5.5-Magnitude Earthquake Strikes Ethiopia’s Afar Region, Tremors Felt in Multiple Cities

5.5-Magnitude Earthquake Strikes Ethiopia’s Afar Region, Tremors Felt in Multiple Cities A 5.5-magnitude earthquake struck Ethiopia’s Afar region on Sunday, March 7, according to the U.S. Geological Survey (USGS). The earthquake’s epicenter was located approximately 45 kilometers north of Awash city, a region known for its geological activity. The tremor, which occurred at a relatively shallow depth of 10 kilometers, was strong enough to be felt across several parts of the country, including Addis Ababa. Series of Seismic Activities in Ethiopia The earthquake is the latest in a series of tremors that have affected Ethiopia in recent weeks. The last recorded earthquake in the country occurred nearly two weeks ago, on February 23, 2017, when a 5.2-magnitude tremor struck 46 kilometers east of Adigrat city. Similarly, earlier this month, a 6.0-magnitude earthquake was recorded just six kilometers from Metahara city, although it did not cause significant damage due to its deeper epicenter. Despite being slightly weaker than the Metahara earthquake, Sunday’s tremor was felt more widely, with reports of shaking from multiple areas, including the capital. Geological experts have highlighted that earthquakes measuring between 5.5 and 6.0 on the Richter scale have the potential to damage buildings and infrastructure, depending on their depth and location. Impact and Affected Areas According to the international earthquake-tracking website “Volcano Discovery,” the latest earthquake caused mild tremors in several cities, including Metahara, Mieso, Abomsa, and Gelemso. Residents in these areas reported experiencing shaking but no immediate reports of structural damage or casualties have been confirmed. The tremors also reached Kobo, Robit, and Debre Sina, where they were similarly described as mild. While Ethiopia is not as seismically active as some other parts of the world, the Afar region sits within the East African Rift, a tectonic boundary where the African continent is gradually splitting apart. This geological setting makes the region prone to occasional seismic activity, though large, destructive earthquakes remain relatively rare. Expert Analysis and Safety Recommendations Seismologists have pointed out that while Sunday’s earthquake was moderate in intensity, its shallow depth increased the likelihood of ground shaking being felt across a wider area. The Ethiopian Institute of Geophysics has urged residents in affected regions to remain cautious and prepared for potential aftershocks. Experts recommend that people living in earthquake-prone areas secure heavy furniture, identify safe zones within their homes, and be aware of emergency evacuation procedures. Government authorities are monitoring the situation closely and have assured the public that assessments are underway to evaluate any potential damage. Emergency response teams have been placed on alert, though no major incidents have been reported so far. As Ethiopia continues to experience periodic seismic activity, researchers and local authorities are emphasizing the need for increased preparedness and early warning systems to mitigate risks associated with future earthquakes.

Ethiopia Unveils $7.8 Billion Mega Airport in Bishoftu: A Game Changer for African Aviation

