Yemeni Armed Forces Say Downed 21st US MQ-9 Drone Over Sanaa

By Al Mayadeen English

Source: Yemeni Military Media

19 Apr 2025 19:52

YAF spokesman Brigadier General Yahya Saree says the American aircraft had been successfully targeted using a domestically produced surface-to-air missile.

The Yemeni Armed Forces' air defenses shot down an American MQ-9 drone while it was carrying out hostile missions in the airspace of Sanaa governorate, the YAF's spokesperson confirmed on Saturday.

Brigadier General Yahya Saree stated that the American aircraft had been successfully targeted using a domestically produced surface-to-air missile.

This marks the second US drone Yemeni forces have shot down in 24 hours, the sixth in April alone, and the 21st American aircraft of this type destroyed since the launch of Yemen's "Promised Conquest and Holy Jihad" military campaign, according to Saree.

"The continued airstrikes and targeting of civilians, their property, and public and private installations will not break the will of the Yemeni people, but will only strengthen their resilience and steadfast commitment to supporting the Palestinian people," he emphasized.

Saree declared, "We will continue our supporting operations until the aggression on Gaza ceases and the siege is lifted."

The latest announcement comes amid the continued US aggression on Yemen targeting various areas in the country with airstrikes, and most recently killing at least 80 people in airstrikes on the Ras Isa port in western Yemen.

Yemeni Armed Forces remain undettered

The YAF revealed on April 18 that they had conducted multiple significant military operations, which included firing a Zulfiqar ballistic missile toward the area surrounding "Israel's" Ben Gurion Airport while simultaneously executing coordinated attacks against two American aircraft carriers deployed in the Arabian Sea.

Saree confirmed a dual operation targeting the USS Harry S. Truman and USS Carl Vinson along with their respective fleets. This marks the first time that the USS Carl Vinson has been targeted since its deployment to the region.

US attack on Ras Isa port 'deadliest' since start of the year

The recent US airstrikes on Yemen's Ras Isa port killed 80 people and wounded 150, the Public Health Office in Hodeidah Governorate announced on April 18, noting that these preliminary figures are expected to climb as emergency crews work to locate survivors and recover victims from the rubble.

The attack on Ras Isa follows a pattern of intensified US airstrikes across Yemen, targeting civilian areas and critical infrastructure in multiple provinces. While Washington claims the airstrikes are aimed at neutralizing missile launch sites, Yemeni officials and residents stress that the strikes are disproportionately affecting civilians.

Former Credit Suisse CEO Nominated to Run in Ivory Coast Presidential Election

Tidjane Thiam, CEO of Credit Suisse, speaks at the Bloomberg Global Business Forum, Sept. 25, 2019, in New York. (AP Photo/Mark Lennihan, File)

6:19 AM EDT, April 18, 2025

ABIDJAN, Ivory Coast (AP) — Tidjane Thiam, a former Credit Suisse CEO, won a near-unanimous vote to represent the Democratic Party of Ivory Coast in an upcoming presidential election, the party announced.

Thiam won 99.5% of the vote and ran unopposed for the nomination. He is the current president of the party. He previously resigned from his position as CEO of Credit Suisse after a corporate espionage scandal rocked the company. An external report found that Thiam had no knowledge of the espionage.

It isn’t known who will run against him, but the current president, Alassane Ouattara, has indicated that he may run again. Ouattara won in 2020 after a disputed election left dozens dead and opposition candidates boycotted the election.

Ivory Coast is set to hold the vote in October.

Deadly Prison Break in Chad as Over 100 Inmates Escape

By Al Mayadeen English

19 Apr 2025 20:25

A revolt broke out late Friday at the high-security jail five kilometers (three miles) from Mongo town. 

More than 100 convicts escaped from a Chad jail amid a shootout that killed three people and injured a state governor who was visiting the facility, officials told AFP on Saturday.

A revolt broke out late Friday at the high-security jail five kilometers (three miles) from Mongo town. 

"There are around 100 who escaped, three dead and three wounded," said Hassan Souleymane Adam, secretary general of Guera province, which includes Mongo.

A local Mongo official, commenting on the condition of anonymity, told AFP that convicts stormed into a manager's office to steal guns. 

"A shootout with guards ensued, at the same time the governor arrived. He was wounded," the official commented. 

The Mongo official acknowledged three deaths and estimated the overall number of escaped convicts at 132.

He claimed the convicts revolted after complaining about a lack of food.

Youssouf Tom, Chad's Justice Minister, told AFP via phone that he was preparing to fly to the region and would be ready to provide "precise information once I am at Mongo in the coming hours."

African Leaders Laud Addis Ababa’s Smart City Advancements

April 16, 2025

ADDIS ABABA – Ethiopia’s capital city is garnering widespread praise from African leaders for its ambitious renovation into a smart city, showcasing innovative urban development strategies that are setting a benchmark for modernization across the continent.

Speaking at the Ethio-Algeria Joint Ministerial Commission (JMC) recently, Algeria’s Foreign Minister Ahmed Attaf lauded Addis Ababa’s smart city advancements, emphasizing their transformative impact not only on Ethiopia but also as an inspiration for the entire African continent.

Reflecting on his recent visit to the capital, Ahmed expressed his delight at returning to Addis Ababa, recalling his numerous trips over the past two years. He underscored the city’s remarkable progress, stating, “Each time I arrive here, I am truly impressed by the rapid and positive transformation of this vibrant city.”

He further remarked that Addis Ababa, aptly named “the new flower,” is indeed blossoming, serving as a source of inspiration for Ethiopia and the broader African landscape. Ahmed congratulated Ethiopian leaders and citizens on their achievements, encouraging them to take pride in the significant progress realized. He voiced optimism regarding ongoing projects poised to further enhance Addis Ababa’s beauty, highlighting its potential to serve as a model for urban development and a beacon of hope for nations across the continent.

Notably, South Africa’s President Cyril Ramaphosa has also pledged to emulate Addis Ababa’s urban vibrancy in Johannesburg, a direct inspiration from his recent visit to the Ethiopian capital during the 38th African Union Assembly.

President Ramaphosa specifically praised Addis Ababa’s corridor development, highlighting its aesthetic appeal, cleanliness, and attractiveness for investment. “Johannesburg must shine like Addis Ababa,” he urged, reminiscing about his earlier experiences in the city. He observed that Addis Ababa now attracts businesses eager to invest in its thriving environment and called for Johannesburg to adopt similar urban renewal strategies, aiming for a safer, cleaner, and economically dynamic city.

BY FIKADU BELAY

THE ETHIOPIAN HERALD WEDNESDAY 16 APRIL 2025

Ethiopia, Belarus Pledge to Advance Economic Cooperation

April 16, 2025

ADDIS ABABA – Ethiopia and Belarus have reaffirmed their commitment to strengthening bilateral diplomatic and economic relations.

This was noted following discussions between Ethiopian Foreign Affairs Minister Gedion Timothewos (PhD) and his Belarusian counterpart, Maxim Ryzhenkov, at the Minister’s office, according to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MoFA).

The discussions built upon the agreement reached between Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed(PhD) and Belarusian President Aleksandr Lukashenko on the sidelines of the BRICS summit in Kazan on October 23, 2024, which MoFA highlighted as a significant step in bolstering the bilateral relationship.

Foreign Minister Gedion emphasized Ethiopia’s strong commitment to further deepening bilateral ties and expanding cooperation across various sectors for the mutual benefit of both nations. He underscored that Ethiopia’s ongoing macroeconomic reforms present substantial opportunities for Belarusian investors, particularly in agriculture, agro-processing, mining, oil and gas, construction, trade, and tourism, MoFA reported.

On his part, the Foreign Minister of the Republic of Belarus, Maxim Ryzhenkov, conveyed his country’s readiness to further strengthen the bilateral relationship and explore additional avenues for cooperation to advance shared interests.

The two ministers also engaged in discussions regarding ways to enhance collaboration on multilateral platforms.

