#US aid freeze paralyzes NGOs working to help millions of internally displaced people in #Somalia Aid organizations in Somalia say the U.S. government's decision to freeze most foreign aid has halted critical support for internally displaced people, leaving many without food, healthcare, and essential services. The freeze, enacted through an executive order by U.S. President Donald Trump on Jan. 20, is set to last for 90 days. Somalia, which relies heavily on international aid to support nearly 3 million displaced people, faces worsening conditions as NGOs struggle with funding cuts. Ayan Ali Hussein, chairwoman of the Dooxdoox IDP camp near Mogadishu, said the freeze led to immediate shutdowns of USAID-supported programs. “There are no facilities to treat malnourished children,” she said, adding that survivors of gender-based violence have also lost access to crucial services. Dr. Abdiqani Sheikh Omar, founder of the Somali Young Doctors Association, said his organization is among those severely impacted. “In 2025, Somalia was to receive $125 million in USAID support, which could now become null and void,” he said. His group, which provides medical assistance, has had to cut staff and prioritize only critical nutrition and hygiene programs. Camp residents say they are struggling without assistance. Ruqiya Abdulle Ubeyd, an 85-year-old mother of eight, said she was shocked by the decision and urged the U.S. government to restore aid. “Previously, whenever our children got sick, we would come straight to the center for help,” said Hussein Abikar, a father of five. “There is no other place where we could find such support.”

#Ethiopia: Registration for #Hajj Pilgrimage begins in Ethiopia as travelers face nearly 90% price hike The Ethiopian Islamic Affairs Supreme Council has announced the start of Hajj registration, setting the fee at 625,000 birr—an increase of nearly 90% from last year’s 329,000 birr. The council attributed the rise to the depreciation of the local currency, stating that “all service fees are paid in foreign currency,” making cost adjustments necessary. Sheikh Abdulaziz Sheikh Abdul Woli, Vice President of the Supreme Council, emphasized that the council has worked to “align Hajj travel costs with the financial capacity of the public.” However, the shift to a market-based foreign exchange system in 2024 caused the birr to weaken from 57 to 125 per US dollar, significantly impacting the local currency cost of Hajj. Despite this, he asserted that “the charges imposed by the Supreme Council are lower compared to other service providers.” Ethiopia has secured 43,000 Hajj slots this year, the second-highest allocation in Africa after Nigeria.

#Ethiopia: Visiting envoys urge immediate return of IDPs as “utmost priority” in #Pretoria deal implementation, pledge full support A delegation of diplomats from the United States, the United Kingdom, France, and other countries visited Tigray on February 11, emphasizing that the return of internally displaced persons (IDPs) should be the “utmost priority” in implementing the Pretoria Peace Agreement. The envoys pledged to “throw their full weight behind this effort” after holding talks with Getachew Reda, President of the Tigray Interim Administration, and leaders of the Tigray People’s Liberation Front (TPLF). They also visited IDP shelters in Mekelle, where displaced people expressed frustration over the slow implementation of the agreement. According to Getachew, the diplomats acknowledged that the prolonged displacement stemmed from the “failure of the Interim Administration, the federal government, and other stakeholders” to ensure the timely return of IDPs. British Ambassador Darren Welch reaffirmed the international community’s commitment, telling displaced people, “We want to assure you that the international community hasn’t forgotten you.” However, some IDPs voiced concerns over deteriorating conditions, stating that due to the “failure of both the Pretoria Peace Agreement signatories and the international community to fulfill their obligations,” people were “dying of hunger and illness.” Others warned that without security guarantees, returning home remained too dangerous, citing reports that some IDPs from Tselemti were “killed after returning home” while others were “displaced again.”