Ethiopia Unveils $7.8 Billion Mega Airport in Bishoftu: A Game Changer for African Aviation March 16, 2025 Ethiopia is set to redefine the future of air travel in Africa with its ambitious $7.8 billion Bishoftu Airport Hub. Ethiopian Airlines Group, Africa’s largest and most profitable airline, has unveiled plans for the new airport as it moves to alleviate mounting congestion at Addis Ababa’s Bole International Airport. The project, formally announced on March 15, 2025, is a landmark initiative that aims to cement Ethiopia’s role as a major aviation hub on the continent. A Strategic Expansion to Meet Rising Demand Bole International Airport, currently handling around 17 million passengers annually, has reached its capacity limits due to surging demand. Ethiopian Airlines’ exponential growth, bolstered by its extensive African and global network, necessitates an expansion that can accommodate the increasing flow of passengers and cargo. The new Bishoftu hub is projected to have a capacity of over 60 million passengers per year by 2040, effectively tripling Ethiopia’s aviation capacity. The airport’s location in Bishoftu, approximately 40 km southeast of Addis Ababa, was strategically chosen for its accessibility and potential for infrastructure expansion. With air travel in Africa witnessing rapid growth, the new airport is expected to strengthen Ethiopia’s position as a key transit hub connecting Africa, the Middle East, Europe, and Asia. AfDB’s Pivotal Role in Financing the Project Ethiopian Airlines Group signed a preliminary agreement with the African Development Bank (AfDB) on March 14, 2025, solidifying AfDB’s role in financing the mega project. Ethiopian Airlines CEO Mesfin Tasew and AfDB Vice President Nnenna Nwabufo led the discussions, which were concluded in the presence of AfDB President Akinwumi Adesina and Ethiopia’s Finance Minister Ahmed Shide. AfDB has been a crucial partner in Ethiopia’s economic development, with a current portfolio investment exceeding $1.2 billion across key sectors. The bank’s commitment to supporting the Bishoftu airport project underscores its strategic importance for Africa’s transportation and trade development. Adesina described the initiative as an “African flagship project” that aligns with Ethiopia’s broader economic transformation. Economic and Tourism Boost for Ethiopia The Bishoftu Airport Hub is expected to drive significant economic benefits beyond just aviation. By positioning Ethiopia as a leading travel and logistics center, the project will create thousands of direct and indirect jobs in construction, operations, and related services. Minister Ahmed Shide emphasized the airport’s role in Ethiopia’s macroeconomic reform strategy under Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed, which has targeted increased investment in critical infrastructure to drive inclusive growth. Ethiopia’s economy has been expanding at a strong pace, with an 8.1% GDP growth recorded in the past year. The new airport will complement the country’s efforts to attract foreign direct investment (FDI) and boost the tourism sector, which has long been a priority for economic diversification. Ethiopia’s rich cultural heritage, historical landmarks, and scenic landscapes have been gaining global attention, but inadequate airport infrastructure has hindered its full potential. The Bishoftu Airport is expected to enhance Ethiopia’s tourism appeal by facilitating greater international arrivals and improving air connectivity across Africa and beyond. Bishoftu’s Transformation into a Global Aviation Hub Bishoftu, a city already known for its natural attractions and military training centers, is set for a dramatic transformation with the development of this world-class airport. The project will likely trigger further urbanization, infrastructure upgrades, and investment inflows, making Bishoftu a key economic and logistical center for Ethiopia. Ethiopian Airlines, consistently recognized for its efficiency and strategic foresight, has played a leading role in making Addis Ababa a central hub for African aviation. The new airport represents the next phase of this vision, ensuring that Ethiopia remains a dominant force in the global airline industry. Challenges and Considerations While the Bishoftu Airport project promises vast opportunities, it also presents challenges. Securing the full financing for the $7.8 billion development will require continued negotiations with international financial institutions, investors, and possibly public-private partnerships. Land acquisition, environmental concerns, and social impacts on local communities will also need to be carefully managed to ensure smooth execution. Furthermore, Ethiopia’s ongoing economic reforms and political stability will be crucial in maintaining investor confidence and ensuring timely project completion. Conclusion: A Vision for the Future Ethiopia’s new Bishoftu Airport Hub is more than just an infrastructure project—it is a bold statement of the country’s vision for the future. By 2040, Ethiopia aims to stand at the forefront of African aviation, providing seamless connectivity between continents and strengthening its economy in the process. With AfDB’s backing, government commitment, and Ethiopian Airlines’ operational excellence, the Bishoftu Airport is poised to become a game-changer for Ethiopia and Africa’s aviation landscape. As the project unfolds, it will be closely watched as a model for large-scale infrastructure development on the continent, setting new benchmarks for efficiency, connectivity, and economic impact.

