The BRICS club of emerging-market countries is expected to double on January 1st when Saudi Arabia, Iran, the United Arab Emirates, Ethiopia, and Egypt join the group. Meanwhile, Russia has taken over the Presidency of the BRICS.

Russia takes over Presidency of BRICS group | BRICS expands from five to 10 countries | WION

Somalia's cabinet calls emergency meeting on breakaway region, signs deal with Ethiopia

Somalia said on Tuesday that the pact its breakaway region of Somaliland has signed with Ethiopia allowing it to use the Red Sea port of Berbera had no legal force and threatened regional stability.

Somalia also summoned its ambassador to Ethiopia for deliberations over the port agreement signed by Ethiopian Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed and Somaliland President Muse Bihi Abdi on Monday.

The agreement would allow landlocked Ethiopia, which relies on neighbouring Djibouti for most of its maritime trade, to set up commercial operations at a leased military base in Berbera.

It also included recognising Somaliland as an independent nation in due course.

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/chinese-exchange-student-falls-victim-to-cyber-kidnapping-scam-found-in-utah-wilderness-675853">Chinese exchange student falls victim to ‘cyber kidnapping’ scam, found in Utah wilderness</a>

Abiy's stated ambition to secure access to the Red Sea is a source of tension between Ethiopia and its neighbours and has raised concerns of a fresh conflict in the Horn of Africa.

In October, Abiy said Ethiopia's existence was "tied to the Red Sea," adding that "if we (countries in the Horn of Africa) plan to live together in peace, we have to find a way to mutually share with each other in a balanced manner".

Somalia's cabinet said in a statement after an emergency meeting on Tuesday that the deal between Ethiopia and Somaliland "endangered stability and peace in the region".

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"It is a violation and an open interference with Somalia's sovereignty, freedom and unity. ... The so-called a memorandum of understanding and agreement of cooperation is null and void," the statement said.

Ethiopia would offer Somaliland a stake in state-owned Ethiopian Airlines in return for giving it access to the Red Sea, Abiy's national security adviser said on Monday, without giving more details.

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Billene Seyoum, spokesperson at Abiy's office, Meles Alem, spokesperson at Ethiopia's foreign affairs ministry, and Legesse Tulu, the Ethiopian government spokesperson, did not immediately respond to requests for comment.

Somaliland has not gained widespread international recognition, despite declaring autonomy from Somalia in 1991. Somalia says Somaliland is part of its territory.

Last week the Somali National News Agency said Somalia and Somaliland had agreed to restart talks to resolve their disputes, following mediation efforts led by Djibouti.

Somalia said on Tuesday that the pact its breakaway region of Somaliland has signed with Ethiopia allowing it to use the Red Sea port of Berbera had no legal force and threatened regional stability.

Somalia said on Tuesday that the pact its breakaway region of Somaliland has signed with Ethiopia allowing it to use the Red Sea port of Berbera had no legal force and threatened regional stability. Somalia also summoned its ambassador to Ethiopia for deliberations over the port agreement signed by Ethiopian Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed and Somaliland President Muse Bihi Abdi on Monday. The agreement would allow landlocked Ethiopia, which relies on neighbouring Djibouti for most of its maritime trade, to set up commercial operations at a leased military base in Berbera. It also included recognising Somaliland as an independent nation in due course. Also Read | Chinese exchange student falls victim to ‘cyber kidnapping’ scam, found in Utah wilderness Abiy's stated ambition to secure access to the Red Sea is a source of tension between Ethiopia and its neighbours and has raised concerns of a fresh conflict in the Horn of Africa. In October, Abiy said Ethiopia's existence was "tied to the Red Sea," adding that "if we (countries in the Horn of Africa) plan to live together in peace, we have to find a way to mutually share with each other in a balanced manner". Somalia's cabinet said in a statement after an emergency meeting on Tuesday that the deal between Ethiopia and Somaliland "endangered stability and peace in the region". Also Read | Primrose Hill stabbing case: Police names 16-year-old Harry Pitman as victim "It is a violation and an open interference with Somalia's sovereignty, freedom and unity. ... The so-called a memorandum of understanding and agreement of cooperation is null and void," the statement said. Ethiopia would offer Somaliland a stake in state-owned Ethiopian Airlines in return for giving it access to the Red Sea, Abiy's national security adviser said on Monday, without giving more details. Watch | Israel-Hamas war: Israel signals changes in Gaza war tactics × Billene Seyoum, spokesperson at Abiy's office, Meles Alem, spokesperson at Ethiopia's foreign affairs ministry, and Legesse Tulu, the Ethiopian government spokesperson, did not immediately respond to requests for comment. Somaliland has not gained widespread international recognition, despite declaring autonomy from Somalia in 1991. Somalia says Somaliland is part of its territory. Last week the Somali National News Agency said Somalia and Somaliland had agreed to restart talks to resolve their disputes, following mediation efforts led by Djibouti.

Somalia rejects Ethiopia-Somaliland port deal, summons ambassador

Landlocked Ethiopia signed an initial agreement with Somalia's breakaway region of Somali land giving Ethiopia access to the sea through in the Red Sea Port of Berbera.

The BRICS club of emerging-market countries is expected to double on January 1st when Saudi Arabia, Iran, the United Arab Emirates, Ethiopia, and Egypt join the group.

BRICS to grow as Saudi, Iran, UAE, Egypt, Ethiopia join ranks

The BRICS club of emerging market countries is expected to double on January 1st when Saudi Arabia, Iran, the United Arab Emirates, Ethiopia and Egypt join the group. In August the current members of the group Brazil, Russia, India, China and South Africa invited six other countries to join them.

BRICS group to double in 2024 after Saudi, Iran, UAE, Egypt, Ethiopia join ranks

Ethiopia has become the latest african nation to default, failing to pay a $33 million coupon on its bond by the December 11 deadline. The country joins the ranks of Zambia, Ghana, and Sri Lanka in defaulting on eurobond payments. Ethiopia had recently reached an agreement with bilateral creditors to suspend loan payments, requesting an extension of maturity to January 2032 and a reduced yield of 5.5%.

Ethiopia joins Zambia, Ghana and Sri Lanka in default list | World Business Watch

In pics | Heavy rains, floods wreak havoc in towns across East Africa

At least 29 people were killed and more than 300,000 people were forced to flee their homes after Somalia was hit by one of the worst floods in decades, said the country’s National Disaster Management Agency, on Wednesday (Nov 8). Rainstorms have been hitting Somalia and its neighbouring Kenya and Ethiopia&nbsp;from the beginning of the month, triggering landslides and submerging villages and farms across the countries after they suffered the region’s worst drought in four decades.&nbsp;

<h2>What happened in Somalia?</h2>

“What is going on today is the worst for decades. It is worse than even the 1997 floods,” said Hassan Isse, managing director of the Somali Disaster Management Agency (SOMDA), as quoted by Reuters.&nbsp;

The official also noted that the death toll as well as the number of people displaced is likely to rise further as many people were trapped by floodwaters.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/storm-ciaran-at-least-seven-people-killed-amid-torrential-rains-and-record-winds-654484">Storm Ciaran: At least seven people killed across Europe amid torrential rains and record winds</a>

In addition to the death toll and those displaced at least 850,000 others have been affected, due to the floods, said Mohamed Moalim Abdullahi, chairman of SOMDA, late Tuesday, as per AFP.&nbsp;

At least 2,400 people have been cut off in Luuq town, where the Jubba River burst its banks, said the United Nations. Meanwhile, the UN humanitarian agency OCHA, on Wednesday said rescue efforts were being delayed because roads had been cut.&nbsp;

“Inaccessible roads and stuck vehicles are just some of the challenges aid workers in Somalia are grappling with,” said the UN agency in a post on X, adding that they are “racing against time” to rescue 2,400 people trapped by rising flood waters in Luuq, on the road linking the Somalia-Ethiopia border with Baidoa.&nbsp;

“Luuq is surrounded by the river and floods are threatening us. People keep fleeing out of the town. Some are still trapped. Our shops have been washed away,” said Ahmed Nur, a trader in Luuq, as quoted by Reuters.

