Egyptian geologist makes remarks on 5th filling of Grand Ethiopian Dam

Source: egypt today, By Noha El Tawil
Monday June 24, 2024

Geologist Abbas Sharaky estimated earlier this week that the middle wall of the Grand Ethiopian Renaissance Dam (GERD) would be raised from 625 meters to 640 meters, and that the maximum quantity of the fifth filling would be 23 billion cubic meters upping the total in the reservoir to 64 billion cubic meters from 41 billion cubic meters.

Sharaky gave an overview of the past four fillings, and that used to start early in July – of each year starting 2020 – in tandem with the start of the rain season.

In the first, the height of the wall was 565 meters and the quantity was around five billion cubic meters. In the second, the height was 576 meters and the quantity was three billion cubic meters. In the third, the height was 600 meters and the quantity was nine billion cubic meters. In the fourth, the height was less than 625 meters and the quantity was 24 billion cubic meters.

The geologist pointed out on his Facebook account that it would be pointless to make the reservoir that full if the remaining 11 turbines were not installed as either way the water would be released. Yet, if there are only the current two turbines, the large amount of reserved water would only put a strain on the body of both the main and saddle dams without generating the planned quantity of electricity.

The expert also noted a difference this year as the water exceeding the reservoir’s capacity will no longer just pass above the middle wall because it will be heightened giving for the first time full control of the filling process.

As such, the reserved water will be released through the two upper floodgates (300 million cubic meters daily), two lower floodgates (150 million cubic meters daily), and two turbines (50 million cubic meters daily) ahead of the rain season. He added that if 23 billion cubic meters are held this year, that might be the last filling of the dam.

Constructions in the Grand Renaissance Dam started on April 2, 2011 at a cost of $4.8 billion. It was built by the Italian construction and engineering company Salini Impergilo. The dam is located on the Blue Nile with a planned reservoir capacity of 74 billion cubic meters, and was expected to generate up to 6,000 megawatts of power.

However, it is estimated to generate only 3,000 megawatts, as the number of turbines to be installed has been reduced to 13 turbines down from 16. On the other hand, Egypt has been warning of the unilateral acts of Ethiopia for their harmful impact on its annual water share of 55.5 billion cubic meters, especially during drought and extended drought, urging a legally binding agreement on the filling and operation of the dam.

Djibouti seeks answers for low CPPI 2023 port ranking

Hiiraan Online, Monday June 24, 2024


Djibouti’s high-level government delegation, including ministers of Economy, Finance, Infrastructure, and Trade, meets with World Bank representatives led by Nicolas Peltier-Thiberge, Global Director of Transport, to discuss the port’s performance and strategies for improvement following the release of the CPPI 2023 report.

Djibouti (HOL) — Djibouti authorities are voicing strong dissatisfaction with their port’s ranking in the 2023 Container Port Performance Index (CPPI), which placed it at 379th out of 405 global ports, raising concerns about the factors influencing its standing.

“The decline in our CPPI ranking must be interpreted with caution,” stated Aboubaker Omar Hadi, President of the Djibouti Ports and Free Zones Authority. He emphasized the need for a nuanced understanding of the factors influencing port performance. He argued that the CPPI does not adequately account for the exceptional circumstances affecting its port—particularly those related to humanitarian commitments and regional security dynamics.

The concerns over the Port of Djibouti’s ranking were not taken lightly. A high-level government delegation from Djibouti, including ministers of Economy, Finance and Industry, Infrastructure and Equipment, Trade and Tourism, and Budget, convened a strategic meeting last week. They were joined by a World Bank delegation led by Nicolas Peltier-Thiberge, Global Director of Transport. The meeting’s focus was clear: to address the port’s ranking issue head-on.

The CPPI 2023, produced by the World Bank and S&P Global Market Intelligence, evaluates ports based on vessel time in port. Djibouti’s low ranking highlights significant operational inefficiencies. Key metrics contributing to this ranking include extended waiting times and berth idling. According to the CPPI report, only 60% of the total port time is used for cargo operations, with the remaining time spent on idle activities and waiting. This inefficiency is compounded by delays in clearance and coordination issues among various public agencies involved in port operations.

External factors have significantly impacted Djibouti’s port performance. Heightened security measures in the Red Sea and rigorous verification procedures for cargo bound for Yemen, which have been in place since September 2023, have extended ship waiting times. Additionally, the United Nations Verification and Inspection Mechanism (UNVIM) vessels, which transit through Djibouti for inspections, have further contributed to these delays. 

