Tuesday, November 29, 2011

Ethiopia to Develop National Soil Fertility Map


Tuesday, 29 November 2011 Ethiopian ministries of Mine, Agriculture and Industry are conducting a study to develop a national soil fertility map in collaboration with the Agriculture Transformation Agency.

Wednesday, November 23, 2011

Ethiopian Electric to Begin Wind and Geo Thermal Power Projects

Wednesday, 23 November 2011 The Ethiopian Electric Power Corporation is to construct six wind power and one Geo Thermal Power Plant this fiscal year. The alternative power generating projects are expected to have the capacity to generate 1,015 Mega Watts. The wind power projects are Adama II Wind Power Project (153 MW),  Assela Wind Power Project, (100MW),  Ayisha Wind Farm (300MW), Debre Berhan Wind Farm (100MW), Galema I Wind Power Project (250 MW) and the Mosebo Harena Wind Farm (42 MW).

Ethiopian Ministry Bans 16 Coffee Exporters

Tuesday, 22 November 2011 The Ethiopian Ministry of trade banned 16 coffee exporters from trading on the Ethiopian Commodity Exchange (ECX) this month. The exporters were banned for failing to have their stock audited by the ministry.  
The banned traders are said to include some known for high volumes of trade on the exchange according to MOT officials.

Ethiopian Mapping Agency Invites Bids for Aerial Photography

Wednesday, 23 November 2011 The Ethiopian Mapping Agency put out an invitation for companies interested in conducting aerial photography in digital format and photo-grammetric processing last week. The tender will remain open until the 15th of December.

The invitation includes aerial photography of 23 major urban areas including Addis Ababa, Dire Dawa and regional states in an effort to prepare a national cadastral map.

Ethiopia To Ban Plastic Bags

Ethiopia announced on Monday that it was banning the importation of plastic bags as part of the country's green growth initiatives. The country also launched a series of geo thermal, wind and hydro power projects.


ETHIOPIAN PRIME MINISTER MELES ZENAWI HAS CALLED FOR DISCUSSIONS ON SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT TO BE SPEEDED UP/PHOTO/REUTERS
11-23-2011-The Ethiopian Environmental Protection Authority confirmed that parliament had approved a bill to ban the importation of plastic bags into the country.
The initiatives, announced ahead of the climate change summit in Durban, South Africa follow Ethiopian Prime Minister Meles Zenawi's call for discussions on sustainable development to be speeded up.
Meles who has been elected twice by the African Union Commission as Africa's spokesperson on climate change negotiations said it was high time Africa focused on a green economy.
"Now, implementing this decision has started, which means plastic bags will no longer be imported and manufactured in the country," said the Ethiopian Environmental Protection Authority.electricity,
Ethiopia is among the first countries in Africa to take such measures to prevent the adverse effects of environmental degradation, as plastic bags are not easily degradable.
Environmental activists welcomed the decision, saying that it will play a significant role in keeping the environment clean and safe.
The ban is a good decision but we need to have an alternative
"The decision is good, especially if it is going to be implemented accordingly," said Solomon Metaferia. He said that there should be a strong monitoring method to make the law a reality and meaningful.
Environmental activists say that tens of millions plastic bags imported into the country annually adversely impact the food chain as some livestock tend to consume them.
But some argue that while the safety measure outweighs the practical side of the use of plastic bags, there needs to an be alternative.
"I use these plastic bags for shopping and to carry different things around, mainly because they are a lot cheaper and easy to handle," says Mengistu Mesfin, a resident of Addis Ababa, the capital.
"The ban is a good decision but we need to have an alternative. I wonder if there is one" Mesfin added.
Environmental activists on the other hand do not believe the government's move is enough to prevent unsafe practices. They want the government and concerned bodies to educate the public about the dangers of using plastic bags for the environment.
"We need to educate the public beyond implementing such a law. We have so many plastic bags in each of our houses, which might take years to clear," said Selamawit Lakewe, an environmental activist.
However, a number of Ethiopians interviewed by The Africa Report were not aware of the new law.
Early this week, the Horn of Africa country launched six wind power projects and one Geo Thermal Power plant with an electricity capacity of 1,015 megawatts as part of its move to become Africa's top green power exporter.
It is also undertaking a multi-billion 5,250 MW capacity hydro power project over the Nile River as part of a move to supply power.(Aricanreport.com)

Ethiopia a model for a healthcare leadership

11-23-2011-Despite extensive poverty and limited resources, Ethiopia has made impressive strides in improving its health care system and can serve as a model for other countries seeking to make similar gains, a new paper by Yale researchers suggests.
Ethiopian Health Minister Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus.

Thursday, November 17, 2011

Ethiopia to Join International Renewable Energy Agency


Bill to ratify the establishment of the International Renewable Energy Agency was tabled before the Ethiopian House of People’s Representatives.

The bill has been sent to the Natural Resource and Environmental Protection Affairs Standing Committee for further review.

Ethiopia will benefit from becoming a member of IRENA said Wendimu Gezahegn, deputy government whip. Advantages of membership include

Taiwanese Businesses to Visit Ethiopia


Ethiopia..11-17-2011-A Taiwanese business delegation made up of forty representatives from 29 firms will begin a visit to Ethiopian on the 24th of November. The Taiwanese businesses are primarily interested in the garment and clothing manufacture sector.

Ethiopia to Setup Four New Dry Ports

Ethiopia is planning to set up four new dry ports in Dire Dawa, Mekelle, Moyale and Woreta. The new ports are expected to enhance trade relations with neighboring countries said Ashebir Nota public relations head of the Ethiopian Dry Port Services Enterprise.

Feasibility studies have been finalized and construction on the ports is expected to commence soon.

Woreta dry port, will serve the Sudan area and Port Sudan. Ethiopia primarily exports sesame to South and North Sudan.

Moyale Dry port on the Kenyan border will serve the trade between Ethiopia and Kenya potentially enhancing the export of dairy and meat products.

Mekelle Dry Port is expected to boost access to materials for the construction industry and assist sesame exports to Djibouti from Southern Tigray.

Dire Dawa is the site of the fourth dry port due to the volume of import and export trade in the area. The port will be used to facilitate the export of goods to Somali-land and Ports Djibouti and Berbera.

In related news the Ethiopian Dry Port Services Enterprise has announced that Modjo and Semera dry ports are half way complete. The enterprise plans to enhance its customer service, transparency, delivery and implementation capabilities.

Wednesday, November 16, 2011

Ethiopian Ministry to Sign Agreement with South West


Ethiopia 11-16-2011 A Hong Kong based Ethiopian company, South West Energy, is to sign a petroleum production sharing agreement with the Ethiopian Ministry of Mines. The Ministry is prepared to sign the agreement upon

Ethiopia celebrates the Global Entrepreneurship Week

Ethiopia. 11-16-2011..Ethiopia celebrates the Global Entrepreneurship Week from the 14th to the 20th of November. The event will afford young entrepreneurs an opportunity to develop creativity and form networks according to Michael Fekade Chief Executive Officer

Monday, November 14, 2011

736 million Birr pledged by agriculture and manufacturing industries for Ethiopian Renaissance Dam.


Addis Ababa, Sunday, 13 November 2011 Investors operating in the sectors of agriculture and manufacturing industries have pledged saving bond purchase of over 736 million Birr for the construction of the Great Ethiopian Renaissance Dam.

Friday, November 11, 2011

Ethiopia has more than halved its child mortality rates since 1990

ADDIS ABABA 11-11-2011 (Reuters) - Ethiopia has more than halved its child mortality rates since 1990 through campaigns to increase the number of health workers and clinics throughout the country, government and aid officials said on Friday.

Ethiopian Chamber Launches Trade Fair

Friday, 11 November 2011 The fourth Ethio-Chamber Trade Fair opened in Addis Ababa under the theme of ‘Buy Ethiopia.’ The fair is expected to forge strong links between business actors as well as promoting goods and services said Mekonnen Manyazewal Minister of Industry.The fair is an opportunity for knowledge transfer resulting in increased business confidence in participants he said opening the fair.

Ethiopia to Export Technology by 2025

Friday, 11 November 2011 Ethiopia is seeking the capacity to export technology by the year 2025 according to the Ministry of Science and Technology. The ministry made the announcement at the event marking the 2011 World Science Day.

The country is committed to encourage the application of science and technology as a means to assure equality among all sections of society to enhance sustainable public participation said a representative of Dassie Dalkie Minister of Science and Technology.

Thursday, November 10, 2011

The Eastern African Fine Coffees Association to hold Exhibition in Ethiopia

Ethiopia, November 10, 2011-Monday, The Eastern African Fine Coffees Association announced plans to hold the 9th edition of the African Fine Coffee Conference and Exhibition in Ethiopia. The conference and exhibition will be held in Addis Ababa from the 16th to the 18th of February next year.