<h2>Situation in neighbouring countries</h2>

Since the beginning of this month, at least 15 people have been killed after flash flooding in Kenya, while more than 20 people have died and over 12,000 have been forced from their homes in Ethiopia’s Somali region.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/global-fossil-fuel-production-plans-to-threaten-15-degree-celsius-warming-threshold-un-report-656656">Global fossil fuel production plans threaten 1.5 degree Celsius warming threshold: UN report</a>

Floods in Kenya have also submerged a bridge in Uganda, cutting off a road linking Kampala to oilfields in the northwest, said Kenya Red Cross and Uganda’s road authority.&nbsp;

<h2>El Nino effect</h2>

Countries in the Horn of Africa are considered among the most vulnerable to climate change and are also particularly ill-equipped to cope with the crisis.&nbsp;

This time around, the regional deluge is said to have been caused by the combined effect of two weather phenomena, El Nino and the Indian Ocean Dipole, according to Nazanine Moshiri, a climate analyst at the International Crisis Group.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/greece-at-least-15-killed-after-storm-daniel-brings-most-intense-rainstorms-since-1930-634668">Greece: At least 15 killed after Storm Daniel brings ‘most intense’ rainstorms since 1930</a>

Both El Nino and Indian Ocean Dipole are climate patterns that impact ocean surface temperatures and cause above-average rainfall. Moshiri also noted that the impact of flooding is much worse as the soil was damaged from an “unprecedented recent drought” and “years of conflict.”&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

At least 29 people were killed and more than 300,000 people were forced to flee their homes after Somalia was hit by one of the worst floods in decades, said the country’s National Disaster Management Agency, on Wednesday (Nov 8).

At least 29 people were killed and more than 300,000 people were forced to flee their homes after Somalia was hit by one of the worst floods in decades, said the country’s National Disaster Management Agency, on Wednesday (Nov 8). Rainstorms have been hitting Somalia and its neighbouring Kenya and Ethiopia from the beginning of the month, triggering landslides and submerging villages and farms across the countries after they suffered the region’s worst drought in four decades. What happened in Somalia? “What is going on today is the worst for decades. It is worse than even the 1997 floods,” said Hassan Isse, managing director of the Somali Disaster Management Agency (SOMDA), as quoted by Reuters. The official also noted that the death toll as well as the number of people displaced is likely to rise further as many people were trapped by floodwaters. ALSO READ | Storm Ciaran: At least seven people killed across Europe amid torrential rains and record winds In addition to the death toll and those displaced at least 850,000 others have been affected, due to the floods, said Mohamed Moalim Abdullahi, chairman of SOMDA, late Tuesday, as per AFP. At least 2,400 people have been cut off in Luuq town, where the Jubba River burst its banks, said the United Nations. Meanwhile, the UN humanitarian agency OCHA, on Wednesday said rescue efforts were being delayed because roads had been cut. “Inaccessible roads and stuck vehicles are just some of the challenges aid workers in Somalia are grappling with,” said the UN agency in a post on X, adding that they are “racing against time” to rescue 2,400 people trapped by rising flood waters in Luuq, on the road linking the Somalia-Ethiopia border with Baidoa. “Luuq is surrounded by the river and floods are threatening us. People keep fleeing out of the town. Some are still trapped. Our shops have been washed away,” said Ahmed Nur, a trader in Luuq, as quoted by Reuters. Situation in neighbouring countries Since the beginning of this month, at least 15 people have been killed after flash flooding in Kenya, while more than 20 people have died and over 12,000 have been forced from their homes in Ethiopia’s Somali region. ALSO READ | Global fossil fuel production plans threaten 1.5 degree Celsius warming threshold: UN report Floods in Kenya have also submerged a bridge in Uganda, cutting off a road linking Kampala to oilfields in the northwest, said Kenya Red Cross and Uganda’s road authority. El Nino effect Countries in the Horn of Africa are considered among the most vulnerable to climate change and are also particularly ill-equipped to cope with the crisis. This time around, the regional deluge is said to have been caused by the combined effect of two weather phenomena, El Nino and the Indian Ocean Dipole, according to Nazanine Moshiri, a climate analyst at the International Crisis Group. ALSO READ | Greece: At least 15 killed after Storm Daniel brings ‘most intense’ rainstorms since 1930 Both El Nino and Indian Ocean Dipole are climate patterns that impact ocean surface temperatures and cause above-average rainfall. Moshiri also noted that the impact of flooding is much worse as the soil was damaged from an “unprecedented recent drought” and “years of conflict.” (With inputs from agencies)

Somalia: At least 29 killed, 300,000 displaced after worst floods in decades hit East Africa

Ethiopian orthodox Christians, celebrating the Meskel festival, came together in the capital, Addis Ababa, after most of the faithful skipped last year's festivities due to the pandemic. It is the first big festival of the Ethiopian religious year and marks the finding of the cross that Jesus was crucified on.

Ethiopia's orthodox Christian festival | World Of Africa

Ethiopia on Saturday (September 23) said that it has started a second round of negotiations with Sudan and Egypt over the controversial mega-dam which has been built on the River Nile by Addis Ababa, which has been the reason for long-running tensions between the three countries. 
 
This month, Ethiopia announced that the Grand Renaissance Dam's fourth and final filling was completed, which was immediately condemned by Cairo, as it denounced the step as illegal. 
 
Sudan and Egypt fear that the massive $4.2-billion dam will harshly decrease the share of Nile water they have been receiving and have appealed to Addis Ababa repeatedly to stop filling it till the countries reach an agreement. 
 
After being at loggerheads for years over the issue, Egyptian President Abdel Fattah al-Sisi and Ethiopian Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed in July agreed to finalise a deal within four months, as they resumed the talks in August.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ethiopia-announces-completion-of-filling-of-disputed-nile-dam-634655">Ethiopia announces completion of filling of disputed Nile dam</a>

"The second round of the tripartite negotiation among #Ethiopia, #Egypt, and #Sudan on the... annual operation of the Grand Ethiopian Renaissance Dam (#GERD) has commenced today, September 23, 2023, in Addis Ababa," said Ethiopia's foreign ministry on X, formerly Twitter. 
 
"Ethiopia is committed to reaching a negotiated and amicable solution through the ongoing trilateral process,” he added. 
 
So far, the protracted negotiations over the construction of the dam, which have continued till 2011, have failed to finalise an agreement between Ethiopia and its downstream neighbours.

<h2>Egypt's existential threat?</h2>

The dam has been long viewed by Egypt as an existential threat as the country relies on the River Nile for 97 per cent of its water requirement. 
 
The dam has been central to the development plans of Ethiopia and in February 2022, Addis Ababa said that it started generating electricity for the first time. 
 
The huge hydroelectric dam at its full capacity can generate more than 5,000 megawatts of electricity. The hydroelectric dam is 1.8 kilometres long and 145 metres high. 
 
This will double the production of electricity in Ethiopia to which only half of the 120 million people of the country currently have access.