Tensions Escalate in Mekele as Tigray Forces Seize Key Institutions Amid Political Crisis

Tensions Escalate in Mekele as Tigray Forces Seize Key Institutions Amid Political Crisis Mekele, the capital of the Tigray region, witnessed a dramatic shift in political control on Thursday, March 3, 2017, as members of the Tigray Forces aligned with the TPLF faction led by Dr. Debretsion Gebremichael seized key government offices and media institutions. This power struggle between factions of the Tigray People’s Liberation Front (TPLF) underscores the deepening divisions that have paralyzed governance in the region, further exacerbating uncertainty and instability. A Struggle for Political Legitimacy The latest developments have intensified the internal power struggle within the TPLF, which has been divided between the faction led by Chairman Dr. Debretsion Gebremichael and the opposing faction under Interim President Getachew Reda. Amid ongoing disputes over governance, the faction aligned with Debretsion forcefully took over the Mekele mayor’s office and reappointed Dr. Redaei Berhe as the city’s mayor, despite a prior appointment of Ato Birhane Gebreyesus by the interim administration. Mekele, a city with nearly one million residents, has lacked a functional municipal government for four months due to the ongoing power struggle. The consequences of this leadership void have been severe, with basic public services suffering disruptions. As political factions continue to battle for control, ordinary citizens are left navigating an increasingly chaotic administrative landscape. Military Intervention and Takeover of Government Offices The crisis in Mekele is not limited to political maneuvering. Tigray army commanders, primarily those who support the Debretsion-led faction, have begun dismantling the interim administrative structures across various cities and districts in Tigray. By taking control of government offices, they are systematically replacing officials appointed by the interim administration with leaders who had been elected before the outbreak of the Tigray war. This move is seen as an effort to restore the governing structure that existed prior to the war, rejecting the legitimacy of Getachew Reda’s administration. The recent seizure of offices by military-backed political factions represents a dangerous precedent, raising concerns about the potential for renewed conflict within the region. The military’s involvement in political affairs further complicates the fragile governance situation, as forceful removals and reappointments continue to escalate tensions between the factions. Seizure of Media and Control of FM Mekele 104.4 In a further demonstration of control, members of the Tigray Forces aligned with Debretsion took over FM Mekele 104.4, a key radio station in the region. According to BBC reports, armed members of the faction escorted in the new board of directors appointed by the Debretsion faction. The station’s employees have expressed confusion and concern over the sudden change in leadership, as armed forces now oversee its operations. “They were escorted by Tigray Forces; they took control of the radio station by force. Now the army is guarding the radio station; the workers are confused,” a station employee told the BBC. This is not the first time that an attempt to seize control of FM Mekele 104.4 has been made. In late January, a similar effort was thwarted when the interim administration under Getachew Reda intervened. The successful takeover this time raises significant concerns about press freedom in the region. The control of media by military-backed factions risks turning the radio station into a tool for political propaganda, further entrenching divisions. Tigray Military Realignment and the Future of Governance The political crisis has been exacerbated by the shifting allegiances within the Tigray military command. For months, Tigray army commanders had remained neutral in the dispute between the TPLF factions. However, their recent alignment with the Debretsion-led faction marks a significant turning point. This shift in military loyalty has provided the faction with the strength to dismantle interim administration structures and impose its authority over Mekele and other parts of the region. The August 2023 TPLF conference played a crucial role in shaping the current landscape. The military commanders, recognizing the legitimacy of the decisions made at that conference, have openly supported the call for leadership change within the interim administration. This decision has directly challenged Getachew Reda’s authority, further destabilizing the region’s governance. In response, interim President Getachew Reda has taken action against key figures in the Tigray military. He has suspended three senior commanders for allegedly undermining the structure of the government. Additionally, the head of the Tigray Peace and Security Bureau, Lt. Gen. Fisa Kidanu (Fisa Manjus), has also been suspended after refusing to accept the interim administration’s decisions. Federal Government’s Response and the Risk of Further Conflict As tensions rise, the role of the federal government in resolving the crisis remains uncertain. Getachew Reda has hinted at the possibility of federal intervention, stating that the government has ample justification to provide “any kind of support” to stabilize the region. During a press briefing, Getachew Reda directly addressed Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed, warning against engaging in negotiations with groups that have exploited the Pretoria Peace Agreement for political gain. “Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed should not negotiate with a party that has used the peace of the people, the Pretoria Agreement, and the stability of the country as collateral for personal and group interests,” Getachew Reda stated. However, the Tigray Peace and Security Bureau has countered these claims, expressing strong opposition to federal intervention. In a Facebook post, the bureau warned that involving external forces in the region’s internal political struggles would only worsen the crisis. “Any violent action in this regard will only lead to the problem shifting in another direction and worsening,” the statement read. “The people will not be happy.” What Lies Ahead for Tigray? The deepening crisis in Tigray underscores the region’s fragile post-war recovery. The power struggle between the two factions of the TPLF is not merely a political dispute but a broader struggle over the legitimacy of governance structures in the region. The military’s intervention has added a dangerous dimension to the conflict, raising the stakes for all parties involved. With the interim administration struggling to assert control and the Debretsion faction gaining military and political support, the situation remains volatile. Whether the federal government will intervene, whether negotiations will be possible between the rival factions, and how the people of Tigray will be affected by this ongoing power struggle remain critical concerns. As Mekele and other parts of the Tigray region continue to experience political upheaval, the need for a sustainable resolution to the crisis becomes increasingly urgent. Without a concerted effort to restore stability and governance, the region risks further fragmentation and unrest, undoing the fragile peace achieved after the two-year-long war.

