Ethiopian Airlines Celebrates 60 Years of Uninterrupted Service to Rome: A Milestone in Aviation Excellence

Addis Ababa, 20 September 2024 – Ethiopian Airlines Group, Africa’s leading aviation powerhouse, proudly celebrates six decades of uninterrupted service to Rome, Italy. In honor of this remarkable milestone, the airline hosted a vibrant event in the heart of Rome, attended by high-ranking government officials from both Ethiopia and Italy, corporate guests, and key stakeholders, alongside Ethiopian Airlines executives. The celebration highlighted the pivotal role that Rome has played in Ethiopian Airlines’ global network. It also underscored the airline’s commitment to providing world-class service while reinforcing its position as a critical link between Africa and Europe. Speaking at the event, Mr. Mesfin Tasew, Group CEO of Ethiopian Airlines, said, “We are incredibly proud to celebrate 60 years of uninterrupted service to Rome. This milestone is a testament to our dedication to connecting people and fostering economic growth between Africa and Europe. We deeply appreciate the support of our valued customers and partners throughout these six decades.” Ethiopian Airlines made Rome its first Italian destination in 1964 and expanded to Milan in 2011. Today, the airline operates daily flights to both cities, using its modern fleet to ensure passenger comfort and convenience. Beginning December 1, 2024, Ethiopian Airlines will increase its flights to Rome to ten weekly, offering greater flexibility and enhanced connectivity between Africa and Europe. The airline currently serves more than 24 European destinations and continues to grow, with new routes to Port Sudan and Dhaka planned for the near future. Ethiopian Airlines is one of the fastest-growing airlines globally and the largest carrier in Africa. With 78 years of successful operations, it has become a leader in efficiency and operational excellence on the continent. The airline operates the youngest and most modern fleet in Africa, flying to over 150 domestic and international destinations across five continents. Ethiopian’s fleet includes ultra-modern and environmentally friendly aircraft, such as the Boeing 737s, 777s, 787s, Airbus A350-900s, and De Havilland Q400s. Ethiopian Airlines also follows a multi-hub strategy, with hubs in Lomé, Togo (in partnership with ASKY), Lilongwe, Malawi (with Malawi Airlines), and Lusaka, Zambia (with Zambia Airways). Having met its Vision 2025 strategic goals ahead of schedule, the airline is now implementing Vision 2035, a 15-year plan to become one of the top 20 most competitive aviation groups in the world. Ethiopian Airlines has garnered numerous prestigious awards, including Skytrax’s ‘Best Airline in Africa’ for seven consecutive years. A Star Alliance member since 2011, the airline has tripled in size over the past decade, reflecting its success and global reach. It is not just about celebrating 60 years. You should work more on your customer service and flight landing effect, because (the very first time and that will be the last time I will ever fly Ethiopian airline) I was stressed and terrified. Comments are closed.