WATCH |&nbsp;Gravitas: Libya suffers under heavy rain, bursting dams | Who built the faulty dams?

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The stance of Sudan, which is mired currently in a civil war, has fluctuated in the years ahead. 
 
The United Nations stated that Egypt could "run out of water by 2025" and regions of Sudan, where the Darfur conflict was mainly a war over access to water, have become increasingly vulnerable to drought because of climate change.&nbsp;

You can&nbsp;now write for&nbsp;wionews.com&nbsp;and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/content-contribution-registration-form">here</a>.

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Ethiopia on Saturday (September 23) said that it has started a second round of negotiations with Sudan and Egypt over the controversial mega-dam which has been built on the River Nile by Addis Ababa, which has been the reason for long-running tensions between the three countries.

Ethiopia on Saturday (September 23) said that it has started a second round of negotiations with Sudan and Egypt over the controversial mega-dam which has been built on the River Nile by Addis Ababa, which has been the reason for long-running tensions between the three countries. This month, Ethiopia announced that the Grand Renaissance Dam's fourth and final filling was completed, which was immediately condemned by Cairo, as it denounced the step as illegal. Sudan and Egypt fear that the massive $4.2-billion dam will harshly decrease the share of Nile water they have been receiving and have appealed to Addis Ababa repeatedly to stop filling it till the countries reach an agreement. After being at loggerheads for years over the issue, Egyptian President Abdel Fattah al-Sisi and Ethiopian Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed in July agreed to finalise a deal within four months, as they resumed the talks in August. ALSO READ | Ethiopia announces completion of filling of disputed Nile dam "The second round of the tripartite negotiation among #Ethiopia, #Egypt, and #Sudan on the... annual operation of the Grand Ethiopian Renaissance Dam (#GERD) has commenced today, September 23, 2023, in Addis Ababa," said Ethiopia's foreign ministry on X, formerly Twitter. "Ethiopia is committed to reaching a negotiated and amicable solution through the ongoing trilateral process,” he added. So far, the protracted negotiations over the construction of the dam, which have continued till 2011, have failed to finalise an agreement between Ethiopia and its downstream neighbours. Egypt's existential threat? The dam has been long viewed by Egypt as an existential threat as the country relies on the River Nile for 97 per cent of its water requirement. The dam has been central to the development plans of Ethiopia and in February 2022, Addis Ababa said that it started generating electricity for the first time. The huge hydroelectric dam at its full capacity can generate more than 5,000 megawatts of electricity. The hydroelectric dam is 1.8 kilometres long and 145 metres high. This will double the production of electricity in Ethiopia to which only half of the 120 million people of the country currently have access. WATCH | Gravitas: Libya suffers under heavy rain, bursting dams | Who built the faulty dams? The stance of Sudan, which is mired currently in a civil war, has fluctuated in the years ahead. The United Nations stated that Egypt could "run out of water by 2025" and regions of Sudan, where the Darfur conflict was mainly a war over access to water, have become increasingly vulnerable to drought because of climate change. You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Egypt, Ethiopia, Sudan resume talks over controversial Nile dam

In a significant moment of historical restitution, a lock of hair belonging to Prince Alemayehu, a young Ethiopian prince who passed away more than 140 years ago, has been ceremoniously handed over to representatives from Ethiopia in the United Kingdom.

The gesture symbolises a step towards reconciling a complex chapter in history that began in 1868 when British soldiers took the young prince from Ethiopia following the invasion of his father's fortress, Emperor Tewodros II, who subsequently took his own life, reported the BBC.

<h2>The unfortunate fate of prince Alemayehu</h2>

Prince Alemayehu's life took a tragic turn when, at the tender age of seven, he was relocated to London.

This relocation came about due to his orphaned status and the decision of Queen Victoria, who agreed to financially support him.

Captain Tristram Charles Sawyer Speedy, who had accompanied the young prince from Ethiopia, became his guardian during this period. However, the prince's upbringing in Britain was marked by unhappiness, far from his homeland's embrace.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/like-new-zealand-sunak-considering-banning-cigarettes-for-next-generation-638733">Like New Zealand, Sunak considering banning cigarettes for next generation</a>

<h2>Buried at Windsor castle</h2>

Upon his untimely death at the age of 18 in 1879, Prince Alemayehu was laid to rest at Windsor Castle near London. This burial site has been a subject of controversy in recent years, as Ethiopia has persistently requested the repatriation of his remains.

On Friday (September 22), Ethiopia's ambassador to the UK, Teferi Melesse, officially received the lock of hair that once belonged to Prince Alemayehu.

Also watch |&nbsp;UK urges Meta not to roll out end-to-end encryption on Messenger and Instagram

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The hair, along with several other artefacts looted from Emperor Tewodros's Maqdala fortress, was returned.

Ambassador Melesse welcomed this act of restitution, expressing the belief that these cultural treasures would now return to their rightful place, serving as sources of inspiration and education for future generations.

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<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
Extraordinary event at London's <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Athenaeum?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Athenaeum</a> as treasures looted by the British army, Maqdala <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Ethiopia?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Ethiopia</a> 1868 returned by private owners to Ethiopian church + govt. Including a holy tabot &amp; lock of Prince Alamayu's hair. <a href="https://t.co/LxEBSZRyNM">pic.twitter.com/LxEBSZRyNM</a>
— Barnaby Phillips (@BarnabyPhillips) <a href="https://twitter.com/BarnabyPhillips/status/1704962135724327329?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 21, 2023</a></blockquote>
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Despite these calls for repatriation, Buckingham Palace has rebuffed recent demands to exhume the prince's remains, citing concerns about disturbing the catacombs of St George's Chapel in Windsor Castle, where he rests.&nbsp;

&nbsp;

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In a significant moment of historical restitution, a lock of hair belonging to Prince Alemayehu, a young Ethiopian prince who passed away more than 140 years ago, has been ceremoniously handed over to representatives from Ethiopia in the United Kingdom.

In a significant moment of historical restitution, a lock of hair belonging to Prince Alemayehu, a young Ethiopian prince who passed away more than 140 years ago, has been ceremoniously handed over to representatives from Ethiopia in the United Kingdom. The gesture symbolises a step towards reconciling a complex chapter in history that began in 1868 when British soldiers took the young prince from Ethiopia following the invasion of his father's fortress, Emperor Tewodros II, who subsequently took his own life, reported the BBC. The unfortunate fate of prince Alemayehu Prince Alemayehu's life took a tragic turn when, at the tender age of seven, he was relocated to London. This relocation came about due to his orphaned status and the decision of Queen Victoria, who agreed to financially support him. Captain Tristram Charles Sawyer Speedy, who had accompanied the young prince from Ethiopia, became his guardian during this period. However, the prince's upbringing in Britain was marked by unhappiness, far from his homeland's embrace. Also read | Like New Zealand, Sunak considering banning cigarettes for next generation Buried at Windsor castle Upon his untimely death at the age of 18 in 1879, Prince Alemayehu was laid to rest at Windsor Castle near London. This burial site has been a subject of controversy in recent years, as Ethiopia has persistently requested the repatriation of his remains. On Friday (September 22), Ethiopia's ambassador to the UK, Teferi Melesse, officially received the lock of hair that once belonged to Prince Alemayehu. Also watch | UK urges Meta not to roll out end-to-end encryption on Messenger and Instagram The hair, along with several other artefacts looted from Emperor Tewodros's Maqdala fortress, was returned. Ambassador Melesse welcomed this act of restitution, expressing the belief that these cultural treasures would now return to their rightful place, serving as sources of inspiration and education for future generations. Extraordinary event at London's #Athenaeum as treasures looted by the British army, Maqdala #Ethiopia 1868 returned by private owners to Ethiopian church + govt. Including a holy tabot & lock of Prince Alamayu's hair. pic.twitter.com/LxEBSZRyNM — Barnaby Phillips (@BarnabyPhillips) September 21, 2023 × Despite these calls for repatriation, Buckingham Palace has rebuffed recent demands to exhume the prince's remains, citing concerns about disturbing the catacombs of St George's Chapel in Windsor Castle, where he rests. WATCH WON LIVE HERE:

