Ethiopia Roundup: Drone attacks, partnerships, reduced profits for farmers
China, Ethiopia partnerships
China has handed over control of the Ethiopia-Djibouti railway to a local company after being operated by Chinese companies since 2018. The handover came after years of training and the railway has become a key part of Ethiopia’s trade network, despite operating at a loss. The railway is part of China’s Belt and Road Initiative and is just one of many rail projects funded by China in Africa, Railway Technology media reports.
Nigerian suit against Ethiopian government
The Nigerian Senate has asked the Federal High Court to dismiss a suit alleging that the Ethiopian government lacks budget to cater for the feeding and welfare of detained Nigerians. The Senate's Chief Legislative Officer Usman Abdulhameed filed a counter affidavit stating that the claims of the applicant are false and that the Senate has already probed the allegations and found them to be untrue. According to Nairametrics, the court did not sit for the hearing, and the case was adjourned to May 20. It has been reported that over 200 Nigerians are incarcerated in Ethiopian prisons, with some serving prison terms while others are detained for drug trafficking offences.
Drone attack leads to deaths
A drone attack targeted a school in the Yifat Qewot district, killing three civilians and injuring a woman in the Amhara region of Ethiopia. According to Borkena, the attack was reportedly a demonstration of the government's inability to defeat Fano forces in an infantry battle. Human rights organizations have reported recurring drone strikes targeting civilians in the region over the past nine months. The government has not yet commented on the alleged drone strike.
New bridge for Ethiopia
Ethiopia's Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed attended the opening of a new 380-meter bridge over the Abay River in Bahir Dar, marking a significant milestone in the country's infrastructure development. The bridge, started 4.5 years ago, has six lanes and a dedicated bike lane. Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed emphasised the bridge's importance for economic growth and national unity. The government's commitment to infrastructure projects like the bridge demonstrates its focus on cooperation and sustainable development, TV Brics reports.
Farmers struggle with reduced profits
Khat traders in Ethiopia are facing low prices and challenges due to an abundant harvest, increased taxes, and stricter export conditions. The stimulant Khat is a significant export for Ethiopia, but farmers are struggling with reduced profits, leading some to question if it's worth growing at all, France 24 reports.