Ethiopia’s Wheat Miracle: A Grand Vision or a Statistical Illusion?

Ethiopia’s Wheat Miracle: A Grand Vision or a Statistical Illusion? Ethiopia has long been striving to transform its agricultural sector, and in recent years, Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed has championed a major push for wheat self-sufficiency. His government claims that the country, once synonymous with famine, has not only met its domestic wheat needs but is also exporting surplus grain. If true, this would represent a remarkable achievement for a nation that relied on wheat imports for nearly a quarter of its consumption just a few years ago. However, an investigation by The Economist suggests that Ethiopia’s wheat revolution may not be as groundbreaking as official figures suggest. The government claims that wheat production soared from 15.1 million tonnes in 2022-23 to 23 million tonnes the following year, placing Ethiopia among the world’s top wheat producers. Yet, independent estimates tell a different story. The African Development Bank (AfDB) puts Ethiopia’s 2023-24 wheat output at just 7.5 million tonnes, while the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) and the UN’s Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) estimated it at 5.8 million tonnes for 2022-23. The discrepancy in numbers is hard to ignore, especially as Ethiopia reportedly ceased wheat imports nearly four years ago. Yet, USDA data shows that private traders imported 400,000 tonnes of wheat in the first five months of 2024 alone—57% more than during the same period in 2023. The country imported 1.4 million tonnes of wheat last year while exporting just 150,000 tonnes, further raising doubts about its self-sufficiency claims. A deeper look into Ethiopia’s wheat strategy reveals ambitious state-led interventions, including the promotion of “cluster farms,” where smallholder farmers work collectively in large, mechanized operations. The government has also invested heavily in irrigation, provided subsidized fertilizers, and waived taxes on machinery imports. While these efforts have certainly boosted production, they may not justify the figures being presented. The controversy extends beyond numbers. In 2022, the Ethiopian government replaced the head of its statistical agency with a ruling party loyalist, allegedly after concerns were raised about inflated production estimates. Official figures published by Ethiopia’s central bank—mirroring external estimates of 5.8 million tonnes in 2022-23—were quietly removed from its website after The Economist inquired about them. The government later dismissed this as a “human error.” Beyond statistical inconsistencies, concerns persist about the long-term sustainability of Ethiopia’s wheat drive. A focus on wheat monocropping could degrade soil quality, potentially harming future yields. Meanwhile, the pressure on farmers to meet high production targets raises fears of resistance, a factor that has played a role in past political upheavals. If Ethiopia’s wheat success story is overstated, it raises serious questions not just for Ethiopians but for international organizations and African nations hoping to replicate its model. The FAO has praised Ethiopia’s progress, and the African Development Bank has commended its agricultural gains, but neither institution fully endorses the government’s production numbers. Even billionaire philanthropist Bill Gates has recognized Ethiopia’s agricultural strides, though his foundation declined to comment on the figures. Meanwhile, Russia has become a key player in Africa’s wheat imports. Between July 2024 and February 2025, Ethiopia, alongside Nigeria, Tanzania, and Mozambique, is expected to import a significant amount of wheat from Russia. In fact, African countries collectively imported 18 million tonnes of Russian wheat, making up over 50% of Russia’s total wheat exports. For Ethiopia, credibility matters. If the government’s wheat claims are exaggerated, it could undermine trust in future economic reports and discourage investment in the agricultural sector. More importantly, millions of Ethiopians still rely on food aid—16 million in 2024, according to the World Food Programme. If Ethiopia were truly self-sufficient in wheat, such a high level of food insecurity would be difficult to explain.