When compared to other regional ports, Djibouti’s performance is a mixed bag. Sub-Saharan African ports such as Dar Es Salaam and Lomé have seen improvements in average arrival times, driving better rankings. However, Djibouti faces unique challenges due to its strategic location and the external pressures of handling humanitarian cargo, which are less prominent in other regional ports.

Despite the challenges, the CPPI report has provided a roadmap for improvement. It has identified key areas where Djibouti can make meaningful strides. By reducing berth idle time and enhancing coordination among public agencies, Djibouti can take steps toward improving its port performance. Additionally, implementing better planning, preparation, and process streamlining can dramatically reduce the non-productive time spent in port. These measures, if implemented effectively, can lead to improved efficiency and higher rankings in future assessments.

The port of Djibouti / Credit: SGTD.

Source: Hiiraan Online, Monday June 24, 2024

Mogadishu (HOL) – Somali government and the U.N. political mission office in Somalia have started discussions to plan an orderly transition from the U.N. special political mission to a U.N. Country Team.

Former Foreign Minister Ambassador Yusuf Garad Omar led the Somali government technical committee, while the Deputy Special Representative of the Secretary-General of the United Nations led the U.N. team.

Ambassador Omar wrote on X (formerly Twitter), “The Somali government has embarked on discussions with the U.N. to plan an orderly transition from a special political mission to a U.N. Country Team. It began with a historic meeting between technical teams from both sides. Discussions are expected to intensify in the coming weeks.”

The federal government has outlined its plans to assume control over certain activities currently managed by the United Nations political office, with the rest to be overseen by a new United Nations office that will replace the current one.

The government stated that the step symbolizes its progress, as Somalia is set to become a member of the Security Council in 2025.

The 360-member United Nations Assistance Mission in Somalia (UNSOM) has advised Somalia on peace-building, security reforms, and democracy for over a decade. However, the government requested that the office be terminated when its mandate expires in October.

Somali Minister of Foreign Affairs Ahmed Moalim Fiqi did not provide specific reasons for the decision, stating only that the government believes “it is now appropriate to transition to the next phase of our partnership.”

Mapping Growth of Burial Grounds in Sudan

 Source: Reuters published on 20 June 2024 an article titled “Sudan’s Cemeteries Swell with Fresh Graves as Hunger and Disease Spread” by Ryan McNeill, Maggie Michael, and Reade Levinson.  

As hunger and disease spread in Sudan, especially Darfur region, the graveyards grow in size.  Almost 20 percent of Sudan’s population is currently facing an emergency food situation or worse because of the civil war.  About two-thirds of Sudanese no longer have access to healthcare.  Sudan risks a lost generation.

Source: USAID launches $10 million water supply project in Somali region
Sunday June 23, 2024



USAID has launched a water supply system project worth 10 million USD under the RIPA-North program.

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The project aims to addressing critical drought conditions with funding from Feed the Future and support from the Somali Region Water Bureau, USAID stated.

The initiative will respond to water shortages in the Somali region, according to USAID.

“For 120 years, the United States and Ethiopia have partnered in health, education, agriculture, food security, science, and the environment to import the lives of all Ethiopians,” the U.S. Embassy in Addis Ababa said.

UN to discuss Somalia’s political reforms, Ethiopian tensions, and security threats

Source: Hiiraan Online, Sunday June 23, 2024



FILE

Mogadishu (HOL) — Somalia’s political turmoil and escalating security threats will be under intense scrutiny on Monday when the United Nations Security Council convenes for an open briefing followed by closed consultations. Acting Special Representative of the Secretary-General for Somalia, James Swan, and Special Representative of the AU Commission Chairperson for Somalia, Mohamed El-Amine Souef, will lead the session.

The meeting marks Swan’s first briefing since resuming his role in May. He is expected to present the latest political, economic, and security developments in Somalia based on the Secretary-General’s June 3 report. Key issues include recent constitutional amendments, escalating tensions with Ethiopia, and the ongoing threat posed by Al-Shabaab.

On March 30, Somalia’s Federal Parliament approved significant amendments to the provisional constitution. These changes introduce a one-person, one-vote election system and provide for direct presidential elections, moving away from the traditional clan-based formula. However, these reforms have sparked controversy. Puntland, a semi-autonomous region, announced on March 31 that it would withdraw recognition of the federal government and has refrained from participating in National Consultative Council meetings.

Another major topic will be Somalia’s request to terminate UNSOM by the end of its mandate in October. In letters circulated to Council members in May, Somalia called for a swift conclusion of the necessary procedures for this transition. The Council has requested the Secretary-General to engage with the Somali government to determine the modalities and timeline for the transition and provide an update by the end of August.

