Ethiopia Roundup: Legal suit, drone strikes, investment licensing, agricultural advancements

Eritrea sues Ethiopia

Eritrea has initiated legal proceedings against Ethiopian Airlines, seeking $3 million in undisclosed claims. The country signals a significant development in regional aviation disputes Ch-aviation reports.

Agricultural sustainability

In a collaborative effort, the U.S. Government and OCP Ethiopia Fertilizers Manufacturing PLC have introduced innovative fertilizer blends aimed at countering soil acidity challenges faced by Ethiopian agriculture. This initiative, part of USAID's Feed the Future Ethiopia Transforming Agriculture project, targets enhanced crop yields and improved farmer incomes, thereby reinforcing food security. A demonstration spanning 200 hectares involved 600 smallholder farmers in Malga, Sidama, where officials praised the fertilizers' efficacy and discussed scaling their application as part of a five-year, $77 million project estimated to benefit 7 million people. World Fertilizer Magazine notes that the objective includes establishing a local fertiliser production capability of 200,000 tons annually.

Drone strikes

Tragically, drone strikes in Ethiopia's Amhara region have resulted in the deaths of at least 18 civilians, including vulnerable populations such as children and the elderly. The attacks targeted the Fano forces and have been attributed to directives from Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed, though independent verification remains absent. Local reports say the government has refrained from commenting but asserts military achievements against the Fano. Mixed messages from military officials indicate ongoing strife, with the reported death toll among government troops suggesting significant losses. Notably, the reliance on drone warfare has increased amid inefficiencies in traditional military confrontations.

Ethiopian sports legend dies

The Ethiopian football community mourns the passing of legendary player and coach Asrat Haile, affectionately known as "Goradew," who died at the age of 72 after a prolonged illness. His interment took place in Addis Ababa, drawing widespread expressions of sympathy from fans and the Ethiopian Football Federation, Borkena reports. Over a remarkable 53-year career, Haile secured multiple accolades with St. George Club and held the coaching role for the Ethiopian National Team, Walia, on three occasions between 2001 and 2004. He is survived by his wife and five children, leaving behind a formidable legacy in Ethiopian sports.

Investment licensing

In the first quarter of the current fiscal year, Ethiopia’s Investment Commission (EIC) granted 108 new investment licences, contributing to the country's economic liberalisation efforts. Of the issued licences, 65 were allocated to foreign investors, with the remaining to joint ventures and domestic enterprises. This trend reflects Ethiopia's commitment to attracting both local and international investment following recent trading reforms, which have drawn interest from 78 international firms. According to TV Brics, the EIC is also advancing its initiative to convert industrial parks into Special Economic Zones (SEZs) to boost export-oriented activities. In this quarter, the nation achieved over US$131 million in industrial exports, with SEZs contributing more than US$23 million, indicating a positive trajectory in economic development.