At least 15 killed and more than 100 missing after landslides bury homes in Uganda

Source: by Associated Press

Published 11:13 AM EST, Thu November 28, 2024

Rescue workers and people search for bodies after landslides following heavy rains in the mountainous district of Bulambuli, eastern Uganda. Jean Watala/APAP — 

At least 15 people have died and 113 others are still missing after landslides buried homes in six villages in eastern Uganda, police said.

Another 15 injured people have been rescued and admitted to Buluganya Health Center.

The Uganda Red Cross Society said Thursday that 13 bodies had been recovered after landslides buried 40 homes and the rescue effort was continuing.

Local media reported that authorities expect the death toll could rise to 30.

The landslides happened after heavy rains on Wednesday night in the mountainous district of Bulambuli, where landslides are common. The district is about 280 kilometers (173miles) east of the capital, Kampala.

More than a hundred people were missing on Thursday, after the landslides buried homes across six villages. Jean Watala/AP

A journalist in the area told The Associated Press that local officials said an excavator would be brought to assist in the rescue efforts, but the roads were covered in mud and the rain was still falling.

The affected area is about 50 acres (20ha) with homesteads and farmlands spread downhill.

Photos and videos of people digging through mud in search of victims were shared on social media platforms. Some of the houses were completed covered by mud while others only had a roof showing above the ground.

The Daily Monitor newspaper reported that most of the bodies recovered so far were those of children.

The prime minister’s office issued a disaster alert on Wednesday stating that heavy rains across the country had cut off major roads.

Two rescue boats capsized on Wednesday during a rescue mission on River Nile where Pakwach bridge was submerged.

Impact on Shipping of Houthi Red Sea Attacks

 The Italian Institute for International Political Studies published on 24 November 2024 a paper titled “Blue Economy and the Mediterranean: How the Red Sea Crisis is Shaping the Region’s Maritime Future (and What Is Next)” by Mario Mattioli.

Houthi attacks on Red Sea shipping reduced transit through the Suez Canal by about 50 percent in 2023 and 70 percent in the first half of 2024.  Transit around Africa’s Cape of Good Hope adds 3,000 to 3,500 nautical miles to voyages connecting Europe and Asia, increasing travel time by about 10 days.  This results in higher costs for fuel, wages, insurance, and freight borne by shipping companies.

Isaias Afwerki dismisses claims of an ‘axis against Ethiopia’

Source: Hiiraan Online, Monday December 2, 2024

FILE – Eritrean President Isaias Afwerki during a televised interview Mogadishu (HOL) — Eritrean President Isaias Afwerki has dismissed allegations that a recent trilateral agreement between Eritrea, Somalia, and Egypt forms an “axis” against Ethiopia, calling the claims baseless propaganda designed to fuel regional mistrust.

In a Saturday evening interview on national television, Isaias emphasized that the trilateral agreement, signed in Asmara, is focused on promoting stability across the Horn of Africa, the Nile Basin, and the Red Sea. “Eritrea has no interest in seeing Ethiopia destabilized,” he stated, underscoring his nation’s commitment to fostering cooperation in one of the world’s most volatile regions.

The accusations come amid heightened tensions between Ethiopia and its neighbours following Addis Ababa’s controversial memorandum of understanding with Somaliland. This deal, aimed at securing access to a Red Sea corridor, has deepened Ethiopia’s rift with Egypt over Nile River resources and drawn quiet discontent from Eritrea.

Isaias condemned what he described as “foreign-backed disinformation campaigns” spread through traditional and social media platforms, warning that such narratives risk further inflaming regional conflicts.

President Isaias also took aim at Ethiopia’s political framework, describing the country’s 1994 constitution as “fundamentally flawed” and a key source of instability. He argued that Ethiopia’s unresolved internal conflicts, including the Tigray war and recent unrest in the Amhara region, have hindered its ability to contribute positively to regional peace.

The president linked Ethiopia’s prolonged border clashes with Eritrea to external interference but refrained from naming specific actors. He pointed to the TPLF’s rocket attacks on Eritrea during the Tigray conflict as evidence of destabilizing forces at play.

While much of the interview focused on Ethiopia, Isaias reiterated Eritrea’s commitment to fostering stability in Sudan. “The resolution of Sudan’s conflict ultimately lies with its people, but our historical ties compel us to support efforts toward peace,” he said.

