of a legal and institutional framework. It is for this reason that they called for an expedited entry into force of the CFA by urging countries to complete the process of ratifying the document.
To this end, Uganda offered to host a Summit of Heads of State and Governments to pronounce the formation of the Commission. While looking forward to achieving this goal, Ethiopia will continue to render the necessary support to ensure the smooth transition of the Nile Basin Initiative to the Nile River Commission.
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Ethiopian Airlines Receives U.S President’s Lifetime Achievement Award
Ethiopian Airlines has recently been awarded the prestigious U.S. President’s Lifetime Achievement Award, marking a significant milestone in its 25-year relationship with the United States.
The honorable award, signed by the U.S. President Joseph R. Biden, was presented at the 8th Annual Gala Dinner, hosted by the Black IAM organization in Atlanta, recognizing the Airlines’ exceptional service and impactful contributions to American communities.
The U.S. President’s Lifetime Achievement Award recognizes individuals and organizations that have dedicated their lives to service and have made significant contributions to society. For Ethiopian Airlines, this award is more than just a recognition of its excellence in aviation; it signifies Ethiopian Airlines as a source of national pride and a reflection of Ethiopia’s potential and its ability to compete on a global scale.
Mesfin Tasew, CEO of Ethiopian Airlines, emphasized the significance of this accolade, stating, “Receiving this award highlights not only our past successes but also paves the way for future growth. It symbolizes our dedication to quality service and our role in connecting diverse cultures.” Furthermore, Mesfin highlighted the significance of the award as a testament to Ethiopian Airlines’ unwavering commitment and excellence over a quarter-century of operations in the U.S.
For Ethiopia, this recognition underscores the country’s growing influence and global respect for its flagship airline. The award shines a spotlight on Ethiopia’s positive impact on international aviation and global business. It reflects the airlines’ role as a major African carrier with a strong global presence, reinforcing its reputation for reliability and service excellence.
Ethiopian Airlines, known for its modern fleet and extensive network, continues to be a major player in global aviation. It has played a crucial role in promoting trade and tourism by providing direct flights to major cities across the world and facilitating the movement of goods and people. It has become a leading global aviation brand, known for its rapid growth and significant presence in Africa, with over 150 domestic and international destinations across five continents.
Receiving the U.S. President’s Lifetime Achievement Award is a significant milestone in recognizing Ethiopian Airlines’ service; it highlights Ethiopia’s emerging role on the world stage and the positive contributions of its national carrier. As Ethiopian Airlines celebrates this prestigious honor, it reaffirms its commitment to exceptional service, global connectivity, and impactful community engagement. Ethiopian Airlines has set forth a strategic focus on expansion and innovation in its operations, positioning itself as a leader in the aviation industry.
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USA Pledges about $97 to Support Ethiopia in Hosting over 1.8 Million Refugees
In a significant move to address the humanitarian emergency in Ethiopia, the United States has pledged nearly $97 million in aid to support Ethiopia’s efforts in hosting over 1.8 million refugees. This announcement was made by Uzra Zeya, the Under Secretary of State for Civilian Security, Democracy, and Human Rights, during her visit to Addis Ababa on Thursday ( August 8).
The recent pledge by the U.S. government is part of a larger $536 million aid package aimed at addressing urgent needs across Africa. Out of the $97 million allocated to Ethiopia, $87 million is specifically earmarked for refugee assistance.
Under Secretary Zeya emphasized the importance of this aid, stating, “The United States remains committed to supporting Ethiopia and its people during these challenging times. We will continue to work closely with the Ethiopian government and our civil society partners to uphold the protection of human rights and ensure effective humanitarian assistance”.
Ethiopia has long been recognized for its progressive refugee policies. The country has adopted the Comprehensive Refugee Response Framework (CRRF), which aims to integrate refugees into national systems and provide them with socio-economic opportunities. This policy shift allows refugees to work, access education, and live outside of camps, fostering a more inclusive environment.
Ethiopia’s success in managing its refugee population is evident in its ability to host over 1.8 million refugees from neighboring countries such as South Sudan, Somalia, Eritrea, and the Sudan. The government’s commitment to providing a safe haven for these individuals is further demonstrated by its efforts to improve living conditions in refugee camps and promote sustainable development initiatives.
The collaboration between the U.S. and Ethiopia highlights the importance of international partnerships in addressing global humanitarian challenges. The U.S. aid will bolster local efforts to support refugees and conflict-affected populations, providing essential services such as food, shelter, and healthcare. This assistance is crucial in alleviating the suffering of displaced individuals and reinforcing Ethiopia’s role as a key humanitarian actor in the region.
As Ethiopia continues to navigate the complexities of hosting a large refugee population, support from the international community remains vital. The U.S. pledge of $97 million is a testament to the enduring partnership between the two nations and their shared commitment to humanitarian principles. With continued collaboration and effective implementation of refugee policies, Ethiopia will further enhance its capacity to provide a safe and dignified life for those seeking refuge within its borders.
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Ethiopian Securities Exchange Set to Launch Operations in October
The Ethiopian Securities Exchange (ESX) is set to commence operations in October 2024, following extensive preparations to secure a license from the Capital Market Authority. This follows Ethiopia’s decision to float its currency in late July, a key step in its broader economic reform strategy. During its preparatory phase, the ESX successfully raised over 1.26 billion Birr, significantly exceeding its initial capital target of 500 million Birr.
In an interview with Ethiopian media, ESX Director-General Tilahun Kassahun highlighted the ongoing efforts to raise awareness among private financial and non-financial institutions interested in participating in the capital market. He confirmed that the necessary human resources and technology infrastructure have been established.
The government is actively fostering a conducive environment for the ESX’s launch, including the establishment of the Ethiopian Capital Market Authority, the issuance of relevant proclamations, and other key measures.
This initiative aligns with Ethiopia’s broader macroeconomic reform policy, which aims to address structural economic issues such as foreign exchange distortions and macroeconomic imbalances. The push for increased private sector involvement is a key component of the HomegrownEconomic Reform Agenda.
The ESX is expected to be pivotal in creating job opportunities, supporting large-scale projects, expanding agriculture, and accelerating economic growth. As Ethiopia’s first securities exchange, the ESX is positioned to be a cornerstone in the development of the country’s capital market, with a mission to facilitate access to capital and promote efficient capital allocation to drive economic growth.
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