Second Round of Talks Between Ethiopia and Somalia Ends Without Agreement

Second Round of Talks Between Ethiopia and Somalia Ends Without Agreement The second round of talks between Ethiopia and Somalia, held in Turkey, concluded without an agreement, according to sources close to the matter. The sources, who requested anonymity due to the sensitivity of the discussions, revealed that Somalia had requested Ethiopia to cancel a memorandum of understanding (MoU) signed with Somaliland concerning the use of a seaport. In response, Ethiopia requested Somalia to first establish an agreement regarding the use of the seaport. According to the sources, disagreements persist between the two parties, particularly concerning the language and terms under which Ethiopia would withdraw from the MoU, as well as the conditions for utilizing the seaport. These unresolved issues have prevented the parties from reaching a consensus. The MoU, signed last December, granted Ethiopia access to 20 kilometers of coastline in Somaliland, where Ethiopia planned to build a naval base. In return, Ethiopia was expected to recognize Somaliland as an independent country, though Ethiopian officials have not officially confirmed this arrangement. Somalia has strongly condemned the agreement with Somaliland, which declared independence from Somalia, asserting that it undermines Somalia’s sovereignty and territorial integrity. The sources also indicated that the talks between Ethiopia and Somalia were conducted indirectly, with communication occurring “by ear.” It was reported that Turkish Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan, Somali Foreign Minister Ahmed Mowalim Fiki, and Ethiopian Foreign Minister Taye Atsikslase held separate discussions. Before the second round of talks, Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan contacted Ethiopian Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed and Somali President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud, urging them to resolve their differences.

Tensions Rise as TPLF’s 14th Conference Kicks Off Amid Protests

Tensions Rise as TPLF’s 14th Conference Kicks Off Amid Protests The Tigray People’s Liberation Front (TPLF) recently commenced its 14th conference, led by its chairman, Dr. Debretsion Gebremichael, The event, taking place in Hawelti, began today, August 13th, 2024, and is scheduled to run for five days until August 17th, 2024. However, the conference has sparked significant controversy, leading to the absence of several central committee members, including Vice Chairman Ato Getachew Reda, due to protests and other concerns. The National Election Board of Ethiopia (NEBE) and the TPLF’s own Central Control Commission have denied recognition of the conference. NEBE explicitly informed the TPLF that any decisions made at the General Assembly would be invalid without its approval. Vice Chairman Ato Getachew Reda voiced strong concerns, stating, “This assembly has nothing more than putting Tigray and its people in danger.” In his statement, released just minutes ago, Getachew criticized the conference as an effort to oust certain leaders under a hastily organized and non-consensual agenda. He warned that the assembly’s actions could undermine the Tigrayan people’s struggle and lead to future conflicts, stressing that the process had been manipulated by a select group for narrow interests. Getachew assured that he would continue to fight alongside the people of Tigray to ensure peace and security, advocating for organized political negotiations and the restoration of the TPLF’s legitimacy. On the other hand, Dr. Leges Tulu, Minister of Government Communication Services, expressed his disapproval on social media, emphasizing the importance of law and order. He stated, “Any country in any corner of the world is governed by law and order,” and warned that any political movement failing to respect these principles ultimately faces destruction. Leges condemned the TPLF’s actions, accusing it of undermining the peace in Tigray and failing to adhere to the Pretoria Agreement, which obligates strict compliance with federal laws. He declared that the TPLF had been effectively destroyed by its own actions and held the group responsible for any resulting instability. Both stakeholders have raised serious concerns about the implications of the conference, highlighting the deep divisions and potential consequences for the region’s peace and stability.