BY STAFF REPORTER

THE ETHIOPIAN HERALD WEDNESDAY 16 APRIL 2025

Ethiopia: Dire Dawa City Transforms into Key Tourism Destination

April 19, 2025

ADDIS ABABA– Dire Dawa City Administration Culture and Tourism Bureau disclosed that it is transforming the city’s tourism hotspot to enhance its attraction as a top tourism destination.

The Culture and Tourism Bureau Deputy Head Neema Ibrahim told The Ethiopian Press Agency (EPA) that Dire Dawa is transforming into a tourist hub with infrastructure projects and heritage conservation efforts.

Among the key historical attractions Harla is the one, a village that dates back to the 5th to 15th centuries. Ongoing research is focused on redeveloping Harla and registering it as a UNESCO World Heritage site, she mentioned.

Additionally, the Dire Dawa Palace, which is not yet a registered heritage site, is also undergoing research to secure its place in Ethiopia’s national heritage registry.

As to Deputy Head, a crucial element of the city’s heritage preservation efforts is the ongoing restoration of the railway system, which is nearing completion. The railway project is part of a broader initiative to develop the area’s tourism potential; including an in-depth study of the railway’s surrounding landscape to enhance its attractiveness for visitors, she noted.

Furthermore, a study is being conducted on the landscape of the railway line. Extensive work is being done to develop tourist destinations in the city and its surroundings.

She underlined that the city administration is expanding its conference center and service providers, including hotels andluxury lodges to modernize the tourism sector and attract foreign tourists.

Another Dire Dawa festival, Kulbi Gabriel, is celebrated twice a year it. The tourist flow is high.

Dire Nafkot, a July festival, attracts many tourists due to the large number of vacationers during the summer season, particularly in the last three to two years.

“Tourism needs work to be strengthened; it is an ongoing effort. It is a field that requires constant change and technology. We are not saying that what has been done so far is enough, we will continue to strengthen it in the future,” said Neema.

Dire Dawa, with 38 rural kebeles, offers numerous tourist destinations, a wild life park, and a community-based wildlife sanctuary. With a rich history and diverse population, it offers potential for diverse tourism development, she noted.

BY ESSEYE MENGISTE

THE ETHIOPIAN HERALD SATURDAY 19 APRIL 2025

Ethiopia, Vietnam Deepen Ties with Strategic Agreements

April 19, 2025

ADDIS ABABA – Ethiopia and Vietnam have taken a historic step forward in their bilateral relations, signing a series of strategic agreements that promise to elevate cooperation across multiple sectors and enhance Ethiopia’s global influence.

The announcement follows Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed’s (PhD) landmark state visit to Vietnam—his first to the Southeast Asian country—which Foreign Minister Gedion Timothewos (PhD) hailed as a “resounding success” and a significant diplomatic milestone.

Marking 50 years of diplomatic relations, the visit symbolized a new era of engagement between the two nations. The high-level talks culminated in agreements covering trade, investment, education, aviation, and green development.

One of the most notable outcomes is a new aviation agreement that will allow Ethiopian Airlines to launch direct flights to Vietnam, enhancing trade, tourism, and people-to-people connections between Africa and Asia.

“These flights will serve as a vital link, boosting economic integration and fostering cultural exchange,” Minister Gedion stated.

The two countries also agreed to  deepen collaboration in economic development, education, and sustainable investment. Discussions were held on establishing a joint cooperation framework that will institutionalize these efforts and ensure long-term mutual benefits.

In a related development, Ethiopia has been selected to host the 2027 Summit of the Partnership for Green Growth and the Global Goals 2030 (P4G)—a move that underscores Ethiopia’s rising influence in global sustainability efforts.

Minister Gedion emphasized the significance of this opportunity:

“Hosting the P4G summit allows Ethiopia to showcase its green development initiatives, particularly its strong reliance on renewable energy and transition to electric mobility.”

He highlighted flagship initiatives such as the Green Legacy campaign, noting its role not only in reforestation but also in contributing to global climate resilience. The platform, he said, would engage governments and the private sector in mobilizing financial resources for sustainable development.

Ethiopia’s envoy to South Korea, Ambassador Dessie Dalke echoed the Foreign Minister’s sentiments, stating that the Prime Minister’s visit forged a strategic partnership that enhances Ethiopia’s global visibility.

“Ethiopia and Vietnam are emerging economic powers in their respective regions. Their partnership is not only mutually beneficial but also positions them as gateways between Africa and Asia,” Amb.Dessie said.

He emphasized shared values on global issues like environmental protection and climate change, as well as common economic strengths—particularly in agriculture and manufacturing.

Vietnam’s experience in manufacturing sectors such as textiles, leather goods, and food exports was identified as an area from which Ethiopia can draw valuable lessons. Notably, both nations are among the world’s top coffee producers—Vietnam ranking second and Ethiopia third—prompting agreements on sharing expertise in this vital sector.

As a follow-up, both sides agreed to establish a mechanism at the Foreign Minister level to oversee the implementation of the signed agreements and to ensure the momentum continues.

With strategic cooperation now underway and new avenues of connectivity opening, Ethiopia’s deepening ties with Vietnam represent a significant step in its broader foreign policy—one that blends economic diplomacy with global leadership on sustainability.

BY STAFF REPORTER

THE ETHIOPIAN HERALD SATURDAY 19 APRIL 2025

U.S. Opposes UN Plan to Fund African Union Mission in Somalia

Ilyas A. Abukar / AU-UN IST PHOTO / Flickr (CC0 1.0)

African Union Mission soldiers and the Somali National Army patrolling (file photo).

18 April 2025

Shabelle Media Network (Mogadishu)

Washington (Smn) — The United States has openly rejected a United Nations proposal to fund the African Union's new Stabilization and Support mission in Somalia, known as AUSSOM, which began operations in the country in January.

The U.S. stance has sparked significant concern over the future of AUSSOM's mandate, which focuses on stabilizing Somalia and countering the militant group al-Shabaab.

The decision comes ahead of a scheduled May 15 vote by the U.N. Security Council on a new joint financing mechanism outlined under Resolution 2719. While the U.S. had previously remained silent on the proposal, it has now made its opposition clear.

A spokesperson for the U.S. State Department said Somalia is not a suitable testing ground for the proposed hybrid funding model for African Union forces, which have maintained a presence in the country since 2007.

Meanwhile, U.N. Secretary-General António Guterres has warned that the ongoing financial shortfall could jeopardize AUSSOM's operations.

In a report submitted to the Security Council on April 10, Guterres urged the international community to back the funding plan, emphasizing that sustainable and predictable financial support is critical for peace and stability in Somalia.

Read the original article on Shabelle.

Djiboutian Troops Arrive in Beletweyne to Strengthen Security and Combat Al-Shabaab in Central Somalia

African Union Mission soldiers and the Somali National Army patrolling (file photo).

16 April 2025

Radio Dalsan (Mogadishu)

A new contingent of troops from Djibouti, part of the African Union Mission in Somalia (#AUSSOM), has arrived in Beletweyne, marking a significant step in enhancing security in central Somalia.

The troops will be deployed to Buula Burde and Jalalaqsi, two strategically important towns in the Hiiraan region, within the Hirshabelle State.

Upon arrival, Sector Four Commander, Colonel Said Waaberi, along with other senior military officials, welcomed the Djiboutian forces at Ugaas Khaliif Airport.

They emphasized the critical role these troops will play in supporting joint operations with the Somali National Army (#SNAForce) against the militant group Al-Shabaab and in ensuring the safety and stability of central Somalia.

The Djiboutian forces, as part of the African Union mission, are tasked with safeguarding key administrative hubs, airstrips, and vital supply routes in the region.

Their presence is expected to further bolster efforts to secure areas under threat from Al-Shabaab and contribute to the broader goal of restoring peace and order in Somalia.

This deployment underscores the continued commitment of the African Union and its member states to assist Somalia in its fight against terrorism and to stabilize the region, ensuring that critical infrastructure remains protected and accessible.

Read the original article on Radio Dalsan.

Somalia Accuses AU Mission Head of Supporting Al-Shabaab, Signals Potential Expulsion

Officers from the Sierra Leonean contingent serving under the African Union Transition Mission in Somalia (file photo).

