Africa Cyber Media

13/01/2026

Ethio Israel Political Consultations Advance Cooperation in Trade Technology and Development

5 Jan 2025

Ethiopia and Israel on Tuesday concluded the fourth round of political consultations in Jerusalem, reaffirming their commitment to deepen cooperation across development, trade, technology, and regional engagement.

The Ethiopian delegation was led by State Minister of Foreign Affairs Ambassador Hadera Abera.

Discussions covered bilateral, regional, and multilateral issues of mutual interest, with a strong focus on development cooperation, trade and investment, technology transfer, water conservation, people to people relations, training, and capacity building.

During the consultations, the Israeli side commended Ethiopia’s recent achievements in corridor development in Addis Ababa and other cities, describing them as a positive signal of the country’s broader development trajectory.

Both sides emphasized Ethiopia’s strategic importance in the region and agreed to expand development cooperation, enhance trade and investment, and better leverage their comparative advantages.

The two countries also agreed to maintain regular political dialogue and to explore the possibility of joint ministerial consultations. Preserving strong people to people ties was highlighted as a shared priority, including the protection of common historical heritage.

Ethiopia and Israel maintain longstanding relations grounded in mutual respect and close people to people connections.

Over the years, this relationship has grown into a broad partnership that includes sustained political dialogue, security cooperation, expanding trade and investment links, and collaboration in technology and innovation.

13/01/2026

Somalia Ends Pact as UAE Begins Military Withdrawal
from Somalia

5 Jan 2025

The United Arab Emirates has begun withdrawing its military personnel and equipment from Bosaso after Somalia revoked an agreement granting the Emiratis access to key air and port facilities, officials and witnesses say, marking a sharp escalation in tensions amid wider Red Sea rivalries.
In Bosaso, residents describe the constant roar of heavy aircraft striking the tarmac day and night, a sound that has become more intense in recent days as evacuation flights accelerate. According to flight tracking data and two eyewitnesses, an average of six IL 76 cargo aircraft have landed and departed daily, a pace one observer likened to a rushed pullout.

“Unlike previous operations, where incoming cargo would be immediately transferred to another aircraft on standby, these planes have been arriving over several days, loaded with heavy military equipment, and departed without delay,” a source at Bosaso airbase told Middle East Eye, calling the activity “highly unusual.”

Videos shared by residents on social media show repeated arrivals and departures of large cargo planes, underscoring the scale and urgency of the operation.

The withdrawal follows a decision by Somalia’s federal government to revoke permissions for the UAE to use Bosaso airbase and other facilities. A government source said the move came after the Emiratis were accused of secretly facilitating the escape of a Yemeni separatist wanted by Saudi Arabia, triggering anger in Mogadishu.

The development also casts new light on earlier reporting. In October, Middle East Eye revealed that the UAE had used Bosaso’s port and airport as a supply route to support Sudan’s Rapid Support Forces.

The investigation documented the movement of Colombian mercenaries, regular transport flights and cargo labelled “hazardous,” describing what it said was a covert operation that fueled RSF atrocities in Sudan.

With Somalia now terminating the arrangement, the sud

13/01/2026

Starbucks Seeks to Scale Up Ethiopian Coffee Presence Worldwide

5 Jan 2025

The Ethiopian government and Starbucks have begun discussions aimed at expanding the reach of Ethiopian coffee across global markets, reaffirming a long standing partnership anchored in quality and sustainability.

Minister of Agriculture Addisu Arega met with Starbucks Vice President Roberto Vega Alonso to explore ways of strengthening cooperation, with particular focus on increasing the share of Ethiopian specialty coffee used in Starbucks products worldwide.

The talks emphasized securing a reliable and sustainable supply of high quality Ethiopian coffee while creating greater value for farmers and the national coffee sector.

Both sides underscored the importance of deepening collaboration along the coffee value chain to meet rising global demand for premium origins.

Ethiopia, recognized as the birthplace of coffee, remains one of Starbucks’ key partners, supplying distinctive varieties prized for their flavor profiles and heritage.

The latest engagement reflects shared interest in expanding market access and elevating Ethiopian coffee’s visibility on the global stage.

13/01/2026

Ethiopia’s Immigration and Citizenship Service Sees Major Reforms, PM Abiy Says

5 Jan 2025

Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed says Ethiopia’s Immigration and Citizenship Service has undergone far-reaching reforms aimed at closing long-standing service delivery gaps and modernizing institutional operations.