Adding to Somalia’s political complexity are rising tensions with Ethiopia. Following a memorandum of understanding signed between Ethiopia and Somaliland on January 1, Somalia expelled Ethiopia’s Ambassador in Mogadishu on April 4 and closed Ethiopian consulates in Garowe and Hargeisa. Somalia’s National Security Advisor has called for Ethiopian troops to leave the country by the end of December, coinciding with the planned drawdown of ATMIS. However, this move has faced opposition from Somalia’s Jubaland and Southwest states, which rely on Ethiopian forces for security.

The meeting will also address the ongoing security threat posed by Al-Shabaab, a terrorist group affiliated with Al-Qaida. The Secretary-General’s report documented a significant increase in civilian casualties due to Al-Shabaab’s use of improvised explosive devices (IEDs). UNSOM recorded 340 civilian deaths, including 146 fatalities, between January 25 and May 25, marking a 104 percent increase compared to the previous reporting period.

Souef is expected to highlight ATMIS’ support for Somali security forces in countering Al-Shabaab and the progress of ATMIS’ drawdown process. He will also discuss the ongoing discussions about post-ATMIS security arrangements to prevent any security vacuum.

The African Union Peace and Security Council (AUPSC) recently endorsed the establishment of a new AU-led, UN-authorized mission for Somalia to support the federal government in post-ATMIS security arrangements. This decision follows a technical assessment conducted by the AU’s Peace Support Operations Division. The AUPSC has requested the AU Commission to develop financing options for the new mission and submit a concept of operations by the end of July.

As the Council meets on Monday, members are likely to discuss the mandate extension for ATMIS, which is set to expire on June 30. The UK, the penholder on Somalia, has yet to circulate a draft resolution on this matter.

Sudan’s Humanitarian Crisis: Spreading the Blame

 Source: Foreign Affairs published on 17 June 2024 a commentary titled “Sudan’s Manmade Famine: How the United States and Its Gulf Partners Are Enabling Mass Starvation” by Alex de Waal.

The author argues that it is up to the United States and its Western allies to pressure Saudi Arabia and the UAE, who have considerable leverage over the belligerents in Sudan, to demand that the Sudan Armed Forces and the paramilitary Rapid Support Forces allow for the unimpeded distribution of food aid in order to forestall starvation.

Comment:  While the commentary makes a number of important and valid points, it is exasperating that most of the blame for this situation falls on the United States and its Western allies.  Is there no role for China, India, the African Union, and even the individual 54 (minus Sudan) African countries that vote in the UN General Assembly?  Why does the author give most of the rest of the world a pass?

Nor is there any mention in the commentary that the United States, the European Union, and its member states provide overwhelmingly the food aid that does reach Sudan and Sudanese refugees.  The United States alone has provided $968 million in humanitarian aid to Sudan since September 2023.  The rest of the world outside the EU has been largely absent.

It’s time for more balance when playing the blame game.  

News|Nuclear Weapons

Watchdog warns reliance on nuclear weapons rising amid global tension

Source: The Stockholm International Peace Research Institute says Russia and the US possess ‘almost 90 percent of all nuclear weapons’.

Published On 17 Jun 202417 Jun 2024

The world’s nine nuclear-armed states have raised their reliance on nuclear weapons, a watchdog has said.

A report released by Stockholm International Peace Research Institute (SIPRI) on Monday said the states increased their spending on modernising their atomic arsenals by one-third last year. The watchdog pointed to the contribution of the wars in Ukraine and Gaza to the deterioration of international security.

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Wilfred Wan, director of SIPRI’s weapons of mass destruction programme, said nuclear weapons have not been seen “playing such a prominent role in international relations since the Cold War”.

The report found that the effects of the wars in Ukraine and Gaza are “visible in almost every aspect of the issues connected to armaments, disarmament and international security examined”.

The nine nuclear armed states – the United States, Russia, the United Kingdom, France, China, India, Pakistan, North Korea and Israel – modernised their nuclear arsenals and several “deployed new nuclear-armed or nuclear-capable weapon systems in 2023”, SIPRI found.

The estimated global inventory of 12,121 warheads in January 2024, marked a reduction of 391 compared with the previous year, a year, with about 9,585 in military stockpiles for possible use.

However, about 3,904 of these were deployed were deployed with missiles and aircraft, which is 60 more than in January 2023.

The vast majority of those deployed warheads belong to Russia and the US, although China is believed to have “some warheads on high operational alert” for the first time.