Isaias also reflected on shifting global power dynamics, criticizing U.S. policies while questioning the potential for meaningful change under President-elect Donald Trump. “For three decades, U.S. influence has waned, and it faces growing challenges from rising powers like China and Russia,” he noted.

Despite strained ties with Washington, Isaias called for constructive engagement, urging Eritrea to prepare for partnerships that advance mutual interests. “We must focus on productive work that builds trust and cooperation,” he said.

Eritrean refugees describe police crackdown in Ethiopia

Source: BBC, Sunday December 1, 2024

Eritrea and Ethiopia share a border and tension between the two neighbours has been fraught for decades.



Eritrean residents in Ethiopia’s capital have reported widespread arrests among their community, sparking fear among refugees and asylum seekers who fled their homes in search of a better life.

While not unprecedented, the scale and intensity of the current crackdown in Addis Ababa is significant, with hundreds reportedly detained in recent weeks.

The city’s police did not respond to the BBC’s requests for comment but the Ethiopian Human Rights Commission – an independent body set up by the country’s parliament – said it would launch an investigation.

Eritrea and Ethiopia share a border and tension between the two neighbours has been fraught for decades.

Ties appeared to strenghten following a 2018 peace deal, only to deteriorate again.

One Eritrean refugee, who wished to remain anonymous for safety reasons, said he was arrested after someone heard him speaking Tigrinya – a language used in Eritrea, as well as Ethiopia’s Tigray region.

“We were sitting in a café when someone overheard us speaking Tigrinya and called the police.

“Six officers arrived and detained us. Later, the inspector in charge demanded cash to release us, with payments arranged secretly to avoid evidence,” he alleged.

Many Eritreans in Addis Ababa are refugees who fled forced military conscription and government oppression in their country of birth.

Over 20,000 Eritreans have crossed into Ethiopia this year, adding to the 70,000 refugees already registered in the country.

While some Eritreans sought safety in Ethiopia after a brutal civil war erupted in Sudan 18 months ago,

One refugee told the BBC that his sister was arrested on her way to the shops and had been held in custody for three weeks.

“I can’t visit her because I fear being arrested myself, so I send Ethiopian friends to check on her and deliver food and clothes. I worry they might deport her to Eritrea,” he said.

Returning to Eritrea would put many refugees at risk of imprisonment.

While some detainees have been released, many remain in custody. Some have been held for weeks or even months without due process.

The UN refugee agency (UNHCR) told BBC Tigrinya it had received reports of Eritrean refugees being detained and expressed deep concern over the matter.

Refugees are getting increasingly desperate, with many seeking alternative ways to leave Ethiopia. But there are reports Eritreans have even been arrested while attempting to inquire about the travel documents they need to leave.

The arrests have highlighted broader concerns about Eritrean refugees’ safety across Ethiopia. At Alemwach refugee camp in the Amhara region, refugees speak of frequent robberies, kidnappings, and physical assaults by armed groups.

“Some refugees have been shot, while others have been stabbed for their belongings, like mobile phones. At least nine refugees have been killed in the past year,” said a representative from the camp.

Some refugees are drawing parallels to the mass arrests and deportations of Eritreans during the 1998–2000 war between the two countries, when thousands were forcibly expelled from Ethiopia.

Ties have deteriorated once again following the end of a two-year civil war in Ethiopia’s northern Tigray region.

Flights and phone lines between the two countries have been suspended, and diplomatic contact between their leaders has ceased.

Eritrean refugees in Ethiopia are calling on the international community, particularly the UN and rights organisations, to intervene.

One Eritrean who has lived and studied in Addis Ababa for six years, described the arrests as indiscriminate and deliberate.

“Both documented and undocumented Eritreans are being targeted. Even mothers visiting detained family members have been arrested,” he told the BBC.

Another refugee said: “The arrests are unjustified, and our lives are in danger. We fled persecution in Eritrea, only to face it here.”

Somaliland reopens Waheen Market after devastating fire, boosting regional economy

Source: Hiiraan Online, Sunday December 1, 2024

A close-up of the colorful, modern buildings of the rebuilt Waaheen Market in Hargeisa, Somaliland, designed to prevent the challenges that exacerbated the 2022 fire. (Credit: Office of the Spokesperson, Somaliland Government)Hargeisa (HOL) — Somaliland’s President Muse Bihi Abdi on Saturday inaugurated the newly rebuilt Waheen Market, a vital commercial hub reconstructed after a devastating fire razed it to the ground on April 10, 2022.