18 April 2025

Shabelle Media Network (Mogadishu)

Mogadishu — Somalia's Minister of Foreign Affairs, Ahmed Moallim Fiqi, has issued a strong statement against the Acting Head of the African Union Transition Mission in Somalia (ATMIS), Amb. Sivuyile Thandikhaya Bam, accused him of sympathizing with the terrorist group Al-Shabaab.

Minister Fiqi alleged that the South African diplomat--who also serves as the Deputy and Acting Special Representative of the African Union for Somalia--has submitted misleading reports to international bodies, including the UN Security Council, portraying Al-Shabaab as a group seeking statehood and reducing civilian harm, which he called a blatant distortion of reality.

"For a long time, there have been whispers about his bias, but now it's evident--he can no longer hide it," said Minister Fiqi. "He has shown himself to be a supporter of Al-Shabaab and an enemy of Somalia's progress."

The Minister expressed deep concern over Bam's alleged activities, asserting that such conduct undermines the Somali government's efforts to combat terrorism and achieve national stability.

Sources close to Somalia's Ministry of Foreign Affairs indicate that the federal government is considering expelling Ambassador Bam from the country due to what they describe as a breach of trust and alignment with forces working against Somalia's development.

This move marks a significant escalation in tensions between Somalia and the African Union over the mandate and direction of the ATMIS mission, which was launched to replace the former AMISOM peacekeeping operation and support Somalia's security transition.

The government has not yet made a formal decision, but insiders suggest the expulsion process is actively planned.

Read the original article on Shabelle.

Women: The Architects of Every Joyful Festival

April 17, 2025

Festivals are special moments of joy, unity, and togetherness. They are vibrant events that bring people together, create memories, and celebrate the many blessings of life. They are also opportunities for communities to strengthen bonds through cultural expressions, music, food, and rituals.

Whether religious or cultural, festivals foster a strong sense of belonging and identity among participants, offering moments of joy, reflection, and togetherness through shared celebration. Mainly, in today’s increasingly busy world, where everybody is entangled in their own personal routines and own matters, festivals serve as meaningful pauses, creating valuable opportunities for people to reconnect with family, strengthen social bonds, and spend quality time with neighbors, relatives, and renew community ties.

Equally important, festival events often allow cherished values, stories and customs to be passed down from one generation to the next, helping to preserve cultural heritage. Each tradition upheld during these celebrations becomes a thread in the rich tapestry of collective identity.

Women have always been the heart and soul of every festival, playing a central role in bringing festival celebrations to life. Their contributions are woven into every detail. From expertly embellishing houses to organizing rituals, preparing aromatic, spice-rich dishes that fill the air and make mouths water, their role in making festivals more tantalizing and unforgettable is beyond words. Their presence and efforts make every festival more vibrant and unforgettable radiating an infectious sense of happiness, joy, well-being, and a smile towards others. The aroma of freshly brewed Ethiopian coffee, which they prepare in an elaborate and symbolic ceremony, adds warmth and depth to the festive atmosphere.

Unexaggeratedly, without their touch, the essence of festivals would be incomplete. Truly, Ethiopian women are not just participants—they are the lifeblood of every festivity, embodying grace and memory. With hands that weave beauty and hearts that echo love and togetherness, women have the power to transform ordinary moments into celebrations of color, scent, and spirit, let alone festivals.

“Women are unquestionably the stars of festivals. It is they who bring life to every celebration through their involvements in each and every activity,” said Emebet Tsegaye, a woman selling traditional attire at her shop in Shiro Meda.

From preparing traditional dishes to decorating homes and organizing family gatherings, women are deeply involved in every facet of celebration. Their hands craft the spirit of the season, whether it is through the scent of spices wafting from the kitchen, the vibrant patterns of woven fabrics, or the warm welcome offered to guests.

According to her, women don’t merely mark the occasion, but also make it worth celebrating with their grace and the joy they bring to those around them.

“Festivals, in particular, provide a perfect platform for showcasing their expertise. Starting weeks before the actual day through purchasing festival items and managing household chores, women demonstrate their flair in creating vibrant atmospheres and creating a lasting impression on all who experience their work,” she said.

While talking about who her customers are, Embet said that she sells traditional costumes crafted from woven cotton. Since her designs are intended for women, [they are dresses and shawls; the majority of her customers are women. However, this does not mean that men never visit her shop. Although it is not always, in some circumstances, men do buy dresses (kemis and netella), for their mothers, wives, children and other family members. They also purchase traditional costume, Gabbis, for themselves and as gifts.

“When it comes to purchasing traditional attire, it is possible to say that Ethiopian women are ambassadors of their cultural heritage. They take great pride in dressing themselves and their families in traditional garments; showcasing the rich cultural heritage of their communities. Not only for major celebrations such as Easter, but also on ordinary days as well, several women prefer to wear intricately embroidered traditional dresses, which make them ambassadors of their country,” Emebet remarked.

The other businesswoman who had a short stay with EPA is Mulu Tamrat. Mulu is a merchant engaged in selling cultural clothing at Shola Market. She offers a wide range of traditional attire designed for mothers, youth, children in different colors and patterns. Her items are suitable for everyday wear, weddings, church ceremonies, anniversaries as well as for other similar purposes.

“Easter is both a festival of food and at the same time a wedding season, so Habesha clothes are in high demand. However, currently the market is not as vibrant as I expected,” she said hoping that the coming few weeks to change the situation.

“Women, by nature, have a good taste and sense for beauty. With just a glance, they can create something enticing. Whether arranging flowers at the doorway or choosing the right color combination for a festive outfit, women infuse every detail with intention and elegance,” said Mekdes Maru, a housewife and a mother of four.

According to her, even though festivals like Easter are much more demanding for women, be it economically or energetically, they are the most cherished ones that

According to her, even though festivals can often be more demanding, both financially and physically, they are the most cherished and eagerly awaited moments for everyone. At the center of this notion, women’s contribution in making festivals perfect and impressive is huge from preparing elaborate meals to cleaning the house and ensuring every detail is perfect.

“Women play a vital and constructive role in making these occasions memorable, handling everything skillfully. Their efforts, however, often unseen and underappreciated,” she added.

Mekdes believes that holidays carry deep meaning because they bring families together, keep traditions alive, and create lasting memories. The joy and connection experienced during festive times often outweigh the stress and hard work. Especially, Easter is more than just a celebration. Rather, it is a reflection of love, strength, forgiveness and togetherness; she added referring to the traditions and activities that follow the festival.

BY ELIZABETH MENGISTU

THE ETHIOPIAN HERALD THURSDAY 17 APRIL 2025

Easter: A Celebration of Forgiveness, Life, Hope and Unity

April 18, 2025

Easter, which commemorates the Resurrection of Jesus and the triumph over death, is a deeply sacred and significant holiday celebrated by millions of people in Ethiopia and around the world.

In Ethiopia, the Festival holds profound religious and cultural importance, marking the resurrection of Jesus Christ. The celebration is deeply rooted in the country’s rich Christian heritage and it is a time for reflection on faith, renewal and hope. Families, friends and communities come together to reflect on the values of the Festivals, engaging in religious services and partaking in vibrant traditions.

Easter, also locally called Fasika, fosters unity and togetherness, emphasizing values such as love, forgiveness and devotion, while also serving as an occasion to strengthen bonds within families and communities.

One of the most distinctive aspects of Ethiopian Easter is the period of fasting that proceeds the holiday, known as Lent. This 55-day period of fasting and prayer is observed by Ethiopian Orthodox and Catholic Christians as a time of spiritual purification, preparing the body and soul for the celebration of Christ’s resurrection. During this time, followers abstain from meat, dairy, and other animal products, focusing instead on a diet of fruits, vegetables, and plant-based foods. The fast is not only a physical discipline but also a time for deep spiritual reflection, prayer, and repentance. It allows believers to strengthen their faith, deepen their connection with God, and remember the suffering Christ endured. The fast culminates in the joyous celebration of Easter, making the holiday even more meaningful as it marks the end of a period of self-discipline and penance, followed by the triumphant celebration of Christ’s resurrection.