1.6 billion birr in tax from Addis Ababa in the first quarter

Ethiopia, November 10, 2011-The Ethiopian Revenues and Customs Authority (ERCA) announced that it has raised 1.6 billion birr in tax from Addis Ababa, in the first quarter of the current fiscal year. The money collected is double that of the same period last year.
Revenue raised from municipal services increased the revenue from the capital city to 1.75 billion birr, making up 30% of the sum the tax authority plans to raise this fiscal year.

The Ethiopian cabinet has approved a 60 million dollar for the construction of the Meskel Square-Bole Airport road

Ethiopia, November 10, 2011-The Ethiopian Council of Ministers has approved a 60 million dollar loan for the construction of the Meskel Square-Bole Airport road. The 20 year loan made by China Export Import (EXIM) bank is pending approval by the parliament.

The Addis Ababa City Roads Authority is preparing for the construction anticipated to start immediately after approval.

Ethiopian entrepreneur women was honored

Ethiopia, November 10, 2011-Ethiopian woman entrepreneur, Samrawit Moges, was honored, as one of a 100 women from across the globe, with inspirational achievements. The award, organized by The International Alliance for Women, was held in Washington DC on the 27th of October.

“We have been inspired and humbled by the stories of people like you who, often without fanfare, have taken action to support women’s economic empowerment and advancement in society and business” read the letter of award to Samrawit.

Ethio-German Konnect (EGK), a forum and networking event,

Ethiopia, November 10, 2011-Ethio-German Konnect (EGK), a forum and networking event, was opened on Wednesday. The business forum is expected to create business opportunities for Ethiopian and German entrepreneurs.

The three day event will present various elements of Ethio-German business relations including private sector development partnership, investments and joint ventures.

Ethiopia signed an agreement with Kenya to collaborate in the construction of the Addis Ababa-Nairobi-Mombassa road

Ethiopia November 10, 2011-Ethiopia signed an agreement with Kenya to collaborate in the construction of the Addis Ababa-Nairobi-Mombassa road. The 743 million Us dollar project was signed this week by Diriba Kuma, Ethiopian Minister of Transport and Amos Kimunya representing the Kenyan government. The road construction will be financed by a loan from the African Development Bank.

Bank of Ethiopia has earned 71.4 million birr in the first quarter

Ethiopia-November 10, 2011-The Development Bank of Ethiopia has earned 71.4 million birr in the first quarter of the fiscal year. The profit earned by the bank is 52% more than what it earned in the same period last year but 2 million birr less than its target.

The Development Bank also exceeded its target for loan approvals by approximately 1 billion birr in the last quarter. Loan approvals were especially concentrated in the agriculture and manufacturing sectors.

Ethiopia will export only finished leather goods beginning next month

Ethiopia-November 10, 2011-Ethiopia will export only finished leather goods beginning next month, announced the Ministry of Trade (MoT).

The groundwork has been laid to halt the export of raw hides and skin as of December said Ahmed Nuru representing the Minister of Trade at a half day consultative forum discussing the national leather sector.

Thursday, November 03, 2011

Egypt Air launches Cairo-Addis daily flight


Addis Ababa, November 1, 2011 (WIC) – Following the new phase of relationship between the Egypt and Ethiopia, Egypt Air launched its Cairo-Addis Ababa daily flight on the 31st of October 2011.
In a launching ceremony held at the Sheraton Hotel on the Monday, the area manager of Egypt Air Mr. Maged Michel said that in recognizant to the bilateral relations between the two countries Egypt Air has begun daily Cairo-Adis flight.
According to the area manager, in 1995Egypt Air started its flight to Addis Ababa once a week, which rose to two flights in 2001, four in 2008 and five in 2009.

Prime Minister Meles Zenawi To Attend G20 Summit in France


Wednesday 2, 1011-Prime Minister Meles Zenawi left for Cannes, France on Wednesday to attend the G20 summit to be held as of Thursday. The two-day meeting is expected to dwell on current summit It is to be recalled that a 17-member high-level advisory group was set up last year in seal, South Korea to meet the demands of emerging nations for infrastructural development.

Tuesday, November 01, 2011

Ethio-Djibouti joint experts’ meeting underway in Addis


Tuesday, 01 November 2011 Ministry of Foreign Affair says Ethiopia is committed to scaling up Ethio-Djibouti relations to a higher level. The remark came up at the Ethio-Djibouti joint experts’ meeting being held in Addis Ababa. Three key agendas were discussed during the 11th experts’ meeting of the Ethio-Djibouti ministerial commission: political, economic and trade ties, transport and port services. Chief of mission, Secretary General of the Djibouti Ministry of Foreign affairs, Mr. Mohammed Ali Hassan said the strengthening of Ethio-Djibouti bilateral ties has become a matter of necessity for the later.

Hailemariam: Gov't taking measures to combat diabetes


Tuesday, 01 November 2011 Speaking at the opening of a three-day International Conference on Diabetes on Tuesday, Hailemariam said the government has been urged to sign-up to commitments, concrete actions and measurable targets to tackle Non-Communicable Diseases (NCDs).
The four prominent NCDs include diabetes, cancers, cardiovascular and chronic respiratory diseases. The five-year Growth and Transformation Plan (GTP) also gives priority to maternal as well as to pre and post natal child health, Hailemariam said.

Tuesday, October 18, 2011

Ethiopia: Samsung introduced new products to the Ethiopian market


October 18, 2011 Samsung introduced new products to the Ethiopian market on Thursday. At the event held at the Hilton Hotel the Korean conglomerate unveiled various products ranging from home appliances to mobile technology to distributors and other visitors. The event was designed as a chance for Samsung to establish its African investment strategy ‘Built for Africa’ according to Tadewos Awol, Country Manager of Samsung Ethiopia. It was also a chance to showcase the latest products and technological innovations according to Tadewos. ’Built for Africa’ is a strategy that aims to provide products that are designer made for unique African conditions such as power fluctuation and can be adapted to solar power in remote areas.
Tuesday, 18 October 2011 Samsung introduced new products to the Ethiopian market on Thursday. At the event held at the Hilton Hotel the Korean conglomerate unveiled various products ranging from home appliances to mobile technology to distributors and other visitors. The event was designed as a chance for Samsung to establish its African investment strategy ‘Built for Africa’ according to Tadewos Awol, Country Manager of Samsung Ethiopia.

Ethiopia: Foreign firms invest over US$6 bn in potash mining

Tuesday, 18 October 2011 Five foreign companies have invested about US$6.5 billion in the Ethiopian potash mining industry, the country's Ministry of Mines has revealed. BHP Belton World Exploration Ethiopia, G and B Central Africa Resource Limited, NOVA Potash, Saynic Potash and Allana Potash - are all based in Dalol, about 1 000 KM north of Addis Ababa. Potash, used primarily as an agricultural fertiliser is a source of soluble potassium, one of the three primary plant nutrients.

Mining Companies and TAX Face Ban in Eritrea Under Drafted UN Sanctions


October 18, 2011 Eritrea faces tougher United Nations sanctions that would ban companies from investing in the African country’s mineral resources such as gold.“All states shall prohibit investment” in Eritrea’s mining industry and “prohibit the import of gold and other raw materials” from Eritrea, according to a copy of a draft resolution introduced by Gabon, one of three African nations on the UN Security Council. Eritrea’s $2.59 billion economy relies on mining. Gold has drawn investment from companies including Canada’s Nevsun Resources Ltd.Another resource is the money sent back by Eritreans living abroad.

Saturday, October 15, 2011

The Long Procces, the complete Demise of Glass-Steagall Act!!!!



Following the Great Crash of 1929, one of every five banks in America fails. Many people, especially politicians, see market speculation engaged in by banks during the 1920s as a cause of the crash.

In 1933, Senator Carter Glass (D-Va.) and Congressman Henry Steagall (D-Ala.) introduce the historic legislation that bears their name..., seeking to limit the conflicts of interest created when commercial banks are permitted to underwrite stocks or bonds. In the early part of the century, individual investors were seriously hurt by banks whose overriding interest was promoting stocks of interest and benefit tothe banks, rather than to individual investors. The new law bans commercial banks from underwriting securities, forcing banks to choose between being a simple lender or an underwriter (brokerage). The act also establishes the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation (FDIC), insuring bank deposits, and strengthens the Federal Reserve's control over credit.

Friday, October 14, 2011

Djibouti Linked to Ethiopian Power Grid


Wednesday, 12 October 2011 Leaders from Ethiopia and Djibouti inaugurated the substation linking Djibouti to the Ethiopian power grid on Wednesday. It was described as a milestone in linking the economies of the two countries by Meles Zenawi, Prime Minister of Ethiopia. More than 90% of the project was financed by loans and grants from the African Development Bank (AfDB). The project is thought to be very crucial to Djibouti which generated energy from diesel generators.

