Ethiopia Unveils Draft Roadmap for Implementing Transitional Justice
Ethiopian Delegation Shares Key Insights from Singapore Visit
Ethiopian Consulate in Dubai Hosts Roundtable on Tourism Opportunities
NEWS IN BRIEF
Ethiopia
Deputy Prime Minister Temesgen Tiruneh announced on Wednesday (June 19) that Ethiopia will accelerate its mineral and bamboo development to achieve its prosperity goals. During his visit to the Benishangul-Gumuz region, he observed the ‘Bounty of the Basket’ initiative, aimed at enhancing dairy, poultry, egg, honey, fish, and meat production.
Deputy Prime Minister Temesgen Tiruneh inaugurated air tractors purchased by the government to mitigate the risk of locusts and other infestations in agricultural activities on Saturday (June 15). The government of Ethiopia has expended 850 million birr for air tractors, the most efficient means of pest control in Africa, to be used for disaster mitigation efforts.
A draft roadmap outlining the activities to be undertaken during the implementation phase of the transitional justice policy has been prepared for public review. The roadmap, which is expected to be completed within three weeks, will outline the specific processes, timelines, stakeholder roles, and budgetary requirements for carrying out the policy’s directives. (See article.).
Defense Minister Aisha Mohammed met with Italian Ambassador Agostino Palese on Tuesday (June 18). The two sides discussed ways to strengthen bilateral cooperation between Ethiopia and Italy.
A delegation led by the Vice President of Ethiopia’s ruling Prosperity Party, Adem Farah, attended the International Interparty “BRICS and Partner Countries” Forum in Vladivostok, Russia, on Sunday (June 16). The Vice President praised BRICS for challenging the global economic order that marginalizes developing nations and fostering economic partnerships. He expressed Ethiopia’s interest in deeper integration with BRICS and highlighted strong bilateral relations that have accelerated Ethiopia’s development.
On the same note, Ethiopia’s active participation in the BRICS meeting forums held in Russia and the corresponding bilateral discussions with member countries have yielded significant diplomatic achievements for the country, said the Spokesperson of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Ambassador Nebiyu Tedla, in a press briefing to the media on Thursday (June 20) to discuss the country’s major diplomatic activities, with a particular focus on Ethiopia’s effective participation in the BRICS meetings.
The Minister of Foreign Affairs of Ethiopia, Ambassador Taye Atske Selassie, met with Ambassador Dennis Francis, President of the 78th United Nations General Assembly, at his office on Monday (June 17). The meeting included a comprehensive exchange of views on the current situation in Ethiopia, issues in the Horn of Africa, and international affairs of common interest.
On Wednesday (June 19), Foreign Minister Ambassador Taye Atske-Selassie bid farewell to the outgoing Netherlands Ambassador to Ethiopia, Henk Jan Bakker, at his office. The Minister thanked the Ambassador for his significant contribution to strengthening ties between Ethiopia and the Netherlands. The two sides discussed various bilateral issues, particularly strengthening Dutch investments in Ethiopia.
Earlier, on Friday (June 14), Ambassador Taye Atske-Selassie held discussions with the Ambassador of Türkiye to Ethiopia, Berk Barn. He also received a message from his counterpart, Hakan Fidan, the Minister of Foreign Affairs of Türkiye.
The 3rd AFRIRUN High-Level Forum, under the theme “Shared Resources for Shared Future and Prosperity: Cooperation and Regional Integration through Equitable and Reasonable Utilization of the Nile,” was held in Addis Ababa on Saturday (June 15). The forum, organized by the Institute of Foreign Affairs, the FDRE Ministry of Foreign Affairs, and the Ministry of Water and Energy of Ethiopia, aimed at ensuring equitable and reasonable utilization of the Nile by exchanging experiences and best practices for scientific research. (See article.).
Ethiopia’s Government Communication Service, in a press briefing on current affairs in Ethiopia on Saturday (June 15), highlighted significant economic strides, positioning the nation as the 5th largest economy in Africa. State Minister Selamawit Kasa, during the press briefing, emphasized the diverse contributions of various sectors, including agriculture, industry, and digital economy growth, alongside achievements in import substitution, tourism, and digital innovation. Urging citizen engagement, she emphasized ongoing efforts to address inflation and unemployment and enhance service delivery.