From the solemn days of Lent to the joyous celebrations of Easter Sunday, the Ethiopian Christian communities comes together to commemorate the life, death, and resurrection of Jesus.

The rich tapestry of traditions, rituals, and customs that define the Ethiopian Easter celebration reflects the deep spiritual devotion and cultural pride of the Ethiopian people. As believers come together to worship, fellowship, and feast, the true essence of Easter shines brightly in the hearts of Ethiopians. One of the key messages of the holiday is helping others, offering both financial and in-kind support to those in need. This act of charity ensures that everyone can partake in the joy of the holiday, spreading happiness and reinforcing the spirit of compassion and unity.

Next Sunday, April 20th Ethiopian Christians will observe Fasika. The culmination of the fasting period is marked by a joyous celebration filled with colorful processions and gatherings with family and friends, in a manner that Easter signifies the triumph of life over death and the victory of light over darkness and good over evil.

This powerful ritual reflects the deeper spiritual meaning of the holiday, as believers come together to celebrate the resurrection of Christ and the renewal of hope and faith.

Easter is a celebration of faith, culture, and tradition that holds deep significance for the Ethiopian people. Blending solemn religious observances with rich cultural customs and joyful festivities, Ethiopian Easter—Fasika—brings communities together in a spirit of unity and reverence. As believers gather to commemorate the resurrection of Jesus Christ, they also honor their shared heritage and core values. The celebration serves as a powerful reminder of love, forgiveness, hope, and renewal, creating lasting memories and strengthening the bonds of family, friendship, and fellowship across generations.

During Ethiopian Easter, several core societal values are emphasized and celebrated, reflecting the deep-rooted cultural and spiritual identity of the nation. These values—such as compassion, generosity, humility, forgiveness, and communal harmony—serve as important pillars of Ethiopian life. They guide how people relate to one another, reinforcing a strong sense of unity, respect, and mutual support. The holiday becomes more than just a religious event; it is a time when families and communities come together, share with those in need, and renew their commitment to living with purpose and empathy. These values not only define the spirit of Fasika but also shape the everyday interactions and traditions that make Ethiopian society unique.

Another key societal value reflected during Ethiopian Easter is generosity. While generosity is a daily practice for many Ethiopians, it becomes even more pronounced during this holiday. People open their hearts and homes to friends, family, and even strangers, offering warm hospitality and sharing meals with those in need. This spirit of giving is a central aspect of the Easter celebration, serving as a powerful reminder of the importance of compassion and helping others.

Moreover, Ethiopian Easter is a time when people show compassion and empathy toward others. This often includes visiting the sick, offering forgiveness, and extending kindness to those who are less fortunate. Such acts of compassion reflect the deeply rooted values of love, understanding, that are central and at the heart of Ethiopian society.

In addition, Ethiopian Easter is a deeply spiritual holiday, with faith playing a central role in the lives of the Ethiopian people. This spiritual depth is reflected in the rituals, prayers, and traditions observed throughout the Easter season. It serves as a powerful reminder of the significance of faith and belief in shaping both individual lives and the broader fabric of society.

Moreover, Ethiopian Easter is not only a religious observance but also a vibrant celebration of Ethiopian culture and traditions. Many people wear traditional clothing visit their family members, neighbors, and relatives. On the eve of Easter, communities gather for church services that continue through the night into the early morning. Churches are filled with worshippers dressed in white, with women wearing elegant white dresses and head coverings, creating a serene and spiritually uplifting atmosphere.

Easter in Ethiopia is a time of renewal, forgiveness and hope. It symbolizes the triumph of life over death and serves as a poignant reminder of the significance of faith and community. The rich symbolism of the holiday is embodied in the intricate rituals and customs observed by the Ethiopian Christian community.

In sum, Ethiopian Easter is a uniquely enriching experience that allows to learn more about the country’s deep religious and cultural heritage. Combining centuries-old traditions with profound spiritual significance, the holiday is a time of joy, reflection, and renewal. It captures the essence of the Ethiopian people, celebrating both faith and community while honoring cultural legacy.

BY TEWODROS KASSA

THE ETHIOPIAN HERALD FRIDAY 18 APRIL 2025

When Was the Last Time We Celebrated Easter?

April 19, 2025

Whenever we think about holidays, the first thought that comes to our mind is how fast time passes. It may be an illusion, a false impression, or something wrong going on in the universe we cannot fully understand. Are the Easter holidays already upon us? Hardly believable. Are we in the rainy season after a couple of months? But when was the last time the raindrops wetted our shoes? Eight months ago? Unbelievable! We check the calendar to see whether time is playing tricks on us, or we are playing tricks on time. Yes, eight months have passed since the last rain, but our memory may be misleading us. The feeling of time may vary from person to person. I have the impression that the last rainy season is only three or four months old.

These days, time seems to be running or walking fast. Real fast. Yeah, fast. These days, we wake up on Tuesday morning and we often ask ourselves, “What day is it today? Is it Friday?” Not because we have suddenly lost our memory, but because time is running so fast that it leaves us confused, that we have lost count of the day. They tell you that today is Monday, and after two days, you think about the weekend, and have the impression that it is already Friday. The same goes for public holidays or anniversaries. When was that were we talking about the New Ethiopian year? Meskerem or Enkutatash? Seven months back? Are we in our seven months or seventy days? Shocking! Isn’t it?

This is the time to seek Einstein’s help and read about his theory of relativity to deal not with space and time but with the speed of time and how and why it often passes so fast that it leaves us with the sad impression that it is running faster and leaves us behind. It reminds us how our time is passing faster, our age is advancing, and we are getting older than usual. I remember that the notion of aging has changed with the speed of time. Fifty years ago, someone who was forty was considered “an old man,” maybe because time passed relatively slowly.

At forty, people began to think about two things. First, their retirement and second, their mortality. Nowadays, many people reach their seventies or eighties without losing their appetite for life. At least this is real progress. In the past, time caught up with us relatively late, and aging became a light weight to carry. Nowadays, with life being so expensive that the average monthly retirement income cannot pay for a good meal for two.

Our parents mostly lived on a retirement allowance in the environs of twenty birr per month. No, time was not passing slowly even at that time. We simply had the impression that time was stagnant simply because people did not much to do with their time other than sitting for hours in drink joints or sitting somewhere near their homes, bathing under the morning sun, and getting back home to sleep and wake up at lunch. Easy life! Wasn’t it? Easy and long life in poverty! It felt lighter, sleep was coming easily because minds were less crowded, and thoughts were uncomplicated. The ideal life! Not these days. Poverty is always around, but the simple life with fewer worries and fewer needs has left us never to return.

Life was easier then, and it created the impression that we were living longer, although forty sounded old. That was why holidays like Easter, or the famous Fasika, are awaited with great expectations for great fun, which mainly consisted of eating and drinking rather abundantly. How about Easter in the time of high food prices, shortages and lack? Let’s not talk about it because we are living it and feeling its cold bites.

What makes Ethiopian holidays rather special is the fact that every holiday comes with its fixations. Enkutatash or New Year? Time to worry about buying new clothes and shoes. The new school year: so many expenses, new clothes and shoes for children, academic expenses…etc. It was rather cheaper to raise children in the old days. Nowadays, it is cheaper to have children, but more expensive to raise them. And holidays gave not headaches but real anxieties to parents.

The only common denominator is their collective obsessions with food, drinks, and the tendency to try to forget our miseries in too much drinking and overeating, because the opportunity presents itself rarely, and we try to make the most out of it. Even then, holidays captured our attention for a few days, before the post-holiday headaches set in. Unpaid debts, the distance between one payday to the other, bad memories of holiday overspending, and its bad consequences.

Another reason why great holidays are welcomed with great enthusiasm is the way they are celebrated with a variety of rites and rituals. Food is one of, or maybe the biggest, of holiday rituals for many reasons. Foods served on holidays like Easter in Ethiopia are diverse, special, tasty, and consumed after two months of abstinence. Speaking of abstinence as part of the two-month rituals, meat, butter, milk and even fish are prohibited in most communities, although fish eating remains controversial because some Christians are consuming it while others consider it as belonging to the list of prohibited food items.