Monday, October 10, 2011

Ethiopia to Import Japanese Jackhammers


Monday 10 October 2011 Ethiopia: Baraton Trading P.L.C signed an agreement with Furukawa, a Japanese company, to import hydraulic breakers and rock drills.
The deal is expected to ease the problems faced by Ethiopian contractors to obtain the construction materials. It is expected that Furukawa will deliver 20 units of hydraulic drills and 19 units of rock drills by December. Baraton Trading P.L.C is required to fill a sale quota for the units. Local rental and construction companies have already purchased some of the units on offer. Baraton Trading has invested 9 million birr to supply spare parts for the machines which will be delivered by the end of November. This is expected to ensure that spare parts shortages faced by previous importers of Furakawa products will no longer be an issue.

Wednesday, October 05, 2011

Derg Officials released from jail


Addis Abeba, 10-5-2011 Among the 23 Derg higher officials, who were convicted for crime against humanity and put into jail from life imprisonment to death penalty, 16 of them was released yesterday from Kaliti penitentiary Facility.

Those 16 Derg higher officials convicted of crime against humanity and jailed for the past 20 years was freed on parole.

Of the freed higher officials, the former Derg Prime Minister, Major Fikire Sillasie Wegderes, Vice President, Colonel Fiseha Desta, Major Legese Asfaw, Colonel Endale Tesema, Major

Wednesday, September 28, 2011

Condolence: United Tegaru Youth Network (UTYN)



Letter of Condolence

There are few moments in our life when we are speechless and this week will forever leave an imprint of sorrow and pain in our hearts and minds due to the recent tragic death of nine members of the Tigray Police Orchestra. Words alone can not express how shocked and saddened we are.

Tuesday, September 27, 2011

Nine Ethiopian band members killed, 17 injured



Ethiopia has been plunged into mourning after nine artists were killed and 17 seriously injured in a car accident.

Police said the accident happened on Monday in the Amhara region while the artists were travelling to South Sudan for a concert that was scheduled for this weekend.

Friday, September 23, 2011

Ethiopian defense force honored for outstanding contributions


Addis Ababa, Friday, 23 September 2011 - Interfaith Peace Building Initiative, an organization working on peace, honored the Ethiopian Defense Force for its outstanding contributions to world peace. The Initiative on Wednesday marked World Peace Day for the 9th time. In its 36th general assembly 30 years ago, the United Nations unanimously designated September 21st for World Peace Day. Interfaith Peace Building Initiative which has an observer position in the United Nations has been celebrating the day with various assortments for eight years now.

Sunday, September 18, 2011

PM Meles arrives in Cairo, Egypt


Addis Ababa, September 17, 2011 - Ethiopian Prime Minister Meles Zeinawi arrived on Friday in Cairo on a visit to Egypt, the first since Egypt's 25th of January revolution.

Meles is scheduled to hold talks with the Head of the Supreme Council of Armed Forces Field Marshall Hussein Tantawi and Prime Minister Essam Sharaf who was at the airport to receive him.

Ethiopian Security Arrests Several Terrorist Red Handed

Addis Ababa, Saturday, 17 September 2011 – The Federal police said that it has adequate evidence against the terrorist suspects arrested this week maintaining that the arrests are not politically motivated.The Federal Police and the National Intelligence and Security Service Anti-terror Joint Taskforce arrested five individuals early this week.

Tuesday, September 06, 2011

Stratex discover more gold in Ethiopia


Addis Ababa, September 6, 2011 - Stratex International, the AIM-listed gold miner, discovered more gold from drilling at its Megenta hot spring epithermal gold discovery within its exclusive exploration license at Tendaho in the Afar State. These include high grade intersection of 19.50 g/t Au over 0.70 metres in hole MG-DD-12 with the potential for bonanza grades veins. These occurred within zone of 4.49 g/t Au over 3.25 metres about 70 metres below surface and extend the target zone 460 metres along concealed graben edge. The priority target zone at Megenta now extends over 3 km. The company has completed the 3,000 metre 14-hole scout drilling programme at Megenta and it is now
Tuesday, 06 September 2011
Addis Ababa, September 6 (WIC) - Stratex International, the AIM-listed gold miner, discovered more gold from drilling at its Megenta hot spring epithermal gold discovery within its exclusive exploration license at Tendaho in the Afar State. These include high grade intersection of 19.50 g/t Au over 0.70 metres in hole MG-DD-12 with the potential for bonanza grades veins. These occurred

Friday, September 02, 2011

Anti-Slavery International and the U.S.-based CNN raising money for Shweyga Mullah.


SeAn international rights group is raising money to help a disfigured Ethiopian woman who says she was tortured by a relative of Libya's Moammar Gadhafi.

September 2, 2011-Anti-Slavery International and the U.S.-based CNN television network are raising funds for the treatment of Shweyga Mullah.

Thursday, September 01, 2011

BBC HardTalk - Alison Evans and Dambisa Moyo Debate


I watched yesterday the show called BBC HardTalk - Alison Evans and Dambisa Moyo
I enjoyed the video, hence here my account or perspective on this matter.

The guests in Hard Talk both Alison Evans and Dameso Moti raise very good points.

The host of the show raise the question the IMF is planning to cut aid by 30%.

Tuesday, August 30, 2011

Patriots all set to mark the fourth national Flag Day

Addis Ababa, Tuesday, 30 August 2011 – The Ethiopian Patriotic Association said its members are all set to commemorate the fourth national Flag Day.iketeguhan Astatke Abate, president of the association, said it is important for the nation’s patriots to attend the commemoration ceremony which will be held on September 26, 2011.

Friday, August 26, 2011

Prime Minister Meles Zenawi said Ethiopia has managed to contain the humanitarian crisis


Addis Ababa, August 26 , 2011 – Prime Minister Meles Zenawi said Ethiopia has managed to contain the humanitarian emergency caused by the drought in the Horn of Africa region. The Prime Minister made the remark yesterday in a statement he delivered during the African Union Pledging Conference held to help raise funds for the worst drought to hit the region in sixty years. “I am pleased to report that at the moment we have managed to contain the humanitarian emergency in our country,” Meles said in his statement to African Heads of States and

Ethiopia and Nigeria on recognized Libya's National Transition Council (NTC)


Addis Ababa, Thursday, 25 August 2011 – Ethiopia and Nigeria on Wednesday recognized Libya's National Transition Council (NTC) as the country's legitimate authority. “In the interest of peace and stability, and wellbeing of the people of Libya, the governments of Ethiopia and Nigeria have decided to jointly recognize the NTC as the interim and legitimate authority in Libya,” a statement issued here on yesterday by Deputy Prime Minister and

Monday, August 22, 2011

Ethiopia gets a record US$1.5 billion from Diaspora


MONDAY, 22 AUGUST 2011-Ethiopia received a record US$ 1.5 billion from its citizens abroad during the just ended 2010/11 fiscal year, data released by the National Bank of Ethiopia (NBE) has revealed.The figure, which represents money sent by Diasporans through banks, represents an 88 per cent growth from the previous year.But officials believe money running into millions of dollars is sent through illegal channels and cannot be accounted for. During the 2009/209 financial year,

Wednesday, August 17, 2011

USAID praises Ethiopia's effort to ensure food security to its people


8-17-2011-USAID Deputy Administrator Gregory Gotlied praised Ethiopia's effort for food security during an interview with the Voice of America Amharic Program. The director said, the situation in Ethiopia is no where as dire as what is the case in Somalia. He went on to say there is no famine in Ethiopia.