Ethiopian Airlines Boosts Connectivity: 10 Weekly Flights to Guangzhou

Ethiopian Airlines, Africa’s largest and fastest-growing airline, has announced a significant expansion of its flight services to China. As of September 26, 2024, the airline has increased its weekly passenger flights to Guangzhou, one of China’s major commercial hubs, from seven to 10 flights. This strategic move reflects the airline’s continued efforts to meet the rising demand for travel between Africa and China. With China being one of Ethiopia’s largest trading partners, this increase in flights will not only boost business and tourism but also facilitate the movement of goods and services between the two nations. Prior to this expansion, Ethiopian Airlines operated seven weekly flights to Guangzhou. By adding three more flights, the airline aims to offer more flexibility and convenience to travelers, whether they are flying for business, leisure, or connecting through Ethiopia to other parts of Africa. Strengthening Global Connectivity The increase in flights to Guangzhou is part of Ethiopian Airlines’ broader plan to strengthen its global network. With its hub in Addis Ababa, the airline connects Africa to over 120 international destinations across five continents. The additional flights to Guangzhou will play a key role in boosting trade and investment between China and various African countries, as Ethiopia serves as a vital gateway for many businesses and travelers. As part of its ongoing expansion strategy, Ethiopian Airlines continues to focus on improving passenger experience and operational efficiency. The airline is known for its modern fleet, which includes the latest Boeing and Airbus aircraft, ensuring comfort and safety for all passengers. Facilitating Trade and Tourism Ethiopian Airlines’ enhanced presence in Guangzhou is expected to benefit multiple sectors, including trade, tourism, and education. China has become a popular destination for African students pursuing higher education, and the expanded flight schedule offers more options for students traveling to and from Chinese universities. Additionally, the increase in flights will attract more Chinese tourists to Ethiopia and other African countries, promoting cross-cultural exchanges and further strengthening bilateral relations. The move also supports Ethiopia’s goal of becoming a key player in global logistics. With the rise of e-commerce and manufacturing activities in China, Ethiopian Airlines is well-positioned to capitalize on the increased demand for air cargo services. The airline’s cargo division is expected to play a crucial role in transporting goods between China and Africa, contributing to the growth of both economies. A Step Toward Future Growth Ethiopian Airlines’ decision to increase flights to Guangzhou underscores its commitment to remaining a leader in Africa’s aviation sector. As more African countries look to strengthen ties with China, Ethiopian Airlines is poised to play a pivotal role in bridging the gap between the two regions. This latest expansion is just one of many steps the airline is taking to secure its position as a top player in international aviation. With ongoing investments in fleet expansion, service improvements, and customer satisfaction, Ethiopian Airlines continues to raise the bar for air travel in Africa and beyond. Ethiopian Airlines reflects the will of Ethiopian Peoples. People wish to grow and to pursue development. That will be realised if the country and the African continent is connected to others globally. I appreciate and support the efforts the Airlines do to connect us with the world nations like China. Comments are closed.

Djibouti Confirms: Tajura Port to be Jointly Managed, Not Handed Over to Ethiopia