The fire, sparked by an electrical fault, engulfed the market, destroying 24 acres of stalls and shops. The disaster impacted 17,000 traders and countless livelihoods. The fire disproportionately affected small traders, many of whom were women. 

The Waheen fire came amid a perfect storm of crises. Somaliland was grappling with severe drought — the worst in 40 years — alongside skyrocketing inflation driven by global events like the 2022 Russian invasion of Ukraine. The market’s destruction exacerbated existing vulnerabilities, threatening food security and economic stability.

The reconstruction of Waheen Market was funded largely by Somaliland’s business community, diaspora, and neighbouring Djibouti.

The new facility, which cost millions of dollars, boasts 24 sections housing 644 shops, all built to modern standards. Key upgrades include paved roads and designated parking areas for customers, designed to restore and enhance the bustling marketplace, once a linchpin of trade in the Horn of Africa.

Somaliland President Muse Bihi Abdi delivers a speech during the official opening ceremony of the newly reconstructed Waaheen Market in Hargeisa. The market stands as a symbol of resilience following the devastating 2022 fire. (Credit: Office of the Spokesperson, Somaliland Government)

President Bihi praised the collective effort behind the reconstruction, crediting Somaliland’s business community, Somali entrepreneurs in Mogadishu, diaspora traders, and the Djiboutian government for their financial contributions. However, he noted the lack of support from wealthier nations.

“The delegations that came here with cameras offered words but no material support,” Bihi said. “This reminds us that we must care for our own needs, as no one else will.”

Waheen Market’s reopening symbolizes resilience and hope for Hargeisa’s residents, who rely on it for their daily sustenance. As shoppers and traders return to the vibrant new space, the market’s revival offers a fresh start, breathing life back into the region’s economy.

This moment also highlights a broader narrative of self-reliance and resourcefulness in Somaliland—a testament to its people’s determination to rebuild and thrive against the odds.

An expansive view of the reconstructed Waaheen Market in Hargeisa, Somaliland, showcasing the modern infrastructure and vibrant layout that replaced the historic market destroyed by fire in 2022. (Credit: Office of the Spokesperson, Somaliland Government)

Somaliland Supreme Court validates election results, confirming Waddani Party’s historic win

Source: Hiiraan Online, Thursday November 28, 2024

Judges of the Somaliland Supreme Court preside over the session to validate the November 13 presidential election results, confirming a peaceful transition of power to the Waddani Party. (Photo: Supreme Court of Somaliland)Hargeisa (HOL) — The Somaliland Supreme Court has officially validated the results of the November 13 presidential election, cementing a historic victory for the Waddani Party and signalling a peaceful political transition in the self-declared republic.

Chief Justice Adan Haji Ali announced the court’s decision, affirming Abdirahman Mohamed Abdullahi, widely known as Irro, as President after securing 64% of the vote. Mohamed Ali Abdi Mahmoud was declared Vice President. Both candidates ran on the Waddani Party ticket, ending nearly 15 years of governance by the Kulmiye Party.

“The court has approved the election results, confirming that Mr. Abdirahman Mohamed Abdullahi Egal and Mr. Mohamed Ali Abdi Mahmoud have been duly elected as President and Vice President,” Chief Justice Adan stated during a press briefing.

The Supreme Court emphasized that no objections or legal challenges were filed by opposing candidates, paving the way for a seamless endorsement of the preliminary results issued by the National Electoral Commission.

This year’s election, hailed as one of the most peaceful in Somaliland’s history, highlights the region’s growing political maturity. Supporters celebrated across Somaliland’s major cities, with jubilant crowds waving Waddani Party flags in Burao. Analysts view the Waddani Party’s victory as a shift in Somaliland’s political landscape, with the outgoing President Muse Bihi Abdi graciously conceding defeat and congratulating the winners.

Observers have praised the election process, noting that Somaliland continues to set a democratic standard in the region, even as it seeks international recognition as a sovereign state.

Somalia approves electoral commission to oversee first direct elections in 50 years

Source: Hiiraan, Tuesday November 26, 2024

Somali Prime Minister Hamza Abdi Barre presides over an emergency Cabinet meeting in Mogadishu, marking a significant step in approving the Independent National Electoral and Boundary Commission 

Mogadishu (HOL)  — Somalia’s federal government has approved the formation of the Independent National Electoral and Boundary Commission, a milestone in the country’s plan to hold direct elections for the first time in over five decades. The decision came during an emergency Cabinet meeting chaired by Prime Minister Hamza Abdi Barre.