#Sudan political groups propose one-year pre-transition period A roadmap proposed by political forces in Port Sudan suggests a "one-year preparatory period" before initiating a transition in the country. The document, obtained by Sudan Tribune, states that the preparatory period will conclude with a "dialogue conference inside Sudan" to determine the length of the transitional phase. Political forces presented the roadmap to Sovereign Council head and army chief Abdel Fattah al-Burhan on February 8, proposing a "political process after the end of the war." Following the proposal, Al-Burhan said he would work toward forming a "war government or a caretaker government" to oversee transition tasks and assist the army in ongoing military operations. He also spoke of amending the 2019 constitutional document signed with the Forces for Freedom and Change to serve as a reference for the transition. The roadmap outlines key tasks for the preparatory period, including "stopping the war, releasing all detainees, holding a dialogue conference, and appointing a government of national competencies." It also calls for integrating various armed movements into a "unified national army" and addressing issues such as governance, civil-military relations, and transitional justice.

#EU allocates €200,000 to aid #Ethiopia’s quake-hit communities as thousands face dire conditions The European Union (EU) has allocated €200,000 in humanitarian aid to assist communities impacted by recent earthquakes in the #Afar, #Amhara, and #Oromia regions. The funding, announced on February 11, 2025, will support the Ethiopian Red Cross Society (#ERCS) in providing cash assistance, clean water, shelter, healthcare, sanitation, and emergency referrals. The four-month project, running until May 2025, aims to benefit 10,000 people in the hardest-hit areas and is part of the Disaster Response Emergency Fund (DREF) under the International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies (IFRC). Recent seismic activity has affected nearly 100,000 people across the three regions, including 10,000 in North Shewa (Amhara), 55,000 in Afar, and 30,000 in Oromia. Many displaced individuals report living in overcrowded shelters with limited access to food, water, and essential resources. According to a previous report by Addis Standard, those affected have described aid efforts from both the government and humanitarian organizations as “inadequate.”

Scores killed as Islamic State attacks #Puntland military base, officials say Nearly 100 people were killed, and up to 60 others wounded, when fighters linked to the Islamic State (#IS) launched an attack on a Puntland security forces base, #Somalia officials said Tuesday. A Puntland security spokesperson, Brigadier General Mohamud Mohamed Ahmed—known as Fadhigo—told VOA’s Somali Service that the attack involved “suicide bombings” and was followed by heavy fighting around Togga Jacel in the Cal Miskaad mountains. “We have confirmed that at least 27 Puntland soldiers and 70 Islamic State militants were killed during the attack and subsequent gun battle,” he said. Ahmed described the assault as the deadliest since Puntland launched an offensive against IS fighters last month. He noted that the actual death toll “could be significantly higher” as militants were “killed in caves” and assessments were ongoing. According to Puntland officials, the attack began with car bombs and explosives-laden motorbikes before a firefight ensued. “We knew they were coming as we had prior intelligence,” Ahmed said, adding that Puntland forces “successfully repelled the enemy attack” and remained in control of the base.

#Ethiopia: Gold Rush Gone Toxic: Illegal mining in #Tigray endangers lives, environment as authorities turn a blind eye to cyanide and mercury use Illegal gold mining in Tigray’s Northwestern Zone, particularly in Asgede district, is raising alarms over the use of toxic chemicals such as mercury and cyanide, with local residents accusing authorities of turning a blind eye to the environmental and health crisis. Farmers in the area say the chemicals are contaminating water sources, killing livestock, and causing serious health problems. “The water we have been using for drinking is contaminated,” one resident told Addis Standard, adding that “more than 800 goats have died due to the chemicals.” Protests against toxic mining practices have been met with repression, locals allege. A resident of #Asgede recalled that in January, more than 20 people were detained after demonstrating against illegal mining and were released only after being warned to “remain silent.” Tesfaye Gebremedhin, a lecturer at Mekelle University, said protests in Ksad Gaba Kebele on January 13 reflected growing frustration, with demonstrators chanting “Stop illegal mining” and “Justice for the youth.” Tadele Mengistu, a cabinet member of the Tigray Interim Administration, acknowledged the environmental damage, stating that “mercury is being dumped into rivers, causing long-term health risks.” He said he has submitted a report to the World Health Organization urging an investigation. Meanwhile, researchers at Mekelle University warn of worsening contamination, with one study linking mercury exposure to “widespread pollution” and health issues such as skin conditions in children. Despite a regional directive to suspend mining, enforcement remains weak, with political instability further complicating efforts to curb illegal operations.