Separately, the International Campaign to Abolish Nuclear Weapons (ICAN) said the combined total spending on nuclear arsenals grew by $10.7bn to $91.4bn in 2023.

Garowe mayor demands departure of undocumented Ethiopian migrants

Source: : hIIRAAN oNLINE, Monday June 17, 2024

Garowe (HOL) – The mayor of Garowe, Abdikhadir Mohamed Mohamud Geddi, has ordered all illegal Ethiopian residents to leave the town immediately, threatening deportation if they do not comply.

Speaking to reporters in Garowe on Sunday, the mayor said, “I want to send a message to the Ethiopian people who are in the city illegally. We have worked hard to welcome these people, but now the time has come. We want to tell those who do not have permits to leave the city of Garowe.”

Ethiopian migrants have been arriving in Garowe, the administrative capital of Puntland State, over the past few years. These people have faced complex lives in Garowe and other major towns in Puntland, SSC-Khatumo, and Somaliland.

Some Ethiopians have also taken over small jobs, including shoe cleaning.

Earlier, the administration of Galkayo district in Puntland banned Ethiopians from the city of Galkayo after the administration expressed concerns.

AU mission hands over military base to Somalia in 3rd phase of troop withdrawal

Source: XINHUA NET, Monday June 17, 2024

The African Union (AU) Transition Mission in Somalia (ATMIS) said on Sunday that it has handed over the Barire military base to the Somali security forces, marking the start of the third phase of the troop drawdown.

ATMIS said the military base, which is located in the Lower Shabelle region under the ATMIS Uganda Peoples’ Defense Forces since 2019, holds strategic significance as it serves as a buffer zone about 60 km west of Mogadishu, the capital of Somalia.

“This transfer of the Barire military base is not just a transfer of physical assets, but it symbolizes the progress we have made together in our shared mission,” ATMIS Uganda Contingent Commander Anthony Lukwago Mbuusi said in a statement issued in Mogadishu.

“Together, we will continue to work toward a brighter future for Somalia, one built on cooperation, mutual respect, and the common goal of finding lasting peace,” said Mbuusi who handed over the base to Muhudin Ahmed, the Somali National Army (SNA) representative.

Ahmed lauded ATMIS Uganda troops for their commitment to the transition and their sacrifice in ensuring peace returns to Somalia.

He said the SNA would continue to secure Barire town and its inhabitants from Al-Shabaab attacks and other illegal armed groups.

The AU mission withdrew 5,000 troops from Somalia and handed over 17 military bases to the Somali Security Forces during the first and second phases of the drawdown concluded in 2023.

The third phase of the ATMIS drawdown is in line with United Nations Security Council Resolutions 2628 (2022), 2670 (2022), and 2710 (2023), which mandate ATMIS to withdraw 4,000 troops by the end of June 2024.

Somali President Mohamud reaffirms readiness for dialogue with al-Shabab militant group

Source: Hiiraan Online, Sunday June 16, 2024

Oslo (HOL) – Somali President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud has reiterated that his government is ready to engage in dialogue and negotiations with the al-Shabab militant group.

Speaking at a debate in Oslo, Norway, President Mohamud stated that the government is waiting for al-Shabab to negotiate. He pointed out that the dialogue process might take time.

“We believe that the end game for al-Shabab is negotiations whenever they are ready. We were ready yesterday, and tomorrow, we will still be ready,” said President Mohamud.

He emphasized that dialogue with the group can create new hope but stressed that al-Shabab needs to change its behavior first.

“Anyone who can convince them to change their behavior should take that step,” said the president.

This is the second time President Mohamud has called for dialogue with al-Shabab during his two years in office. However, al-Shabab has previously refused to engage in dialogue with the government.

Since 2007, al-Shabaab has been fighting the Somali government and the African Union Transition Mission in Somalia (ATMIS) – a multidimensional mission authorized by the African Union and mandated by the UN Security Council.


Puntland oo ku amartay dadka Itoobiyaanka ah ee Garowe ku sugan inay si degdeg uga baxaan

Source: Hiiraan Online, Axad, Juun, 16, 2024 (HOL) – Duqa degmada Garowe, Cabdiqaadir Maxamed Maxamuud Geeddi ayaa ku amray dadka Itoobiyaanka ah ee ku sugan Garowe inay si degdeg ah uga baxaan, haddii kale in tallaabo laga qaadayo.

