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Ethiopia - NEBE approves election symbols of 36 political parties
Addis Ababa, December 31, 2007 (WIC) – The National Electoral Board of Ethiopia (NEBE) said 36 national and regional political parties have submitted election symbols to participate in the upcoming local and by-election.
NEBE Chairman Dr. Merga Beqana told WIC today that in line with the revised electoral law, which requires political parties to submit their symbols to the board,36 parties have so far submitted their symbols while notification letter has been sent to those who have not yet done so.
Dr. Merga Beqana
The Ethiopian Democratic Unity Party (EDUP-Medhin), Union of Ethiopian Democratic Forces (UEDF), Oromo Federalist Democratic Movement (OFDM) and the Ethiopian Peoples Revolutionary Democratic Front (EPRDF) are among the parties that have submitted their symbols to contend at national level ,he said.
Along with submitting symbols of election, the parties have also identified the category of election they will participate in and the state where they would rally in, the Chairman said, adding that the board has approved the 36 parties to participate in the elections.
The board has also proved that the symbols submitted by the parties are dissimilar and comply with the requirements of the electoral law and the board will publicize them to the public through the media soon, Dr. Merga said.
He however noted that since the two factions of Coalition for Unity and Democracy Party (CUD) led by Temesgen Zewde and Ayele Chamiso have submitted similar symbols, the board will look into the matter and pass decision soon.
Registration of candidates will be undertaken from January 10 to February 8, 2008, Dr. Merga said and added that 91 national and regional political parties have been allowed by the board and are operating throughout the country.
HAPPY NEW YEAR TO ALL ETHIOPIANS AROUND THE WORLD
Post your New Year Greetings here, please include country or city you are located.
Somalia - Group says Mogadishu violence kills 6,500 in 2007
MOGADISHU (Reuters) - Conflict in Somalia killed 6,501 civilians in the capital Mogadishu in 2007 and wounded 8,516 more, a local human rights group said on Monday.
The Elman Peace and Human Rights Organisation said it had recorded 1.5 million people uprooted from homes in the city during a year that began with the toppling of an Islamist movement that was followed by an insurgency.
The group's chairman, Sudan Ali Ahmed, blamed Ethiopian forces supporting the interim Somali government for many of the civilian deaths. Residents are often caught in the crossfire as Ethiopian soldiers battle Islamist-led guerrillas.
More from Reuters
Ethiopia -Amsale Aberra Moms Who Made Millions
Source: Oprah
Amsale Aberra came to America from Ethiopia at age 19 to study art, but her direction in life took a sudden and unexpected turn. When Amsale was planning her wedding she had a hard time finding a dress she liked. Instead of compromising, she stitched her own gown—and before she knew it, she was creating gowns for others.
Visit Oprah.com for gallery of Amsale's wedding gowns
Related Links
World Renowned wedding dress designer Amsale Aberra interview with The Resident publication.
Wedding Dresses that Stand Out (TIME Magazine)
Lincoln has chosen Amsale Aberra as spokesperson for MKX (The Wall Street Journal)
Special Section: Style Fashion & Beauty
Amsale Aberra TV Commercial
Somalia - Mortar Kills Somali Mother, 5 Children
MOGADISHU, Somalia (AP) — A mother and her five children were killed Sunday by a mortar round fired during fighting between Somali insurgents and Ethiopian troops.
Insurgents attacked bases of Ethiopian troops in the south of the capital with mortars and the Ethiopians fired back, with about 30 mortars fired in all, said Mostaf Abdi Ahmed, a neighbor of the family.
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Ethiopia, Egypt pledge more troops for Darfur
ADDIS ABABA (Reuters) - Ethiopia and Egypt will each send 850 troops early in the new year to serve with a joint United Nations-African Union force in Sudan's Darfur region, an AU official told Reuters on Monday.
AU troops in Darfur were swapping their green headgear for U.N. blue berets on Monday as the joint force formally takes over peacekeeping duties from the all-African peacekeepers.
The New York Times wrote a troubling story of migrant workers from Ethiopia and some Asian countries in Northern Iraq. Yobdar Abu, 23, pictured above has arrived in the Kurdish region in October via Dubai, having been told she was headed for Turkey.