Ethiopia and Somalia on the Brink of a Historic Port Deal

Ethiopia and Somalia on the Brink of a Historic Port Deal Recent reports indicate that Somalia is on the verge of granting Ethiopia access to one of its ports, while Ethiopia is considering abandoning the memorandum of understanding (MoU) it signed with Somaliland. Diplomatic Negotiations Underway Diplomatic sources suggest that Ethiopia and Somalia are close to finalizing an agreement based on a ‘give and take’ principle. Under this potential deal, Somalia would provide Ethiopia with access to a port, facilitating Ethiopia’s maritime needs. In exchange, Ethiopia would abandon its MoU with Somaliland, which was signed in January. This agreement aims to resolve longstanding tensions between the two countries and improve their diplomatic relations. Key Meeting Scheduled in Ankara The foreign ministers of Ethiopia and Somalia are scheduled to meet in Ankara today, with Turkey mediating the negotiations. They have tentatively accepted a reconciliation proposal put forward by Turkey. This development aligns with recent statements from both the Turkish President’s and Ethiopian Prime Minister’s offices. Press Statement from Mogadishu In a press statement issued from Mogadishu on August 11, 2024, His Excellency President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud held a phone call with President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan of the Republic of Türkiye. Their discussions underscored the strong bilateral relations between Somalia and Türkiye, highlighting the importance of regional security and stability. During the call, the two leaders reaffirmed their commitment to enhancing the partnership between their nations, particularly in areas of mutual interest such as defense cooperation and economic development. Somalia’s Stance on Sovereignty President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud emphasized Türkiye’s critical role in promoting dialogue and peaceful resolutions to the region’s challenges. He also reiterated Somalia’s readiness to engage in economic and development cooperation with Ethiopia but firmly stressed that such partnerships must always respect Somalia’s sovereignty, unity, and territorial integrity, and adhere to international law and norms. The Somali President also expressed his gratitude to President Erdoğan for his unwavering efforts in addressing this issue. Erdogan and Abiy’s Recent Discussions Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan had earlier tweeted that he had spoken with Ethiopian Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed, stating, “If Ethiopia takes steps to reverse any threat to Somalia’s sovereignty and territorial integrity, it will aid the discussion process.” This statement implies that Ethiopia must formally abandon its agreement with Somaliland to move forward with the proposed arrangement. Ethiopia’s Perspective on the Negotiations In a related tweet, Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed expressed his appreciation for President Erdoğan’s support in facilitating a resolution to the misunderstanding between Ethiopia and Somalia. He emphasized the importance of providing Ethiopia, a nation of 120 million people, with access to the sea in a mutually agreeable approach. The Ethiopian Prime Minister’s Office confirmed that the telephone conversation took place recently. Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed highlighted Ethiopia’s need for access to a sea port and emphasized that such access should be negotiated in a way that benefits both Somalia and Ethiopia. Upcoming Round of Talks in Ankara Adding to the recent developments, Turkish Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan announced at a news conference in Istanbul that a second round of talks between Somalia and Ethiopia will take place in Ankara next week. This announcement follows Fidan’s visit to Addis Ababa last week, where he met with Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed. During this visit, Fidan discussed the issues in detail with the Ethiopian leader. He stated, “Tensions between Somalia and Ethiopia would come to an end with Ethiopia’s access to the seas through Somalia, provided that Ethiopia’s recognition of Somalia’s territorial integrity and political sovereignty is secured.” A New Chapter in Ethiopia-Somalia Relations The upcoming talks and the broader agreement signify a significant diplomatic shift, aiming to resolve regional disputes and enhance cooperation between Ethiopia and Somalia.

Militants Release 16 Ethiopian Students After Month-Long Hostage Crisis, Dozens Still Detained

