Ethiopia Roundup: Amhara clashes, Norway bilateral ties, TPLF members expelled
Clashes in Amhara region
Tensions have flared up between Ethiopian government security forces and the non-state militia, Fano across various areas within the Amhara region, Addis Standard reports. Clashes have been reported in the West and North Gojjam, North Shewa, and North Wollo zones with roadblocks among others. In Merawi town, there were heavy gunfire exchanges near government offices between security personnel and Fano militants leaving some civilians dead.
Ethiopia, Norway collaborate
The Ethiopian and Norway governments have signed a $75M partnership agreement. The landmark move is towards a wide array of collaborative initiatives aimed at fostering sustainable development in “Reducing emissions from deforestation and forest degradation, conservation of forest carbon stocks, sustainable management of forests and enhancement of forest carbon stock. It is also targeted at fostering sustainable development and climate resilience within the context of Ethiopia’s Nationally Determined Contributions, The Climate Resilient Green Economy Strategy (CRGE) among others. It will also promote bilateral relations between both countries, according to Fanabc.
French reporter detained over conspiracy allegations
A French reporter has been detained in Ethiopia over alleged conspiracy to create chaos in the country. Antoine Galindo who reports for the Africa Intelligence news website was arrested by security officers at the Ethiopian Skylight Hotel on February 22 while interviewing Bate Urgessa, a spokesperson for the Oromo Liberation Front (OLF) a legally registered opposition party, according to the Habesha news portal. Galindo is said to have visited Ethiopia to cover the annual summit of the African Union and other news.
TPLF expells two party members
The Tigray People’s Liberation Front (TPLF) has expelled two veteran members from the central committee and revoked their party membership. According to The Reporter Ethiopia, the decision follows the actions of Keria Ibrahim and Mulu Gebregziabher including the divulging of sensitive information to adversaries. The party says the decision reiterates its commitment to uphold its principles and safeguard its interests. The two former party members used to hold dual roles as councillors and party affiliates. Keria served as Speaker of the House of Federation while Mulu was previously a state minister for Transport.
Ethiopian exhibition opened
An Ethiopian art exhibition opened at the Embassy of Ethiopia in Brussels, Belgium on February 26, 2024. The exhibition which is the first of its kind is being held under the theme, “Ethiopia: Lands of Origins and Civilization”. The event was organized by the Embassy in collaboration with the Addis Ababa University School of Art and Design and Ethiopian Airlines. In attendance were dignitaries including the Secretary-General of the European External Action Service (EEAS) of the European Union Stefano Sannino, a representative of the Belgian Ministry of Foreign Affairs Ambassador Bart De Groof, and the Assistant Secretary General of the Political Affairs & Human Development Department at the Organisation of African, Caribbean and Pacific States (OACPS) Dr. Norbert Richard Ibrahim, Fanabc reports.