The commission is tasked with managing elections at all levels of government, implementing a one-person, one-vote system to replace the clan-based electoral model. Local council elections are scheduled for June 2025, followed by federal parliamentary and presidential polls in September.“This government is committed to restoring the right of every Somali to elect their leaders directly,” Barre said. “Today’s decision is a cornerstone of our democratic aspirations.”

On Saturday, Somali lawmakers passed an election bill which allows for direct voting and replacing the indirect system currently in place.

Somalia’s political transition comes amid significant opposition from Jubaland and Puntland, two influential regional states. Both administrations have rejected the new electoral framework, citing concerns over federal overreach. Jubaland President Ahmed Mohamed Islam (Madobe)— who won his reelection bid this week despite objection from Mogadishu—  boycotted consultations and extended his term limit, further escalating tensions. Puntland declared self-governance in March, effectively stepping outside the federal framework.

These divisions echo past conflicts, such as the violent fallout from Jubaland’s disputed 2019 elections, which displaced tens of thousands. Analysts warn that the upcoming elections could reignite similar tensions if disputes are unresolved.

The international community is closely watching Somalia’s democratic transition. Ethiopian and Kenyan forces operating under the African Union Transition Mission in Somalia (ATMIS) remain in Jubaland to combat Al-Shabaab but have faced accusations of meddling in Somali politics. Such allegations highlight the delicate balance of power between Mogadishu and its neighbours.

President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud has called for international support to ensure a peaceful and inclusive electoral process.

The approval of the electoral commission marks a turning point for Somalia. Since 1969, the country has relied on a clan-based voting system criticized for perpetuating division and undermining national unity. Moving to universal suffrage represents a major shift toward democratic governance and inclusivity.

Commission Members

1. Abdiqarin Ahmed Hassan
2. Sadiq Abshir Garad
3. Avv. Mohamed Abdirahman Aden
4. Yusuf Abdiqadir Mohamed-Bafo
5. Omar Abukar Omar
6. Farhiyo Mohamed Yusuf
7. Dr. Omar Jama Mohamed
8. Farah Abdi Hassan
9. Sahro Dirie Muse
10. Abdullahi Salad Yarrow
11. Mohamed Amin Hassan Abdullahi
12. Abdi Adow Mohamed
13. Abdishakur Abiib Haayir
14. Khalid Ibrahim Ismail
15. Amina Sheikh Osman Mohamed
16. Nasir Mohamed Shire
17. Abdirahim Abdullahi Shafici
18. Mohamed Omar Ismail

Deadliest place for women is home, says UN report on gender violence

UN Report, The global femicide report says about 60 percent of 85,000 women and girls killed in 2023 were by an intimate partner or a family member.

An average of 140 women and girls were killed each day in 2023 by their intimate partner or a close relative, a United Nations report on gender violence has found.

About 60 percent of 85,000 women and girls killed across the world in 2023 were at the hands of an intimate partner or a family member, the 36-page report (PDF) by the UN Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC), published on Monday to mark the International Day for the Elimination of Violence Against Women, says.

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“Women and girls everywhere continue to be affected by this extreme form of gender-based violence and no region is excluded,” it says. “The home is the most dangerous place for women and girls.”

Somalia signs UN convention against transnational organized crime

Source: Hiiraan Online, Sunday November 24, 2024

Mogadishu (HOL) — Somalia officially signed the United Nations Convention against Transnational Organized Crime (UNTOC) and its protocols during a Saturday ceremony in Mogadishu to tackle organized crime and enhance global security collaboration. 

Foreign Minister Ambassador Ahmed Moallim Fiqi, Minister of Justice and Constitutional Affairs Hassan Moallin, Chief Justice Baashe Yuusuf Ahmed, and government and civil society representatives attended the event. 

“This milestone marks a significant step in Somalia’s efforts to align with international standards and contribute to global peace and stability,” said Foreign Minister Fiqi during the signing. 

The Ministry of Foreign Affairs emphasized Somalia’s dedication to advancing its role in international governance and building robust global partnerships. 