Militants Release 16 Ethiopian Students After Month-Long Hostage Crisis, Dozens Still Detained At the end of June, students from Debarak University were kidnapped in the Gerbe Guracha area of Oromia region while traveling to Addis Ababa by public transport buses. They have been held captive for a month. More than 100 students were kidnapped by militants on 26 June 2016, between Goha Zion and Tulu Milki while traveling from the Amhara region to the capital city. Although the government claimed that it had taken steps to release the students, families and sources who spoke to the BBC in the first weeks said the students had not been released and were being asked for ransom money. Sources close to the matter told the BBC that 16 of the students had paid hundreds of thousands in ransom and were released last week. On Wednesday, 24 July 2016, the families of two released students, who wished to remain anonymous for their safety, confirmed to the BBC that 11 students who paid between 100,000 and 500,000 birr were released. The released students, nine women and two men, said their families sent various amounts of money through an unnamed bank to secure their release. The families mentioned that the students who remained in captivity refused to say anything due to fear and misery. After the payment was made, they walked for hours from the rural area where they were kidnapped and reached Tulu Milki City at night. The students said that when they arrived in Tulu Milki City, they were greeted by local government security forces. It is known that they entered Addis Ababa the next day, Thursday. The students arrived in Addis Ababa around nine o’clock that day. Their families and friends welcomed them, BBC sources said. Sources said that the kidnappers accepted a reduced amount from the initial ransom they demanded. The families paid the ransom by collecting money from different sources and secured the students’ release. Additionally, on Thursday, 25 July 2016, five more people (four students and one non-student passenger) were released after paying ransom, sources said. They also confirmed that on Monday morning, 29 July, another student was released and entered Addis Ababa after paying the ransom. According to sources who have been following the students’ captivity for a month with their families, the hostages were beaten and sexually assaulted. The students told their parents they had mixed feelings about their treatment during detention. “Some days they were cruel to us,” they said. The students reported witnessing arguments among the captors regarding the treatment of the hostages, indicating disagreements among the militants. The released students said that about 15 non-student passengers who boarded the missing seats were also kidnapped and are still being held. “The gunmen told us, crying, that they had killed two people in front of the students,” said a family member of one of the hostages who spoke to the BBC. This was confirmed by released students, who reported that two passersby were killed by the gunmen. The deceased were both men, one a young man who lied about having money and the other an adult. “The children are very traumatized,” said a source who met the students in Addis Ababa. They mentioned that the students were eating a locally common dish prepared with maize, onions, and peppers. The students noted that the militants, numbering more than 30, were dressed in civilian clothes and appeared educated. They did not see any identifiable inscriptions or signs indicating the location and described the area as typical Ethiopian countryside. The students reported not seeing any institutions such as schools or health centers in the area. Among the more than 100 students who were held, 40 have been released, including eight students who were identified by their nationality and paid ransom, according to the BBC. The students were divided into different groups, and it is not known how many are still in captivity. The Ethiopian Human Rights Commission (EHRC), which is investigating the kidnappings, told the BBC that the investigation is not yet complete. “We are still investigating,” they said. The administration of the Oromia region stated that most of the students had been released and, in a statement to the local media, blamed the Oromo Liberation Army, known as “Shene” and classified as a terrorist organization, for the kidnappings. However, the armed group has denied the allegations. Source: BBC It was reported that 16 of the students who were held hostage by militants in the Gerbe Guracha area, a short distance north of Addis Ababa, have been released after paying a ransom. At the end of June, students from Debarak University were kidnapped in the Gerbe Guracha area of Oromia region while traveling to Addis Ababa by public transport buses. They have been held captive for a month. More than 100 students were kidnapped by militants on 26 June 2016, between Goha Zion and Tulu Milki while traveling from the Amhara region to the capital city. Although the government claimed that it had taken steps to release the students, families and sources who spoke to the BBC in the first weeks said the students had not been released and were being asked for ransom money. Sources close to the matter told the BBC that 16 of the students had paid hundreds of thousands in ransom and were released last week. On Wednesday, 24 July 2016, the families of two released students, who wished to remain anonymous for their safety, confirmed to the BBC that 11 students who paid between 100,000 and 500,000 birr were released. The released students, nine women and two men, said their families sent various amounts of money through an unnamed bank to secure their release. The families mentioned that the students who remained in captivity refused to say anything due to fear and misery. After the payment was made, they walked for hours from the rural area where they were kidnapped and reached Tulu Milki City at night. The students said that when they arrived in Tulu Milki City, they were greeted by local government security forces. It is known that they entered Addis Ababa the next day, Thursday. The students arrived in Addis Ababa around nine o’clock that day. Their families and friends welcomed them, BBC sources said. Sources said that the kidnappers accepted a reduced amount from the initial ransom they demanded. The families paid the ransom by collecting money from different sources and secured the students’ release. Additionally, on Thursday, 25 July 2016, five more people (four students and one non-student passenger) were released after paying ransom, sources said. They also confirmed that on Monday morning, 29 July, another student was released and entered Addis Ababa after paying the ransom. According to sources who have been following the students’ captivity for a month with their families, the hostages were beaten and sexually assaulted. The students told their parents they had mixed feelings about their treatment during detention. “Some days they were cruel to us,” they said. The students reported witnessing arguments among the captors regarding the treatment of the hostages, indicating disagreements among the militants. The released students said that about 15 non-student passengers who boarded the missing seats were also kidnapped and are still being held. “The gunmen told us, crying, that they had killed two people in front of the students,” said a family member of one of the hostages who spoke to the BBC. This was confirmed by released students, who reported that two passersby were killed by the gunmen. The deceased were both men, one a young man who lied about having money and the other an adult. “The children are very traumatized,” said a source who met the students in Addis Ababa. They mentioned that the students were eating a locally common dish prepared with maize, onions, and peppers. The students noted that the militants, numbering more than 30, were dressed in civilian clothes and appeared educated. They did not see any identifiable inscriptions or signs indicating the location and described the area as typical Ethiopian countryside. The students reported not seeing any institutions such as schools or health centers in the area. Among the more than 100 students who were held, 40 have been released, including eight students who were identified by their nationality and paid ransom, according to the BBC. The students were divided into different groups, and it is not known how many are still in captivity. The Ethiopian Human Rights Commission (EHRC), which is investigating the kidnappings, told the BBC that the investigation is not yet complete. “We are still investigating,” they said. The administration of the Oromia region stated that most of the students had been released and, in a statement to the local media, blamed the Oromo Liberation Army, known as “Shene” and classified as a terrorist organization, for the kidnappings. However, the armed group has denied the allegations. Source: BBC