UK returns Ethiopian prince’s lock of hair after 140 years

A US government contractor has been arrested on charges of spying, reportedly for Ethiopia. According to <a href="https://www.justice.gov/opa/pr/us-government-contractor-arrested-espionage-charges">a statement by the US Justice Department </a>on Thursday (September 21), 50-year-old Abraham Teklu Lemma was arrested on August 24 and has been charged with providing national defence information to a foreign government. Lemma is a naturalised US citizen of Ethiopian descent.&nbsp;

"According to the criminal complaint, between on or about Dec. 19, 2022, and Aug. 7, 2023, Lemma copied classified information from intelligence reports and deleted the classification markings from them," the Justice Department statement said.&nbsp;

"Lemma then removed the information, which was classified as SECRET and TOP SECRET, from secure facilities at the Department of State. This material related to a specific country and/or geographic region. Lemma accessed, copied, removed, and retained this information without authorisation," it added.

Charging documents said that Lemma used an encrypted application to transmit classified national defence information to a foreign government official associated with a foreign country’s intelligence service.

In these communications, the 50-year-old expressed an interest and willingness to assist the foreign government official by providing information. In one such communication, the foreign official stated, “[i]t’s time to continue ur support.” Lemma responded, “Roger that!”

The department also said that the classified information that Lemma transferred to the foreign official included satellite imagery and other information regarding military activities in the foreign country and region.

"The two espionage charges carry a potential penalty of death or any term of years up to life in prison, and the willful retention charge carries a maximum penalty of 10 years in prison. A federal judge will determine any sentence based on the US Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors," it further said.&nbsp;

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A US government contractor has been arrested on charges of spying, reportedly for Ethiopia. According to a statement by the US Justice Department on Thursday (September 21), 50-year-old Abraham Teklu Lemma was arrested on August 24 and has been charged with providing national defence information to a foreign government.

A US government contractor has been arrested on charges of spying, reportedly for Ethiopia. According to a statement by the US Justice Department on Thursday (September 21), 50-year-old Abraham Teklu Lemma was arrested on August 24 and has been charged with providing national defence information to a foreign government. Lemma is a naturalised US citizen of Ethiopian descent. "According to the criminal complaint, between on or about Dec. 19, 2022, and Aug. 7, 2023, Lemma copied classified information from intelligence reports and deleted the classification markings from them," the Justice Department statement said. "Lemma then removed the information, which was classified as SECRET and TOP SECRET, from secure facilities at the Department of State. This material related to a specific country and/or geographic region. Lemma accessed, copied, removed, and retained this information without authorisation," it added. Charging documents said that Lemma used an encrypted application to transmit classified national defence information to a foreign government official associated with a foreign country’s intelligence service. In these communications, the 50-year-old expressed an interest and willingness to assist the foreign government official by providing information. In one such communication, the foreign official stated, “[i]t’s time to continue ur support.” Lemma responded, “Roger that!” The department also said that the classified information that Lemma transferred to the foreign official included satellite imagery and other information regarding military activities in the foreign country and region. "The two espionage charges carry a potential penalty of death or any term of years up to life in prison, and the willful retention charge carries a maximum penalty of 10 years in prison. A federal judge will determine any sentence based on the US Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors," it further said. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

US: Govt contractor arrested on charges of spying for Ethiopia

Ethiopia said on Sunday (September 10) that it has filled the Grand Renaissance Dam on the Nile. The dam has been topic of dispute between Ethiopia, Egypt and Sudan.

The announcement from Ethiopia has come just a fortnight after the countries restarted negotiations after a long break. The negotiations are on an agreement over the Nile water that takes into account water needs of all three countries.

Sudan and Egypt fear that the huge USD 4.2 billion dam will drastically reduce their share of water. Both countries have repeatedly asked Ethiopia to stop filling the dam until the three countries reach agreement.

"It is with great pleasure that I announce the successful completion of the fourth and final filling of the Renaissance Dam," Ethiopia Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed said on X, formerly Twitter.&nbsp;

"There was a lot of challenge. We were many times dragged to go backwards. We had an internal challenge and external pressure. We've reached (this stage) by coping together with God," Abiy said. &nbsp;

"I believe that we will finish what we have planned next," he said. &nbsp;

The communication service of the government said on X that the dam, which is the largest dam in Africa, was "a gift to generations”.

"Today's heroic generation will build tomorrow's strong Ethiopia on a solid foundation," it continued. &nbsp;

The huge hydroelectric dam is 1.8 kilometres long and 145 metres high. At full capacity, the dam could generate more than 5000 megawatts.

This would result in doubling of Ethiopia's electricity production. Currently, only half of Ethiopia's population has access to electricity.

There was no immediate reaction from Egypt and Sudan on Ethiopia's announcement.

Ethiopia broke ground on the project in 2011. The dam has been at the centre of regional dispute.

Negotiations between the three countries were in a stalemate for nearly two and a half years. The talks resumed in Cairo on August 27. The talks aim to reach an agreement "takes into account the interests and concerns of the three countries", Egyptian Water Resources and Irrigation Minister Hani Sewilam said at the time.&nbsp;

He called for "an end to unilateral measures".&nbsp;

Egypt is already facing water scarcity. The country views Ethiopia's dam as an existential threat since Egypt relies on Nile for 97 per cent of its water needs.

(With inputs from agencies)

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Ethiopia said on Sunday (September 10) that it has filled the Grand Renaissance Dam on the Nile. The dam has been topic of dispute between Ethiopia, Egypt and Sudan.

Ethiopia said on Sunday (September 10) that it has filled the Grand Renaissance Dam on the Nile. The dam has been topic of dispute between Ethiopia, Egypt and Sudan. The announcement from Ethiopia has come just a fortnight after the countries restarted negotiations after a long break. The negotiations are on an agreement over the Nile water that takes into account water needs of all three countries. Sudan and Egypt fear that the huge USD 4.2 billion dam will drastically reduce their share of water. Both countries have repeatedly asked Ethiopia to stop filling the dam until the three countries reach agreement. "It is with great pleasure that I announce the successful completion of the fourth and final filling of the Renaissance Dam," Ethiopia Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed said on X, formerly Twitter. "There was a lot of challenge. We were many times dragged to go backwards. We had an internal challenge and external pressure. We've reached (this stage) by coping together with God," Abiy said. "I believe that we will finish what we have planned next," he said. The communication service of the government said on X that the dam, which is the largest dam in Africa, was "a gift to generations”. "Today's heroic generation will build tomorrow's strong Ethiopia on a solid foundation," it continued. The huge hydroelectric dam is 1.8 kilometres long and 145 metres high. At full capacity, the dam could generate more than 5000 megawatts. This would result in doubling of Ethiopia's electricity production. Currently, only half of Ethiopia's population has access to electricity. There was no immediate reaction from Egypt and Sudan on Ethiopia's announcement. Ethiopia broke ground on the project in 2011. The dam has been at the centre of regional dispute. Negotiations between the three countries were in a stalemate for nearly two and a half years. The talks resumed in Cairo on August 27. The talks aim to reach an agreement "takes into account the interests and concerns of the three countries", Egyptian Water Resources and Irrigation Minister Hani Sewilam said at the time. He called for "an end to unilateral measures". Egypt is already facing water scarcity. The country views Ethiopia's dam as an existential threat since Egypt relies on Nile for 97 per cent of its water needs. (With inputs from agencies) You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. WATCH WION LIVE HERE ×

Ethiopia announces completion of filling of disputed Nile dam

Ethiopia's Tigray region has come together to celebrate its women. After a hiatus of 2 years, females from the community came together to participate in song and dance traditions. What is Ashenda and how significant is it for women in Ethiopian culture?