Djibouti has stated that it will not hand over Tajura Port to Ethiopia but will instead jointly manage it. An agreement has been reached to develop a port where Ethiopia can import fuel. The Minister of Foreign Affairs of Ethiopia has stated that the government of Djibouti did not propose to hand over or sell Tajura Port. Instead, they suggested jointly managing and using it. Djiboutian Foreign Minister Mohamed Ali Youssef told the BBC that the Djibouti government proposed that Ethiopia use Tajura Port under Djibouti’s full management to ease tensions between Ethiopia and Somalia. Further explaining, the foreign minister said, “We are not handing over Tajura Port to Ethiopia; we are jointly managing it.” He added, “Tajura and other ports in Djibouti are national assets. Therefore, there is no reason for us to hand over any of them to another party.” However, he mentioned that a national business strategy has been formulated to ensure these resources and assets are utilized to their full potential to benefit Djibouti. “Currently, we are not getting the benefits we deserve from Tajura Port. It handles only one ship every two months. The government of Djibouti spent 60 million dollars to build this port and 110 million dollars to build the road from Tajura Port to Baloh state. The salaries of Tajura Port workers are paid from the revenue generated by Dollare Port. Is this correct? No,” he said. As a result, President Ismail Omar Guelleh has directed that Tajura Port should generate income and become profitable by providing the necessary services. Therefore, the proposal to the Ethiopian government is for Tajura Port to be managed and used jointly, not to be taken over or sold to Ethiopia. He explained that if Ethiopia accepts this recommendation, Djibouti will benefit, similar to how Ethiopia and Djibouti have jointly built and are using the Ethio-Djibouti railway infrastructure. “If Djibouti does not increase the port services provided to Ethiopia by expanding port options, we risk losing benefits from Ethiopia. Tomorrow, Asab Port might open, and Ethiopia could turn to Somaliland. Therefore, we must strive to meet Ethiopia’s port service needs,” said Minister Mohamed Ali Youssef. The minister pointed out that the products available in the Ethiopian market include transportation and logistics costs, which are expensive. From this perspective, Tajura Port is better than Djibouti Port (Dollare Port), which currently provides extensive services, and is closer and more viable for three Ethiopian regions (Tigray, Amhara, and Afar). He explained that if Tajura Port cannot generate income by providing complete port services to Ethiopia, the debt incurred to build the port will be passed on to future generations. In addition to Tajura Port, the minister mentioned that a medium-term plan has been made to develop Demerjug Port so Ethiopia can import oil products through this port and transport them directly by train. Although we asked the maritime service official about the response to Djibouti’s proposal for Ethiopia to jointly manage and use Tajura Port, he indicated that the matter is handled at the government level or by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs. The Ministry of Foreign Affairs stated that information will be provided once a decision is made. The leaders of Ethiopia should seriously consider this generous offer. I hope and am sure there is a dialogue with exceedingly smart leaders of Djibouti. I hope something rewarding for both peoples will be forged out of this timely offer. If Ethiopia decides to go with it, its leaders better decide on that one soon because some other power may come up with far more attractive and lucrative offer and it will be gone for ever. The MoU with Somaliland ain’t gonna materialize. At least not in the near future. It is now made official by the leaders of Somalia currently camping out at Villa Mogadishu that they start giving military and financial assistance to the rebel groups currently wreaking havoc inside Ethiopia. I am inclined to believe that OLA has his reps in Villa Mogadishu already and a faction of Fano may be at a connection flight airport to Mogadishu. ONLF is no question that it has beaten OLA and Fano to it thru its standing rep the only foreign policy expert on the Horn of Africa, Af-Mishaar. No wonder why bigots and connivers in Minnesota, Toronto, Tennessee, Michigan, Oslo, DC and Down Under are in an upbeat mood lately. They might have begun packing already to move to their newly minted republic soon to be liberated by the mighty armies of el-Sisi and Villa Mogadishu. Oh, poor boy me, am jealous!!! But putting my sketch, my setup for the punch line aside, this announcement by Somalia’s leaders reminds me what one of my Issa friends told me when I had the chance to see him again in the early 1980’s after he was resettled in a small town in the Midwest here in the USA. He was the brother of my early childhood. He was forced to flee the old country from Mengistu’s killing spree and seek refuge in Somalia’s capital Mogadishu. He told me he had cross paths with fighters from the TPLF during the years 1976-78 who were there taking training in the use of heavy artillery guns. Mind you that was the time when the Somali army along with its beast of burden, ONLF, were rampaging in eastern parts of the old country massacring innocent unarmed students, peasants and small town residents who were not Somalis. One of those savagely murdered was one of my childhood friends, Abebe Gurmu, who was a civil servant in Western Hararghe. He was an Oromo who professed Christianity. My Issa friend was still inside Ethiopia when that took place. The reason they murdered him was that he complained about how he and others like him who sought refuge were being treated by the ONLF. Then one early morning they took him out and about thirty other non Somali refugees and used them as target practice by their newly recruited militia. That was the last straw for our Issa brothers and sisters to order the ONLF and the Somali regular army to leave their territory. That was what started the tide turning on Siad Barre’s hooligans. But at the same time in Somalia, the late prime minister and his comrades were training on how to use heavy and long range guns on their own countrymen. My friend told me how disgusted he was seeing them scavenging at the dumpsites in Somalia. So I won’t be surprised if OLA and certain factions of Fano are in Mogadishu already scavenging just as their predecessors. I am just getting nauseated thinking by such repugnant behavior. Comments are closed.