Ethiopia’s Economic Surf: Riding the Reform Wave to Sustainability

Ethiopia’s Economic Surf: Riding the Reform Wave to Sustainability By Eyob Asfaw The Sunday night of the date- July 28 was different for Ethiopians living elsewhere within its boundary; especially for the urban elites who access the media and can easily resonate what was said.  On that date, the government unusually released a communique on which announced the macro-economic reforms, including its u-turn policy of foreign exchange liberalization. Henceforth, some commentators and analysts used to reduce the reform as a mere foreign exchange policy per se, other than a complete set of macro-economic policy.  Notwithstanding the criticism over the government surrenders for the Britton Woods Institutions as an impulse for desperate demand for forex currency, once has to look meticulously where the surfing macro-economic reforms are heading to in terms of  bringing social justice, regulating free riders,  ending poverty and taming hyper-inflation. Be that as it may, this piece will cover a snapshot overview that pinpoints on how best anchoring the recent macro-economic reforms in the pathways of Sustainable Development. From the vantage point of pathways of sustainable development, SDG- 1 ( end poverty in all its forms) and SDG-8 (Promote sustained, inclusive and sustainable economic growth, full and productive employment and decent work for all) have a close connection to the recent macro-economic reforms. In its nature, macro-economic reform is a local plan which is not yet sufficiently embraced as a specific goal in SDGs. Exceptionally, SDG 17.13 stipulated:  ‘enhance global macroeconomic stability, including through policy coordination and policy coherence’.  In pursuant to SDG 17.13,  the national ten year plan of Ethiopia has specifically, nevertheless, sought to have coherence and integration with SDGs.  Therefore, policy coherence is one scheme of anchoring the surfing macro-economic reforms. Nevertheless, the people and the business community are looking for a preacher who eloquently explains the economic forecast.  By and large, the rule of the game introduced by this new forex through floating ought to be understood well by economic man to positively regulate its economic behavior. In resonance, I remember an encounter in which an old enough guy once upon a time suddenly yelled to bless youngsters; ‘Let the price of teff go down now by the divine intervention of God!!’ referring an Ethiopian staple crop whose price hiked due to inflation by then.  Understandably, the blessings shows how an ordinary economic man in Ethiopia do not know even what inflation means since it is unlikely to see price decrease in an age of hyperinflation  To his ignorance, I heard an expert was sharing his opinion: ‘ Demn! This forex liberalization resulted all of a sudden the money stock at the bank immediately inflated overnight’.  In contrary, we learnt that such opinion is erroneously forwarded, resulted precisely from misunderstanding what was going on. Arguably, inflation in the past was, and currently is, not a disease per se. Notwithstanding inflations’ multifaceted nature as a viral disease, the consuming community alike sometimes seems to develop an immunity through constant co-habitation with inflation. In the course of this surfing macro-economic reform, real devaluation are nor appearing coincidently the moment forex market liberalized. In his counterparts, the PM explanation during his Q&A session with higher official, can roughly be summed as follows: “ In Ethiopia, apart from fuel and fertilizer, what is not working on the black market? Including clothing…. Let alone that , when the government gives a contract for construction project( such as road) the contractors submit the price interms the black market account….There is no job in Ethiopia that normally costs 50 Birr for 1 dollar. Everything works in black market currency….The government buys fuel and fertilizers. Apart from that, everything else is determined by the black market.” In pursuant to his explanation, PM Abiy claims that the reform was not as such currency devaluation rather it can be taken as ‘unification’ of two forex markets ( be it the ordinary and the