Ashenda festival returns in Ethiopia after a 2-year hiatus

After months of deliberations, six new nations have become the new members of the bloc including Iran, Saudi Arabia, Argentina, Ethiopia, Egypt and UAE - this was announced by the host Cyril Ramaphosa in the ongoing BRICS summit 2023.

BRICS: PM Modi chats with Xi Jinping at summit | World News | WION

BRICS gets new members: Bloc invites Iran, Saudi Arabia among others to join | World News | WION

Ethiopia will launch a joint investigation with Saudi Arabia into allegations made by a human rights group that hundreds of migrants from their country were killed by Saudi border guards, said the Ethiopian foreign ministry, on Tuesday (August 22).&nbsp;

This comes a day after a report by Human Rights Watch (HRW) accused the Saudi border guards of mass killings of migrants along the Yemeni border.&nbsp;

<h2>Ethiopia and Saudi Arabia on the HRW report</h2>

A day after the HRW report was published, the Ethiopian foreign ministry released a statement and said, “The Government of Ethiopia will promptly investigate the incident in tandem with Saudi Authorities.” It also went on to emphasise the strong relations between the two governments.

“It is highly advised to exercise utmost restraint from making unnecessary speculations until the investigation is complete,” the statement added. Meanwhile, a Saudi government source who spoke to AFP called the allegations&nbsp;“unfounded”.&nbsp;

“The allegations included in the Human Rights Watch report about Saudi border guards shooting Ethiopians while they were crossing the Saudi-Yemeni border are unfounded and not based on reliable sources,” the anonymous source told the news agency.&nbsp;

<h2>What was the report about?</h2>

The <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/saudi-arabia-undertakes-mass-killings-of-migrants-crossing-border-claims-report-627474">73-page report</a> titled “They Fired On Us Like Rain” has sparked global outrage after its publication by the United States-based rights monitor. The researchers at the institute said it is impossible to know the precise number of migrants killed but gave a ballpark figure of over 650.&nbsp;

The report contains the testimony of&nbsp;migrants who say they were shot at using guns and targeted using explosive weapons as well. The Saudi border guards did not even spare women and children and often took sadistic pleasure in asking migrants what limb they wanted to get shot at, the report claims.&nbsp;

HRW interviewed as many as 42 migrants, including 38 Ethiopians who attempted to cross the Yemen-Saudi border between March 2022 and June 2023. The organisation also analysed over 350 videos and photographs posted on social media and other sources.

<h2>Countries’ response to report</h2>

The European Commission, on Tuesday, said it would raise the report’s findings with the Saudi government and the Houthi authorities in Yemen, and welcomed the joint probe plan.

“We welcome the announcement by the government of Ethiopia, specifically, to investigate the whole issue together with the authorities in Saudi Arabia,” said Commission spokesman Peter Stano.&nbsp;

The United States called on its long-time ally Saudi Arabia for “a thorough and transparent investigation” into the accusations. &nbsp;

The United Nations spokesman Stephane Dujarric called the report “very concerning” and noted that the “serious” allegations will be difficult to verify.

Similarly, the French foreign ministry also urged a transparent probe and said it would raise the issue of human rights in Yemen and Saudi Arabia with the Saudi authorities.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies) 
 
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Ethiopia will launch a joint investigation with Saudi Arabia into allegations made by a human rights group that hundreds of migrants from their country were killed by Saudi border guards, said the Ethiopian foreign ministry, on Tuesday (August 22).

Ethiopia will launch a joint investigation with Saudi Arabia into allegations made by a human rights group that hundreds of migrants from their country were killed by Saudi border guards, said the Ethiopian foreign ministry, on Tuesday (August 22). This comes a day after a report by Human Rights Watch (HRW) accused the Saudi border guards of mass killings of migrants along the Yemeni border. Ethiopia and Saudi Arabia on the HRW report A day after the HRW report was published, the Ethiopian foreign ministry released a statement and said, “The Government of Ethiopia will promptly investigate the incident in tandem with Saudi Authorities.” It also went on to emphasise the strong relations between the two governments. “It is highly advised to exercise utmost restraint from making unnecessary speculations until the investigation is complete,” the statement added. Meanwhile, a Saudi government source who spoke to AFP called the allegations “unfounded”. “The allegations included in the Human Rights Watch report about Saudi border guards shooting Ethiopians while they were crossing the Saudi-Yemeni border are unfounded and not based on reliable sources,” the anonymous source told the news agency. What was the report about? The 73-page report titled “They Fired On Us Like Rain” has sparked global outrage after its publication by the United States-based rights monitor. The researchers at the institute said it is impossible to know the precise number of migrants killed but gave a ballpark figure of over 650. The report contains the testimony of migrants who say they were shot at using guns and targeted using explosive weapons as well. The Saudi border guards did not even spare women and children and often took sadistic pleasure in asking migrants what limb they wanted to get shot at, the report claims. HRW interviewed as many as 42 migrants, including 38 Ethiopians who attempted to cross the Yemen-Saudi border between March 2022 and June 2023. The organisation also analysed over 350 videos and photographs posted on social media and other sources. Countries’ response to report The European Commission, on Tuesday, said it would raise the report’s findings with the Saudi government and the Houthi authorities in Yemen, and welcomed the joint probe plan. “We welcome the announcement by the government of Ethiopia, specifically, to investigate the whole issue together with the authorities in Saudi Arabia,” said Commission spokesman Peter Stano. The United States called on its long-time ally Saudi Arabia for “a thorough and transparent investigation” into the accusations. The United Nations spokesman Stephane Dujarric called the report “very concerning” and noted that the “serious” allegations will be difficult to verify. Similarly, the French foreign ministry also urged a transparent probe and said it would raise the issue of human rights in Yemen and Saudi Arabia with the Saudi authorities. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Ethiopia to investigate alleged migrant killings 'in tandem' with Saudi Arabia

A new report by Human Rights Watch (HRW) has accused the Saudi border guards of undertaking mass killings of migrants along the Yemeni border. The report claims that hundreds of migrants, the majority of them being Ethiopians, were gunned down while attempting to cross war-torn Yemen to reach Saudi Arabia.&nbsp;

The 73-page report titled "They Fired On Us Like Rain" contains the testimony of the migrants who say they were shot at using guns and targeted using explosive weapons as well. The&nbsp;Saudi border guards did not even spare women and children and often took sadistic pleasure&nbsp;in asking migrants, what limb they wanted to get shot at, the report claims.&nbsp;

To publish the report, HRW interviewed as many as 42 migrants, including 38 Ethiopians who attempted to cross the Yemen-Saudi border between&nbsp;March 2022 and June 2023. The organisation also analysed over 350 videos and photographs posted on social media and other sources.