X-ray machines from Eugene to improve clinic in Ethiopia


EUGENE, Ore. 8-17-2011 - Dr. Fikru Heramo sees up to 250 patients per day at a medical clinic in Ethiopia.When they need an x-ray, he has to send them to another clinic many miles away. “We don't have x-ray equipment, and having x-ray equipment in Ethiopia is tough,” said Heramo. That is all about to change. Heramo was in Eugene this week at Slocum Center. Slocum is donating their old x-ray machines to the Mother and Child Health Center in Shinshicho, Ethiopia, where Heramo is the medical director. Slocum is moving to digital x-ray. Instead of throwing away their machines, they will donate them to the clinic overseas. “We found that there was a child and mother clinic being constructed in Ethiopia that was in need of many resources including x-ray equipment which they never thought they would be able to purchase,” said Dr. Thomas Wuest of Slocum. Slocum worked with Holt International to donate the machines. Holt International is currently expanding and building additions to the Shinshicho Health Center. The x-ray machines will improve services at the clinic, Heramo said. “They'll be able to receive better treatments and better care, and definitely it’s an absolute necessity for the center,” he said. He expects the number of patients to increase after the x-ray machines arrive at his medical center. Slocum and Holt International will be sending the x-ray machines after the Shinshicho Health Center is finished with renovations.The expected date is early 2012.(http://www.kval.com)

Ethiopia, Mitsubishi Corporation sign MoU for provision of solar systems for RCBP


Addis Ababa, August 17 – A Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) was signed between Mitsubishi Corporation and Ministry of Agriculture for the “Provision of Solar Systems for Rural Capacity Building Project (RCBP)”. The project is supported under the scheme of International Contribution Programs which will be implemented by the Ministry of Agriculture. Agriculture State Minister, Sileshi Getahu and Corporation Executive Vice President, Regional CEO for Europe, CIS, Middle East and Africa Tetsuo Terada signed the MoU on Tuesday August 16, 2011. According to a statement the Embassy of Japan sent to WIC today, the solar power systems are designed to have the capacity to supply power for computers, printers, TV, DVD players and electric lamps at the Farmers Training Center in the said two Kebeles.
These solar power systems will enable the farmers to receive training with audio visual materials. Following the request from the Ministry of Agriculture, the Mitsubishi Corporation made similar contributions in 2009 and 2010 in two “Kebeles” in the Oromia and Amhara States.Mitsubishi Corporation has been operating in Ethiopia for over 50 years, engaged in several business activities including import and export of various commodities, execution of grant projects financed by the Japanese government, and investment in the market..(waltainfo)


Gov’t food aid system successful to prevent famine: PM Meles


Addis Ababa, August 17 - Prime Minister Meles Zenawi said that the food aid system that was introduced by the government of Ethiopia to prevent famine has been successful. The Premier said in an exclusive interview with ERTA on Tuesday August 16, 2011 that the aid system has played a major role in preventing famine, though there is drought in some parts of Ethiopia. Due to inadequate ‘Kiremt’ and absence of ‘Belg’ rains, drought has occurred in the peripheral areas of eastern and southern Ethiopia, which are mainly pastoralist areas. The situation has left 4.5 million Ethiopians in need of emergency food aid. The government is currently working together with non-governmental organizations in providing food aids to these areas. This has made it possible to contain the situation before causing loss of lives. The U.N. declares a famine when certain criteria exist in an area. These are when acute malnutrition rates among children exceeds 30 per cent; when more than two people per every 10,000 die per day; and when people are not able to access food and other basic necessities. Meles said, based on these criteria, there has been no famine in Ethiopia in the past 20 years, adding, this is because the government has put in place a successful food aid system which some hardly accept. Certain parties are mistakenly associating this drought situation in Ethiopia with the current famine in Somalia. According to Meles, this emanates mainly from two reasons. The first one is the need to gather as much as possible aids by institutions and non governmental organizations working in the area of food aid, by using the situation.
The premier stated, the second reason as a motive which emanates from political aim to exaggerate the country’s need of aid, thereby mar the image of Ethiopia, Meles said. He said though it is not possible to stop the drought, it would be possible to make citizens not to rely on aid by utilizing irrigation and other mechanisms in those drought affected areas.Increasing agricultural productivity in other areas of the nation would also help to overcome the problem within the capacity of the nation, Meles noted. (ERTA)

Saturday, August 13, 2011

Ethiopia has good record of using aid properly: FAO Director-General




Addis Ababa, 13 August 2011 -Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affair, Hailemariam Desalegn on Friday, August 12, 2011 held discussion with FAO Director-General, Dr. Jacques Diouf.The two officials discussed on the current situation in the Horn of Africa in general and Ethiopia in particular. Dr. Diouf on the occasion commended Ethiopia’s aid use. “Ethiopia has a good record of managing aid properly and using it for the intended purpose,” he said.Due to its efficient use of aid, the country is getting more and more supports from the international community, he added.
Dr. Diouf further expressed his concern about the current economic crises, increase in food prices and volatility emerged in various parts of the globe.“We have a long way to go so as to ensure food security particularly in developing countries by increasing agricultural productivity,” he underscored.Dr. Diouf also appreciated the Ethiopian government for providing shelter for the Somali refugees sheltered in various refugees camps.Hailemariam on his part expressed Ethiopia’s willingness to work hand in hand with FAO so as to increase agriculture productivity in the country.(waltainfo.com)

Friday, August 05, 2011

UN Council to Target Eritrea With Sanctions on Mining and 2% Tax



Addis Abeba, 8-5-2011 Eritrea, one of the world’s poorest nations whose citizens earn just over a $1 a day, may face tougher United Nations sanctions targeting the mining and remittances that keep its economy afloat.
Neighboring Ethiopia and Djibouti are urging the 15-member UN Security Council to impose sanctions on Eritrea’s mining and outlaw a 2 percent tax on remittances, according to a diplomat who spoke on condition of anonymity. Ethiopia and Djibouti want one of the council’s three African members -- Gabon, Nigeria or South Africa -- to introduce the measure, the diplomat said.
The latest push to punish Eritrea was triggered by a UN report last month that said Eritrea’s government planned a failed plot in January to disrupt the African Union summit in Addis Ababa by bombing civilian and governmental targets.
Eritrea’s $2.59 billion economy depends on mineral resources such as gold, which has drawn investment from companies including Canada’s Nevsun Resources Ltd, and on money sent from Eritreans living abroad. There is concern that further economic sanctions may hurt more than 5 million people living in poverty, the diplomat said.
A July 18 UN report said the tax on remittances is the “most significant source of revenue” for the government, and estimated the income to be “tens, possibly hundreds of millions of dollars on an annual basis.” The government, through a joint gold-mining venture with Vancouver-based Nevsun, has “started to receive royalty payments worth millions of dollars,” the report said.
Current UN Sanctions Eritrea has been ruled by President Isaias Afeworki, a former rebel leader, since it gained independence from Ethiopia in 1993. The UN has already sanctioned the country in the Horn of Africa for supporting al-Qaeda-linked terrorists fighting to topple the Western-backed government of Somalia. The current sanctions include an asset freeze and a travel ban on government leaders.
Al-Shabaab, a Somalia-based terrorist organization that the U.S. says has links to al-Qaeda, generates between $70 and $100 million a year in revenue from taxation and extortion in areas under its control, according to the UN report.
Eritrea’s UN Ambassador Araya Desta said the initiative was part of an effort to overthrow his government, with a “hidden agenda to have a way out” to the Red Sea for land-locked Ethiopia.
“What they are proposing as far as economic sanctions is totally unacceptable and ridiculous,” Desta said in an interview. “Eritrea has nothing to do with any of their accusations. What they are doing is a resolution drafted by Ethiopia to damage the economy and isolate Eritrea politically and diplomatically.”
He said Ethiopia and Djibouti should take their issues to the African Union Peace and Security Commission rather than the UN Security Council.
Islamist groups including al-Shabaab and the Hisb-ul-Islam movement, previously based in Eritrea, have gained control of most of southern and central Somalia in their bid to oust President Sheikh Sharif Sheikh Ahmed’s UN-backed transitional government. Somalia hasn’t had a functioning central administration since the removal of Mohamed Siad Barre, the former dictator, in 1991.
U.S.-backed Ethiopian troops invaded Somalia in December 2006, ousting the Islamic Courts Union government that had briefly captured southern Somalia. The troops withdrew in January.(bloomberg)

Saturday, July 30, 2011

Ethiopian billionaire wins libel action in UK



London, 7-30-2011 An Ethiopian-born billionaire has won £175,000 in libel damages over allegations he had hunted his daughter down so she could be stoned to death.
Mohammed Hussein Al-Amoudi was born in Ethiopia, but now spends his time at homes in central London, Surrey and Saudi Arabia.The article was published on the online news website Ethiopian Review.Judge Richard Parkes QC said it was difficult to imagine more serious allegations.The site's publisher and editor-in-chief, Elias Kifle, had denied liability.The judge said that instead of apologising Mr Kifle had repeated the libel and abused Mr al-Amoudi and his lawyers.The High Court in London heard Mr Kifle's response to the initial complaint was: "Here is my formal statement: Screw yourself".The court heard Mr Kifle then went on to describe Mr al-Amoudi as a "scumbag bloodsucker" who was "funding al-Qaeda".Mr al-Amoudi, 65, gave evidence during the libel trial that he was completely opposed to all forms of terrorism.
The judge said the site alleged that Mr al-Amoudi had "disgracefully and callously" married off his daughter Sarah, then 13, to an elderly member of the Saudi royal family as a gift. 'Wholly untrue' The article went on to claim that Mr al-Amoudi was probably responsible for murdering his daughter's lover in Iraq and had hunted his daughter and granddaughter across London in an attempt to ensure they were stoned to death in Saudi Arabia. Mr al-Amoudi told the court he was horrified by the "wholly untrue" article which could be seen by visitors to the website between January and August 2010, when it was finally taken down.Mr al-Amoudi, who has a son and seven daughters, said he had a normal relationship with Sarah, who was not married.
e said she had completed a business administration degree in the UK. Assessing damages, the judge said: "The claimant is not, I judge, a man who wears his heart on his sleeve."But his distress as he described the effect of the article on himself and on his family was evident to me, and the more so because, as it seemed to me, he was doing his best to preserve his composure."Mr al-Amoudi, who was in the top 50 of Forbes magazine's 2009 rich list, is believed to have made his money in construction, oil refineries and mining.Mr al-Amoudi, who is of mixed Ethiopian and Arab heritage, is sometimes described as the world's richest black man.He was recently reported to be financing the building of Saudi Arabia's first car factory.(bbc news)

Thursday, July 28, 2011

Exclusive: Eritrea behind AU summit attack plot, U.N. says



NAIROBI July 28, 2011- Eritrea was behind a plot to attack an African Union summit in Ethiopia in January and is bankrolling al Qaeda-linked Somali rebels through its embassy in Kenya, according to a U.N. report.