parallel-black market). On eve of the reform, indisputably, the export sector was highly discouraged than ever. Precisely his entire earn of USD can only be exchanged at the normal rate closer to 57 ETB/USD. Nevertheless, ‘unification’ is not known within the policy and academic circles, the real inflation was already predetermined by the black market before the current forex liberalization. This is not, however, to neglect the worst inflation upcoming. As anti-dote, the worst inflation can be tamed if we record productivity in investment and intensive agriculture through re-doubling efforts of hard working habits. In fact, the PM Abiy’s characterization on the reforms as bitter pill for the macro-economic malaise could turn out to add a salt into a wounded injury of the poor. A yearlong economic hardship can’t be underestimated for someone who can understand multi dimensionality of poverty. It has be remembered that the 2023 UNDP report underscored 68.7 percent of the population in Ethiopia are multidimensional poor;  involving nutrition, child mortality, years of schooling, school attendance, cooking fuel,  sanitation,  drinking water,  electricity  and housing assets in the measurement. In resonance, the PM Abiy said: ‘no further implementation if the macro economic reform affects the poor after evaluating in six months.” The questions are : are we going to suspend the fight to end poverty while we pay the price of macro-economic reforms?  How far the safety net scheme of this reform is reliable enough to relieve the deprivation to come? Against this backdrop, beyond the salary increment for low income employees, the government ought to disclose procedures that ensure resilience from the inevitable multidimensional poverty resulted in an age of macro-economic reforms. As a general thumb rule, however, we don’t have to forget that the defining major goals of macro-economy are economic stabilization, ­ distributional equity, ­ the achievement of broad social goals. Added to that, the Britton wood institution intertwined macro-economic reform within the framework of sustainable development to include financing sustainable development. Furthermore, macro-economic stability indisputably enhances growth prospects, increases employment and incomes and ensures that the right price incentives work to preserve the environment. .This is, however, not to hide the underlying error of the macro-economic reform provokes legitimate skepticism over the IMF and WBs priority for their intent to bring private sector into the forefront of the economy. How the private sector can be a reliable institution for our struggling economy is a question for many of us. In spite of its contribution, some actors in the private sector turn out to be free riders in the middle of abyss in economic recession. Being reduced to the rules of Mercato (largest open market found in Addis Ababa), the bigger private sector is criticized to be operated by business community ruled by the irrationality leading to monopoly and oligopoly. This feature, indeed, will make the Britton wood institutions’ prescriptive forecast about the private sector a null and void. In this milieu, I would like to forward a query: ‘Are we going to beef up a private sector which is impenetrable for tax extraction?’ Often the government laments that, the government couldn’t proportion tax evasion in spite of its potential to fiscal policy. As an analyst, I can say, that is the imminent danger which are facing to and will persist in the months to come.  Against the abovementioned background, the surfing macroeconomic reforms ought to regulate irrational economic behavior which is a chief reason for impoverishment of many. In short, we need to have the rigor and will to know surfing macro-economic reforms are heading for which eventually it will anchor on the pathways of Sustainable Development.  Be it ending poverty or ensuring inclusive economic growth, fundamentals of social justice ought not to be neglected in an age of fore market liberalization. Eyob Asfaw (eyob.asfaw@aau.edu.et  ) is staff of Addis Ababa University and currently a PhD student of Sustainable Development at CSD, AAU. His interest includes governance, sustainable development, peace and inclusion.