The Council of Ministers of Ethiopia, on Friday (June 14), approved the draft NBE Proclamation and Banking Business Proclamation. The Council deliberated on a draft bill on the Banking Business Proclamation. Following Ethiopia’s decision to open the banking sector to foreign banks, it was stated that it is necessary to establish a legal and regulatory system to guide, determine, and manage licensing. The draft proclamations will shortly be referred to the House of Representatives for review, comment, and final ratification.
In a discussion facilitated by the Ethiopian Broadcasting Corporation and presented in a two-part series, members of the high-level delegation led by Abiy Ahmed, Prime Minister of Ethiopia, shared insights from their recent visit to Singapore. (See article).
Finland aims to strengthen its partnership with Ethiopia in development, trade, and business, according to Minister for Foreign Trade and Development Ville Tavio in an interview with Ethiopian media on Saturday (June 15). Celebrating 65 years of diplomatic ties, he highlighted Finland’s support for water management, education, and digitization projects. He emphasized cooperation in clean technologies and private sector engagement and expressed interest in boosting trade and supporting Ethiopia’s economic development through vocational training and political reforms.
The European Union (EU) awarded a full Masters Scholarship to 48 Ethiopian students for the academic year 2024-2025 through its flagship education initiative, Erasmus+ European Scholarship Programme. According to the EU press release on Wednesday (June 20), the selected students will spend two years studying at prestigious universities across 12 different European countries as part of university consortia that include institutions from at least two European Union member states.
A roundtable discussion on the immense tourism investment opportunities in Ethiopia was organized by the Consulate General Office of the Federal Democratic Republic of Ethiopia in Dubai and the Northern Emirates, in collaboration with the Ethiopian Airlines Dubai office. (See article.).
Ethiopia’s Ministry of Mines announced the discovery of 21.3 billion cubic meters of natural gas in the Ogaden region. The ministry stated on Saturday (June 15) that a survey, supported by the drilling of 19 wells, has confirmed the presence of 21.3 billion cubic meters of natural gas.
Ethiopia received a critical boost in its fight against three major infectious diseases with the signing of a $623.6 million grant agreement on Tuesday (June 18). The Ministry of Health and the Global Fund participated in the signing. The Global Fund will provide the majority of the funding, with a $440.4 million grant specifically designated for tackling tuberculosis (TB), HIV/AIDS, and malaria. The Ethiopian government will co-finance the initiative with a $451 million contribution over the next three years.
The Ethiopian Aviation University, part of the Ethiopian Airlines Group, announced on Wednesday (July 19) its efforts to provide extensive training in the aviation sector on the continent by signing agreements with African countries. On Saturday (June 15), the university, the largest aviation university in Africa, graduated 787 aviation professionals, including international trainees from eight African countries and one from Asia. The graduates included pilots, flight attendants, aircraft maintenance technicians, and customer service professionals. The graduation ceremony took place in the presence of ambassadors and officials from African countries, including Ethiopian Airlines Group executives.
In another development, Ethiopian Airlines announced on Friday (June 14) that it has forged a strategic partnership with the Pan African Postal Union (PAPU) to elevate airmail transportation across the African continent. The partnership aims to contribute to the advancement of Airmail Transportation Services across Africa by utilizing their new and state-of-the-art warehouse.
Furthermore, Ethiopian Airlines outlined plans to integrate air transport and tourism in Ethiopia, following the recent transfer of projects to Amhara, Oromia, and South West Regions, including the ‘Dine for Ethiopia’ lodges. On Saturday (June 15), Ethiopian Airlines disclosed agreements signed to manage lodges across the country, with the first lodge managed by Skylight Hotel.
The Mekelle branch office of the Immigration and Citizenship Service in the Tigray region resumed operations on Tuesday (June 18), after services were suspended in November 2020. The office now offers provisional services, including passport renewals, lost passport replacements, and damaged passport corrections.
Eritrea
The 61st anniversary of the establishment of the African Union, was commemorated at Asmara Palace Hotel in Eritrea on Friday (June 14). The event was attended by senior government and PFDJ officials, ambassadors, members of the Diplomatic Corps, representatives of UN organizations in Eritrea, and other guests.