A U.N. Monitoring Group report on Somalia and Eritrea said the Red Sea state's intelligence personnel were active in Uganda, South Sudan, Kenya and Somalia, and that the country's actions posed a threat to security and peace in the region.

"Whereas Eritrean support to foreign armed opposition groups has in the past been limited to conventional military operations, the plot to disrupt the African Union summit in Addis Ababa in January 2011, which envisaged mass casualty attacks against civilian targets and the strategic use of explosives to create a climate of fear, represents a qualitative shift in Eritrean tactics," the report obtained by Reuters said.

The plan was to attack the AU headquarters with a car bomb as African leaders took breaks, to blow up Africa's largest market to "kill many people" and attack the area between the Prime Minister's office and the Sheraton Hotel -- where most heads of state stay during AU summits.

The U.N. said while past Eritrean support for rebel groups in both Somalia and Ethiopia had to be seen in the context of an unresolved border dispute with Addis Ababa, the new approach was a threat to the whole of the Horn and east Africa.

"The fact that the same Eritrean officers responsible for the planning and direction of this operation are also involved, both in supervisory and operational roles, in external operations in Djibouti, Kenya, Uganda, Somalia and Sudan implies an enhanced level of threat to the region as a whole."

Asmara has repeatedly denied any involvement in funding rebel groups in the region. In June, it rejected claims it had anything to do with the Addis Ababa bomb plot as "nonsensical remarks" with no legal basis.

No official comment was immediately available from the Eritrea government on the U.N. report.

The U.N. has slapped an arms embargo on the Red Sea state, as well as a travel ban and an assets freeze on Eritrean political and military leaders who it says are violating an arms embargo on Somalia.

"MAKE ADDIS ABABA LIKE BAGHDAD"

Ethiopian intelligence officials uncovered the plot to set off multiple bombs in Addis Ababa at the AU summit, an event typically attended by more than 30 African leaders, in January this year.

The U.N. report said all but one of the people arrested received all their training and orders directly from Eritrean officers. The other detainee was also in regular contact with an Ethiopian rebel group, the Oromo Liberation Front (OLF).

"Although ostensibly an OLF operation, it was conceived, planned, supported and directed by the external operations directorate of the Government of Eritrea, under the leadership of General Te'ame," the report said.

The equipment seized included C4 plastic explosives in food sacks, gas cylinders, detonators and a sniper rifle.

General Te'ame told one of the plotters that the plan was to make "Addis Ababa like Baghdad," according to the report.

However, in an interview with U.N. investigators, one of the men arrested, Omar Idriss Mohamed, said the aim was not to kill African leaders but to show them that Ethiopia was not safe.

"By so doing, some people may start to listen to what Eritrea is saying about Ethiopia. Some Arab States will be sympathetic to this view," he was quoted as saying.

According to the U.N. report, Omar is an OLF member who was approached by the Eritrean security services though Colonel Gemachew. Omar, who visited Eritrea in 2009 and 2010, became the Addis team leader for the plot.

The U.N. report included a letter from Romania confirming a sniper rifle found in the possession of one of the bomb plotters had been sold to Eritrea in 2004.

The report included slips showing payments to the plotters in Addis Ababa through money transfers. The plotters told the U.N. that an Eritrean colonel had arranged for the transfers via intermediaries in Sudan and Kenya.

Ethiopia routinely accuses Asmara of supporting rebel groups. In a shift of policy, Prime Minister Meles Zenawi declared in April it would support Eritrean guerrillas fighting to overthrow President Isaias Afewerki.

The report also included copies of payments slips from Eritrean officials in Kenya's capital Nairobi to known members of Somali rebel group al Shabaab. It said the payments were to the tune of $80,000 a month.

"The Monitoring Group has obtained documentary evidence of Eritrean payments to a number of individuals with links to al Shabaab," the report said.

"The documents obtained were received directly from the embassy of Eritrea in Nairobi, including payment vouchers marked 'State of Eritrea'," the report said.

"The embassy of Eritrea in Nairobi continues to maintain and exploit a wide network of Somali contacts, intelligence assets and agents of influence in Kenya." (Reuters)

Monday, July 25, 2011

Indian enterprise to set up $30 mn cancer centre in Ethiopia


Ethiopia, 7-25-2011 An Indian healthcare enterprise plans to construct a cancer care centre in Ethiopia at a cost of over $30 million. Dinesh Madhavan, marketing director of HealthCare Global Enterprises (HCG), an Asian cancer care network which is headquartered in India's Bangalore city, said the construction of the centre will help cancer patients in Ethiopia to get better treatment.

Madhavan said the enterprise will train and educate doctors, nurses and paramedical staff in the latest advances in treatment and management of cancer. HCG focuses exclusively on cancer in India.

HCG's vision is to make high quality cancer care accessible by adopting global innovations to all segments of the society, he said.

An agreement was reached between HCG and the African Union to start cancer care treatment through video conferencing in all member states two years ago, said Madhavan who added that the enterprise has started providing cancer care through videoconferencing in the Black Lion Specialized Hospital in Ethiopia.

Not just in healthcare, India is a leading private sector investor in Ethiopia with investments of $4.35 billion. Over 450 Indian companies are currently operating in Ethiopia.

Indian investors are now being engaged in various sectors, from flower market and agriculture sectors they have moved to manufacturing, agro processing, information technology (IT) and other sectors.

Sridhar P.S., an Indian doctor from HCG who is on a mission to help treat cancer patients in the country, said that Ethiopia has a huge number of breast cancer patients.

"We are here to treat cancer patients with new technology that can scan the entire body. We can detect cancer in its early stages which increases the chance for a cure," Sridhar said.

Sridhar, who is on his second visit to Ethiopia, told IANS: "The reason we came here is that cancer patients should not go from place to place for treatment unless special medication is required. Cancer is very painful. Traveling abroad for people traumatised by cancer is a double burden. It is good if the specialist comes to them."

"Brain tumors and prostate cancer in men above the age of 55 and uterus cervical cancers in women are common in Ethiopia. The cure is possible if identified in the early stage. For this we need to educate the people to get checked time and again," he added.

Cervical cancer ranks as the most common cancer among women in East Africa. It also causes a higher mortality rate in the region.

Explaining how HCG treats people regardless of their ability to pay, Sridhar said: "In India we don't let people go back untreated if they don't have the money. Primarily all patients are patients regardless of their income. They must get the treatment at any cost. There is the credit system in which people pay in an installment basis. So we have to establish that kind of arrangement for patients."

HCG's vision here is to provide use of new technologies like installing radiation treatment and establishing Intensity Modulated Radio Therapy (AMRT). With targeted treatment, radiation and targeted therapy, it is possible to make cancer a controllable disease.

WHO figures indicates that cancer causes about 12.5 percent of all deaths worldwide, this is more than the productive life lost from HIV/AIDS, tuberculosis and malaria combined. New cases are expected to double within the next 20 years.

Sridhar says cancer can be tackled in Africa. The establishments of cancer centres provide affordable treatment and follow up will help alleviate the problem.