Stephanie Sullivan Appointed as U.S. Ambassador to the African Union and Permanent Representative to UNECA

Stephanie Sullivan Appointed as U.S. Ambassador to the African Union and Permanent Representative to UNECA Stephanie Sullivan has been appointed as the new U.S. Ambassador to the African Union (AU) and Permanent Representative to the United Nations Economic Commission for Africa (UNECA). She was sworn in at the U.S. Department of State headquarters, signaling a continued commitment to U.S.-Africa relations. Ambassador Sullivan brings a rich background in diplomacy. Her previous roles include serving as the U.S. Ambassador to Ghana from 2019 to 2022, where she worked on strengthening U.S.-Ghana relations. Before that, she was the U.S. Ambassador to the Republic of the Congo from 2013 to 2017. Sullivan also served as the Deputy Assistant Secretary for Central African Affairs and Security Affairs at the Bureau of African Affairs from 2017 to 2018. Her extensive experience in Africa includes time as a consular and political officer in Cameroon and service as Chief of Operations for the Africa Region of the Peace Corps. Sullivan’s educational background includes a B.A. in English language and literature from Brown University and an M.S. in security strategy from the National Defense University at the National War College. Ambassador Sullivan is set to arrive in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, in the coming months, where she will engage with the AU and UNECA on issues such as economic development, security, and human rights.

Eritrea Suspends Ethiopian Airlines: A Deep Dive into Passenger Grievances and Ticket Price Hikes

Eritrea Suspends Ethiopian Airlines: A Deep Dive into Passenger Grievances and Ticket Price Hikes The Civil Aviation Authority of Eritrea’s Ministry of Transport and Communications announced the suspension in a notice published today in the government newspaper “Hadas Eritrea.” According to the announcement, Ethiopian Airlines flights will be suspended from September 30, 2024. Ethiopian Airlines later confirmed the suspension of all flights to Eritrea. In a press release, the Civil Aviation Authority stated that the airline was grounded due to “organized and systematic” abuse of Eritrean passengers. The airline was accused of improper procedures, including “theft of passengers’ luggage,” frequent flight and baggage delays, and failure to compensate passengers. The Eritrean Civil Aviation Authority also cited an unreasonable increase in ticket prices as another reason for the suspension. “Repeated reminders given to Ethiopian Airlines to resolve the above-mentioned problems did not yield results, and from September 30, 2024, Ethiopian Airlines flights to Eritrea have been suspended,” the authority stated. In a message issued to Ethiopian Airlines passengers, the Eritrean government urged those planning to fly with the airline after September 30 to make alternative arrangements. Despite the planned suspension, Ethiopian Airlines continues to sell tickets for flights to Eritrea on its website and at ticket offices for dates beyond October 1. Ethiopian Airlines currently operates five flights a week to Asmara. In addition to Ethiopian Airlines, Saudi Arabian, Turkish, and Egyptian airlines have regular flights to Asmara. Following a recent visit by Eritrean President Isaias Afwerki to Italy, an agreement was reached for Italian Airlines to start flights to Eritrea. Air travel between Ethiopia and Eritrea, which was interrupted for two decades due to the bloody border war, resumed in July 2010. This will be remembered. After Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed came to power, flights between Asmara and Addis Ababa, which had been in a state of neither war nor peace, were resumed. The leaders of the two countries signed an agreement called the “Asmara Declaration,” which allowed the continuation of land transport, trade, and communication services that had been suspended alongside air travel. Currently, all border gates between the two countries are closed, but communication services remain open. Diplomatic relations between Ethiopia and Eritrea have been restored following the end of the civil war in northern Ethiopia. It is worth noting that the Eritrean government sided with the federal government during the conflict in the north and attacked the forces of Tigray.