Geeddi wuxuu sheegay, in la joogo waqtigii magaalada Garowe laga saari lahaa Itoobiyaanka sharci darrada ku jooga, isagoo ku hanjabay ciddii aan amarka qaadan in iyagoo xirxiran la saaridoono.

“Waxaan rabaa inaan baaq u diro dadka Itoobiyaanka ah ee magaalada ku jooga sharci darrada. In badan waxaan ku dadaalnay in dadkaas lasoo dhoweeyo, laakiin hadda waqtigeedii bay gaartay. Waxaan rabnaa inaan dadkaas u sheegno, cidda aan sharciga ku haysan magaalada Garowe inay isaga baxaay,” ayuu yiri duqa magaalada Garowe.

Hadalkan ayuu guddoomiyaha degmada Garowe sheegay, xilli uu maanta saxaafadda la hadlayay salaaddii ciidda kaddib.

Go’aankaan ayaa kusoo beegmay, iyadoo magaalada Garowe ay si aad ah ugusoo qulqulayaan dadka kasoo jeeda Itoobiya oo leh qowmiyado kala duwan. Dadkan ayaa haatan qaati looga taagan yahay dawarsiga ama Tuugsoga, iyagoo magaalada Garowe lagu arkayo carruur iyo dad waawayn oo suuqyada iyo waddooyinka ka dawarsanaya habeen iyo maalin.

Dadka Itoobiyaanka ah waxay sidoo kale la wareegeen qaar kamid ah shaqooyin ay ku tiirsanaayeen dadka muwaadiniinta ah, sida shaqada caseeyaha ama baalashka, oo ay ku tiirsanaayeen dadka kasoo jeeda qoysaska danyarta ah.

Horey, maamulka degmada Gaalkacyo ee Puntland ayaa dadka Itoobiyaanka uga mamnuucay magaalada Gaalkacyo, kaddib markii walaac laga muujiyay hab dhaqankooda iyo qulqulkooda.

DP World plans $3 billion investment in African ports by 2029

Source: Bloomberg, Friday June 14, 2024
By Jennifer Zabasajja and Paul Burkhardt


Berbera Port and Bebera city in Somalia. Photographer: Ed Ram/AFP/Getty Images

(Bloomberg) — DP World plans to spend $3 billion over the next three to five years on new port infrastructure in Africa to meet long-term growth that includes surging demand for critical mineral exports.

“The cost of logistics and supply chain across Africa is very high relative to other global markets,” which presents a good opportunity, Mohammed Akoojee, DP World’s chief executive officer and managing director for sub-Saharan Africa, said in an interview on Bloomberg Television. The port operator is expanding in Dar es Salaam in Tanzania and has recently assessed harbors in South Africa and Kenya for potential investment. 

Eight of the world’s 15 fastest-growing economies will be in Africa this year, according to the International Monetary Fund. That’s luring companies including Dubai-based DP World, despite economic pain from accelerating inflation, depreciating currencies and high borrowing costs in the region.

Africa’s potential should be viewed over the long term, not by short-term macroeconomics, according to Akoojee. “It’s a cycle and it certainly hasn’t impacted our appetite for growth on the continent,” he said. “We’re still investing.”

A booming market for critical minerals including copper from Zambia and the Democratic Republic of Congo are helping drive the need for greater logistics capacity, Akoojee said. “We’ve seen demand increasing over the last few years, largely driven by the whole electrification drive globally and the demand for commodities like cobalt, lithium.”

Port Interest

DP World ’s Africa unit has 27,000 workers and covers ports, terminals, logistics and supply chain businesses. It failed in a bid to partner with South Africa’s Transnet SOC Ltd. to develop the biggest container port on the continent, losing to International Container Terminal Services Inc., which is owned by Filipino billionaire Enrique Razon.

That hasn’t deterred the company from looking to continue its expansion on the continent. As South Africa moves forward on the partial privatization of Transnet, “we remain interested in those opportunities,” Akoojee said. DP World is also looking at the port of Lamu in Kenya, where there’s also a privatization process underway.

–With assistance from Matthew Hill.

At least 49 dead, 140 missing in migrant boat sinking off Yemen: UN

Refugees and migrants are increasingly taking the dangerous route despite instability in Yemen and the fallout of the war on Gaza.

Source: Aljazeera, Published On 11 Jun 202411 Jun 2024

At least 49 people have been killed and 140 more are missing after a boat carrying refugees and migrants from the Horn of Africa to Yemen sank, according to the United Nations’ International Organization for Migration (IOM).

The vessel that capsized on Monday was carrying some 260 people, mostly from Ethiopia and Somalia, who had set off from the northern coast of Somalia to travel 320km (200 miles) across the Gulf of Aden to reach Yemen.