The Prime Minister made the remarks after visiting the institution on Monday to review progress in service delivery systems and infrastructure development.
In a statement shared on social media, PM Abiy said the service is now operating through technology-driven and fully digitized platforms.

“At present, the institution is providing services supported by modern technology and fully digitized, including passport, visa, Ethiopian origin ID, entry and travel documents, services for foreign nationals, as well as air and land border control services, along with other related services,” the Prime Minister stated.

He noted that the ongoing modernization efforts are designed to improve efficiency, enhance customer experience, and increase overall satisfaction among citizens and service users.

13/01/2026

Somalia Ends Security and Defense Agreements with UAE

5 Jan 2025

Somalia has formally terminated all bilateral security and defense agreements with the United Arab Emirates, a cabinet decision that officials say is aimed at protecting national sovereignty and the constitutional order.

The Council of Ministers of the Federal Republic of Somalia announced that all existing security and defense arrangements with the UAE are now void. In a resolution issued after a cabinet meeting, the government said the move was taken “to safeguard the unity, territorial integrity, and constitutional order of the Federal Republic of Somalia.”
The resolution states that all previous security and defense agreements and understandings with the UAE are considered null and void with immediate effect.

The decision coincides with reports of an Emirati military drawdown in Somalia. Middle East Eye reported that the UAE has begun withdrawing its forces from Bosaso, removing military hardware and personnel from several bases following Somalia’s move to end the agreements.

According to the report, the withdrawal is linked to rising regional tensions, noting that it comes amid intensifying Saudi UAE rivalry in the Red Sea region.

11/01/2026

AU and China Launch 2026 Year of People to People Exchanges at Addis Ababa Headquarters
The African Union and the People’s Republic of China on Monday officially launched the “2026 China Africa Year of People to People Exchanges” at the AU Headquarters in Addis Ababa, opening a new chapter in bilateral relations as the two sides mark 70 years of diplomatic ties.
The launch ceremony, held at the AU Multi Purpose Hall, brought together senior officials and diplomats who described the initiative as a shift toward deeper human and cultural engagement beyond state to state cooperation. Organizers said the program is designed to strengthen intellectual, cultural and social links among the combined 2.8 billion people of Africa and China.
According to the program outline, the “2026 China Africa Year of People to People Exchanges” will expand scholarship opportunities, simplify cultural exchange visa procedures and pilot a fast track business travel corridor for African entrepreneurs participating in trade fairs and investment events in China.
In his opening address, President Taye Atske Selassie highlighted shared philosophical foundations between Africa and China, pointing to African human centered values such as “Ubuntu” and their resonance with Confucian principles that emphasize social harmony and empathy.
Officials from both sides said the initiative reflects a long term commitment to mutual learning and people driven cooperation, building on seven decades of diplomatic relations and laying the groundwork for closer societal ties in the years ahead.

10/01/2026

PM Abiy Launches Bishoftu Airport Project as OLF Raises Displacement, Equity Concerns
Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed on Saturday laid the foundation stone for the Bishoftu International Airport, a flagship project set to become Africa’s largest aviation hub, even as the Oromo Liberation Front described the initiative as an extension of the rejected 2014 “Master Plan” and demanded ownership rights for displaced farmers.
The ceremony, held in Abbuu Seeraa near Bishoftu, brought together Deputy Prime Minister Temesgen Tiruneh, Oromia Regional President Shimelis Abdisa, and Ethiopian Airlines Group Chief Executive Officer Mesfin Tasew.
Addressing the gathering, Prime Minister Abiy said the airport would serve as a “mega station” at the heart of Ethiopia’s long term aviation and industrial development strategy. He noted that the facility is designed to handle up to 110 million passengers annually, a capacity that would surpass any existing airport on the continent.
The Oromo Liberation Front, however, issued a sharp statement condemning the project, calling it a humanitarian crisis that is being implemented “at the cost of the indigenous Oromo population.” The party claimed the airport plan revives the 2014 “Master Plan,” which previously faced widespread public opposition.
According to the OLF, a “campaign style” displacement has taken place over the past month, with thousands of farmers allegedly forced from their ancestral lands “without harvesting crops, moving property, or even selling livestock.” The party said displaced residents are being relocated to Dhibaayyuu, on the outskirts of Bishoftu.
The opposition group also questioned the adequacy of the government’s reported 17 billion birr resettlement budget and called for affected farmers to receive permanent equity stakes in the airport project as compensation for their land.
The government has yet to publicly respond to the specific allegations raised by the OLF.