Adopted in 2000, UNTOC is the leading international framework for combating transnational organized crime. It is supported by three key protocols targeting specific challenges; one is the protocol to prevent, suppress and punish trafficking in persons, especially women and children. Second, the protocol against the smuggling of migrants by land, sea and air, and third, the protocol against the illicit manufacturing of and trafficking in firearms, their parts and components, and ammunition. 

The signing underscores Somalia’s ongoing efforts to align with global anti-crime standards, reinforce legal frameworks, and strengthen cooperation with international partners to address shared security challenges.

At least 24 dead after two boats capsize off coast of Madagascar

Kalkidan Yibeltal
Source: BBC, Monday November 25, 2024

FILE PHOTO

At least 24 people have died after two boats carrying mostly Somali nationals capsized off the coast of Madagascar, local authorities said.

A statement from Somalia’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs said efforts were underway to “ensure the safe return of the survivors”. The two boats carried a total of 70 passengers.

The vessels were discovered adrift off Madagascar’s north coast on Saturday in the Indian Ocean. It is believed their engines had failed.

A senior Somalian government official told local media that survivors were rescued by fishermen.

Survivors say they were trying to reach the French island of Mayotte, a common but dangerous route for Somali migrants seeking asylum.

Unemployment and poverty in the Horn of Africa forces many young people to undertake the perilous route to reach Europe in the hopes of a better life.

Madagascan authorities warned against “the severe risks associated with illegal migration” suggesting the victims of the tragedy were migrants

Significant Underreporting of Deaths in Sudan

 Source: The London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine posted on 12 November 2024 a study titled “War-Time Mortality in Sudan: A Capture-Recapture Analysis.”

The civil war in Sudan has resulted in a higher death rate than previously reported.  The number of intentional-injury deaths in Khartoum alone surpass those estimated for the entire country in the first 14 months of the war.  This suggests extensive underreporting of a severe mortality impact in Khartoum and likely across Sudan.

Russia Vetoes UN Security Council Resolution on Ceasefire in Sudan

 Source: Reuters published on 18 November 2024 an article titled “Russia Vetoes UN Security Council Action on Sudan War” by Daphne Psaledakis and David Brunnstrom.

Russia vetoed a UN Security Council resolution that called on warring parties to cease hostilities immediately and ensure the delivery of humanitarian aid.  All other countries of the 15-member UNSC voted in favor of the resolution drafted by the UK and Sierra Leone.

Acute food insecurity to hit most people in South Sudan next year, says UN

Almost 7.7 million people will be classified as acutely food insecure in the world’s youngest nation as it grapples with floods and war.

Source: Aljazeera, Published On 18 Nov 202418 Nov 2024

Almost 60 percent of South Sudan’s population will be acutely food insecure next year, with more than two million children at risk of malnutrition, warns data from a United Nations-backed review.

The latest Integrated Food Security Phase Classification (IPC) review published on Monday estimated that starting in April, 57 percent of the population would be suffering from acute food insecurity, which the UN defines as when a “person’s inability to consume adequate food puts their lives or livelihoods in immediate danger”.

Somalia’s parliament approves groundbreaking law to regulate political parties

Source: Hiiraan Online, Wednesday November 20, 2024



Somali lawmakers raise their hands during a joint parliamentary session at Villa Hargeisa in Mogadishu, voting overwhelmingly to approve a landmark law regulating political parties and organizations.

Mogadishu (HOL)  — Somalia’s Federal Parliament, in a rare joint session, voted overwhelmingly on Monday to approve a groundbreaking law aimed at regulating the establishment and operation of political parties and organizations. The legislation marks a major step in the country’s ongoing transition toward a multiparty democratic system.

The law was passed in a joint session of both houses held at Villa Hargeisa in Mogadishu. Out of 178 lawmakers in attendance, 177 voted in favor, with one abstention, and no opposition, according to the Speaker of the House of the People, Sheikh Adan Mohamed Nur Madobe.

“This law lays the foundation for a transparent and constitutionally guided political process,” said Somalia’s Interior Minister, Ali Yusuf Ali Hosh, who praised the lawmakers for their unanimous support. “It is a significant milestone in our efforts to strengthen democratic institutions.”

The new legislation establishes comprehensive rules for political entities, ensuring they operate transparently and responsibly while aligning with Somalia’s Constitution. It is part of a broader push to transition Somalia from a clan-based power-sharing system to a multiparty democracy that reflects universal suffrage.