The doctor's advice: Please get screened for cancer now. If something is detected, it is better to find it in the early age rather than later.(http://www.hindustantimes.com)

Wednesday, July 20, 2011

Over 43 Eritrean afar youths defect to Yemen


Addis Ababa, Wednesday, 20 July 2011) – More than 43 Eritrean youths have reportedly defected to Yemen on July 14, 2011, Red Sea Afar Democratic Organization (RSADO) said. According to a statement RSADO sent to WIC, 13 of the youths are from the Eritrean navy forces while military members and civilians make up the remaining. The individuals were detained by the Eritrean government and defected upon their release on bail, the statement sent to WIC disclosed. “They were forced to take boats to cross the Red Sea fearing persecution and killing by the Eritrean government,” the statement issued by RSADO said. The organization accuses the Eritrean government for what it claims as a wide range of persecutions, tortures and killings of its own citizens forcing many to flee the country. RSADO alleged that the Eritrean government is negotiating with the Yemeni counterpart for the return of the defectors. “We appeal to the international human rights activists to intervene and save their lives,” the statement pleaded. “If the refuges stationed in Yemen are to return, they will face killings, torture by the government of Eritrea”. Due to intensified persecutions by the Eritrean government more than 80 Eritrean afar nationals had fled to Yemen between June and July 2011, RSADO disclosed. The statement, which included the names of 31 individuals between the ages of 20 to 25, called upon the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR) to assist Eritreans in Yemen.(waltainfo.com) 

Tuesday, July 19, 2011

Petroleum exploration in Ethiopia on the rise: Study



Addis Ababa, Tuesday, 19 July 2011 – A study conducted by the Ministry of Mines (MoM) revealed that natural gas and oil exploration in the country is on the rise in recent times.   The study was presented during a symposium organized by the ministry at the conclusion of a three day exhibition that showcased Ethiopia’s mining development potentials. A 4,000 km seismic study and 100,000 Km airborne gravity and magnetic survey have been conducted so far, according to the study presented by Ketsela Tadesse (PhD), petroleum licensing and administration core process owner at MoM.nIncluding earlier natural gas discoveries in Kalub (2.7 trillion cubic feet (tcf)) and Hilala (1.3 tcf) in the eastern part of the country, a 0.766 tcf natural gas is discovered around Genale, the study revealed. Since 2005, the Mom has signed 11 petroleum profit sharing agreements and one joint survey agreement with eight international companies. Africa Oil Corporation, Calvalley petroleum Inc, South West Energy, Pexco Exploration, Tullow Oil, Epsilon Energy Ltd, Falcon Petroleum and Afar Exploration Company are engaged in exploration in the country. There are six sedimentary basins in Ethiopia, including the biggest and most explored basin of Ogaden (350,000 sqm), Abay basin (100,000 sqm), Southern Rift basin (30,000 sqm), Gambella basin (16,000 sqm), Mekele and Metema basins (10,000 sqm each). Several research papers on the country’s mining potential and investment opportunities were presented during the half day symposium held at Intercontinental Hotel, which was attended by Sinkinesh Ejigu, Minister of Mines.
 According to the minister the research papers have been presented to the international audience on different occasion but it was the first time when presented to the national audience.(waltainfo.com)

Monday, July 18, 2011

Ethiopia earns 175 Mln USD from gold, tantalum export



Addis Ababa, Monday, 18 July 2011 - Ethiopia earned 175 million dollars from the export of 3.6 tonnes of gold (153 million dollars) and 187 tonnes of tantalum (22.5 million dollars) in the fiscal year to 7 July 2011.  All the gold was exported by MIDROC Gold, a subsidiary company of MIDROC Ethiopia, Gebregzabher Mekonnen, mining licensing and supervision core process owner with the Ministry of Mines, said. According to Gebregzabher, the Ministry of Mines collected 104 million birr in royalty fees 98 million birr of which was paid by MIDROC Gold. The ministry granted this year 54 licences for mineral exploration. Three quarters of the licences are for the exploration of gold. The sole producer of tantalum in Ethiopia is the Ethiopian National Minerals Development Enterprise whose exploration site is at Kenticha, Borena.  Artisanal miners also produce tantalum in the Borena Zone. MIDROC Gold has discovered a new gold reserve around Metekel in the Benishangul Gumuz Regional State. In a related development, artisan miners produced and supplied about 7,000 kg of gold to the National Bank of Ethiopia in the fiscal year to 7 July 2011. The amount has increased by 144 percent from their output of 2,866kg of gold the previous fiscal year according to Sinkinesh Ejigu, Minister of Mines. (waltainfo.com)

Saturday, July 16, 2011

S. Korean President hails Ethiopia’s economy as ‘model for Africa’


Addis Ababa, July 15,2011 – South Korean President Lee Myung-bak picked Ethiopia as a country that would be a model economy for other African countries in the near future.President Lee made the remark in a speech aired Wednesday through the radio and internet after returning to Seoul wrapping up visits to South Africa, Ethiopia and the Democratic Republic of the Congo.The South Korean news agency, The Korea Times, quoted the president as saying: “The Ethiopian government and the people are anxious to achieve prosperity”.Lee cited what Ethiopian Prime Minister Meles Zenawi had said during their summit talk that no advanced countries know how shameful Ethiopians feel when forced to ask for help.In order to differentiate South Korea Lee pointed out the nation was an aid recipient country, which became a donor onlytwo years ago.He hinted that Korea understands the situation of poor nations and how they can be self-reliant better than any other government.“Our strategy is that we will follow our own path to provide assistance to them,” Lee said. “As weunderstand the sense of shame they may feel when asking the outside world for help, we will be humble when lending our helping hands”.His remarks came amid Korea’s focusing on “a land of opportunity” for energy diplomacy.“Forget all the myths and preconceptions about the old Africa and prepare for the emerging continent,” President Lee said.Lee pledged that Korea will use a tailored approach to foster stronger ties with Africa which has enormous growth potential.“Africa today is not a war-torn or poor continent. It has a population of one billion with rich natural resources. I witnessed the rise of the large continent during my trip,” he said.“When it comes to the timing of forging a partnership with Africa, South Korea is a late starter, compared with China and other advanced nations,” said Lee.His remarks came against the backdrop of Africa’s heavy reliance on foreign aid, though massive economic assistance has been flowing into the continent.In the past, advanced countries have bolstered ties with resource-rich nations by providing foreign aid and economic assistance but it has not changed the economic reality in Africa. (The Korea Times)

Monday, July 11, 2011

Tigray investment office licenses 597 businesses with 14 bln br capital



Addis Ababa, Monday, 11 July 2011 – Tigray Regional State Investment office said it has issued investment license to 597 local and foreign investors with a combined capital of over 14 billion birr this budget year. Compared to the performance of last budget year, this year’s performance showed an increase of nearly 20 percent. According to Moges Mesfin, investment work process owner of the office, business projects have shown a six percent increase while capital soared by over 127 percent. Moges told WIC that the investors are especially engaged in agriculture, construction, hotel and tourism, industry and social service sectors. “The projects have created job opportunities to over 54,851 people,” Moges said.(waltainfo.com)
 

Thursday, July 07, 2011

Ethiopian expects Boeing 787 jet delivery in March


Addis Ababa,Thursday, 07 July 2011 - Ethiopian Airlines expects to receive delivery of Boeing Co.'s (BA) new 787 Dreamliner passenger jets in March 2012, Fikre Degife, the carrier's regional director for China, said Thursday.Speaking at an aviation conference in Shanghai, Fikre said the delivery had been delayed from December as originally scheduled but "we expect them to come in March.”The African carrier has ordered 10 787s, of which four were expected in December, Fikre said.He said the aircraft would be used on routes to China and Europe."It will give us the capability to have direct flights into China. It is a long-range aircraft," Fikre added.
Source: Wall Street Journal

Korean president to arrive here tomorrow


Addis Ababa,Thursday, 07 July 2011 – South Korean President, Lee Myung-bak and his delegation will arrive in Addis Ababa for a three-day official visit.This will be the first visit to Ethiopia by South Korean President in nearly 30 years.President Lee will meet with Ethiopian Prime Minister Meles Zenawi and expected to discuss and share Korea's development experience, green growth strategies, agricultural collaboration, economic and trade cooperation as well as resources development.On July 9, 2011, the president will visit Addis Ababa University and meet with president of the university as well as plant seedlings on the university’s premises.
President Myung-bak will also deliver a speech to ministers, ambassadors and other invited guests at the Faculty of Business and Economics (FBE) Hall.One of the highlights of the event will be the conferring of honorary degree on the South Korean president by the Addis Ababa University. (waltainfo.com)

Tuesday, July 05, 2011

Ethiopia continued to register the fast growth as it has for the last five years


In 2010/11, Ethiopia continued to register the fast growth as it has for the last five years. Gross domestic product (GDP) growth in 2010 (2009/10) remained strong at 8.8%. Growth is driven by the service sector (14.5%), followed by the industrial (10.2%) and agricultural (6%) sectors. Except for a rebound in fishing, the rest of the agricultural sub-sectors remained fundamentally unchanged from their levels in 2009. The service sector’s leading role is due to hotels and restaurants, financial intermediation, public services and real estate. The country continues to struggle with the macroeconomic challenges of high inflation and very low international reserves. The government’s five-year Growth and Transformation Plan was launched in 2010/11. If it is successful, the prospects for 2011 and 2012 are likely to be as positive as in 2010. The plan calls for the agriculture sector to become the major source of economic growth. Industrial growth will also be given particular attention. The government intends to promote industrialisation through increased exports and import substitution. The economy is projected to grow at an average annual rate of 10% in 2011. The agriculture sector is expected to grow by 8.1% while industry and services are expected to show an average annual growth of 20 and 11% respectively during the planned five-year period of the government.