10/01/2026

Ethiopia, Kenya to Lead East Africa’s Economic Growth in 2026: UN Report
Ethiopia and Kenya are expected to anchor East Africa’s economic expansion in 2026 as the sub region records the fastest growth rate on the African continent, according to the United Nations World Economic Situation and Prospects 2026 report.
The UN projects East Africa’s economy to grow by 5.8 percent in 2026, rising from 5.4 percent in 2025 and outpacing all other African sub regions. The report describes East Africa as the “fastest growing sub region in Africa,” citing strong momentum in Ethiopia and Kenya.
According to the UN, the growth outlook is underpinned by regional integration efforts and the expansion of renewable energy projects. “Economic prospects in East Africa are supported by deeper regional cooperation and continued investment in renewable energy,” the report states.
Reporting on the findings, Nairobi based daily newspaper The Star noted that Africa’s overall economic growth is projected to increase to four percent in 2026 and 4.1 percent in 2027, up from 3.5 percent in 2024 and 3.9 percent in 2025. The improvement reflects what the UN described as “gradual gains in macroeconomic stability” across several major economies, including those in East Africa.
Despite the positive outlook, the United Nations warned that structural challenges continue to weigh on inclusive and sustainable growth. High debt servicing costs, constrained fiscal space, and persistent food inflation remain major risks across the continent, including in Ethiopia and Kenya.

10/01/2026

27/02/2025

TPLF denounces allegation of Communicating with Eritrea
====================
The Tigray People's Liberation Front (TPLF) has reiterated its commitment to the Pretoria Agreement, denying any hidden agendas and accusing unnamed actors of spreading misinformation.

In a statement, the TPLF asserted that it has consistently upheld the peace agreement despite facing "injustices," "internal and external conspiracies," and ongoing challenges.

The TPLF emphasized its dedication to peace with neighboring regions and countries, stating its position "will not change." It urged all parties to prioritize the Pretoria Agreement as a solution to regional and national issues.

This statement comes amid reports of internal divisions within the TPLF, specifically between factions led by Debretsion Gebremichael and Interim Administration President Getachew Reda. These divisions have reportedly led to alignments within the Tigray military forces, raising concerns about potential instability.

Adding to these concerns, former Ethiopian President Mulatu Teshome has accused Eritrean President Isaias Afwerki of attempting to exploit these internal TPLF divisions to undermine the Pretoria Agreement. In an opinion piece published by Al Jazeera on February 17, Mulatu alleged that Isaias is collaborating with TPLF elements dissatisfied with the agreement, potentially reigniting conflict in northern Ethiopia.

He warned that Isaias's "manoeuvres" could "tear up the whole peace deal" and destabilize the region

The Tigray People's Liberation Front (TPLF) has reiterated its commitment to the Pretoria Agreement, denying any hidden agendas and accusing unnamed actors of spreading misinformation.

In a statement, the TPLF asserted that it has consistently upheld the peace agreement despite facing "injustices," "internal and external conspiracies," and ongoing challenges.

The TPLF emphasized its dedication to peace with neighboring regions and countries, stating its position "will not change." It urged all parties to prioritize the Pretoria Agreement as a solution to regional and national issues.

This statement comes amid reports of internal divisions within the TPLF, specifically between factions led by Debretsion Gebremichael and Interim Administration President Getachew Reda. These divisions have reportedly led to alignments within the Tigray military forces, raising concerns about potential instability.

Adding to these concerns, former Ethiopian President Mulatu Teshome has accused Eritrean President Isaias Afwerki of attempting to exploit these internal TPLF divisions to undermine the Pretoria Agreement.

In an opinion piece published by Al Jazeera on February 17, Mulatu alleged that Isaias is collaborating with TPLF elements dissatisfied with the agreement, potentially reigniting conflict in northern Ethiopia.

He warned that Isaias's "manoeuvres" could "tear up the whole peace deal" and destabilize the region

26/02/2025

Ethiopia Participates in First BRICS Sherpas/Sous Sherpas Meeting for 2025

Brasília, Brazil – Ethiopia has joined the First BRICS Sherpas and Sous Sherpas Meeting for 2025, which commenced today in Brasília, Brazil. The Ethiopian delegation is led by Mamo Esmelealem Mihretu, Governor of the National Bank and Ethiopia’s BRICS Sherpa, alongside Ambassador Mesganu Arga, State Minister of Foreign Affairs and the country’s Sous Sherpa.