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Red Sea tensions: Yemen’s Houthis ‘attack’ US carrier after deadly strikes

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Refugees and migrants from the Horn of Africa and East Africa are increasingly braving the dangerous journey to reach Saudi Arabia and other Arab states of the region via Yemen.

The IOM said in a statement on Tuesday that 71 people had been rescued, eight of whom were taken to hospital. At least six children and 31 women were among the dead.

In April, at least 62 people died in two shipwrecks off the coast of Djibouti as they tried to reach Yemen. The IOM said at least 1,860 people have died or disappeared along the route, including 480 who drowned.

WHO and Somalia collaborate to strengthen disease outbreak response

Source: Hiiraan Online, Tuesday June 11, 2024

Mogadishu (HOL) — Amid a severe humanitarian crisis, Somalia’s vulnerability to disease outbreaks is high. The country has taken a major step to address this by implementing the Integrated Disease Surveillance and Response (IDSR) system, a move that promises to transform public health responses.

In collaboration with the World Health Organization (WHO) Regional Office for the Eastern Mediterranean and the WHO Country Office in Somalia, Somalia has strengthened its multi-disease surveillance system. The IDSR system consolidates real-time health data using the District Health Information Software 2 (DHIS2), allowing health workers to record and analyze data for early outbreak detection and response.

“IDSR has enabled the Ministry of Health and Human Services to stay ahead of the public health events and safeguard the health of our communities by detecting outbreaks early,” said Dr Sahro Isse Mohamed, Head of the Integrated Disease Surveillance and Response Unit, Ministry of Health and Human Services, Federal Government of Somalia.

Since its implementation, the IDSR system has been crucial in detecting cholera, diphtheria, and pertussis alerts. Health workers have been trained to develop weekly epidemiological bulletins, which are shared with stakeholders for decision-making and resource coordination. These efforts have significantly reduced disease-related morbidity and mortality.

WHO Somalia supported developing a three-year, multiphase operational plan for IDSR implementation. The plan includes technical guidelines, standard operating procedures, and training materials tailored for health workers. Phase one, completed in 2023, trained health workers from 371 out of 620 health facilities, surpassing the target coverage. By the end of 2023, these facilities reported on 42 priority conditions. Between weeks 3 and 13 of 2024, the number of reporting facilities increased to 409, with 80% of trained facilities regularly submitting surveillance data.

The plan’s second phase, which began in January 2024, focuses on improving data quality, linking surveillance data with laboratory information, enhancing data usage at the subnational level, and monitoring the IDSR system’s implementation through supervision and stakeholder review meetings.

The planning for IDSR began in 2020. By 2021, Somalia had a functioning IDSR system. In 2022, guidelines and training materials were developed to build health workers’ capacities. The final phase of the operational plan, set to be completed in 2024, aims to provide a comprehensive approach to public surveillance of priority diseases and response needs.

Somalia is also working on implementing event-based surveillance at the community level and strengthening its public health laboratory capacity for the timely diagnosis of priority diseases. Rapid response teams will be trained to address emergencies within communities. Plans are also in place to establish surveillance and response systems for antimicrobial resistance and maternal and perinatal deaths.

VALRESULTAT 2024

Source: Sydsvenskan, Sverige

EU-parlamentet

Sök kommun…

OMRÅDEHela Sverige

RÄKNAT

95%

Uppdaterad 10 juni 2024 kl. 14:39

Räknade distrikt: 6 275 av 6 589

Preliminärt

Preliminär rösträkning pågår.

PARTIER

Visa antalRösterVisaProcent

• SSocialdemokraterna24,8%Förändring:+ 1,4%
• MModeraterna17,6%Förändring:+ 0,7%
• MPMiljöpartiet13,8%Förändring:+ 2,3%
• SDSverigedemokraterna13,2%Förändring:−2,1%
• VVänsterpartiet11%Förändring:+ 4,2%
• CCenterpartiet7,3%Förändring:−3,5%
• KDKristdemokraterna5,7%Förändring:−2,9%
• LLiberalerna4,4%Förändring:+ 0,2%
• ÖvrÖvriga2,2%

PARTIERNAS MANDATFÖRDELNING

Sverige har 21 av 720 mandat i EU-parlamentet

SSocialdemokraterna

5

Förändring:±0

MModeraterna

4

Förändring:±0

MPMiljöpartiet

3

Förändring:+1*

SDSverigedemokraterna

3

Förändring:±0

VVänsterpartiet

2

Förändring:+1

CCenterpartiet

2

Förändring:±0

KDKristdemokraterna

1

Förändring:-1

LLiberalerna

1

Förändring:±0

Source: ISS, UN funds for AU peace operations: Somalia as a test case

Tuesday June 11, 2024



Should the African Union focus on a single situation – or apply UN Security Council Resolution 2719 to various conflicts?
Last December, the United Nations (UN) Security Council unanimously agreed to consider case-by-case requests from the African Union (AU) for UN funding for peacekeeping operations on the continent.