Fasting foods in Ethiopia are popular during at least two months of the Ethiopian year in addition to the twice-weekly fasting days. The Ethiopian year is therefore balanced in terms of food diversity by providing times of indulgence in fatty foods and times of restraint or abstinence from such foods that are universally considered unhealthy eating habits. In a way, Ethiopia’s food culture is not only fully based on a robust organic base but also on natural and temporal restrictions or prohibitions, although they are based on religious practices.

Given the present fasting season for both Christians and Muslims, it would not be out of place here to share our reflections on Ethiopian food culture and the changes that it is undergoing nowadays. To begin with, let us look at how the big fasting times were welcomed and endured in older times, and how they shaped societies’ attitudes about life and religion in general, and how they have changed nowadays.

Forty or fifty years ago, fasting in general and the main fasting season was considered by Orthodox Christians in Ethiopia as a big occasion not only for proving one’s piousness but also their relationship to God. Although the orthodox church does not prohibit the faithful from abstaining from food all days long for 60 days, Ethiopians are so spiritual that many of them would voluntarily refrain from eating meat, butter, and other related food items.

On the first day of the fasting season, all utensils used the day or evening before are washed thoroughly until they are free from non-fasting food remains that could stay stuck to the dishes and cooking pots, or knives. The end of the fasting season is another story of passionate indulgence in all kinds of foods as if to make up for the two months of voluntary abstinence. The current fasting time in Ethiopia could therefore be used to promote food tourism based on the scientific evidence that Ethiopian fasting foods are not only varied but rich in non-fat and healthy nutrients. Many Western tourists are naturally fond of Ethiopian fasting dishes that reflect the scientific evidence that going vegetarian is good for our health.

One of the fascinating things about Ethiopian holidays is also the fact that Ramadan, or the holiday at the end of the Muslim fasting month, and the Christian Easter, often fall in the same month. Speaking of the fast passage of time, several Muslim brothers and sisters were equally shocked as the month-long fast left the weird impression that it only lasted for a couple of weeks. This impression is also felt by many Christians who break their fast a couple of weeks after Ramadan. It is as if time is shrinking and the days are passing faster than usual.

Meanwhile, time will continue its forward movement irrespective of our subjective impressions or our interpretations of the passage of time. Holidays often trigger memories in many of us. This is the appropriate time to ask questions about the different facets of our lives. We remember those who have departed, and recall the ages of our children. Many children born on Easter day, or Fassika as we call it here, are given the same name. Thus, we have many people called Fassika simply because they are born on Easter day, which is a day of happiness both in the religious and secular sense.

Many girls born on New Year’s Day or Enkutatash are called Meskerem, after the first month of a new Ethiopian year. This is interpreted in many ways. The newborn children come to this world with new hopes for a happier life and represent a fresh beginning. These names are considered archaic these days, and parents take great pains to give their children names that sound ‘modern’, or a little bit foreign, or more religious.

Anyway, time continues its journey to infinite time, and we often worry about our age. Some people are said to be hiding their real age and replacing it with their preferred age. Some people may tell you the same age year after year, while the inevitable signs of advancing age are visible on their faces and bodies. This may be the reflection of fear of aging or dying that we try to repress until we stop counting it.

BY MULUGETA GUDETA

THE ETHIOPIAN HERALD SATURDAY 19 APRIL 2025

Ethiopians in Washington D.C. Keep Ancient Language and Orthodox Traditions Alive

A kesis or priest, waves a censer burning incense as he walks through rows of congregants at Re'ese Adbarat Debre Selam Kidist Mariam Church

By Agencies

16/04 - 13:20

In the heart of Washington, D.C., the sound of ancient Ge’ez chants echoes from Re’ese Adbarat Debre Selam Kidist Mariam Church, a spiritual home for thousands of Ethiopian Orthodox Christians preserving centuries-old traditions.

Worshippers, draped in traditional white netela shawls, bow in reverence and fill the church with prayers and incense smoke, symbols deeply rooted in the church’s 2,000-year-old liturgy.

“Our tradition is ancient. It comes from apostolic times,” said Abraham Habte-Sellassie, a priest, or kesis, at DSK Mariam Church. “We believe in the Bible, but we also believe in the holy tradition and the two are not separate.”

The Ethiopian Orthodox Church in D.C. serves not just as a place of worship, but as a cultural and spiritual anchor for the largest Ethiopian diaspora community in the U.S. With more than 1,500 registered members and over 4,000 weekly attendees, the church is deeply committed to passing on faith and language to younger generations.

“These kids, if they learn the tradition, the language, and the faith, they can find balance in a hectic, material-driven world,” said Habte-Sellassie.

To engage the youth, services are offered in both Amharic and English, with translations displayed on screens. The rituals, from removing shoes upon entry to kissing the Gospel as it's carried through the congregation, are rich in symbolism. “Every act here has deep meaning,” explained Beza Bililigne, a deacon and youth leader.

For 21-year-old church member Kannazegelila Mezgebu, the church is more than a spiritual space—it’s home. “The Ethiopian Orthodox Church has so many beautiful rituals. Every day has a deep meaning,” she said. “When I’m here, I feel surrounded by my people. It truly feels like home.”

Through tradition, language, and faith, the Ethiopian Orthodox Church in D.C. stands as a living bridge between ancient heritage and modern diaspora life.

Unprecedented Trial for Apartheid Atrocities Opens in South Africa

An election poster, with President Cyril Ramaphosa atop a pole in Soweto, South Africa, on April 22, 2024

By Africa News

A significant step by South Africa's legal system in confronting the atrocities of the country's dark political past. 

A judge this week approved the trial of two apartheid-era police officers for their involvement in the 1982 assassination of three student activists.

The prosecution is unprecedented. Until now, no individual had been held accountable for the crime of apartheid.

The case centers around three young freedom fighters killed in an explosion in 1982. The victims were part of a resistance movement opposed to the apartheid regime which enforced White-only rule and domination over the Black majority.

Experts say the trial could open the door for others.

Also, this week, South Africa reopened an investigation into the death Albert Luthuli, a former president of the African National Congress (ANC) and Nobel Peace Prize laureate, who was killed in 1967.

The prosecuting authority seeks to have the findings of previous inquests into Luthuli overturned.

The authorities at the time had concluded that Luthuli's death the result of an accident.

The development comes more than 30 years since South Africa became a democracy and after a Truth commission unearted numerous atrocities.

Afrikaner Wanted Money in Exchange for ‘Real’ Information Regarding Luthuli’s Death - Grandson

On Thursday, Mthunzi Luthuli took the stand at the Pietermaritzburg High Court, where the recently reopened inquest into his grandfather’s death is being heard.

Afrikaner wanted money in exchange for ‘real’ information regarding Luthuli’s death - grandson

Mthunzi Albert Luthuli, grandson of Chief Albert Luthuli, testified at the inquiry into his grandfather's death at the KwaZulu-Natal High Court in Pietermaritzburg on 17 April 2025. Picture: Thabiso Goba/EWN

JOHANNESBURG - The grandson of Chief Albert Luthuli has testified in court that the family was once approached by a white Afrikaner man who wanted money in exchange for telling them the truth about the death of the former African National Congress (ANC) struggle stalwart.

On Thursday, Mthunzi Luthuli took the stand at the Pietermaritzburg High Court, where the recently reopened inquest into his grandfather’s death is being heard.

Luthuli died in 1967, with the apartheid government saying he was hit by a train; however, the National Prosecuting Authority (NPA) is disputing that.

Since Luthuli’s death in 1967, his family has always had doubts over what killed him.

Mthunzi said his father was approached by a white Afrikaner man who claimed to know the "real truth"; however, the family was not willing to cough up money for it.

Mthunzi said the incident confirmed that there was more to his grandfather’s death.