#Ethiopia: Earthquake-displaced pastoralists in #Afar region reject relocation, cite unsuitable conditions at proposed site Pastoralists displaced by recurring earthquakes in Awash Fentale district, Afar region, and sheltering at the Daido site in Amibara district, have rejected government plans to relocate them to the “New Vision” site in Awash Arba. They argue that the new location is “not livable,” citing a lack of water, grazing land, and essential resources for their livestock and daily needs. While authorities warn that Daido remains at risk, residents insist that the new site is barren and unsuitable for their way of life. A recent assessment by Semera University and Addis Ababa University, conducted with the United Nations Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (OCHA), classified the current evacuation sites as high-risk and recommended their decommissioning. While some displaced individuals have moved, those remaining in Daido report a decline in aid deliveries, saying “nothing has come” since they refused relocation.

#Somaliland President eyes key trade agreement with #Ethiopia, calls on #US to recognize Somaliland During his address at the World Government Summit in the United Arab Emirates (#UAE), Somaliland President Abdirahman Mohamed Abdillahi (Irro) highlighted Somaliland’s commitment to regional cooperation, especially with its neighboring country, Ethiopia, with whom President Irro states plans to finalize a crucial trade and transit agreement by the end of the year. A key theme of President Irro’s address was the urgent need to strengthen regional trade and cooperation, particularly with Ethiopia. Beyond regional trade, President Irro also touched on the ongoing efforts to secure international recognition for Somaliland and called on the United States to re-recognize Somaliland’s sovereignty. The President stressed that international recognition is not just a political formality but a crucial step toward securing long-term stability and peace in the region. He stressed the importance of Somaliland’s role in the Horn of Africa and the potential for future growth through enhanced trade and strategic partnerships. President Irro’s speech also addressed Somaliland’s unique strategic location along the Red Sea, a crucial global trade route. The availability of deep-sea ports, including Berbera Port, combined with the entrepreneurial spirit of Somaliland’s citizens, makes the nation an attractive destination for business and investment, the President said, adding that this strategic advantage provides a solid foundation for economic growth, not just for Somaliland but for the broader Horn of Africa region.

#Ethiopia: Fatal truck accident in East Wollega Zone, #Oromia leaves 26 dead and dozens injured At least 26 people have died in a road accident that occurred today, February 11, in Ifa Biya kebele, Gudeya Bila district of East Wollega Zone, Oromia Region, local officials said. Inspector Asnake Mesfin, head of the East Wollega Zone Traffic Bureau, told state-affiliated Fana Broadcasting Corporation that 42 others sustained injuries and are receiving medical treatment. He stated that the accident involved a passenger vehicle which was traveling from Shambu town to #Addis_Abeba when it overturned. Inspector Asnake added that 26 passengers had lost their lives but noted that the death toll could rise.

#South_Sudan:.Kiir fires two VPs, spy chief in major reshuffle South Sudan’s President, Salva Kiir Mayardit, has dismissed two vice presidents and the country’s intelligence chief in a government reshuffle. The decrees, announced late Monday on state broadcaster SSBC, did not specify reasons for the changes. Dr. Benjamin Bol Bel, a businessman and close ally of Kiir, was appointed vice president for the economic cluster, replacing long-serving VP Dr. James Wani Igga. Bol Bel, who previously served as the presidential envoy for special programs, has been “involved in many of the country’s major decisions,” according to reports. His appointment comes amid growing speculation about his political influence. Kiir also removed Hussein Abdelbagi Akol, the vice president for the services cluster, replacing him with Josephine Joseph Lagu, a former agriculture minister. Abdelbagi was instead appointed minister of agriculture. Additionally, Gen. Akec Tong Aleu, the intelligence chief, was dismissed just a week after signing a peace deal with the rebel SPLA-IO Kitgwang faction. Civil society activist Edmund Yakani described the reshuffle as a “shift in power” ahead of the 2026 elections, cautioning that “such unilateral decisions” could impact the peace agreement.