After decades of exchanges between the UN and AU on how to fund peace operations, Resolution 2719 was a milestone – even though questions about its implementation persist. Among them are whether the funds could supplement existing peace operations, or if the AU should use the opportunity to create new missions.

The AU Transition Mission in Somalia (ATMIS) could be a test case. ATMIS is scheduled to exit in December, and the AU could request funds under Resolution 2719 for a post-ATMIS mission. Institute for Security Studies sources say a new mission could expand the number and scope of troop-contributing countries to include contingents from East and Southern Africa.

Could Resolution 2719 be used to support a post-ATMIS setup? Would this be the most useful application of the resolution in light of the continent’s plethora of conflicts? Might the AU want to create an entirely new peace support mission?

Somalia briefed the AU Peace and Security Council (PSC) on 26 March on its proposal for a post-ATMIS security arrangement starting on 1 January 2025. Somalia wants to keep its gains in the fight against the violent extremist group al-Shabaab, and requested further capacity building for the Somali Security Forces to avoid a security vacuum when ATMIS leaves.

Could a post-ATMIS mission expand to include contingents from East and Southern African countries?

The PSC recognised Somalia’s concerns and stressed the need for adequate funding through Resolution 2719. This is despite its earlier decision to close ATMIS with a third drawdown of 4 000 personnel by 30 June. That decision presents contradictions: the PSC and the Somali Federal Government support the drawdown, but a request for another peace support operation is emerging.

Some PSC members have shown a preference for Somalia being the first country to use UN funds through Resolution 2719. During a recent field mission, an AU Commission high-level delegation reassured Somalis there would be no security vacuum following ATMIS’ departure.

An AU representative said there were plans to establish a post-ATMIS force to help protect strategic population centres, UN facilities and key government installations. Such a mission would have strong regional support, particularly from current troop- and police-contributing countries, some of whom are PSC members.

Somalia’s Federal Government is eager to pursue a post-ATMIS mission through Resolution 2719. In May, its Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation Ministry asked the UN Security Council president to terminate the UN Assistance Mission in Somalia (UNSOM) – possibly to lay the foundations for a post-ATMIS mission. UN member states had voiced their concerns about funding multiple initiatives in the country.

Although the PSC and Somali government support ATMIS’ drawdown, a request for another peace mission is emerging

The PSC and UN Security Council must decide whether UN funds would better support UNSOM, which capacitates and strengthens state institutions, or ATMIS, which focuses on security. It’s equally important to consider the timing and sequencing of these missions. Should stabilisation through security precede building state capacity or take place simultaneously?

The PSC must also consider the pros and cons of using Resolution 2719 for a post-ATMIS mission. There are legitimate concerns that ATMIS’ exit would create a security vacuum that al-Shabaab would capitalise on. Even as new army units are being trained, and despite the successful handover of seven security bases to Somali forces, al-Shabaab attacks continue. Recent gains by the government in central Somalia, with ATMIS’ help, could be overturned.

However, considering that these recent successes are thanks to a joint campaign with clan militias, Somalia urgently needs to establish holding forces, work for communal reconciliation and meet local service delivery expectations.

A committee comprising the Federal Government, AU and UN Support Office in Somalia aims to ensure the smooth transfer of responsibility from ATMIS to the Somali Security Forces. All three stakeholders must distinguish between the mandates of Somalia’s current and future peace missions.

Resolution 2719 funds could boost the Southern African Development Community’s Mission in east DRC

The AU Commission must also assess requirements for the military, police and civilian components, the concept of operations, budgetary implications, and exit strategies for a post-ATMIS mission. The AU’s Military Staff Committee should undertake its own review and advise the PSC and AU Commission.

The decision to deploy a new mission in Somalia must also be considered against the backdrop of protracted and emerging crises in Africa (see diagram).

The eastern Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) conflict has reached breaking point with recent M23 rebel group advancements displacing 250 000 people. The UN Organization Stabilization Mission in the DRC, which lacked support from local communities and political elites, is expected to exit in December. Funds could be sourced under Resolution 2719 to boost the meagrely resourced Southern African Development Community’s Mission in east DRC.