In 2010, although growth remained strong, macroeconomic management was problematic because of the rising level of inflation and a sharp depreciation of the national currency. The government managed to contain inflation through a combination of monetary instruments, i.e. the contraction of credit and money supply growth. The government devalued the national currency by 20% in 2010 with the aim of boosting exports and raising the level of external reserves. The government intends to use monetary policy to keep inflation below 10% starting in 2011 and through the duration of its five-year plan.

Following a drop in merchandise exports in 2009 due mainly to the global economic crisis hitting demand for key traditional export commodities, exports began to bounce back slowly in 2010. Imports remained strong in 2010 at 27.2% of GDP. The government projects this figure will grow to between 30 and 35% of GDP per annum by 2015. The result is a large trade and balance-of-payment deficit. The current account balance is expected to worsen from about minus 6.4% of GDP in 2010/11 to minus 11.9% in 2011/12.

The private sector is confronted with a number of challenges including: i) a poor business environment; ii) a poorly performing judicial system that fails to address property rights and weak corporate governance; iii) a relatively undeveloped financial system; and iv) a challenging macroeconomic environment. The government has attempted to address some of these issues by passing a competition law, setting up a public-private partnership forum and attempting to control inflation in 2010. However, the large devaluation in 2010 and the introduction of price controls on 18 goods designated as “basic” at the beginning of 2011 have led to confusion in the market.

The election held in May 2010 was generally peaceful. The ruling EPRDF claimed to win all but two seats in parliament – thus controlling 99% of the Parliament. Many in the opposition have complained about the lack of political space and intimidation of their supporters by the government. Political tensions in the region remain high because of insecurity in Somalia and the uncertainty associated with the future relations of North and South Sudan following the secession of South Sudan, with which Ethiopia enjoys friendly relations so far. The Ethiopian-Eritrea border dispute remained unresolved in 2010.

Despite limited success in institutionalising democratic governance, the Ethiopian government demonstrated impressive achievements in social and human development as government spending on education, health, agriculture and roads grew at an exemplary rate. In 2010/11, Ethiopia has made significant progress towards achieving the Millennium Development Goals (MDGs). In 2004/05, 38.7% of Ethiopians (about 30 million people) were poor. The figure has gone down to about 32.3% in 2009/10 and is expected to fall further to 31.0% in 2010/11. The decline in rural poverty since 1995/96 is substantial. Ethiopia is also on the right track in relation to education. Given the trend in the 1990s and the recent performance, conservative estimates show that this particular goal is achievable by 2015. However, this success may have come at the expense of quality in education. Ethiopia also appears to be on track to achieve gender parity in primary school enrolment by 2015. The country is also on track with regard to the health related MDGs such as maternal and child mortality, as well as HIV-AIDS and malaria prevention and treatment.(http://www.africaneconomicoutlook.org)

Monday, July 04, 2011

Ethiopia-Ashegoda to Include Larger Turbines


Ethiopia-7/4/2011 Wind farm project to use 1.67MW turbines in second, third phases, up from original plan of onemegawatt turbines
The contract design of the Ashegoda Wind Farm Project has been altered to include turbines generating more power in the second and third phases; the original plan was for 90 turbines to generate 90MW but now 54 turbines each generating 1.67MW will be used instead.The farm, located about 760km north of Addis Abeba in Tigray Regional State, is set to have a total electricity generation capacity of 120MW. The 30MW to be generated in the first phase will still be attained through the 30 wind turbines. However, only one wind turbine has been installed with the others in the process of being installed. While the initial date for the completion of the first phase was set for February 2011, it has now moved to September 2011.“The first phase of the project was delayed due to contract mobilisation issues,” Fisseha Gebremichael, project manager for wind projects at the Ethiopian Electric Power Corporation (EEPCo), told Fortune. “The surveying, geotechnical, and design works also took longer than anticipated. In addition, Lahmeyer, the French consultant, failed to provide a product quality certificate.”The decision to increase the generation capacity of the turbines to be used in the later stages was made to conserve time, according to the project manager. The company is still on track to finish within the initial planned timeframe, he claimed.“The second and third phase each consisting of 45 MW is scheduled in the original contract to be completed within 10 months of each other but due to the contract amendment they could be finished sooner, Fisseha told Fortune. one megawatt turbines are 70 metres high with the diameter of the rotor blade 62 metres long. The 1.67MW are expected to be 80 metres long with the rotor blades’ diameter at 74 metres. The turnkey project of the farm (from the design to the commissioning) is being done by Vergnet SA, a French company, at 294 million dollars. Construction commenced in October 2009, after the project obtained a loan from the French Development Agency (AFD) for 69.8pc of the total projected cost. BNP-Paribas, syndicated with Societe General and CIC Bank, all of which are French banks, loaned 21.4pc and the EEPCo contributed the remaining almost nine per cent.The AFD loan is a soft loan to be paid over five years while the BNP-Paribas commercial loans are to be repaid in 11 years and 15 years. The feasibility study for the wind farm was initially done in 2006 by Deutsche Gesellschaft für Internationale Zusammenarbeit (GIZ), formerly GTZ, which is acting as an engineering advisor on the project. While electromechanical work is being done with machines imported from Europe, the civil work contractors are local firms. The first phase of civil construction work is being done by Rama General Contractor, while Hydro Plc is doing drilling work and Sitec Ethiopia is doing electromechanical work. Sigma Electric is constructing the high voltage (HV) substation to connect with the Mekelle–Alamata power transmission line to enter the national grid.“Since this is the first wind farm project of its kind in Ethiopia, local input is lower,” Fisseha said. “Future technological transfer and capacity building of local staff in these projects will cause subsequent wind projects to use predominantly local input.”Aside from Ashegoda, the government plans to construct another six wind farms over the five-year period of its GTP. Of these, Ayisha Wind Farm with a generation capacity of 300MW is the largest, with Debre Berhan Wind Farm and Asela Wind Farm each generating 100MW. The projects include Adama I Wind Farm and Adama II Wind Farm with a generation capacity of 51MW and 150MW, respectively, as well as Messebo/Harena Wind Farm with the capacity to generate 51MW.Wind power, although a bit more expensive than hydro power, can complement the power from dam reservoirs which thin out after the rainy season and winds begin to pick up at this time.As the generating power of dams decreases, wind power can fill the gap to act as a guarantor against power shortages, Fisseha explained. (addisfortune.com)

Sunday, July 03, 2011

Senior Communist Party of China official vows to boost cooperation with Ethiopia



Addis Ababa, July 1, 2011 - A senior official of the Communist Party of China (CPC) pledged on Thursday to increase cooperation with the Ethiopian People's Revolutionary Democratic Front (EPRDF).  Wang Gang, a member of the Political Bureau of the CPC Central Committee and vice chairman of the National Committee of the Chinese People's Political Consultative Conference, made the remarks while meeting with a delegation headed by Shiferaw Tekle-mariam, a member of the EPRDF executive committee. Shiferaw is also Ethiopia's federal affairs minister.Wang talked about China-Ethiopia relations, saying cooperation in the areas of trade and investment, culture, education and public health was expanding, and the two countries were working closely together on international and regional affairs coordination.
 "The China-Ethiopia relationship, under the framework of the Sino-Africa Cooperation Forum, has set an example for South-South cooperation," Wang added. The CPC and the EPRDF have forged a close partnership over the past years, he said. "We are willing to step up exchange and cooperation with the EPRDF on the basis of the four principles for party-to-party interaction, and continue seeking new means of exchange and cooperation in order to inject fresh vitality into the China-Ethiopia All-round Cooperative Partnership," Wang said.The four principles include "independence, complete equality, mutual respect, and non-interference in each other's internal affairs." (Xinhua)

Saturday, July 02, 2011

Ethiopia: towards poverty eradication!