“That the apartheid government had lied about Luthuli’s death, and that the murder of Luthuli was either a hate crime by a white man or the circumstances around Luthuli’s death were probably linked to the [apartheid] government since a white Afrikaner male claimed to know these details.”

The inquest has been adjourned until next Tuesday.

COSATU Warns Legally Challenging Country’s VAT Laws Could Disrupt Entire System

The DA has taken it a step further, calling on the court to declare a section of the VAT Act unconstitutional in Part b of its application.

COSATU warns legally challenging country’s VAT laws could disrupt entire system

COSATU House in Braamfontein, Johannesburg. Picture: Jacques Nelles/Eyewitness News

CAPE TOWN - The Congress of South African Trade Unions (COSATU) has warned that legally challenging the country’s value-added tax (VAT) laws could disrupt the entire system.

Minister Enoch Godongwana is facing a court challenge where the Democratic Alliance (DA) and Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF) want the Western Cape High Court to set aside his VAT increase announcement on 12 March, and interdict the implementation of the decision.

The DA has taken it a step further, calling on the court to declare a section of the VAT Act unconstitutional in Part b of its application.

COSATU's parliamentary coordinator, Matthew Parks, has warned against this.

"The legal case about the law is not helpful because that will risk the stability of the entire system."

But he says Godongwana is not doing enough to find alternatives to the 0.5 percentage point VAT increase - which is due to come into effect on 1 May.

"Because Parliament was quite clear both in the finance committees and the house to find alternatives to the VAT and personal income tax hikes."

Godongwana has defended the VAT increase in court.

Confusing South African IRR Poll Results on Electoral Results

Asked who they would vote for if a snap election had to be held now, the Institute of Race Relations says the majority support of at least 30% would go to the DA.

IRR poll suggests perceptions about ANC working in a GNU have shifted

ANC president Cyril Ramaphosa (centre) visited his branch in Chiawelo, Soweto on 6 April 2025. Picture: @MYANC/X

CAPE TOWN - As tensions over value-added tax (VAT) are expected to rise again next week as the DA goes to court, a new poll suggests the perceptions about the African National Congress (ANC) working in a Government of National Unity have shifted.

The Institute of Race Relations (IRR) says its research shows the budget debacle has worked in favour of the Democratic Alliance(DA), uMkhonto we Sizwe Party (MK) and the Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF) but not so for the ANC and Inkatha Freedom Party (IFP).

It’s also changed voters’ perceptions of which parties would work best in a coalition.

Asked who they would vote for if a snap election had to be held now, the Institute of Race Relations says the majority support of at least 30% would go to the DA.

The institute’s Herman Pretorius explains why: "The ANC being seen no longer as a positive partner in the main, of the gnu but actually an arrogant, dominant partner, that seeks to position the GNU as a continuation of ANC-only governance."

While more voters would be inclined to support a government of national unity that includes the MK or EFF but not the DA - than six months ago - more than 50% of participants would still rather prefer the da to be included in the coalition - rather than the two major opposition parties.

"Without the sufficient consensus mechanism of the GNU kicking in to approve it, has positioned the anc not only on the side of an unpopular rise in VAT, but also on the wrong side of collaboration in the GNU."

The IRR says if the anc were to drop the VAT hike, it could once again bolster its support.

A US Pastor Abducted in South Africa Has Been Rescued After a Police Shootout

By MICHELLE GUMEDE

1:26 AM EDT, April 17, 2025

JOHANNESBURG (AP) — An American pastor who was kidnapped last week by armed and masked men during a sermon in the Eastern Cape province of South Africa was rescued on Tuesday after three of his abductors engaged in gunfire with officials and were killed, police said Wednesday.

The 45-year-old American, Josh Sullivan from Tennessee, has been based in the Motherwell township branch of the Fellowship Baptist Church since 2018 alongside his wife and two children.

The missionary was abducted on Thursday when four men broke into the church. They stole two cellphones from members of the congregation before seizing Sullivan from the pulpit and bundling him out of the building. His truck was found abandoned a few hours later.

A multi-agency task force, including the Anti-Gang Unit and the Serious Organised Crime Unit, took over the investigation. On Tuesday night they approached the location where they suspected Sullivan was being held, a house in KwaMagxaki in the city of Gqeberha, about 20 minutes’ drive from the Baptist church.

AP correspondent Charles de Ledesma reports South African law enforcement officials have rescued an American missionary who was abducted by armed and masked men.

According to police, a shootout began when suspects in a car parked outside the house tried to escape and began firing at them. Three unidentified suspects were killed, police said.

“The victim was found inside the same vehicle from which the suspects had launched their attack,” Lieutenant Colonel Avele Fumba said in a statement. “Miraculously unharmed, he was immediately assessed by medical personnel and is currently in an excellent condition.”

The number of kidnappings in South Africa has risen by 264% over the past decade, police data showed.

According to the Institute of Security Studies, a think tank specializing in Africa, kidnapping has become a key tactic in armed robberies and carjackings. In its latest Africa report, the ISS noted that less than 5% of kidnappings in South Africa involve ransom demands.

Since his release, Sullivan, who describes himself as “a church-planting missionary” on his personal website, has been reunited with his wife, Meagan, and their two children.

A man named Tom Hatley, whom Sullivan describes on his blog as the pastor who trained him, posted a picture of Sullivan and his family on Facebook. “Josh has been released,” Hatley wrote.

“Thank you for your support and prayers. Please do not stop praying for the Sullivans,” his post read.

Rwanda Agrees to Give Safe Passage to SADC Forces Leaving the DRC

President of Rwanda Paul Kagame and his DRC counterpart Felix Tshikedi attends a joint summit to address conflict in Eastern Democratic Republic of Congo.

Rwanda has agreed to give safe passage to Southern African Development Community (SADC) forces. This was confirmed by the Rwandan Minister for Foreign Affairs Olivier Nduhungirehe who confirmed this was at the request of SADC who requested to use the eastern African territory as they exit the war-ravaged eastern Congo.

Kigali has in the past been critical of the SADC forces positioned in Congo straining its relations with South Africa.

The SADC forces have suffered a number of casualties in the previous months from the ongoing war.

The force of several thousand peacekeeping troops from South Africa, Malawi and Tanzania had been sent to eastern Congo by the SADC in 2023 to help the Congolese government pacify a mineral-rich region plagued by various insurgencies.

The troops failed to stop the lightning assaults starting in January by the Rwanda-backed M23 rebels that have claimed several key cities and that left several peacekeepers dead, eroding support for the mission in the donor countries.

The SADC leadership announced their withdrawal earlier this month. The SADC mission was part of a myriad of forces operating in the mineral-rich region plagued by decades of armed violence.

They include Congolese government soldiers, foreign mercenaries, a United Nations peacekeeping force and more than 100 groups that are fighting for power, land and valuable mineral resources.

Others try to defend their communities. Some armed groups have been accused of mass killings targeting ethnic groups.

The M23 rebels are supported by about 4,000 troops from neighboring Rwanda, according to U.N. experts, and at times have vowed to march as far as Congo’s capital, Kinshasa, over 1,000 miles away.

Rwanda has rejected charges, including by the Congolese government and U.N experts, that it backs M23 in eastern Congo, a region that is now one of the world’s largest humanitarian crises with more than 7 million people displaced.

The withdrawal of SADC troops comes after the M23 took control of eastern Congo’s main city of Goma and seized the second largest city, Bukavu, in offensives over the past two months.

Fourteen South African soldiers, and at least three from Malawi, were killed in January in the fighting. The United Nations later evacuated a group of critically injured South African.

US Aggression on Yemen's Ras Isa Port Kills 38, Injures Over 100

By Al Mayadeen English

US airstrikes on the Ras Isa oil port in Yemen have caused significant damage and civilian casualties. The Yemeni government condemns the attack as a war crime, amidst continued attacks on the port.

The Ras Isa oil port in northwest Hodeidah was severely damaged on Thursday after a series of United States airstrikes, marking one of the most severe escalations in the American military campaign against Yemen in recent weeks.