Djibouti
President of Djibouti, Ismail Omar Guelleh, met his counterpart, President of Somalia, Hassan Sheikh Mohamed, in Djibouti on Wednesday (June 19) to discuss strengthening the bilateral relations between the two countries with a focus on political and security developments in the region.
Djibouti’s Port and Freezone Authority announced on Wednesday (June 19) the arrival of Rwanda Air Cargo’s first flight at Djibouti-Ambouli International Airport, highlighting an important development in regional transportation. This is part of Djibouti’s initiative to enhance regional connectivity through a sea-air cargo network, which serves 24 cities across 21 African countries.
The Ethiopian Embassy in Djibouti announced on Wednesday (June 19) that the embassy, in collaboration with the International Organization for Migration (IOM) in Djibouti, returned 86 irregular migrants to Ethiopia via the Ethio-Djibouti railway.
Kenya
The President of Kenya, William Ruto, visited Italy and Switzerland, where he participated in the G7 summit held in Italy on Friday (June 14) and the inauguration summit of peace in Ukraine in Switzerland on Sunday (June 16). President William Ruto held a bilateral meeting with President Volodymyr Zelensky of Ukraine on Saturday (June 15), on the sidelines of the peace summit in Switzerland.
On Wednesday (June 19), the United Nations World Food Programme (WFP) announced that it has welcomed a contribution of US$37 million from the United States Government to provide critical food and nutrition assistance to refugees in Kenya.
Somalia
President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud met with Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan of the Republic of Türkiye in Ankara on Monday (June 17). They discussed bilateral issues of mutual interest and joint efforts to promote regional stability and prosperity.
President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud participated in the Summit on Peace in Ukraine on Sunday (June 16), held from June 15–16, 2024, in Switzerland. The summit convened over 100 Heads of State, Government representatives, and organizations. Additionally, the president conferred with the UN Under-Secretary-General for Political and Peacebuilding Affairs, Rosemary DiCarlo, in Zurich on the same day, focusing on regional issues.
During his participation in the summit on peace in Ukraine, President Hassan Mohamud convened a roundtable in Luzern, Switzerland, on Friday (June 14), focusing on peace, security, and economic dynamics.
Somalia and Norway reached a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) that deepens the bilateral relations between the two countries on international issues of mutual interest, reports Somalia media on Friday (June 14). The MoU was inked by the State Minister for the Presidency, Abshir Axmad, and the Norwegian Foreign Minister, Espen Barth Eide.
Sudan
The United Arab Emirates (UAE) has committed $70 million in humanitarian aid to Sudan, fulfilling 70% of its $100 million pledge made at the Paris International Humanitarian Conference for Sudan and Neighboring Countries last April. In a statement released in Abu Dhabi on Monday (June 17), the UAE indicated that the funds will be allocated to various UN agencies and humanitarian organizations working to alleviate the crisis in Sudan.
The US Agency for International Development (USAID) announced on Monday (June 17) that the United States will provide more than $315 million in additional humanitarian assistance to support the people of Sudan.
Africa and the African Union
The African Union has announced this week, on Tuesday (June 18), that the African Urban Forum themed “Sustainable Urbanization for Africa’s Transformation” will be held in Ethiopia from September 4-6, 2024. This forum aims to serve as a continental platform promoting sustainable development in African human settlements, addressing the challenges and opportunities arising from rapid urbanization across the continent.
On Monday (June 17), the African Union revealed that African ICT and Communications Ministers unanimously endorsed a landmark Continental Artificial Intelligence (AI) Strategy and African Digital Compact. Over 130 African ministers and experts convened virtually for the 2nd Extraordinary session of the Specialized Technical Committee on Communication and ICT, highlighting the urgency of embracing digital transformation amidst rapid technological advancements.
Additionally, the African Union Commission’s Department of Partnerships & Resource Mobilization organized the 20th Senior Officials Meeting of the Coordination Committee of the Africa-Arab Partnership at the African Union Headquarters in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia. This meeting aimed to assess the implementation outcomes of decisions made at the 4th Africa-Arab Summit held in Malabo, Equatorial Guinea in 2016. Furthermore, discussions focused on ongoing programs and activities of the partnership, including preparations for the upcoming 5th Africa Arab Summit in Riyadh, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia.