However, the reform efforts have not been without controversy. The administrations of Jubbaland and Puntland, along with opposition politicians, have criticized the Federal Government, accusing it of failing to adequately consult regional stakeholders. Critics argue that such decisions could deepen divisions at a time when national unity is crucial.

The law’s passage comes on the heels of last week’s approval of legislation establishing the Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission. While both measures are seen as essential steps toward electoral reform, they have accentuated the persistent tension between Somalia’s Federal Government and its regional administrations.

Finland halts development aid to Somalia over migration agreement stalemate

Source: Hiiraan Online, Wednesday November 20, 2024

 
Finland’s Minister for Development Cooperation and Foreign Trade Ville Tavio of the Finns Party. Image: Jorma Vihtonen / Yle
HELSINKI, Finland (HOL) — Finland has suspended its bilateral development cooperation programme with Somalia, citing insufficient progress in repatriation agreements for Somali nationals living in Finland without legal residency. The announcement was made Wednesday by Minister for Foreign Trade and Development Ville Tavio.

“The suspension means that no new funding decisions will be made until concrete progress has been made in repatriation cooperation with Somalia,” Tavio said during a press conference.The suspension affects future funding decisions, freezing an annual allocation of €8–€9 million for Somalia’s bilateral development programme starting in 2025. However, ongoing projects will continue as planned, and humanitarian aid, support for non-governmental organisations (NGOs), and private-sector initiatives remain unaffected.

Finland’s decision mirrors its broader migration policy, which ties development aid to recipient countries’ cooperation in facilitating the return of their nationals living abroad without legal status. “States must naturally strive to ensure that all those illegally in their country are returned when that can be done safely,” Tavio added.

Finland’s development cooperation with Somalia has historically focused on state-building, crisis management, and enhancing women’s sexual and reproductive health rights. Between 2021 and 2024, Finland allocated €54 million to Somalia through its country strategy.

Somalia has expressed willingness to engage in dialogue over repatriation but has yet to meet Finland’s expectations. The two nations have long-standing ties, with Somalia being a key partner in Finland’s development cooperation initiatives, including crisis management and mediation efforts.

As of 2022, approximately 24,365 individuals of Somali descent lived in Finland, making it the country’s largest African-origin group. Among them, some lack legal residency, prompting Finland to push for repatriation agreements with Somalia. Finnish officials have not disclosed the exact number of Somali nationals affected by the current policy.

The European Union has also entered the fray, holding bilateral and regional discussions with Somalia on migration management. Finnish officials noted that dialogue with Somalia would continue, aiming for a resolution that enables the resumption of development cooperation.

Finland’s move illustrates a growing trend among donor nations to link development aid to migration cooperation.

Germany and Somalia have recently agreed to expedite the deportation of Somali nationals without legal residency in Germany, focusing primarily on those convicted of serious crimes. 

Germany’s Chancellor Olaf Scholz and Somali President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud announced the agreement following talks in Berlin two weeks ago. Scholz stressed that the measure would apply to a “small number” of undocumented Somalis among the 65,000 living in Germany.

President Mohamud supported voluntary returns over forced deportations, stating that Somalia would welcome returnees and provide opportunities for reintegration.

The agreement follows the EU’s recent proposal to impose stricter visa rules on Somalia to encourage compliance with readmission demands. These measures include eliminating multiple-entry visas and increasing application fees, adding pressure on Somali authorities.

Italy has also suspended the issuance of Schengen visas fro Somalis.

Frontex data indicates that Somali nationals accounted for the highest number of irregular crossings at EU borders in 2024

Critics argue that such conditions risk undermining long-term development goals and humanitarian commitments. Similar migration deals in Africa, such as those with Gambia and Morocco, have faced criticism for their limited success in addressing underlying migration drivers. However, proponents contend that these policies encourage accountability and better governance in recipient countries.

For Somalia, the freeze in Danish bilateral aid could impact its ability to fund initiatives while navigating domestic and international pressures related to migration.

Finland and Somalia have maintained diplomatic ties since 1971, though relations were re-established in 2013 following Somalia’s decades-long conflict. Cooperation between the two countries spans various sectors, including crisis management, mediation, and development. Despite the suspension, Finnish officials emphasized that bilateral relations remain strong and that dialogue on repatriation will continue.