Ethio-Djibouti Railway Line Now Powered by a Dedicated Electrical Supply

Ethio-Djibouti Railway Line Now Powered by a Dedicated Electrical Supply Addis Ababa, March 4, 2017 (FMC) – The Ethiopian Electricity Service has announced the completion of a dedicated power line for the Ethio-Djibouti Railway, ensuring a stable and uninterrupted electricity supply for the critical transport corridor. The 39-million-birr infrastructure project was undertaken to address the persistent power disruptions that previously affected railway operations. The Ethio-Djibouti Railway serves as a vital trade and transport route between Ethiopia and Djibouti, playing a crucial role in facilitating the movement of goods and passengers. The newly installed power line spans 11.3 kilometers and consists of 226 concrete poles, designed to withstand environmental conditions and ensure long-term reliability. This initiative is expected to enhance the efficiency, safety, and operational consistency of the railway, minimizing delays caused by power outages. According to the Sheger Region authorities, the direct power line has already contributed to more reliable and uninterrupted transport services, benefiting both passengers and freight operators. The Ethiopian Electricity Service further stated that the new line will primarily serve the Anole railway station, a key point along the railway route. Officials believe that this upgrade will not only strengthen the railway’s performance but also contribute to Ethiopia’s broader economic and logistical goals, ensuring smoother connectivity between the landlocked nation and the Port of Djibouti, its main gateway for international trade.

Muyalogy Aims to Bridge Ethiopia’s Skills Gap with Digital Learning

Muyalogy Aims to Bridge Ethiopia’s Skills Gap with Digital Learning Addis Ababa, Ethiopia – January 2025 A growing skills gap continues to challenge Ethiopia’s job market, leaving many graduates and job seekers struggling to find employment while industries face shortages of qualified professionals. In response, Muyalogy, an Ethiopian digital learning platform, is working to address this issue by providing accessible, skills-based education for a diverse range of learners. Founded in 2022 by Misikir Adane, Natnael Adane, and Ewnetu Abera, Muyalogy offers a selection of online courses focused on technology, business, and personal development. The platform aims to equip individuals with practical skills that align with industry demands, helping both employers and job seekers overcome employment challenges. Since its launch, Muyalogy has experienced significant growth, with an increasing number of learners engaging in its programs. The initiative is led by a team of professionals with over a decade of experience, designing courses that cater to both local and global workforce needs. At the core of Muyalogy’s efforts is the Jiret Learning Platform, a Software-as-a-Service (SaaS) solution developed by Muyalogy Digital Services S.C. The platform provides a customizable and scalable education experience, enabling institutions, businesses, and individuals to access skill-based learning. Jiret supports a hybrid learning model, integrating both physical and virtual settings, and offers tailored coaching solutions for various professional development needs. Beyond serving as a digital education provider, Muyalogy extends its services to organizations through a white-label version of the Jiret platform. This allows corporations, educational institutions, and subject matter experts to create customized e-learning platforms similar to www.muyalogy.com. Muyalogy’s mission also includes expanding learning opportunities to those who have not attended college. By offering affordable and accessible educational solutions, the organization seeks to empower individuals from all backgrounds with the skills needed for employment and entrepreneurship. As Ethiopia and Africa navigate workforce challenges, initiatives like Muyalogy could play a crucial role in equipping job seekers with relevant skills and improving economic prospects. More information about the platform and its services can be found at www.jiret.com and www.muyalogy.com.