“I saw people killed in a way I have never imagined,” Hamdiya.&nbsp;I saw 30 killed people on the spot,"&nbsp;Hamdiya, a 14-year-old girl who crossed the border, told the researchers.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Notably, the deadly attacks on Ethiopians continue despite over&nbsp;750,000 of them living and working in Saudi Arabia. While a significant portion of Ethiopians migrate for&nbsp;economic reasons, a number of them have fled because of serious human rights abuses in the country, including during the recent, brutal armed conflict in the north.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/opinions-blogs/war-in-yemen-may-be-over-peace-still-needs-to-be-won-587069">Also read |&nbsp;War in Yemen may be over, peace still needs to be won</a>

<h2>Never seen such violence: Researchers&nbsp;</h2>

The researchers at the institute said it is impossible to know the precise number of migrants killed but gave a ballpark figure of over 650.&nbsp;

“Spending billions buying up professional golf, football clubs, and major entertainment events to improve the Saudi image should not deflect attention from these horrendous crimes,"&nbsp;said Nadia Hardman, refugee and migrant rights researcher at the institute.&nbsp;

“I cover violence at borders, but I have never come across something of this nature, the use of explosive weapons including against women and children,” she added.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/migration-through-panamas-perilous-darien-gap-hits-all-time-high-627095">Watch |&nbsp;Migration through Panama's perilous Darien Gap hits all-time high</a>

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<h2>Report matches the UN version</h2>

The report corroborates the letter written by the&nbsp;UN Special Rapporteurs to the Saudi government last year. The letter alleged the killing of hundreds of migrants during a period of four months in 2022.&nbsp;&nbsp;

"We have received concerning allegations of cross-border artillery shelling and small arms fire allegedly by Saudi security forces causing the deaths of up to 430 and injuring 650 migrants, including refugees and asylum seekers, in Sa'dah governorate, Yemen, and Jizan province, Saudi Arabia, between 1 January and 30 April 2022," read the letter.&nbsp;

At the time, the Saudi government said it took the allegations seriously but strongly rejected them.&nbsp;

"Based on the limited information provided, authorities within the Kingdom have discovered no information or evidence to confirm or substantiate the allegations," the kingdom said.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

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A new report by Human Rights Watch (HRW) has accused the Saudi border guards of undertaking mass killings of migrants along the Yemeni border. The report claims that hundreds of migrants, the majority of them being Ethiopians, were gunned down while attempting to cross war-torn Yemen to reach Saudi Arabia.

A new report by Human Rights Watch (HRW) has accused the Saudi border guards of undertaking mass killings of migrants along the Yemeni border. The report claims that hundreds of migrants, the majority of them being Ethiopians, were gunned down while attempting to cross war-torn Yemen to reach Saudi Arabia. The 73-page report titled "They Fired On Us Like Rain" contains the testimony of the migrants who say they were shot at using guns and targeted using explosive weapons as well. The Saudi border guards did not even spare women and children and often took sadistic pleasure in asking migrants, what limb they wanted to get shot at, the report claims. To publish the report, HRW interviewed as many as 42 migrants, including 38 Ethiopians who attempted to cross the Yemen-Saudi border between March 2022 and June 2023. The organisation also analysed over 350 videos and photographs posted on social media and other sources. “I saw people killed in a way I have never imagined,” Hamdiya. I saw 30 killed people on the spot," Hamdiya, a 14-year-old girl who crossed the border, told the researchers. Notably, the deadly attacks on Ethiopians continue despite over 750,000 of them living and working in Saudi Arabia. While a significant portion of Ethiopians migrate for economic reasons, a number of them have fled because of serious human rights abuses in the country, including during the recent, brutal armed conflict in the north. Also read | War in Yemen may be over, peace still needs to be won Never seen such violence: Researchers The researchers at the institute said it is impossible to know the precise number of migrants killed but gave a ballpark figure of over 650. “Spending billions buying up professional golf, football clubs, and major entertainment events to improve the Saudi image should not deflect attention from these horrendous crimes," said Nadia Hardman, refugee and migrant rights researcher at the institute. “I cover violence at borders, but I have never come across something of this nature, the use of explosive weapons including against women and children,” she added. Watch | Migration through Panama's perilous Darien Gap hits all-time high × Report matches the UN version The report corroborates the letter written by the UN Special Rapporteurs to the Saudi government last year. The letter alleged the killing of hundreds of migrants during a period of four months in 2022. "We have received concerning allegations of cross-border artillery shelling and small arms fire allegedly by Saudi security forces causing the deaths of up to 430 and injuring 650 migrants, including refugees and asylum seekers, in Sa'dah governorate, Yemen, and Jizan province, Saudi Arabia, between 1 January and 30 April 2022," read the letter. At the time, the Saudi government said it took the allegations seriously but strongly rejected them. "Based on the limited information provided, authorities within the Kingdom have discovered no information or evidence to confirm or substantiate the allegations," the kingdom said. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Hundreds of migrants crossing border killed by Saudi Arabia, claims report

In Ethiopia's Amhara region, an airstrike has killed at least 26 people, while more than 50&nbsp;are estimated to be wounded in the attack. The attack that occurred on Sunday morning (August 13th) in Finote Selam, a town in Amhara’s West Gojjam zone, is the latest instance of violence in Ethiopia's second-biggest state.

<h2>The deadliest single episode</h2>

Talking to The Guardian, hospital officials said that 26 people have died. They also shared a tally of people injured in the attack that, as per the report, is one of the deadliest single episodes since August — when violence erupted in the region.

Residents of the area told the Guardian that the attack was targeted at members of the Fano ethnic militia, who were gathered in the town's centre. However, in the process, many bystanders were hurt. As of now, it is unclear how many of the victims are civilians.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russia-claims-it-scrambled-mig-29-to-thwart-norways-attempt-of-potential-border-breach-625446">Russia claims it scrambled MiG-29 to thwart Norway's attempt of potential border breach</a>

"22 bodies were brought to the hospital, while four others who were critically injured died soon after arriving in the hospital," in Finote Selam, said a hospital official while talking to AFP.

"We've so far received 55 injured patients, out of which more than 40 are gravely injured,"&nbsp;added the hospital official, speaking anonymously over safety concerns.

A resident told the news agency that he had "helped in the burial of bodies of 30 victims,"&nbsp;and that&nbsp;he saw "a medium-sized freight vehicle had been completely destroyed in an air strike with dead bodies strewn around the vehicle".

<h2>Fano militia</h2>

There are worries that Northern Ethiopia may be on the brink of war. This comes as the Fano militia has seized control of several towns across Amhara, where the Monday attack happened.

According to the Guardian report, the militia has been breaking out prison inmates, trashing government offices and looting weapons from police stations.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/latvian-pm-krisjanis-karins-announces-resignation-amid-coalition-struggles-625363">Latvian PM Krisjanis Karins announces resignation amid coalition struggles</a>

Responding to the Fano militia activities, authorities have shut off the internet and declared a state of emergency. On Wednesday, the authorities claimed they have taken back control of Amhara's towns. They also said that services would soon resume. However, as per the reports, observers have voiced fears that the militia may be planning a guerrilla campaign. There are reports of tanks rolling through major towns, including Bahir Dar, the regional capital, and the use of artillery in civilian neighbourhoods.

(With inputs from agencies)

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In Ethiopia's Amhara region, an airstrike has killed at least 26 people, while more than 50 are estimated to be wounded in the attack. The attack that occurred on Sunday morning (August 13th) in Finote Selam, a town in Amhara’s West Gojjam zone, is the latest instance of violence in Ethiopia's second-biggest state.