Djibouti Confirms: Tajura Port to be Jointly Managed, Not Handed Over to Ethiopia

Djibouti has stated that it will not hand over Tajura Port to Ethiopia but will instead jointly manage it. An agreement has been reached to develop a port where Ethiopia can import fuel. The Minister of Foreign Affairs of Ethiopia has stated that the government of Djibouti did not propose to hand over or sell Tajura Port. Instead, they suggested jointly managing and using it. Djiboutian Foreign Minister Mohamed Ali Youssef told the BBC that the Djibouti government proposed that Ethiopia use Tajura Port under Djibouti’s full management to ease tensions between Ethiopia and Somalia. Further explaining, the foreign minister said, “We are not handing over Tajura Port to Ethiopia; we are jointly managing it.” He added, “Tajura and other ports in Djibouti are national assets. Therefore, there is no reason for us to hand over any of them to another party.” However, he mentioned that a national business strategy has been formulated to ensure these resources and assets are utilized to their full potential to benefit Djibouti. “Currently, we are not getting the benefits we deserve from Tajura Port. It handles only one ship every two months. The government of Djibouti spent 60 million dollars to build this port and 110 million dollars to build the road from Tajura Port to Baloh state. The salaries of Tajura Port workers are paid from the revenue generated by Dollare Port. Is this correct? No,” he said. As a result, President Ismail Omar Guelleh has directed that Tajura Port should generate income and become profitable by providing the necessary services. Therefore, the proposal to the Ethiopian government is for Tajura Port to be managed and used jointly, not to be taken over or sold to Ethiopia. He explained that if Ethiopia accepts this recommendation, Djibouti will benefit, similar to how Ethiopia and Djibouti have jointly built and are using the Ethio-Djibouti railway infrastructure. “If Djibouti does not increase the port services provided to Ethiopia by expanding port options, we risk losing benefits from Ethiopia. Tomorrow, Asab Port might open, and Ethiopia could turn to Somaliland. Therefore, we must strive to meet Ethiopia’s port service needs,” said Minister Mohamed Ali Youssef. The minister pointed out that the products available in the Ethiopian market include transportation and logistics costs, which are expensive. From this perspective, Tajura Port is better than Djibouti Port (Dollare Port), which currently provides extensive services, and is closer and more viable for three Ethiopian regions (Tigray, Amhara, and Afar). He explained that if Tajura Port cannot generate income by providing complete port services to Ethiopia, the debt incurred to build the port will be passed on to future generations. In addition to Tajura Port, the minister mentioned that a medium-term plan has been made to develop Demerjug Port so Ethiopia can import oil products through this port and transport them directly by train. Although we asked the maritime service official about the response to Djibouti’s proposal for Ethiopia to jointly manage and use Tajura Port, he indicated that the matter is handled at the government level or by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs. The Ministry of Foreign Affairs stated that information will be provided once a decision is made.

Kasanchis Area Set for Demolition as PM Abiy Expands Corridor Projects

In a recent ceremony recognizing the completion of the first phase of the Addis Ababa Corridor Project, Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed announced the upcoming demolition of the Kasanchis area as part of the city’s ongoing urban transformation efforts. The demolition is part of a broader initiative aimed at modernizing key infrastructure and improving connectivity throughout the capital. During his speech, PM Abiy assigned six city officials to lead different phases of the project, with a focus on key areas of Addis Ababa. The Prime Minister also addressed the diplomatic community’s initial hesitation in supporting the project, expressing his expectation that their stance would shift as the project moves into its next phase. Impact on Businesses and Communities The Corridor Project has led to significant changes in many parts of Addis Ababa, affecting medium and small businesses along its route. The demolition of business areas, including popular sites such as Gurd Sholla, the Bole area (notably mobile stores), Kera, Piassa, and 4 Kilo, has forced many businesses to either close or relocate. These areas, known for their vibrant commercial activity, have seen a reduction in business operations as demolition work progresses. The Prime Minister emphasized that the changes brought about by the corridor project are essential for long-term urban development, despite the challenges faced by business owners. Local authorities have been tasked with managing the transitions and providing support where possible. Corridor Project Phases in Addis Ababa Six city officials have been appointed to lead specific phases of the corridor project, with each focusing on different urban areas: Additionally, the completion of the Chaka Project is expected to add 1/3 of the current size of Addis Ababa to the city, further contributing to the capital’s development. Expansion to Regional Cities In addition to the work in Addis Ababa, the corridor project is set to expand to other regional cities. To facilitate this, Addis Ababa city officials have been paired with regional mayors to share expertise and oversee similar projects. The partnerships include: PM Abiy noted that any sub-city not currently included in the six major corridors can undertake its own demolition and redevelopment efforts as part of the project’s broader vision. While the corridor project has already resulted in widespread urban transformation, the next phases aim to enhance the capital’s infrastructure further, with an increasing focus on expanding the initiative to other cities across Ethiopia. The Prime Minister’s vision for the future includes continued collaboration with the diplomatic community and broader support for Ethiopia’s ambitious urban renewal projects.