Source: Egypt supports efforts for swift ceasefire in Sudan – FM
Sunday November 17, 2024

Egypt’s Minister of Foreign Affairs, Emigration and Egyptian Expatriates Badr Abdelatty reaffirmed Egypt’s commitment to supporting efforts for a swift ceasefire, a political resolution, and stability in Sudan, alongside ensuring the delivery of humanitarian aid.

Abdelatty was meeting with Annette Weber, the EU Special Representative for the Horn of Africa on Saturday, on the sidelines of the Sir Bani Yas Forum in the UAE.

The discussion focused on the situation in Sudan, emphasizing the importance of a ceasefire to achieve a comprehensive political solution and ensure humanitarian assistance reaches those in need.

The two sides also exchanged views on various issues in the Horn of Africa, addressing its escalating tensions and challenges, as well as developments in Somalia.

Abdelatty underscored Egypt’s dedication to fostering stability in Somalia by supporting its state institutions, emphasizing the importance of respecting Somalia’s sovereignty, unity, and territorial integrity.

He called for international efforts to assist the Somali government in achieving security, combating terrorism, and asserting its authority across the country.

Both sides expressed a shared commitment to maintaining coordination and consultation on mutual concerns in addition to working together to enhance security and stability in the region.

ATMIS concludes phase three troop drawdown

Source: Hiiraan Online, Friday November 15, 2024

Kismayo (HOL) — The African Union Transition Mission in Somalia (ATMIS) handed over the Burgavo Forward Operating Base (FOB) to Somali National Armed Forces (SNAF) on Thursday, marking the conclusion of phase three in ATMIS’s drawdown efforts.

ATMIS Kenya Defence Forces (KDF)-controlled the Burgavo military base, which is located on Somalia’s southern coast, 530 kilometres from Mogadishu. The base has played a vital role in countering Al-Shabaab’s influence and securing the critical Burgavo-Ras Kamboni Main Supply Route (MSR).

ATMIS Sector Two Deputy Commander, Col. Meshack Kishoyian, officiated at the ceremony attended by ATMIS military Chief Engineer Col. Suleiman Ibrahim, SNAF representative Maj. Sakariye Mohamed Omar, Badhadhe District Commissioner Gen. Mohamed Ibrahim Farah, who represented the Jubaland State administration, and officials from the United Nations Support Office in Somalia (UNSOS).

Outgoing ATMIS FOB Commander Maj. Charles Kaara signed the handover documents alongside incoming SNAF FOB Commander Maj. Muktar Mohamed. UNSOS representative Santosh Koka signed on behalf of the transition planning cell.

“This significant event demonstrates the growing capacity and dedication of the Somali Security Forces to take over the security responsibilities of Somalia, with the support of ATMIS, UNSOS and other partners,” said Col. Ibrahim, who represented the ATMIS Force Headquarters.

He commended ATMIS and SNAF troops for jointly pacifying the Lower Juba region, paving way for the Somali-led transition process.

“I commend the Somali Security Forces for their display of character in holding on to all the military bases handed over… I am confident that in partnership with all of us, they will continue to exhibit their capabilities and ensure the return of lasting peace to Somalia,” added Col. Ibrahim.

Badhadhe District Commissioner, Gen. Mohamed Ibrahim Farah, said the Federal Government of Somalia is ready to defend its territory and the people against Al-Shabaab.

“It is now time for Somalis to take charge of their own security. We are ready to take over this base and continue to maintain its security. Somalia now has a strong government that can take charge of its security,” said Gen. Farah.

ATMIS troops, alongside SNA forces, liberated Burgavo from Al-Shabaab control in 2011, significantly weakening the group’s operations in Lower Juba.

“This FOB has been very key in curtailing Al-Shabaab activities within this region. Being a port town, it has managed to block imports of unwanted items into this region,” said Col. Kishoyian, the ATMIS Sector Two Commander.

SNAF representative, Maj. Sakariye Mohamed Omar acknowledged the ATMIS KDF troops’ contributions in degrading Al-Shabaab. “Somalia has now become much safer, and the momentum of our forces remains undeterred,” noted Maj. Omar.

UNSOS gifted UN-owned equipment to SNAF, including generators, refrigerators, and freezers to maintain their operational capacity.

Under a drawdown process implemented in three phases since 2023, ATMIS has so far handed over 21 military bases to the Somali Security Forces (SSF) and withdrawn 9,000 troops from Somalia.