It was an unforgettable tragedy. Ethiopians had nix to eat. The number of deaths of children and women reached its peak in the 1974. How a paradox it is!
Despite the abundant natural resources of the country, Ethiopians had been suffering of hunger, disease and instability for years. It’s Incredible. The the entire scenario has now changed altogether. The past two decades witnessed Ethiopians are in the right truck to alleviate poverty. The country’s economy has registered a double digit growth rate for the past eight consecutive years. The life of millions of farmers has altered. Unseen in its history, a considerable number of farmers have become potential investors. Now Ethiopians have begun implementing the 5 year growth and transformation plan so as to scale up the best practices. They have been working day in day out towards alleviating poverty through harnessing the country’s natural resources like Hydro, gold, platinum, copper, potash and natural gas. Ethiopia’s hydropower generating potential is more than 45 thousand MW. That is why the government has been investing largely on hydroelectric power. It’s also incredible that a country that had been suffering of hunger for decades able to finance huge projects like the Ethiopian Renaissance Dam. As part and parcel of of its 5 Year Growth and Transformation plan, Ethiopia has determined to raise the current 2000 MW generating capacity to 10,000 MW.
The Ethiopian Renaissance Dam, which recently launched, has the greatest contribution. In this regard no Ethiopian with a healthy mind opposes efforts exerted to make poverty a history. This is the time for citizens at home and abroad to come together and work hand in hand.
All Ethiopians are expressing their readiness and capabilities to realize the historical hydroelectric project on the Nile River.
The Diaspora in Ethiopia said, there inevitably comes a time when one finds it difficult to remain silent for historical, psychological, and political and socio economic reasons. We, Ethiopians, stand together and work harder to realize the renaissance of our motherland. Successful implementation of the Renaissance Dam could meaningfully pave ways for the eradication of poverty and ensuring sustainable economic growth; thereby, opening a new chapter in the economic history of Ethiopia. (waltainfo.com)

Ethiopian Human Rights commission expands reach, opens six branch offices


Addis Ababa, July 2, 2011– In a bid to expand its reach, the Ethiopian Human Rights Commission (EHRC) opened six new branch offices in different parts of the country.
Upon the approval of a proposal presented to the House of Peoples’ Representatives, the EHRC opened the first of its six branches in Hawassa, Bahr Dar, Mekelle, Jimma, Gambella and Jijiga towns.According to Berhanu Abadi, communication information directorate director at EHRC, the locations were selected based on a survey conducted in all the nine regions as well as in Dire Dawa city council. “Hiring of qualified personnel is finalized in many of the new branches and works have commenced as of this month,” Berhanu told WIC in an exclusive interview.
The director said the commission also plans to further expand its reach by opening another seven new branch offices starting from the next budget year. In line with its quest to expand its reach, the commission has also signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with law schools of 16 state run universities, six national civil societies and women’s associations of three regional states - Amhara, Tigray and SNNP. “Through these institutions the commission will place itself in a closer proximity with citizens, especially the disadvantaged,” Berhanu said. Established five years ago, EHRC focused its activities during the formative stage on creating awareness of citizens on issues of human rights and democracy. The director said that the commission is finalizing a new five year strategic plan.(waltainfo.com)

Friday, July 01, 2011

Ethiopian Diaspora investment reaches 19.4 billion birr


Addis Ababa, July 1, 2011 - The Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MoFA) said Ethiopians in the Diaspora and foreign nationals of Ethiopian origin have invested 19.4 billion birr at home. Diaspora Information and Research Director at MoFA, Tesfaye Wolde, told WIC yesterday that over 2,235 investment projects have been registered over the past 10 years. The director indicated that the projects focused on hotels, real estates, agriculture and construction. A total of 1,141 projects are operational and the remaining 1,925 are under construction, Tesfaye said. He also added that the Diaspora’s engagement in knowledge transfer is also on the rise. “There are many Diasporas teaching in various universities of the country,” Tesfaye told WIC. Ethiopians in the Diaspora have also expressed their backing for the successful completion of the Renaissance Dam by purchasing a 100,000 USD worth bonds from the Ethiopian Electric Power Corporation (EEPCo). Tesfaye urged Ethiopians in the Diaspora to strongly continue their participation in the country’s political, economic and social affaires. (www.waltainfo.com)

Wednesday, June 29, 2011

Meles Zenawi, PM of Ethiopia, 2011 TV interview, Insight -with Vickram Bahl



Meles Zenawi, talks to Vickram Bahl of ITMN TV on Ethiopia's development, partnership with India and also on many personal decisions taken during his years in power. He also talks of his future plans after this current term as Prime Minister.

Ethiopia Messebo Cement Factory expansion project inaugurated



Addis Ababa, June 28 – Expansion project of Messebo Cement Factory that has been carried out at a cost of over 2.3 billion birr was inaugurated on Saturday, June 25, 2011.nPrime Minister Meles Zenawi said while inaugurating the project that the expansion project inaugurated today (June 25) would have a key role in addressing cement shortage in the country. The premier also commended management staff and employees of the factory for showing their commitment in alleviating the cement shortage that occurred due to the thriving construction sector in the country. Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of Endowment Fund for Rehabilitation of Tigray (EFFORT), Abadi Zemu, on his part said that companies under EFFORT have been contributing their share for the successful realization of the Growth and Transformation Plan (GTP).  
According to Abadi, the second-phase expansion project that has been undertaken for the past two years would have a significant contribution in accelerating technology transfer, human resource development and improving quality and supply of cement product to the country. General Manager of Messebo Cement Factory, Hatsey Berhe, said the expansion project alone would enable the factory to produce 3,000 tonnes of cement per day and 1.3 million tonnes annually, thus raising the total production capacity of the factory to 2.2 billon tonnes per annum. The expansion project was undertaken by a Chinese company named Hefi Cement Research and Design Institute, he said.bA Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) was also signed between mayor of Mekelle town, Niguse Gebere and General Manager of Messebo Cement Factory, Hatsey Berhe that enable the latter to construct a hospital in Mekelle town at a cost of 40 million birr. Prime Minister Meles Zenawi on the occasion handed over certificates for organizations and individuals that contributed for the success of the project. (waltainfo.com)

ERA Signs 2.6 Billion Birr Road Upgrading Agreement

Addis Ababa, June 28, 2011 (Addis Ababa) -The Ethiopian Roads Authority (ERA) signed here on Monday an agreement providing for upgrading of four roads at a cost of 2.6 billion Birr with local and foreign private construction firms. The agreement was signed by Authority Director-General, Zaid Woldegabriel and Satcon Construction General Manager, Samuel Teklay and SunShine Construction General Manager, Samuel Tafesse and President of HAWK International Finance and Construction Co. Ltd, Mohammed Hizam. According to the agreement, Laska-Salayish, Arkit-Hossaenna, Mehal Meda and Dejen-Felegeberhan are the roads which will be upgraded. The roads, whose total length covers 353 kms are part of the Fourth Road Sector Development Program. Some of the roads will be upgraded to asphalt level, according to the agreement. Over 90 per cent of the fund for the construction of the road will be covered by the government while the balance by the World Bank. (ENA)

9 ships being built for Ethiopian Shipping Lines S.C.

Addis Ababa, June 25, 2011 (Addis Ababa) - Nine ships are being built for the Ethiopian Shipping Lines S.C. with a view to enabling the company give reliable transportation service to export and import goods.
Company Managing Director, Ambachew Abraha said at a consultation forum of customers here on Friday that seven of the vessels are multipurpose while the rest are to transport petroleum. Ambachew said the ships will significantly contribute to build the overall capacity of the company and also to give reliable transportation service to export and import goods. He said the company's capacity is getting strengthened from year to year in transportation of the export and import goods. The company has given special attention to transport the necessary materials for construction of the Grand Ethiopian Renaissance Dam, Ambachew said, adding, construction of the Dam has created additional jobs for the company and the business community as well.
He said the company has exerted utmost efforts to launch dry port and multimodal transport service. Currently, two dry ports are giving services in the country. The dry ports helped to reduce unnecessary cost caused by delay of import goods at Djibouti Port, he said. He said establishing additional dry ports and strengthening multimodal transport service is significant as the country's economy is growing.(ENA)

Tuesday, June 28, 2011

Ethiopia’s Commercial Bank Signs Mobile Banking Accord With IBM


Jun 28, 2011- Commercial Bank of Ethiopia, the country’s largest lender by revenue, has signed a deal for International Business Machines Corp. (IBM) to build a platform to deliver electronic banking services, as it aims to employ new technology to expand its business. The state-owned lender plans to increase the number of its branches by 500, from 372 at present, over five years and to boost account holders by 25 percent a year, from 2 million now, the Addis Ababa-based bank said in an e-mailed statement today. The statement was released jointly with New York-based IBM.
There’s growing demand for banking services in Ethiopia, whose annual economic growth rate of 8 percent last year was the fifth fastest in sub-Saharan Africa, after the Democratic Republic of Congo, Zimbabwe, Botswana and Nigeria, according to an International Monetary Fund report in April. The $3 million agreement aims to develop a platform, operational by August, that will enable the bank to introduce new mobile and Internet banking programs, the companies said. (bloomberg.net)
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Ethiopian can not afford a prolonged war.

Ethiopian can not afford a prolonged war. Ethiopia as the poorest country in the world is dependent on aid. A prolonged war simply depletes ...