Ethiopia Receives Advanced Calidus MCAV-20 Armoured Vehicles from UAE

Ethiopia Receives Advanced Calidus MCAV-20 Armoured Vehicles from UAE Ethiopian National Defence Force Receives Calidus MCAV-20 Armoured Vehicles from UAE The Ethiopian National Defence Force (ENDF) has recently taken delivery of hundreds of Calidus MCAV-20 armoured vehicles, acquired from the United Arab Emirates. Arrival in Addis Ababa On July 20, a significant number of MCAV-20 vehicles were observed being transported by rail towards Ethiopia’s capital, Addis Ababa. This delivery marks a notable enhancement in the ENDF’s operational capabilities. Overview of the MCAV-20 The MCAV-20 is among several advanced vehicles produced by Calidus, including the LRV-20 lightweight 4×4 and Al Wahash 8×8. The MCAV-20, first showcased at the International Defense Exhibition & Conference (IDEX) in Abu Dhabi in 2021, stands out for its robust design and high-level crew protection. Performance and Specifications Equipped with a 6.7-liter Cummins diesel engine generating 300 horsepower, the MCAV-20 can achieve speeds of up to 110 kilometers per hour and has an operational range of 800 kilometers. Its independent suspension system and durable armor, which can withstand small arms fire and artillery shrapnel, including a blast-proof underbody, make it well-suited for challenging operational environments. Armament and Versatility The MCAV-20’s versatility is highlighted by its ability to accommodate various armaments, including a 30mm cannon, a 7.62mm machine gun, and a 40mm grenade launcher. This adaptability makes it a valuable asset in diverse combat scenarios. Global Adoption The MCAV-20 has already been adopted by several other military forces, including the Sudanese Armed Forces, the Republican Guard of the Democratic Republic of Congo, as well as the militaries of Mozambique and Mauritania. The ENDF’s acquisition of these vehicles underscores their commitment to enhancing national defense capabilities. By integrating the MCAV-20 into their arsenal, the ENDF is poised to significantly bolster its defense operations, ensuring better protection and mobility for its personnel.

Takele Uma Returns to Leadership as Ethio-Djibouti Railway CEO

Takele Uma Returns to Leadership as Ethio-Djibouti Railway CEO Addis Ababa (July 9, 2016) – (Dr.) Engineer Takele Uma Benti has been appointed as the Chief Executive Officer of the Ethio-Djibouti Railway by Prime Minister,Abiy Ahmed (Dr.). The appointment is effective immediately. Engineer Takele Uma Benti has a diverse background in government roles. He served as the Mayor of Addis Ababa, where he oversaw various urban development and infrastructure projects. His efforts were focused on enhancing the city’s infrastructure and public services. Following his tenure as Mayor, Engineer Takele Uma took on the role of Minister of Mines. In this position, he managed Ethiopia’s mineral resources and worked on policies aimed at boosting the sector’s contribution to the national economy. His work in the Ministry of Mines included attracting foreign investment and promoting sustainable mining practices. In addition to his governmental roles, Engineer Takele Uma spent two years at Harvard University pursuing an MBA. This academic experience provided him with advanced knowledge in business administration, strategic planning, and organizational management. The Ethio-Djibouti Railway is a key transportation link between Ethiopia and Djibouti, facilitating the movement of goods and passengers between the two countries. Engineer Takele Uma’s appointment is expected to bring new strategies to the railway’s operations.