Tinsae G. Mekonnen Launches “Dubai Decoded Vol.02” – Your Ultimate Guide to Thriving in Dubai’s Job Market

Dubai, United Arab Emirates – September 2, 2024 – Tinsae G. Mekonnen, an Ethiopian marketing professional based in Dubai, has just released the highly anticipated “Dubai Decoded Vol.02.” This second edition of her guidebook builds on the success of the first volume, offering an in-depth exploration of Dubai’s dynamic job market, personal branding, and freelancing opportunities. “Dubai Decoded Vol.02” is a must-read for anyone looking to start or advance their career in Dubai. Drawing from her personal experiences, Tinsae provides valuable insights and practical advice on how to stand out in a competitive environment. The guidebook covers essential topics, including job market trends, visa requirements, personal branding strategies, and tips for avoiding common scams. In this edition, Tinsae delves deeper into the nuances of Dubai’s employment landscape, sharing her journey of moving to Dubai and successfully navigating the job market. She also offers new content on freelancing in Dubai, making it a comprehensive resource for both job seekers and entrepreneurs. Tinsae’s approach to personal branding and digital presence is particularly noteworthy. As someone who transformed her career through strategic online self-promotion, she emphasizes the importance of building a strong digital presence in today’s job market. The guidebook provides actionable steps to optimize LinkedIn profiles, create impactful resumes, and prepare for interviews. “I’m thrilled to share ‘Dubai Decoded Vol.02’ with the world. My goal is to make the process of finding a job in Dubai as straightforward as possible, especially for those who, like me, faced challenges when first arriving here,” said Tinsae. “This edition is more detailed and personal, reflecting the experiences and lessons I’ve learned over the past year.” Key Highlights of the Book: Tinsae’s Personal Journey What sets “Dubai Decoded Vol.02” apart from other guidebooks is the personal touch Tinsae brings to the content. Throughout the book, she shares her own experiences of moving to Dubai, overcoming challenges, and building a successful career. Her story is both inspiring and relatable, offering readers not just practical advice but also motivation and encouragement to pursue their own dreams in Dubai. “I’m thrilled to share ‘Dubai Decoded Vol.02’ with the world. My goal is to make the process of finding a job in Dubai as straightforward as possible, especially for those who, like me, faced challenges when first arriving here,” said Tinsae. “This edition is more detailed and personal, reflecting the experiences and lessons I’ve learned over the past year.” Availability “Dubai Decoded Vol.02” is now available for digital download, providing readers with easy access to Tinsae’s expertise and insights. Whether you are planning to move to Dubai or looking to advance your career in the city, this guidebook is an invaluable resource. For more information and to download your copy, visit Tinsae’s page. Contact: Tinsae G. MekonnenEmail: tinsaeg00@gmail.comLinkedIn: Tinsae Mekonnen About Tinsae G. Mekonnen: Tinsae G. Mekonnen is an Ethiopian marketing professional with a deep understanding of digital personal branding and the Dubai job market. She has successfully helped numerous individuals and businesses thrive in Dubai through her guidebooks, webinars, and online presence. “Dubai Decoded Vol.02” is her latest effort to share her expertise and experiences, providing a valuable resource for anyone looking to build a career in Dubai.