Ethiopia Unveils Draft Roadmap for Implementing Transitional Justice
A draft roadmap outlining the activities to be undertaken during the implementation phase of the transitional justice policy has been prepared for public review. The roadmap, which is expected to be completed within three weeks, will outline the specific processes, timelines, stakeholder roles, and budgetary requirements for carrying out the policy’s directives. Additionally, it contains information about the establishment of a temporary and permanent institutional leadership system in which civil society organizations participate as members.
The roadmap also details the procedures for implementing transitional justice strategies, including the preparation of legal frameworks to establish transitional justice institutions. In this phase, the role of local traditional justice systems and the involvement of vulnerable members of society are emphasized, alongside additional measures for victims of sexual violence.
Following the Pretoria agreement and the recommendations of the Joint Investigative Report by the Office of the High Commissioner and the Ethiopian Human Rights Commission, a transitional justice policy document was produced. These bodies supported the Transitional Justice Working Group of Experts in managing nationwide consultations and expert workshops on policy options. These consultations were victim-centered, participatory, and inclusive, conducted across different parts of the country.
After this extensive process, the Government of Ethiopia, through the Council of Ministers, adopted the Transitional Justice Policy on April 17, 2024. Recently, the Ministry of Justice announced that a roadmap for the implementation of this policy is underway. This roadmap aims to ensure “lasting peace, rule of law, justice, and human rights.” The policy seeks to provide justice for past crimes, ensure lasting peace, and offer a comprehensive response to human rights violations, conflicts, narratives, and abuses throughout different periods in the country, addressing previous insufficiencies and inflexibilities in resolving these issues.
In tandem with the government’s commitment to nationally owned implementation of transitional justice policy, the National Dialogue Commission has been instituted and is progressing well. This commission aims to ensure transitional justice by addressing historical discords and conducting nationwide, inclusive consultations.
Overall, Ethiopia has established a transitional justice process to address past injustices and current alleged human rights violations, with the aim of deepening democratic culture, promoting the rule of law, and protecting and promoting human rights. This effort began with the development of a transitional justice policy option through a participatory, victim-centered, human rights-friendly, and inclusive process involving experts, the wider public, and the international community. Following nationwide consultation on the draft policy, the Council of Ministers validated and adopted it in April 2024.
Building on this milestone, an implementation roadmap has been developed, outlining recommendations for introducing legal frameworks and new institutional mechanisms to effectively implement the transitional justice policy. Additionally, the government has launched a national dialogue mechanism to address long-standing societal grievances and enhance the transitional justice process, ultimately aiming to establish a stable and viable Ethiopian state system. To achieve this goal, Ethiopia seeks constructive engagement and financial support for the successful implementation of these two nationally owned mechanisms.
Annual Forum on Regional Integration and Reasonable Utilization of the Nile (AFRIRUN III) Held in Addis Ababa
The third edition of the Annual Forum on Regional Integration and Reasonable Utilization of the Nile (AFRIRUN III) was held in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, on Saturday (June 15), under the theme “Shared Resources for Shared Future and Prosperity: Cooperation and Regional Integration through Equitable and Reasonable Utilization of the Nile.”
The Forum was organized by the Institute of Foreign Affairs of Ethiopia in collaboration with the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and the Ministry of Water and Energy of Ethiopia. It brought together senior Ethiopian government officials, diplomats, researchers, academicians, and other stakeholders from Nile Basin countries.
Jafar Bedru, the Executive Director of the Institute of Foreign Affairs of Ethiopia, made a welcoming remark. He stated that the last two annual AFRIRUN forums have served as vital platforms for deliberation since the first forum was held in 2022. These forums have helped identify key challenges, leverage potential advantages, and provide actionable recommendations to transform the immense potential of the Nile for regional integration and cooperation based on the principle of equitable and reasonable utilization of the Nile River.
He also highlighted advances in the Nile Basin, including the growing number of countries ratifying the Nile River Basin Cooperative Framework Agreement. However, he mentioned structural constraints that continue to hinder progress, such as the delay in forming the Nile River Basin Commission and the slow pace of regional integration. The exchange of insights and experiences to address key challenges and harness the Nile’s potential for cooperation, regional integration, and prosperity is the prime agenda of the third AFRIRUN Forum.