In Ethiopia's Amhara region, an airstrike has killed at least 26 people, while more than 50 are estimated to be wounded in the attack. The attack that occurred on Sunday morning (August 13th) in Finote Selam, a town in Amhara’s West Gojjam zone, is the latest instance of violence in Ethiopia's second-biggest state. The deadliest single episode Talking to The Guardian, hospital officials said that 26 people have died. They also shared a tally of people injured in the attack that, as per the report, is one of the deadliest single episodes since August — when violence erupted in the region. Residents of the area told the Guardian that the attack was targeted at members of the Fano ethnic militia, who were gathered in the town's centre. However, in the process, many bystanders were hurt. As of now, it is unclear how many of the victims are civilians. Also read | Russia claims it scrambled MiG-29 to thwart Norway's attempt of potential border breach "22 bodies were brought to the hospital, while four others who were critically injured died soon after arriving in the hospital," in Finote Selam, said a hospital official while talking to AFP. "We've so far received 55 injured patients, out of which more than 40 are gravely injured," added the hospital official, speaking anonymously over safety concerns. A resident told the news agency that he had "helped in the burial of bodies of 30 victims," and that he saw "a medium-sized freight vehicle had been completely destroyed in an air strike with dead bodies strewn around the vehicle". Fano militia There are worries that Northern Ethiopia may be on the brink of war. This comes as the Fano militia has seized control of several towns across Amhara, where the Monday attack happened. According to the Guardian report, the militia has been breaking out prison inmates, trashing government offices and looting weapons from police stations. Also read | Latvian PM Krisjanis Karins announces resignation amid coalition struggles Responding to the Fano militia activities, authorities have shut off the internet and declared a state of emergency. On Wednesday, the authorities claimed they have taken back control of Amhara's towns. They also said that services would soon resume. However, as per the reports, observers have voiced fears that the militia may be planning a guerrilla campaign. There are reports of tanks rolling through major towns, including Bahir Dar, the regional capital, and the use of artillery in civilian neighbourhoods. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Airstrike in Ethiopia's Amhara kills 26, 'gravely' injures more than 50 people

Ethiopia is scrambling under a crisis stemming from power struggle in several regions of the country, especially Amhara. The nation stares at uncertainty as it declares a 6-month emergency in Amhara over growing militia influence and frequent spurts of violence. Is Ethiopia spiralling into a much bigger security crisis?

Ethiopia declares emergency in Amhara region

The Ethiopian government on Friday (August 4) declared a six-month state of emergency in the Amhara region following clashes between the country's military and local Fano militiamen.

The Ethiopian government on Friday (August 4) declared a six-month state of emergency in the Amhara region following clashes between the country's military and local Fano militiamen. In a statement, Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed's office said, "It was found necessary to declare a state of emergency as it had become difficult to control this outrageous activity based on the regular legal system." Fighting has been going on for several days between the military and the Fano militia. Fano fighters backed the military during a two-year civil war in the neighbouring Tigray region that ended last November, but a simmering feud in recent months has burst into the open this week. On Thursday, the region's government asked federal authorities to take appropriate measures in response to the intensifying clashes. What powers does govt have during emergency period? According to a report by the news agency Reuters late Friday, the six-month emergency allows the Ethiopian government to impose curfews, restrict movement, and ban public gatherings. The government also has the power to ban the carrying of guns and other sharp objects, make arrests and conduct searches without warrants. In a statement posted on X, formerly called Twitter, the government communication service said that the government could also close or limit the movements of media outlets it deems to be operating contrary to the emergency orders. For now, the emergency order is only for Amhara but could be imposed in other areas if needed. Intense fighting reported near university, mobile internet suspended Two residents of Amhara's second-biggest city, Gondar said on Friday that intense fighting took place the previous day near the university. Speaking to Reuters, one of the residents said, "ENDF ( Ethiopian National Defence Force) first controlled the university, but they were pushed back by Fano. They were trying to advance to the centre of the city, but they couldn't." The second resident, who is also a local official, said the military pulled back from the university but did not say why. Education Minister Berhanu Nega told a news conference that 16,000 students in Gondar were unable to do their leaving exams on Thursday. A member from the Fano militia, meanwhile, said the militiamen were trying to encircle Amhara's capital Bahir Dar, adding they had captured Merawi, a town 30 kilometres south of Bahir Dar. Mobile internet was also suspended in Gondar. Meanwhile, Ethiopian Airlines cancelled flights to three of the four airports it flies to in Amhara, an airline spokesperson said. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Ethiopia: Govt declares six-month state of emergency in Amhara following clashes

The Ethiopian government, on Friday (August 4), declared a state of emergency after clashes in the country’s Amhara region. The decision by the country’s Council of Ministers comes as regional authorities pleaded for help as clashes intensified between regional forces and the military over the last few days.&nbsp;

<h2>About the state of emergency</h2>

Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed’s office released a statement that said, “It was found necessary to declare a state of emergency as it had become difficult to control this outrageous activity based on the regular legal system.”&nbsp;

However, it did not mention if the restriction applied only in Amhara or across the country. “The threat the activity is imposing on national security and public peace is increasing day by day,” the declaration added, noting severe economic damage as well and blaming “armed extremist groups.”

In line with the declaration, the Ethiopian government has banned public gatherings, allowed them to make arrests without warrants, and imposed curfews.&nbsp;

<h2>What happened in Ethiopia’s Amhara region?</h2>

Earlier this week, fighting broke out across Ethiopia’s second most populous region prompting the regional government on Thursday to request additional help from federal authorities to reimpose order.&nbsp;

In a letter to the Ethiopian PM, regional authorities asked the government to take “appropriate measures” as the disturbances are “causing serious economic, social and humanitarian damage”.

On Tuesday and Wednesday, clashes erupted between the Fano, a part-time militia with no formal command structure, and the Ethiopian National Defense Force (ENDF) near Debre Tabor, which has turned into a security crisis. The clashes, earlier this week were confirmed by a doctor at a hospital in the town as well as a police officer, who spoke to Reuters on the condition of anonymity.

Notably, Fano which also draws volunteers from the local population was once a key ally of the ENDF during the Tigray war but the relationship has recently soured amid efforts of the federal authorities to weaken regional paramilitary groups.&nbsp;

The region has been gripped by instability since April after the government moved to disarm Amhara’s security forces following the end of the two-year civil war in the neighbouring Tigray. Authorities have also previously tried to dismantle the informal Amhara militia.&nbsp;

According to media reports, residents have reported fighting across the region as militia members attacked army units and protesters blocked roads. In light of recent violence, flights to the popular tourist towns of Lalibela and Gondar, have been suspended.&nbsp;

Residents said that the internet access in the region has been down. Ethiopian Airlines had cancelled flights to three of the four airports it flies to in Amhara, as per Reuters. The media report citing two residents also reported intense fighting between Fano and ENDF in Gondar.&nbsp;

“ENDF first controlled the university, but they were pushed back by Fano. They were trying to advance to the centre of the city, but they couldn’t,” a resident told Reuters.&nbsp;

Similarly, a Fano member also told the news agency that the militiamen were trying to encircle Amhara’s capital Bahir Dar and had captured Merawi, a town 30 kilometres south of the regional capital.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp; 
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The Ethiopian government, on Friday (August 4), declared a state of emergency after clashes in the country’s Amhara region. The decision by the country’s Council of Ministers comes as regional authorities pleaded for help as clashes intensified between regional forces and the military over the last few days.