Ethiopian Airlines Given Three-Week Deadline by Somaliland to Restore Its Name on Flight Destinations

Somaliland Gives Two Airlines a Deadline to List Its Name on Their Flights Authorities in Somaliland have given Ethiopian Airlines and Flydubai a three-week grace period to re-register Somaliland’s name on flights to Hargeisa and Berbera. This directive was issued by the Civil Aviation and Airports Authority in Somaliland. However, the statement did not specify what actions would be taken against the two airlines if they fail to comply. Recently, Ethiopian Airlines and Flydubai followed an order from the Somali government in Mogadishu to remove the name “Somaliland” from their websites and replace it with “Somalia” when referring to cities in Somaliland. The Somali government had threatened to revoke the airlines’ licenses if they did not comply within three days. The airlines’ compliance with the Somali government’s directive angered Somaliland authorities, who viewed this as a violation of their claimed independence. As a result, Somaliland authorities began demanding that the airlines re-register Somaliland’s name on the flights they operate to its cities. Somaliland, with a population of 5.7 million, has its own constitution, passport, army, currency, government, President, and holds regular direct elections. However, its lack of international recognition has been a significant obstacle to accessing the funding and assistance needed for economic development. On June 26, 1960, Somaliland, located in the north, gained independence from Britain. The leaders of the region voluntarily decided to join the south to achieve the dream of “Greater Somalia.” The union between the South and North was announced on July 1 of the same year, immediately after the South gained its independence. However, in 1988, leaders of the Somali National Movement led a military rebellion demanding secession, resulting in violence with the central government. This violence led to the displacement and killing of hundreds and the destruction of cities, deepening the divide between the south and north. Following the collapse of Somalia’s central government in 1991, Somaliland unilaterally declared its independence on May 18 of that year. However, it has yet to receive any international or regional recognition. I have an excellent suggestion. Change Hargeisa Airport to Hargeisa, Somaliland 1960. HGA, Somaliland 1960, that is. Everybody is gonna love it even el-Sisi’s beasts of burden at Villa Mogadishu. Hold up, I’m hearing some noise from the Villa. Heehaw! Heehaw! Heehaw!!! Comments are closed.

Ethiopian Airlines Given Three-Week Deadline by Somaliland to Restore Its Name on Flight Destinations

Somaliland Gives Two Airlines a Deadline to List Its Name on Their Flights Authorities in Somaliland have given Ethiopian Airlines and Flydubai a three-week grace period to re-register Somaliland’s name on flights to Hargeisa and Berbera. This directive was issued by the Civil Aviation and Airports Authority in Somaliland. However, the statement did not specify what actions would be taken against the two airlines if they fail to comply. Recently, Ethiopian Airlines and Flydubai followed an order from the Somali government in Mogadishu to remove the name “Somaliland” from their websites and replace it with “Somalia” when referring to cities in Somaliland. The Somali government had threatened to revoke the airlines’ licenses if they did not comply within three days. The airlines’ compliance with the Somali government’s directive angered Somaliland authorities, who viewed this as a violation of their claimed independence. As a result, Somaliland authorities began demanding that the airlines re-register Somaliland’s name on the flights they operate to its cities. Somaliland, with a population of 5.7 million, has its own constitution, passport, army, currency, government, President, and holds regular direct elections. However, its lack of international recognition has been a significant obstacle to accessing the funding and assistance needed for economic development. On June 26, 1960, Somaliland, located in the north, gained independence from Britain. The leaders of the region voluntarily decided to join the south to achieve the dream of “Greater Somalia.” The union between the South and North was announced on July 1 of the same year, immediately after the South gained its independence. However, in 1988, leaders of the Somali National Movement led a military rebellion demanding secession, resulting in violence with the central government. This violence led to the displacement and killing of hundreds and the destruction of cities, deepening the divide between the south and north. Following the collapse of Somalia’s central government in 1991, Somaliland unilaterally declared its independence on May 18 of that year. However, it has yet to receive any international or regional recognition.