Ethiopia summons Sudanese envoy over Nile dam war threat

Source: Sudan Tribune, Friday November 15, 2024

Ethiopia summoned Sudan’s ambassador on Wednesday to protest comments by Sudan’s acting foreign minister suggesting possible war with Ethiopia if disagreements over the Grand Ethiopian Renaissance Dam (GERD) are not resolved.

Acting Foreign Minister Ali Youssif said in a recent television interview that Sudan could side with Egypt if talks on the GERD fail and that the option of war remained open if an agreement ensuring the water rights of all three countries was not reached.

Ethiopia’s foreign ministry expressed “displeasure” with Youssif’s remarks to Ambassador Al-Zein Ibrahim, emphasizing its commitment to strong relations with Sudan.

Diplomatic sources told Sudan Tribune that Youssif himself is expected to visit Addis Ababa soon, possibly to clarify his statements. However, these sources also noted that Ibrahim has yet to present his credentials to the Ethiopian president formally.

Foreign ministry spokesperson Nebiat Getachew downplayed the incident at a press briefing on Thursday, calling the relationship with Sudan “developed and strategic” and dismissing the comments as social media hype.

Getachew reiterated Ethiopia’s commitment to resolving the GERD issue through dialogue and stressed that the dam poses no threat to downstream countries. He cited 13 years of “practical experience”, demonstrating that Sudan was not harmed during the dam’s filling.

He further emphasized the GERD’s potential for regional economic integration and reaffirmed Ethiopia’s rejection of foreign interference in Sudan’s internal conflict.

Getachew also confirmed that the Nile Basin Agreement has entered into force with South Sudan’s recent ratification, opening the door for donor-funded development projects.

In a separate announcement, Getachew pledged continued Ethiopian support for Somalia’s stability and the fight against al Shabaab militants.

On the Ground Report from Omdurman, Sudan

 Source: The International Crisis Group posted on 7 November 2024 a 32-minute podcast titled “Inside Sudan’s Catastrophic Civil War” with Elissa Jobson and Mohanad Hashim, Sudanese journalist with the BBC.

Mohanad Hashim travelled by road from Port Sudan on the Red Sea to Omdurman, across the White Nile from Khartoum, escorted by troops from the Sudan Armed Forces. He provides insightful analysis of the situation in Sudan.  

The devastation in this part of Sudan is near total.  He said the younger generation of Sudanese believes a new Sudan needs to be formed; the previous generation of leaders is not up to the task.  He concludes that neither side can win a military victory; it is a war of attrition. 

Ethiopia launches first-ever shipment of fruits, vegetables to European market

Tuesday November 12, 2024

Ethiopia has launched the first-ever shipment of refrigerated fruits and vegetables to the European market, the Ministry of Agriculture disclosed.

Ethio Vegfru, a private limited exporter and importer company, has officially launched shipments Sugar Snap and Mangetout vegetable products to the Netherlands today in the presence of Agriculture State Minister, Sofia Kasa.

Ethiopia is known for offering ideal climate conditions for the year-round cultivation of vegetables and fruit like mangos, grapes and oranges.

Speaking on the occasion, Managing Director and Founder of Ethio Vegfru, Tsegaye Abebe indicated that 12 tons of Sugar Snap and Mangetout vegetable products will be delivered to the port of Djibouti, using a container equipped with modern refrigerators and new technology.

The fresh produce was loaded at Koka and will be transported to Netherlands via the Ethio-Djibouti transport corridor within 23 days.

This shipment is a milestone in the development of a cool logistics corridor for the export of fruit, vegetables and other perishables by sea freight via the Port of Djibouti, it was learned.

Noting that Ethiopia has not yet exploited its full potential in the sphere of fruits and vegetables production, Tsegaye said that we should continue to produce vegetables and fruits on a large scale and increase the export destination markets.

He also stressed the need for maximizing the utilization of the sector and further investments in fruits and vegetables productions.

According to the managing director, starting the transportation of vegetable products by ship is a great move to Ethiopia in order to penetrate the global market.

He also urged for redoubling the ongoing efforts and expanding the product as well as presenting it to the markets.

Following the market destinations in European countries have reduced due to environmental protection factors, Tesgaye noted Ethiopia has already embarked on a big task by starting the shipments of various vegetable products through using modern refrigeration containers