Investment Crisis in Ethiopia: Rising Costs and Uncertainty Drive Business Exodus

Investment Crisis in Ethiopia: Rising Costs and Uncertainty Drive Business Exodus Amid shifting policies and persistent instability, investors in Ethiopia are grappling with significant challenges in managing their businesses, with many opting to migrate abroad in search of more favorable opportunities. In response, the Addis Ababa Investors Forum recently brought together key stakeholders, offering a platform for them to share their struggles and call for a united approach to overcome these obstacles. Ethiopia’s shift to a market-based foreign exchange system in July 2024, which saw the Ethiopian birr devalued by 30% against the US dollar, has further complicated the investment climate, particularly for those looking to enter the country’s industrial parks. “It is not profitable to buy the land with USD,” said Ashenafi Mussie, President of the Addis Ababa Investors Forum. “Because most of our customers are domestic.” He further noted that many investors are reconsidering their plans to join the industrial parks, as other sectors have become more profitable. “For instance, if an investor wants 10,000 square meters of empty land, it will cost around ETB 400 million. With this investment, the investor could instead start an alternate, more profitable business,” he emphasized. In addition to these challenges, the Addis Ababa Investors Forum, which represents over 65,000 investors, highlighted several key issues that are hindering investment. The president pointed to a limited land supply, restricted access to credit, higher taxes, and ongoing political instability and insecurity. As a result, many investors are now migrating abroad in search of more favorable opportunities. “I urge all investors in the country, as well as those who have already migrated abroad, to come together and voice these challenges collectively,” said Ashenafi. “There are solutions if we collaborate; otherwise, these challenges will continue to persist.” The Commercial Bank of Ethiopia (CBE) has recently revised its interest rates across multiple loan categories, a move that is expected to significantly impact businesses. The increased borrowing costs, especially for agricultural, commercial, and import-related loans, are likely to strain cash flows and limit access to affordable credit for many enterprises. “The dollar is not ours, we can’t control it,” he told Addis Insight. “Unless Ethiopia improves productivity across various sectors, such as agriculture and industries, beyond the banking sector, everything will get more expensive.” He highlighted that the solution lies in fostering a more conducive business environment and supporting investors. By encouraging investment and focusing on import-substitution and productivity improvements, Ethiopia can strengthen its economy, allowing the local birr to appreciate and reduce the pressure on businesses. The Addis Ababa Investors Forum, in order to negotiate with the concerned authorities about the challenges they are facing, is collecting documented complaints from investors between March 10 and March 27, 2025. The forum also invites migrated investors to submit their complaints via phone call.

Ethiopia to Launch Its Third Earth Observation Satellite in 2026 with Chinese Collaboration