Guul Club: Jigjiga’s First Innovation Hub and the Vision Behind It—An Exclusive Insight from Its Founder

In the rapidly evolving landscape of entrepreneurship, particularly in underrepresented regions like Jigjiga, Ethiopia, the need for innovative solutions tailored to local contexts is crucial. Guul Club, founded by Guled Abdi, is one such initiative that stands out for its unique approach to fostering entrepreneurship and creating a sustainable impact in a region known for its infrastructural challenges and limited access to resources. Through Guul Club, Guled has established a coworking and incubation space that is not only addressing these challenges but also empowering the youth to build successful businesses. Guul Club: A Visionary Venture Born from Early Hustles Guul Club was born out of Guled Abdi’s desire to fill the gaps in youth support and entrepreneurship in the Somali region of Ethiopia. Guled’s entrepreneurial spirit was evident from an early age. Growing up in Addis Ababa, Guled engaged in various business ventures, from selling electronic games and chocolates to providing translation services for the Somali community. This early exposure to the world of business instilled in him a hustler’s mentality, driving him to constantly seek out opportunities and learn from each experience. His journey, shaped by his background in social work and business administration, and his experiences running various small businesses, provided him with a unique perspective on the entrepreneurial needs of the region. “What inspired me was that when I interacted with different youth in the region, I saw there was a gap in youth support in their journey in entrepreneurship. This led me to create a center in 2019, where we piloted entrepreneurship training for 10 youth in Jigjiga,” Guled shared. The initial success of this pilot program, despite the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic and the resulting restrictions, highlighted the potential impact of targeted training programs. Even without significant financial backing, the training empowered several participants to start their own businesses, demonstrating the power of skills development over mere financial investment. Overcoming Challenges: A Testament to Resilience Launching Guul Club came with its own set of challenges. In a region where the training industry is often dominated by NGOs offering free services and per diem payments, Guul Club had to carve out a unique identity. “I think what we are trying to do is new, and the obvious way is for an NGO to give training and grants. But we have kept our distance from being associated with free services,” Guled explained. The challenge was not just to offer training but to create a sustainable business model that would ensure the longevity of the center without relying on external funding. To overcome this, Guled utilized a revenue-generating model where the coworking space’s earnings cover all the running costs of the center. This approach has allowed Guul Club to maintain financial independence and ensure that the services provided are both valued and utilized by the community. This self-sufficiency is a rare achievement in the context of similar initiatives, especially in regions with limited economic opportunities. Innovation in Coworking and Incubation One of the most innovative aspects of Guul Club is its dual function as both a coworking space and an incubation program. Jigjiga, a city undergoing significant transformation due to an influx of returnees and investors, has not kept pace with the infrastructural demands of this growth. Guul Club addresses this by offering a much-needed space where entrepreneurs can access essential resources to start and grow their businesses. The center has evolved from operating in a single room in 2021 to occupying a fully furnished villa with eight rooms, including private offices, shared spaces, and outdoor areas for events and conferences. Guled’s vision for Guul Club is not just about providing physical space but about creating an environment where ideas can flourish and collaboration is encouraged. “We are now building a community that wants change, progress, and success. We bring together the players of the ecosystem like entrepreneurs, financial institutions, and business development service providers,” he noted. This holistic approach ensures that the members of Guul Club are not only equipped with the necessary tools but are also connected to a network that can help them thrive. Community Impact and Success Stories Since its inception, Guul Club has made a meaningful impact on the entrepreneurial landscape in Jigjiga. The center’s incubation program has provided young entrepreneurs with the skills and confidence to pursue their ventures. Many success stories have emerged from Guul Club, with participants launching businesses across various sectors, including digital marketing and manufacturing. “We’ve seen growth from a small operation to a fully equipped workspace that now offers mentorship programs, community events, and workshops,” Guled stated with pride. Guul Club’s influence reaches beyond the business community, playing a crucial role in shaping the future of entrepreneurship in the region. By hosting events and workshops that bring together diverse