Ambassador Mesganu Arga, State Minister for the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Ethiopia, made a statement and officially opened the forum. He remarked that the Nile River Basin holds enormous potential for fostering regional cooperation, economic development, and environmental sustainability. Realizing this potential necessitates that countries along the Nile River Basin forge partnerships grounded in mutual respect, trust, and a shared vision for the future.
He further expressed that Ethiopia is finalizing the construction of the Grand Ethiopian Renaissance Dam (GERD) founded on the principles of equitable and reasonable utilization of the Nile, adding that the dam promotes and fosters cooperation and regional integration.
Ambassador Mesganu also called for concerted efforts to establish the Nile River Basin Commission, which requires the ratification of the CFA by an additional riparian state. The formation of the Commission would enable basin countries to respond to common challenges.
He underscored that the Green Legacy Initiative, championed by Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed, demonstrates Ethiopia’s leadership and commitment to addressing environmental challenges and sets a powerful example for the region and beyond.
Sultan Wali, State Minister at the Ministry of Water and Energy, underscored the need for more energy interconnection projects among the riparian states and the acceleration of the CFA’s implementation.
Dozens of water engineers, academicians, communication experts, and lawyers presided over four panel discussions focused on the sustainable management and governance of shared resources, the imperative of strategic communication on the fair and reasonable utilization of the Nile River, the factors delaying the swift implementation of the CFA, and the political commitment and legal actions expected from Nile River basin countries for the accelerated entry into force of the CFA. The discussions also emphasized the necessity of cooperation on the use of the Nile River to foster regional integration.
The panel discussions underscored that the establishment of the Nile River Basin Commission will enable the countries to jointly address challenges and ensure effective, reasonable, and efficient usage of the Nile River for a shared future of prosperity and regional integration.
Ethiopian Delegation Shares Key Insights from Singapore Visit
In a discussion facilitated by the Ethiopian Broadcasting Corporation and presented in a two-part series, members of the high-level delegation led by Abiy Ahmed, Prime Minister of Ethiopia, shared insights from their recent visit to Singapore. During this visit, the delegation engaged in bilateral discussions with their counterparts, delving into various fields of mutual interest.
The delegation was able to take away key lessons from Singapore’s major transformation into one of the biggest economies and the highest levels of human capital development in Asia, achieved within a remarkably short period of time. This visit provided an opportunity for the delegation to observe and learn from Singapore’s multiple transformations that paved the way for the country’s growth and development, lessons that can be implemented within Ethiopia’s context.
The discussions shed light on how Singapore achieved such a transformation, becoming one of the most attractive tourist destinations and creating a conducive environment for investment and trade. The delegation emphasized Singapore’s success in leveraging its natural resources, building a strong financial sector through cooperation and strong policies, and maintaining a transparent and committed civil service.
Ethiopia’s diplomatic relationship with Singapore dates back to the 1960s, marking a longstanding relationship rooted in mutual respect and cooperation. Minister of Finance, Ahmed Shide, highlighted the significance of the official visit in providing a holistic perspective on achieving sustainable economic growth. He underscored Singapore’s exemplary leadership, long-term vision, and conducive policy framework as key drivers of its economic success.
Minister Ahmed Shide, referencing the bilateral discussions held in Singapore, presented Ethiopia’s ambitious initiatives, including the Ethiopian Investment Holding, Free Economic Zones, the Green Legacy Project, and Industrial Park construction. These initiatives are aimed at revitalizing investment capacity and attracting investors to Ethiopia.
Ambassador Taye Atske-Selassie, Ethiopia’s Foreign Minister, reflected on the discussions he had in Singapore during the two-part series, emphasizing their significance in elevating bilateral relations. He underscored the importance of the signed Memorandums of Understanding (MoUs) as a testament to Ethiopia’s commitment to enhancing diplomatic ties and collaborating across various sectors, including technology transfer, investment, education, and green development.
Beyond Singapore, Ethiopia aims to draw lessons from various developed nations, emphasizing the importance of strong leadership, institutional cohesion, resource utilization, entrepreneurial encouragement, and public mobilization in fostering collective growth.