#Ethiopia: #US, #EU, and other envoys arrive in Mekelle for talks on Pretoria Agreement, #Tigray’s current situation A delegation of envoys from the US, UK, Italy, Germany, Denmark, France, and the European Union arrived in #Mekelle today, February 11, 2025, to discuss the Pretoria Agreement and the current situation in Tigray. Tigray Television reported that the talks will focus on “the implementation of the Pretoria peace agreement,” the region’s condition, and efforts toward “lasting peace.” The delegation was received at Mekelle Alula Aba Nega Airport by Getachew Reda, President of the Tigray Interim Administration. The visit comes amid internal tensions within the TPLF, particularly between factions led by Debretsion Gebremichael and Getachew Reda. Following the TPLF’s 14th Congress, the divide widened after Debretsion’s group removed Getachew and others from their positions, while the interim administration accused Debretsion’s faction of attempting to “destabilize” the region through a “coup d’état.” Meanwhile, some senior Tigray military officials have called for dissolving and restructuring the interim administration, further complicating the region’s political landscape.

#Sudan army-aligned foreign ministry sets path to elections amid civil war Sudan’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs, aligned with the army, has outlined a plan for a transitional government as part of a roadmap toward elections. In a Sunday post on X, the ministry said the proposal includes “forming a transitional government, appointing a civilian prime minister, and initiating a national dialogue” with political and civil society groups. It also highlighted the military’s advances against the paramilitary Rapid Support Forces (#RSF). The ministry called on RSF forces to lay down their arms if they wish to take part in the political process. It said this includes the withdrawal of RSF fighters from Khartoum, West Kordofan, and Darfur. The statement comes as the army has recently taken control of several areas, including parts of the greater Khartoum area, Sennar, Gezira, and the city of Umm Ruwaba in North Kordofan. The RSF, however, continues to hold positions in West Kordofan and Darfur. The Foreign Ministry urged international organizations, including the UN, African Union, and Arab League, to support its post-war transition plan. It described the proposal as “a national consensus for restoring peace and stability” and ensuring a democratic transition.

#Ethiopia: Lidetu Ayalew says barred from returning to Ethiopia, plans to travel via another airline Ethiopian politician Lidetu Ayalew says he was denied boarding on an Ethiopian Airlines flight to #Addis_Abeba, claiming the Ethiopian Embassy in the U.S. was behind the restriction. Lidetu, who has been in the U.S. for over two years for medical treatment, said he had planned to return on February 10 but was told he “couldn’t travel unless special permission” was obtained from “the Ethiopian Embassy in America.” His name was mentioned in an April 2023 statement by Ethiopia’s Joint Security and Intelligence Task Force, which accused him of “working to overthrow the constitutional order by force.” Lidetu said he attempted to contact the Ethiopian Embassy but was unsuccessful. Despite the restriction, he plans to travel via another airline, stating, “There is no law that can prevent me from entering my country.”

Airstrike in #Somalia's #Puntland kills over 13 foreign #Daesh fighters Security forces in Somalia’s Puntland region said an airstrike in the Bari region killed "more than 13 foreign ISIS terrorists" as part of a counterterrorism operation that lasted 24 hours. In a statement Monday, Puntland’s counterterrorism unit said the operation targeted "terrorist hideouts" in Dhasaq, a part of the Calmiskaad mountain range. The unit also reported additional security operations in Hararyo and Toga-Jeceel, saying forces had "uncovered bases that had been previously used by ISIS terrorist groups." The statement, posted on X, did not specify which country carried out the airstrike. The announcement comes more than a week after US Africa Command (#AFRICOM) said it had conducted airstrikes in Somalia "in coordination with the Somali government," killing multiple ISIS-Somalia operatives. Puntland security forces said operations against the group have been ongoing for over a month, claiming to have "liberated large areas" from ISIS control. Somalia has long struggled with insecurity, with al-Shabaab and ISIS posing key threats.