Al Mayadeen’s correspondent on the ground reported that civil defense teams are battling large fires that continue to rage across the strategic oil facility after the assault. Early on Friday, local sources informed Al Mayadeen that 38 workers were martyred and 102 more were injured in the attacks, with the death toll from the Ras Issa Port massacre likely to rise, considering all the critical injuries reported and the ongoing search for missing persons.

Sanaa gov. promises retaliation

The government in Sanaa condemned the attack in the strongest possible terms, denouncing it as a “full-fledged war crime.” The government warned that such actions "will not go unpunished."

“This crime once again proves that the American enemy deliberately targets civilian facilities and vital infrastructure,” the statement read. “The justifications provided by the US are false and misleading.”

US Strikes will not deter Yemen 

Sanaa further emphasized that the US escalation would not deter Yemen from continuing its operations in support of Palestine. “

We will continue our support operations, which have been 100% successful in preventing Israeli navigation in the Red Sea,” the statement asserted.

Reaffirming Yemen’s stance, the government said it reserves the legal right to self-defense and holds Washington fully accountable for the consequences of its ongoing aggression in regional waters.

Ras Isa assault continues, as workers fight raging fires

The Ras Isa assault came amid renewed US airstrikes on the facility, with warplanes returning to bomb the site located northwest of Hodeidah city, early on Friday. According to our correspondent, at least five emergency workers were killed by the strikes while fighting the fires. The attack on Ras Isa follows a pattern of intensified US airstrikes across Yemen, targeting civilian areas and critical infrastructure in multiple provinces. While Washington claims the airstrikes are aimed at neutralizing missile launch sites, Yemeni officials and residents stress that the strikes are disproportionately affecting civilians.

Growing US airstrikes on Yemen, their impact on civilians

The escalation of US airstrikes on Yemen has drawn criticism over the impact on civilian infrastructure. While the United States asserts that the campaign targets military sites linked to missile launches, the destruction of critical infrastructure such as the Ras Isa oil port has raised alarm. This facility plays a vital role in Yemen’s energy operations, which are essential to the country’s economy.

Other strikes and raids have caused extensive damage to civilian areas, with hospitals, schools, homes, and transportation infrastructure also being affected.

The Red Sea and Yemen’s support for Palestine

Despite the growing tensions and escalating airstrikes, Yemen has reaffirmed its commitment to supporting the Palestinian cause. Sanaa’s operations in the Red Sea, which have been successful in preventing Israeli navigation, continue to be a point of pride for the Yemeni government and people. Yemen has vowed to maintain its position against Israeli actions in the region, despite mounting pressure from the US and other international actors.

The Yemeni government’s commitment to the Palestinian cause remains a cornerstone of its foreign policy, even as it faces increasing military aggression from Washington. Yemen’s refusal to yield to these pressures signals its resolve in both defending its sovereignty and continuing to support regional solidarity, particularly in the face of Israeli occupation.

Al-Qaida-linked Rebels Attack a Strategic Town in Somalia

By OMAR FARUK

12:03 PM EDT, April 16, 2025

MOGADISHU, Somalia (AP) — The Somalia -based militant group al-Shabab on Wednesday attacked a strategic town that serves as a major base for government troops, raising new concerns about the sustainability of the fight against the al-Qaida-linked militants.

The dawn attack on Adan Yabal in Middle Shabelle region started with the launching of explosives before the militants attacked on foot on multiple fronts.

Al-Shabab in a statement claimed it captured the town. A Somali military officer who spoke on condition of anonymity because he was not authorized to speak to the media said government troops controlled some areas and fighting continued.

Adan Yabal, about 245 kilometers (152 miles) north of the capital, Mogadishu, came under al-Shabab control in 2016 and was retaken by government forces in December 2022.

President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud visited the town last month, underscoring its symbolic and strategic importance in the fight against the militants. “For the past two consecutive years, we have been on a winning streak. Occasional losses on the battlefield do not mean we are losing the war,” he said.

Military sources reported significant casualties on both sides Wednesday, though the exact number was unclear due to disrupted communication lines in the area. 

In a related development, government forces and an allied militia withdrew from the nearby village of Abooreey after 10 days of clashes. Local sources confirmed that al-Shabab has since captured the village.

The setbacks come amid a broader counterinsurgency campaign that began in 2022 when Somali forces, supported by clan militias and international partners, reclaimed dozens of towns and villages across Hirshabelle, Galmudug and Southwest states.

It was one of the most significant offensives against al-Shabab in more than a decade.

However, in recent months, the insurgents have regrouped and launched a series of counterattacks, regaining control over rural settlements in Middle Shabelle and Galgaduud regions. Al-Shabab also continues to operate in large parts of Lower Shabelle, Middle Juba and Bakool regions, where government presence remains limited.

The militant group has fought for more than 15 years to overthrow Somalia’s internationally backed government. It retains the capacity to launch deadly raids and bombings, including in Mogadishu. The most recent attack was on March 18 when a roadside bombing targeted the presidential motorcade.

The Somali government insists al-Shabab has been weakened.

Struggling Ivory Coast Cocoa Farmers Are Worried About US Tariff Plans

By HILAIRE ZON

1:32 AM EDT, April 17, 2025

N’GATTAKRO, Ivory Coast (AP) — Jean Mari Konan Yao says he’s struggling as a cocoa farmer in the west African nation of Ivory Coast, which produces almost half the world’s cocoa supply of the raw ingredient used in chocolate.

Like many in Ivory Coast — the world’s biggest cocoa producer — Konan Yao says cocoa has long provided a lifeline for him, but adverse weather and plant diseases have hurt harvests in recent years.

Now, cocoa farmers worry even more over President Donald Trump’s plans to impose a 21% tariff on products from Ivory Coast — the highest among West African nations.

Although Trump has suspended the tariff plans for 90 days pending further review, authorities in Ivory Coast have warned that such tariffs could send the price of cocoa even higher and destabilize the local market by slowing their sales.

Ivory Coast produces between 2 million and 2.5 million metric tons of cocoa annually, with around 200,000 to 300,000 metric tons exported to the United States, according to the Coffee and Cocoa Council.

In 2023, Ivory Coast exported $3.68 billion worth of cocoa beans, its second biggest export after gold. The U.S. was its fourth-largest importer of cocoa beans, after the Netherlands, Malaysia and Belgium, according to the Organization for Economic Cooperation and Development.

For most local cocoa growers, any U.S. tariff could further shake a market already struggling with decreasing yields and shrinking funding that has limited farmers’ ability to meet global demands for chocolate.

“If we hear the American president is going to put a tax on the price of cocoa, it’s really not good for us, it doesn’t help us,” said another cocoa farmer, Salif Traoré.

Already, cocoa prices were rising in the country, in part because of insufficient and irregular rainfall in Ivory Coast.

The U.K.-based Energy and Climate Intelligence Unit research firm has noted a 32% rise in the price of cocoa imported into the United Kingdom over the last three years, partially due to extreme weather conditions in parts of Africa where it’s mainly grown. Together, Ivory Coast, Ghana, Nigeria and Cameroon produce about three-quarters of the world’s cocoa.

Cocoa is traded on a regulated, global market. In Ivory Coast, the government usually sets cocoa prices at the onset of each season, with prices reflecting market trends and global prices. The local prices are, however, lower than the global market rates, thereby limiting the farmers’ profit from high global prices.

Authorities say they are already considering cocoa price increases if the U.S. tariff comes into effect.

“Donald Trump’s customs tax is causing us problems. We are already feeling the effects,” said Boss Diarra, coordinator of the local cocoa farmers’ union in Bouaflé in central Ivory Coast. He pointed to bags of cocoa that he said farmers have been unable to sell.

Meanwhile, a U.S. tariff could mean more cocoa for European markets, said Bruno Marcel Iritié, researcher at the Ivorian Félix Houphouët-Boigny Polytechnic Institute. Some of the top importers of Ivory Coast cocoa are in Europe, market data show.

European customers “will inevitably buy cheaper because when there is too much, the customer is king,” Iritié said.