The meeting was officially opened by Brazil’s Minister of External Affairs, Mauro Vieira. In his address, Mamo reaffirmed Ethiopia’s commitment to multilateralism and collective security within the framework of the United Nations. He underscored the need for a reformed global system to effectively tackle today’s complex global challenges.

Highlighting Ethiopia’s priorities within BRICS, Mamo emphasized the country’s ambition to become a member of the New Development Bank in 2025. He also called for enhanced intra-BRICS economic cooperation and urged member states to remain committed to the implementation of key programs and initiatives under the BRICS framework.

Ethiopia welcomed Brazil’s BRICS 2025 Presidency, which focuses on six strategic priorities: global health, governance reform, climate finance, artificial intelligence governance, Global South cooperation, and BRICS institutional development.

The meeting, which will continue over two days, is set to deliberate on various agenda items crucial to BRICS cooperation and global economic development.

18/02/2025

Tigray Marks TPLF’s 50th Anniversary Amid Calls for Peace

Tigray marked the 50th anniversary of the Tigray People’s Liberation Front (TPLF) on February 18th (Yekatit 11), with commemorative events held in Mekelle and other regions. This Golden Jubilee represents a significant milestone in Tigrayan history, reflecting on five decades of resilience and achievement.

This year’s observance was exclusively led by the TPLF under the leadership of Chairman Debretsion Gebremichael (PhD). The celebrations brought together a broad cross-section of society, including residents, government employees, leaders, students, members of the Tigray Army, militia, and the People’s Police.

In his address, Chairman Debretsion highlighted the ongoing suffering in Tigray, describing the situation as a "silent genocide." He also acknowledged internal party divisions, stating that both external and internal forces have attempted to undermine Tigray’s interests and weaken the TPLF. He called on Tigray's security forces to act on previous decisions to safeguard unity and security.

Debretsion urged all signatories of the Pretoria Peace Agreement to fulfill their obligations, emphasizing that the Ethiopian government must fully implement the agreement to ensure lasting peace. “If the people of Tigray are to live in peace alongside Ethiopia, the Amhara, and Eritrea, the Pretoria Peace Agreement must be respected,” he stated.

Reflecting on the three years of blockade and the war aimed at eradicating the Tigrayan people, Debretsion noted that it was the unified strength of Tigrayans that led to the signing of the Pretoria Peace Agreement. "We have entered a new phase with the signing of the agreement, which has brought positive changes, but challenges remain as it has not been fully implemented," he said.

He further stressed, "The conquerors have not been removed from Tigray’s territory, and no system has been established to ensure accountability for those responsible for the genocide against our people. Political discussions between the TPLF and the Eritrean government have not yet begun. Above all, the legal status of the TPLF has not been reinstated, leading to unnecessary decisions."

Additionally, Debretsion announced changes to the party's program. While acknowledging ongoing demands for these changes, he did not provide specifics, stating only, "We have found it important to implement program changes to ensure the revival of Tigray and the survival of our people on solid ground."

He recognized the challenges of the current stage but remained optimistic. "We will overcome them skillfully and continue on the path of development and growth," he affirmed.

The chairman also underscored the importance of peace, calling it a matter of survival. "We are committed to implementing the Pretoria Agreement through peaceful means," he reiterated, vowing that the TPLF would advocate for the peaceful return of displaced individuals affected by the agreement’s non-implementation.

On the same day, Getachew Reda, President of the Tigray Interim Administration, issued a statement honoring Tigrayans for their sacrifices. He explained that joint celebrations had been scaled down due to recent tensions and divisive forces, prompting the administration to postpone larger public events in Mekelle to prevent potential conflict.

The Interim Administration reaffirmed its commitment to peace, unity, and supporting those affected by the conflict, including displaced individuals, injured fighters, and families of the fallen. It also noted that some religious leaders and stakeholders had declined to participate in the celebrations, leading to the cancellation of certain events in Mekelle, though celebrations continued in other parts of Tigray.

On February 17th, 2025, Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed extended his congratulations and called for a peaceful resolution of political differences. Acknowledging past mistakes, he emphasized the need for dialogue, consensus, and national unity. “We must correct our past mistakes and work toward social stability, economic recovery, and the development of our nation,” he stated, reaffirming his commitment to rebuilding Ethiopia’s future.