#Ethiopia: #Oromia security chief acknowledges misconduct, cites "corrective measures" Commissioner Ararsa Merdasa, Head of the Oromia Bureau of Administration and Security, acknowledged misconduct by security forces while emphasizing their role in maintaining peace. Speaking at the 8th regular meeting of the Oromia Regional Council in #Adama City on Sunday, he stated that while many officers "made sacrifices," others "had shortcomings," prompting corrective measures. "Reports of misconduct," he said, "including human rights violations, property destruction, and extortion," were investigated, and "actions were taken accordingly." Ararsa noted that while some officers "gave their lives in service," others "violated the law and inflicted suffering on the people." He stated that cases were "thoroughly investigated" and that "some individuals have been charged." Watch!

#Ethiopia: #Oromia Vice President says efforts underway to make region “free of IDPs” by year-end Awelu Abdi, Vice President of Oromia Regional State, said the government is working to make the region "free of IDPs" by the end of the year, stating that 900,000 internally displaced persons (IDPs) have so far been returned. Speaking at Caffee Oromia’s 8th regular session on February 9, he noted that displacement had affected "millions of people" over the past four to five years, and the government is collaborating "with the community" to facilitate returns. He pointed out that IDPs remain in areas such as Jimma, Sasiga and Haro Limu districts of Wollega, East Bale, and Goomole district in Borana, stating that these locations "have been identified" for further interventions. Awelu added that the regional government plans to shift from "an aid-dependent approach" to one focused on self-sufficiency, while also preparing for challenges such as famine and other natural disasters.

Egypt’s top diplomat flies to US amid opposition to Trump’s Gaza proposal Egyptian Foreign Minister Badr Abdelatty flew Sunday to Washington for talks with US officials on developments in the Middle East region. A Foreign Ministry statement said Abdelatty will meet with senior officials in the new US administrations and Congress members to strengthen bilateral relations and strategic partnership between Egypt and the US. The discussions will also take up the latest developments in the Middle East region, the statement said. The visit comes amid Egypt’s rejection of US President Donald Trump’s proposal to relocate Palestinians from Gaza to neighboring countries.

Somaliland president heads to UAE for World Governments Summit 2025 Somaliland President Abdirahman Mohamed Abdillahi Cirro is set to depart for the United Arab Emirates (UAE) today to attend the 2025 World Governments Summit (WGS), which will take place in Dubai from February 11 to 13. The summit, a major global platform, will bring together over 30 heads of state, ministers, and leaders from international organizations to discuss key global challenges, including economic stability, digital transformation, governance, and public-private sector collaboration. This marks President Cirro’s second visit to the UAE in just over a month. In early January, he traveled to Abu Dhabi, where he held high-level discussions with Emirati officials and investors. The visit was reportedly focused on strengthening economic ties, particularly in the aviation, trade, and infrastructure sectors. His back-to-back visits signal deepening relations between Somaliland and the UAE, a country that has historically shown interest in Somaliland, including its strategic Berbera Port and investment opportunities.

#Ethiopia: #NEBE proposes ban on direct salary deductions for party fees in electoral law amendment The Ethiopian National Election Board (NEBE) has proposed an amendment to the Ethiopian Electoral, Political Parties Registration, and Election’s Code of Conduct Proclamation, introducing a provision that would prohibit government institutions from “directly” deducting political party membership fees from employees’ salaries. The draft law, which has been under discussion with various stakeholders since January, aims to replace Proclamation No. 1162/2019, in effect since 2019. According to the draft, institutions cannot “directly deduct membership fees from the salary of a government employee who is a party member and deposit it into the political party’s bank account.” NEBE’s proposal follows concerns raised by government employees about deductions being made without their consent. The draft also restricts political party candidates from "personally receiving gifts or assistance from any person," requiring that such contributions be channeled “through the party” and reported to the Board "within 48 hours."