stakeholders, the center is fostering collaboration and knowledge sharing, which are essential for the region’s economic development. For example, a recent event focused on Youth Entrepreneurship and the Startup Ecosystem of the Somali Region gathered key local players, promoting the exchange of ideas necessary for the growth of the regional economy. Upcoming Training Program: Build and Start Your Career As part of its ongoing efforts to empower the youth and foster entrepreneurship, Guul Club is launching a new paid training program, “Build and Start Your Career,” focusing on digital marketing. This program aims to equip individuals with the skills needed to thrive in the digital economy, a sector that is increasingly vital for business success. The training will cover essential aspects of digital marketing, including social media management, content creation, SEO, and online advertising, providing participants with practical knowledge they can immediately apply to their businesses or careers. The program is set to attract aspiring entrepreneurs, small business owners, and professionals looking to enhance their digital marketing capabilities. Mentorship: The Key to Sustainable Growth Mentorship is at the heart of Guul Club’s incubation program. The center carefully selects mentors who are not only successful in their fields but also have a deep understanding of the local business environment. These mentors provide invaluable support, helping startups navigate the complexities of entrepreneurship in a region where challenges such as limited access to finance, underdeveloped infrastructure, and poor connectivity are prevalent. The mentorship program is designed to be hands-on, offering practical solutions and networking opportunities that are crucial for the startups’ growth. “We select mentors that are already in business and are experienced enough to mentor youth. They provide networking and consult entrepreneurs in the major tasks,” Guled explained. This focus on mentorship ensures that the entrepreneurs who go through Guul Club’s programs are not just left to fend for themselves but are supported throughout their journey. Future Vision: Scaling Up and Expanding Impact Looking ahead, Guul Club has ambitious plans for expansion and scaling its impact. Guled envisions the club becoming a key player in providing office solutions and incubation services not just in Jigjiga but potentially in other parts of the region. “In the next 5 years, we see ourselves providing office solutions for different organizations and expanding our incubation services,” Guled remarked. The future of entrepreneurship in Jigjiga is promising, especially with the region’s high adaptability to new technologies and widespread use of digital wallets. However, Guled acknowledges that there are still significant challenges to overcome, particularly in terms of infrastructure and access to finance. “The challenge I see for entrepreneurs and the whole economy is that what keeps it not growing is the access to finance, which is collateral-based. Exposure is very important as it changes the trends of business, and infrastructure like roads, electricity, and connectivity are underdeveloped,” he pointed out. Guul Club is a shining example of how local solutions can address global challenges, particularly in regions that are often overlooked in the broader narrative of entrepreneurship in Africa. By addressing the unique challenges of Jigjiga and providing a sustainable model for youth support and entrepreneurship, Guul Club is not only contributing to the local economy but also setting a precedent for similar initiatives in other underrepresented regions. As Guled aptly puts it, “Visit Jigjiga; there are a lot of opportunities, and we are ready to support you in navigating the region.” This article highlights the power of innovation and community-driven initiatives in transforming challenging environments into hubs of entrepreneurship and growth. Guul Club’s journey serves as an inspiration for entrepreneurs and policymakers alike, showcasing the impact that well-thought-out, locally-driven initiatives can have on a community and beyond. This is excellent news. Hats off to my very dear Somali brothers and sisters! Innovations that promotes and all-out industrialization is the way to go. Industrialization has proven to be the sole solver of societies’ ills since the 18th century. With industrialization come factories and factories will drag women out of their child rearing nest to operate machines fabricating products. That will bring the runaway population explosion to a screeching halt. Industrialization will create a massive middle class at a rate never seen in a given society. When the middle class becomes the dominant section of the society, then you can say goodbye to despots and conniving politicians. In such a industrialized society, citizens don’t need somebody else to answer questions of what, how and why. They can single out a cross eyed bee among the swarm of millions. The runaway population explosion the old country has been facing will be solved only through an all out industrialization. Such hub of innovation is the path that will lead to industrialization. To depend on agriculture will not cut the mustard. Bravo Jigjiges!!!!! Comments are closed.