Ethiopia to Launch Its Third Earth Observation Satellite in 2026 with Chinese Collaboration Ethiopia is making significant strides in space technology with plans to launch its third Earth observation satellite (EOS) in 2026. This project is spearheaded by the Ethiopian Space Science and Geospatial Institute (ESSGI), in partnership with China. The new satellite is expected to provide higher resolution images and enhanced monitoring capabilities compared to its predecessors. According to Mr. Tesfaye Fufa, the Executive Director of Satellite Monitoring at ESSGI, preparations for the launch are already underway. However, he did not disclose the financial details of the collaboration between Ethiopia and China. Ethiopia’s Progress in Space Technology Ethiopia’s space program is relatively young, but it has made notable advancements in a short time: First Satellite (ETRSS-1, 2019): Launched in December 2019 with assistance from China, the Ethiopian Remote Sensing Satellite-1 (ETRSS-1) was designed for agricultural monitoring, environmental management, and climate observation. Second Satellite (ET-SMART-RSS, 2020): The ET-SMART-RSS was launched in December 2020 and had enhanced capabilities for remote sensing and scientific research. Third Satellite (Planned for 2026): The upcoming satellite will feature improved imaging technology, allowing for more precise data collection and disaster prediction. With the launch of the third Earth observation satellite, Ethiopia aims to strengthen its capabilities in: Natural disaster prediction (floods, droughts, deforestation) Climate change monitoring Urban planning and infrastructure development Agricultural resource management Water resource tracking How Ethiopia Compares to Other African Countries in Space Technology Ethiopia is among the few African nations actively developing space programs, but other countries are ahead in terms of the number and types of satellites launched. Here’s how Ethiopia compares to some of the leading space programs in Africa: The Role of Space Technology in Africa’s Development Many African countries are recognizing the strategic value of space technology for national development. Satellites play a crucial role in addressing challenges such as climate change, food security, and natural disaster management. Countries like Egypt, South Africa, and Nigeria have more developed space programs and have launched satellites for communications, military surveillance, and scientific research. While Ethiopia is still in the early stages, its space ambitions are growing, especially with strong support from China. China has been a key partner for many African countries in space projects, funding and supporting satellite development to enhance scientific research and technological advancements. What’s Next for Ethiopia? With the launch of its third satellite in 2026, Ethiopia is positioning itself as a leader in Earth observation technology in East Africa. If Ethiopia continues on this trajectory, it could become a regional hub for satellite-based research, climate monitoring, and data analysis, benefiting sectors such as agriculture, water management, and infrastructure development. Ethiopia’s upcoming satellite launch is a significant step in the country’s space exploration journey. While countries like Egypt, South Africa, and Nigeria have more advanced space programs, Ethiopia’s continued investment in satellite technology demonstrates its commitment to leveraging space science for national development. With support from China and other global partners, Ethiopia’s space program is expected to grow further, offering long-term benefits in scientific research, environmental protection, and technological innovation.

Selecta One Shuts Down Kunzila Production Site in Ethiopia Amid Political Instability

Selecta One Shuts Down Kunzila Production Site in Ethiopia Amid Political Instability March 10, 2025 – In a significant setback for Ethiopia’s agricultural and horticultural sector, Selecta One has announced the closure of its production site in Kunzila, citing political instability and security concerns. The German-based floriculture company made the difficult decision after years of investment in the region, despite efforts to maintain operations post-civil war. Per Ansgar Klemm, CEO of Selecta One, shared the news via LinkedIn, calling the decision a “bitter pill to swallow.” He emphasized that the safety of employees on the ground could no longer be guaranteed under the current political and military tensions. The closure will result in the loss of over 1,000 jobs, affecting around 10,000 people directly and indirectly in the area. The Kunzila production site was established with high hopes of contributing to the economic development of the region. Selecta One had invested heavily in knowledge transfer, workforce development, and production infrastructure. The company had remained committed to operating in Ethiopia even after the civil war ended in November 2022, anticipating improved conditions. However, ongoing instability has rendered it impossible to sustain operations or execute necessary business expansions. Klemm expressed deep regret over the decision, highlighting the devastating impact on local employees and their families. “For many people from Kunzila and the surrounding area, our young company was an opportunity for economic prospects. It is with a heavy heart that we leave them behind, hoping for better times,” he stated. Despite the setback in Ethiopia, Selecta One is shifting resources to strengthen its operations in Kenya and Uganda to ensure continuity in supply for its customers. However, the closure underscores the growing challenges faced by foreign investors in Ethiopia, particularly in sectors reliant on political stability and security. Ethiopia has been striving to attract foreign direct investment (FDI) to boost its economy, but recurrent conflicts and regulatory uncertainties have led to concerns among international businesses. Selecta One’s exit raises further questions about the business climate in the country, particularly in regions affected by instability. As the Ethiopian government works to stabilize the political landscape and restore investor confidence, the departure of companies like Selecta One serves as a stark reminder of the risks associated with operating in conflict-prone environments. The company remains hopeful for future opportunities to re-establish operations in Ethiopia should conditions improve.