The Ethiopian government, on Friday (August 4), declared a state of emergency after clashes in the country’s Amhara region. The decision by the country’s Council of Ministers comes as regional authorities pleaded for help as clashes intensified between regional forces and the military over the last few days. About the state of emergency Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed’s office released a statement that said, “It was found necessary to declare a state of emergency as it had become difficult to control this outrageous activity based on the regular legal system.” However, it did not mention if the restriction applied only in Amhara or across the country. “The threat the activity is imposing on national security and public peace is increasing day by day,” the declaration added, noting severe economic damage as well and blaming “armed extremist groups.” In line with the declaration, the Ethiopian government has banned public gatherings, allowed them to make arrests without warrants, and imposed curfews. What happened in Ethiopia’s Amhara region? Earlier this week, fighting broke out across Ethiopia’s second most populous region prompting the regional government on Thursday to request additional help from federal authorities to reimpose order. In a letter to the Ethiopian PM, regional authorities asked the government to take “appropriate measures” as the disturbances are “causing serious economic, social and humanitarian damage”. On Tuesday and Wednesday, clashes erupted between the Fano, a part-time militia with no formal command structure, and the Ethiopian National Defense Force (ENDF) near Debre Tabor, which has turned into a security crisis. The clashes, earlier this week were confirmed by a doctor at a hospital in the town as well as a police officer, who spoke to Reuters on the condition of anonymity. Notably, Fano which also draws volunteers from the local population was once a key ally of the ENDF during the Tigray war but the relationship has recently soured amid efforts of the federal authorities to weaken regional paramilitary groups. The region has been gripped by instability since April after the government moved to disarm Amhara’s security forces following the end of the two-year civil war in the neighbouring Tigray. Authorities have also previously tried to dismantle the informal Amhara militia. According to media reports, residents have reported fighting across the region as militia members attacked army units and protesters blocked roads. In light of recent violence, flights to the popular tourist towns of Lalibela and Gondar, have been suspended. Residents said that the internet access in the region has been down. Ethiopian Airlines had cancelled flights to three of the four airports it flies to in Amhara, as per Reuters. The media report citing two residents also reported intense fighting between Fano and ENDF in Gondar. “ENDF first controlled the university, but they were pushed back by Fano. They were trying to advance to the centre of the city, but they couldn’t,” a resident told Reuters. Similarly, a Fano member also told the news agency that the militiamen were trying to encircle Amhara’s capital Bahir Dar and had captured Merawi, a town 30 kilometres south of the regional capital. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Ethiopia declares state of emergency after clashes in Amhara region

The U.S. Agency for International Development (USAID) said on Thursday it was suspending food aid to Ethiopia because its donations were being diverted from people in need.

A spokesperson said in a statement that USAID had determined, in coordination with the Ethiopian government, that a "widespread and coordinated campaign is diverting food assistance from the people of Ethiopia".

The statement did not say who was behind the campaign.

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The United States is by far the largest humanitarian donor to Ethiopia, where more than 20 million people need food aid, most of them due to drought and a recently-concluded war in the northern Tigray region.

According to an internal briefing by a group of foreign donors to Ethiopia seen by Reuters, USAID believes the food has been diverted to Ethiopian military units.

"The scheme appears to be orchestrated by federal and regional government entities, with military units across the country benefiting from humanitarian assistance," said the document from the Humanitarian and Resilience Donor Group (HRDG), which includes USAID.

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Spokespeople for the Ethiopian government and military did not immediately respond to requests for comment. USAID declined to comment on the report.

U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken discussed the issue on Thursday with Ethiopian Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Demeke Mekonnen on the margins of a conference in Saudi Arabia.

The State Department said afterwards that Blinken welcomed a commitment by Ethiopia's government to work with the United States to conduct a full investigation.

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The USAID spokesperson said the agency intended to resume food assistance as soon as it was confident in the integrity of the system.

USAID and the U.N. World Food Programme (WFP) had already suspended food aid to the northern Ethiopian region of Tigray last month in response to information that large amounts of aid there were being diverted.

A two-year war in Tigray between the federal government and forces led by the region's dominant political party ended in a truce in November after killing tens of thousands of people and creating famine-like conditions for hundreds of thousands.

In the 2022 fiscal year, USAID disbursed nearly $1.5 billion in humanitarian assistance to Ethiopia, most of it food aid.

The HRDG briefing document, which was circulated among donors on Wednesday, recommended that Ethiopia's government allow donors to deliver aid through "alternative modalities" like cash transfers.

It also urged donors to call on Ethiopia's government to make a public statement condemning the diversion and demanding that aid workers not be harassed.

Ethiopia's food crisis has deepened in recent years as a result of the war in Tigray and the Horn of Africa's worst drought in decades.

WFP is also investigating "systemic" food diversion across Ethiopia, according to an email sent last week by the agency's deputy director to staff in Ethiopia.

A WFP spokesperson did not immediately respond to a request for comment.

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The U.S. Agency for International Development (USAID) said on Thursday it was suspending food aid to Ethiopia because its donations were being diverted from people in need.

The U.S. Agency for International Development (USAID) said on Thursday it was suspending food aid to Ethiopia because its donations were being diverted from people in need. A spokesperson said in a statement that USAID had determined, in coordination with the Ethiopian government, that a "widespread and coordinated campaign is diverting food assistance from the people of Ethiopia". The statement did not say who was behind the campaign. Also Read | AI 'nuclear weapon of software': WION speaks to DeepAI founder Kevin Baragona The United States is by far the largest humanitarian donor to Ethiopia, where more than 20 million people need food aid, most of them due to drought and a recently-concluded war in the northern Tigray region. According to an internal briefing by a group of foreign donors to Ethiopia seen by Reuters, USAID believes the food has been diverted to Ethiopian military units. "The scheme appears to be orchestrated by federal and regional government entities, with military units across the country benefiting from humanitarian assistance," said the document from the Humanitarian and Resilience Donor Group (HRDG), which includes USAID. Also Read | Anti-gay protests in Los Angeles after school votes on recognizing June as Pride month Spokespeople for the Ethiopian government and military did not immediately respond to requests for comment. USAID declined to comment on the report. U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken discussed the issue on Thursday with Ethiopian Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Demeke Mekonnen on the margins of a conference in Saudi Arabia. The State Department said afterwards that Blinken welcomed a commitment by Ethiopia's government to work with the United States to conduct a full investigation. Watch | CNN Chairman and CEO Chris Licht quits × The USAID spokesperson said the agency intended to resume food assistance as soon as it was confident in the integrity of the system. USAID and the U.N. World Food Programme (WFP) had already suspended food aid to the northern Ethiopian region of Tigray last month in response to information that large amounts of aid there were being diverted. A two-year war in Tigray between the federal government and forces led by the region's dominant political party ended in a truce in November after killing tens of thousands of people and creating famine-like conditions for hundreds of thousands. In the 2022 fiscal year, USAID disbursed nearly $1.5 billion in humanitarian assistance to Ethiopia, most of it food aid. The HRDG briefing document, which was circulated among donors on Wednesday, recommended that Ethiopia's government allow donors to deliver aid through "alternative modalities" like cash transfers. It also urged donors to call on Ethiopia's government to make a public statement condemning the diversion and demanding that aid workers not be harassed. Ethiopia's food crisis has deepened in recent years as a result of the war in Tigray and the Horn of Africa's worst drought in decades. WFP is also investigating "systemic" food diversion across Ethiopia, according to an email sent last week by the agency's deputy director to staff in Ethiopia. A WFP spokesperson did not immediately respond to a request for comment. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. ×

US suspends food aid to Ethiopia, says it's not reaching needy

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