The delegation’s visit underscores Ethiopia’s dedication to learning from exemplary global models, positioning the country on a trajectory of sustainable development and prosperity. By capitalizing on abundant natural resources, fostering strong leadership, and implementing strategic initiatives, Ethiopia is poised to realize its potential and forge a prosperous future. The Prime Minister’s visit serves as a pivotal milestone in strengthening Ethiopia-Singapore relations, heralding enhanced economic and diplomatic cooperation for mutual benefit.
Ethiopian Consulate in Dubai Hosts Roundtable on Tourism Opportunities
A roundtable discussion on the immense tourism investment opportunities in Ethiopia was organized by the Consulate General Office of the Federal Democratic Republic of Ethiopia in Dubai and the Northern Emirates, in collaboration with the Ethiopian Airlines Dubai office.
The event aimed to showcase Ethiopia’s rich and vibrant tourism resources to the wider UAE market and enable tour operators in Dubai to include Ethiopia in their tour packages. More than fifteen prominent companies in the tourism sector participated in the event.
Opening the event, Consul General Ambassador Aklilu Kebede elucidated Ethiopia’s rich natural, historical, and cultural attractions and called on invited tour operators to capitalize on this opportunity. He highlighted Ethiopia’s status as one of the oldest nations in the world, reflected in its 11 UNESCO World Heritage Sites and 4 Intangible Cultural Heritages.
He also emphasized Ethiopia’s diverse tourist attractions, including natural, cultural, historical, mythical, athletic, and MICE (meetings, incentives, conferencing, and exhibitions), describing a trip to Ethiopia as a homecoming for all peoples of the world.
Ambassador Aklilu Kebede further described Ethiopia as a land of contrasting landscapes, ancient civilizations, unique cultural traditions, and revered religious sites in both the Christian and Muslim faiths.
In his remarks, Ambassador Aklilu also highlighted the longstanding and multifaceted bilateral relations between Ethiopia and the United Arab Emirates. He noted that the recent state visit of His Highness Sheikh Mohamed Bin Zayed Al Nahyan, President of the United Arab Emirates and Ruler of Abu Dhabi, to Ethiopia in August 2023 symbolized the strong relations between the two countries. He mentioned that the UAE, particularly Dubai, has become one of the world’s leading business hubs and tourism destinations.
Moreover, Ambassador Aklilu stated that the Ethiopian Government has set out an ambitious plan in the tourism sector and has taken concrete steps in developing additional tourist attractions and destinations, such as Gorgora, Wonchi, Koysha, Chebera Churchura Elephant Paw Lodge, Unity Park, Entoto Park, Friendship Park, Meskel Square Project, and the Science Museum, to provide travelers with a marvelous lifetime experience.
Ambassador Aklilu also stated that the event would allow tour operators, travel agencies, and other relevant stakeholders to initiate partnerships and connect with the Consulate General Office and Ethiopian Airlines, offering new tour packages to their customers.
Asmelash Bekele, Head of the Economic Diplomacy Department at the Consulate General, gave a presentation on Ethiopia’s tourism resources, attractions, newly developed tourist destinations, and the government’s tourism policy, including fiscal and non-fiscal incentives for businesses and investments in the tourism sector. He further explained Ethiopia’s opportunity to develop a wide range of competitive tourism products, such as cultural heritage tourism, historical trails, wildlife tourism, MICE tourism, trekking, bird watching, community-based tourism, desert expeditions, scientific expeditions, rock climbing, water-based activities, running, gastronomy tourism, paleo-tourism, and agri-tourism.
Solomon Begashaw, Area Manager of Ethiopian Airlines Dubai office, elaborated on the services and packages of Ethiopian Holidays, special inclusive tours tailored to travelers’ interests showcasing Ethiopia’s natural, historical, cultural, and religious riches. These include cultural tours in the South, adventurous explorations such as trekking in the Bale Mountains, national parks for exotic flora and fauna, bird-watching tours, religious festivals in the North, and the famous rock-hewn churches of Lalibela.
Concluding the discussion, Ambassador Aklilu Kebede and Solomon Begashaw discussed plans for organizing a familiarization trip in the coming months for leading tour operators and prominent travel writers and bloggers, aiming to showcase Ethiopia’s tourism attractions and foster investment.
MFAEthiopia Blog 