The AU could also use Resolution 2719 to back an intervention in Sudan’s civil war. The conflict has seen the collapse of state institutions, a massive death toll and humanitarian disaster, and the displacement of around eight million people. An AU-mandated mission could significantly tip the scales, bring short-term stabilisation and provide impetus for a ceasefire.

The PSC is expected to meet and discuss how to use Resolution 2719 to help stabilise countries in conflict. Considerations will hinge on whether the AU focuses on a single test case or applies the resolution to various contexts. Making the decision requires a thorough analysis of the advantages and challenges of each conflict. 

In Somalia, Resolution 2719 presents an opportunity to apply the UN-AU security partnership. It’s also a unique chance for the AU Commission and PSC to fully operationalise the African Standby Force as originally conceived, and to deploy an AU-led mission in Somalia made up of troops beyond East African countries.

Protracted discussions to iron out challenges around Resolution 2719 are ongoing, so concrete action may not be possible before the end of 2024. In the meantime, AU officials should thoroughly assess the future of ATMIS and whether a new peace support operation would tip the scale in favour of long-lasting peace and stability in Somalia.

Ruto calls for order amid war of words in Kenya Kwanza

Source: TheStar, Monday June 10, 2024

President William Ruto and his deputy Rigathi Gachagua (left) at the Akorino National Thanksgiving Prayer Conference in Nakuru County on June 9, 2024. Image: PCS

President William Ruto has called on leaders in the Kenya Kwanza government to tone down on attacks that have characterised his administration recently.

Speaking at Nakuru Boys High School grounds on Sunday, June 9, during the Akorino Annual Prayer Conference, Ruto said the country needs to be united asking leaders to lead from the front.

“Tuungane, tushirikiane, tuweke amani sisi wote tuchangie katika kuhakikisha Kenya yetu ni Kenya moja (Let us unite, cooperate and work on peace to ensure ours is a united Kenya).  We want the best for our country,” he said.

Ruto urged all leaders, regardless of their tribe or ethnic group to work on a united nation for the benefit of all citizens.

“I want to plead with my fellow leaders not to divide Kenyans. We must unite our people for the sake of peace and development,” he said.

The call by the president comes after weeks of war of words among his key allies.

Gachagua, who has been calling for unity in the Mt Kenya region, has recently faced criticism from a section of leaders who accused him of fanning tribalism.

But in a rejoinder to the attacks on Sunday, Gachagua said his call for a united Mt Kenya is not aimed at antagonising any community.

“I am on record as a great peacemaker. The unity we are calling for is not against anybody, it is the unity of purpose. The unity we are calling for is the unity of Kenya and we are doing it bottom up,” Gachagua, who was also at the Akorino Annual Prayer Conference,  said.

Leaders backing Gachagua’s call also defended his unity call saying there is nothing wrong with it.

“We are in a bottom-up government. All things in our government start from the village level before going up and everybody comes from a village. What wrong has Gachagua done by trying to solidify his backyard?,” Maragua MP Mary Waithera said.

According to her, local leaders working against the unity of the region are either confused or have been ‘fed’ enough.

“Those accusing Gachagua of being a villager just for discussing issues pertaining to his region should be investigated because they could have been paid to do so,” she said.

The MP said the forces fueling conflicts within the region are afraid of its unity due to its high numbers of voters and are keen on destabilising it, urging Gachagua to persist in his efforts to bring residents together.

Sudan paramilitary RSF targets last operating hospital in Darfur

Source: Aljazeera, The armed group fired on and looted the last operating hospital in western Darfur, forcing it to close.

Published On 10 Jun 202410 Jun 2024

The Rapid Support Forces (RSF) paramilitary in Sudan has attacked the last operating hospital in the Darfur region, an international aid group said.

Doctors Without Borders, known by its French initials MSF, reported late on Sunday that the RSF had attacked the South Hospital in el-Fasher, the capital city of the North Darfur province, the previous day. The armed group opened fire on medical staff and patients as it looted the site, forcing the facility to close.

Piracy Slowly Returns to Somalia

 Source: The International Crisis Group published on 7 June 2024 an analysis titled “The Roots of Somalia’s Slow Piracy Resurgence” by Omar Mahmoud.

After a lapse of about five years, Somali piracy is again on the increase.  Since late 2023, the slow rise in piracy is due to a decrease in counter measures by shipowners and naval task forces and frustration in Somali fishing communities with overfishing by foreign trawlers