Divisions Undermine London Talks on Ending Sudan War

By Al Mayadeen English

17 Apr 2025 22:54

Disagreements between the UAE, Egypt, and Saudi Arabia stall efforts at a London summit to find a unified path toward ending Sudan’s war, now in its second year.

A top Emirati diplomat expressed disappointment to Reuters at the failure of a UK-hosted summit this week to produce a unified strategy to end the Sudan conflict, now in its second year.

The conference in London, intended to build regional consensus, ended without a joint communique due to disagreements between the UAE, Egypt, and Saudi Arabia over Sudan’s future governance, according to diplomatic sources.

"There was a clear call from us that we needed unity around, you know, an urgent need first and foremost that Sudan should transition to an independent civilian-led government," said Lana Nusseibeh, assistant minister for political affairs at the UAE's Ministry of Foreign Affairs.

"And that's why ... we were very disappointed that despite the gravity of the situation and the UK's efforts, we were unable to agree on a joint communique yesterday."

Regional tensions surface over civilian-led governance

Both the Sudanese army and the paramilitary Rapid Support Forces (RSF) have received backing from regional players, making Arab unity critical to any resolution.

However, divisions persist. At the London summit, Sudan’s government protested the inclusion of countries it has accused of supporting the RSF, particularly the UAE.

The summit also included Egypt and Saudi Arabia, which have ties to the Sudanese army and have played roles in prior, unsuccessful peace talks.

Two Egyptian security sources said disagreements arose over whether to prioritize the establishment of a civilian-led government or to first end hostilities, leaving governance to be addressed later.

Egypt, KSA align against joint statement

One diplomat present said the disagreement was rooted in wording around state institutions. Egypt reportedly advocated for language that was seen by others, including the UAE, as legitimizing the military leadership. Saudi Arabia supported Egypt’s position.

The failure to reconcile these differences ultimately blocked the release of a unified communique, the source said, and cast doubt on the prospects of future cooperation.

Requests for comment from the Egyptian Foreign Ministry and the Saudi government communications office were not immediately returned.

Sudan accuses UAE of violating Genocide Convention in Darfur

It is worth noting that the Sudanese government informed the International Court of Justice (ICJ) last week that the United Arab Emirates was violating the Genocide Convention by supporting paramilitary forces in Darfur. Sudan has requested that the court issue urgent provisional measures.

According to Reuters, Sudan’s complaint to the Hague-based ICJ concerns intense ethnically-driven attacks carried out by the Rapid Support Forces (RSF) in West Darfur. The UAE has dismissed the case as a "political game".

Acting Sudanese Justice Minister Muawiya Othman told the UN’s top court, "The genocide against the Masalit people is being carried out by the Rapid Support Forces, believed to be Arabs from Darfur, with the support and complicity of the United Arab Emirates."

Sudan has accused the UAE of arming the RSF amid a civil war that has dragged on for two years. Although the UAE denies these allegations, UN experts and US lawmakers have found them to be "credible."

Sudan’s acting justice minister has also called on the court to issue an order preventing the UAE from continuing acts of genocide against the Masalit.

Aid Groups Warn of Mass Starvation in Sudan as Global Support Wanes

By Al Mayadeen English

11 Apr 2025 16:52

With over 30 million people—nearly two-thirds of the population—now reliant on emergency assistance, the country is sinking deeper into famine, mass displacement, and violence.

As Sudan enters its third year of war, leading international humanitarian organizations are raising the alarm over what they describe as an unprecedented catastrophe. With over 30 million people—nearly two-thirds of the population—now reliant on emergency assistance, the country is sinking deeper into famine, mass displacement, and violence.

In a joint appeal released ahead of a high-level ministerial conference on Sudan in the United Kingdom, the heads of the Danish Refugee Council, International Rescue Committee, Norwegian Refugee Council, CARE International, and Mercy Corps called on global leaders to act without delay. Without urgent intervention, they warn, the crisis will claim countless more lives.

"The world's failure to fund humanitarian action in Sudan has now become the biggest obstacle to saving lives," the statement reads. The 2025 humanitarian response plan—estimated at $4.1 billion—has received only 10 percent of its required funding. This shortfall is forcing local organizations to shut down critical services, including mobile clinics and communal kitchens that have served as lifelines for vulnerable communities.

Conditions across Sudan continue to deteriorate. Humanitarian agencies report relentless assaults on civilians and widespread use of sexual violence. "Women and girls endure systemic sexual violence," the statement adds, calling it one of the conflict's most horrifying features.

Displacement is surging. More than 3.7 million Sudanese—mostly women and children—have fled to neighboring countries such as Chad, South Sudan, and Ethiopia, only to face overcrowded camps and scarce resources. Aid workers caution that these fragile host states are reaching a breaking point, with regional tensions escalating and humanitarian systems stretched to the limit.

The imminent rainy season is expected to worsen access to affected communities by flooding transportation routes and cutting off humanitarian corridors. 

Despite the growing scale of the crisis, international support remains, in the words of the appeal, "too slow, too timid, and dangerously inadequate." The signatories call on the upcoming conference to mark a "turning point," urging world leaders to secure a ceasefire, guarantee safe passage for aid, and fully fund humanitarian operations.

"When funding dries up, people don't just suffer—they die," the letter warns.

The statement is signed by Charlotte Slente (Danish Refugee Council), David Miliband (International Rescue Committee), Jan Egeland (Norwegian Refugee Council), Reintje van Haeringen (CARE International), and Tjada D'Oyen McKenna (Mercy Corps). They stress that the time for promises has passed—only immediate, tangible action can prevent further catastrophe.

Humanitarian Collapse

The appeal comes amid a broader global pullback from humanitarian funding, particularly from the United States, historically the world's largest aid donor. In January, President Donald Trump signed Executive Order 14169, enacting a 90-day freeze on US foreign development assistance. Weeks later, his administration announced it would cancel over 90 percent of USAID's overseas contracts, slashing approximately $60 billion from Washington's global aid budget. 

The repercussions have been swift. The Norwegian Refugee Council reports that clinics and schools serving Sudanese refugees in Chad have already been shuttered due to funding gaps. The World Food Programme warns that nearly 25 million people in Sudan now face acute food insecurity, with famine confirmed in at least 11 areas. To reach 7 million people over the next six months, the WFP says it urgently needs an additional $650 million—a target far from being met.

"This catastrophic gap is forcing Sudanese local responders to shut down life-saving communal kitchens and mobile clinics," the joint appeal explains. "Yet they are the backbone of the humanitarian response, saving lives daily."

As world leaders prepare to meet in London, aid groups insist that without bold financial commitments and political resolve, the consequences will be irreversible.

"This cannot go on."

Ceasefire in Ukraine Unrealistic at This Point, Russia’s UN Envoy Says

Vasily Nebenzya noted that attempt at a limited ceasefire concerning energy infrastructure was not observed by the Ukrainian side

UNITED NATIONS, April 18. /TASS/. A ceasefire in Ukraine is unrealistic at this point, as Kiev fails to honor the moratorium on striking energy infrastructure, said Russia's envoy to the UN, Vasily Nebenzya.

"We had an attempt at a limited ceasefire concerning energy infrastructure, which was not observed by the Ukrainian side. Under these circumstances, it is simply unrealistic to talk about a ceasefire at this point," he told reporters.

On March 18, US President Donald Trump put forward a proposal for the sides of the conflict to refrain from strikes on energy infrastructure for 30 days. Russian President Vladimir Putin agreed and immediately gave the Russian military the appropriate command. Vladimir Zelensky later said Ukraine would also support the proposal.

However, Ukraine attacked Russian energy sites from March 18 to April 16 in 15 regions. They are the Belgorod, Bryansk, Voronezh, Zaporozhye, Kursk, Lipetsk, Rostov, Saratov, Smolensk, Tambov, Krasnodar and Kherson regions, Crimea, and the Donetsk and Lugansk people’s republics. The strikes were carried out with drones and various artillery capabilities, including the HIMARS. Kremlin Spokesman Dmitry Peskov said Kiev has not actually observed the moratorium, and attempts to attack the Russian energy sector continue.