Here is an excerpt from the report
"An agent who has brought in hundreds of Asian and African women in their teens and early 20s said that some had complained of unwanted sexual advances. She told of one client who expressed interest in an exceptionally beautiful young Ethiopian woman, offering extra money for her. He disappeared with the woman for several months, then inexplicably sent her home at his own expense. “I suspect he got her pregnant,” the agency manager said, insisting on anonymity."
Sana Muhammad, a Qadamkher employee, said business was growing rapidly. The agency collects a one-time fee of $2,500 from Kurdish families for each domestic worker.
“We have requests for 10 Indonesian girls right now that we’re trying to fill,” she added. “We have Ethiopian girls available but clients don’t want them. They say their faces are ugly — the black skin is unfamiliar.”
Read Complete Story from The New York Times
Have Your Say
“War,” Bob Marley & The Wailers
Another anti-war song, this time in a Rastafarian vein. The source for the lyrics is part of a speech given by Emperor Haile Selassie I of Ethiopia to the U.N. in 1963. The song is both a call for basic human rights and a tribute to Selassie, who was revered by Rastafarians and referred to as The Lion.
Source:
Minnesota Public Radio
Ethiopia - Nigerian Woman busted while trying to smuggle Drug on ET
A Nigerian Woman about to board an Ethiopian airlines flight ET611 (Mumbai, India - Addis Ababa, Ethiopia) from Mumabi was busted while trying to smuggle drug. The report said she holds a Nigerian passport.
This is not the first time, Nigerians have been busted while trying to smuggle drugs aboard Ethiopian airlines.
Have Your Say
Ethiopia - Kimora Lee Simmons to adopt an Ethiopian baby - report
MediaTakeOut.com is reporting that Kimora Lee Simmons, the Baby Phat mogul, is planning to adopt a baby from Ethiopia. The report also said that she will make a trip to Ethiopia next month.
Kimora Lee Simmons has two kids with ex-husband Russell Simmons.
About Kimora Lee Simmons
Source: Wikipedia
Kimora Lee Simmons (born Kimora Lee Perkins on May 4, 1975 in St. Louis, Missouri) is model, author, the head of design for Baby Phat, KLS and an occasional actress. Kimora is half African-American, one quarter Korean and one quarter Japanese.
Ethiopia in Somalia: One year on
By Martin Plaut
BBC Africa analyst
The Ethiopian decision to invade Somalia in December 2006 altered the balance of power in the Horn of Africa.
On 28 December 2006, they helped government forces capture Islamists from the capital, Mogadishu, which they had controlled for six months.
Ethiopian forces, which had been facing Eritrea along their 1,000km border, but were otherwise confronting few security threats, are now engaged on three fronts.
The forces in Somalia are now bogged down and cannot withdraw, as Prime Minister Meles Zenawi recently acknowledged.
Read More from BBC and Have Your Say
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Ethiopia inflicted losses on Ogaden rebels: army colonel
ADDIS ABABA - The Ethiopian army has inflicted losses on rebel fighters in the restive Ogaden region where the government is cracking down on insurgents, Colonel Tsegaye Gebretensae said in a statement today.
"The Ethiopian National Army has annihilated the remnants of the Ogaden National Liberation Front (ONLF) that were engaged in disrupting the peace and stability of the Somali region," he said.
Tsegaye said soldiers took on rebels who had regrouped in the region’s Danot area, but did not give specific casualty figures.
"The army has also captured 101 Kalashnikov rifles, two machine guns and launchers among others," Tsegaye added.
Both sides have been claiming an upper hand over the past eight months but none of the claims have been independently verified as journalists and aid workers have been blocked from vast swathes of the region.
The army launched a crackdown in the region after ONLF rebels attacked a Chinese oil venture in April that left 77 people killed.
The barren Ogaden region has long been extremely poor, but discovery of gas and oil brought new hopes and have fueled the conflict.
Formed in 1984, the ONLF is fighting for the independence of ethnic Somalis in the Ogaden, whom they say have been marginalised by Addis Ababa.
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Ethiopia leaves key Somali town
BBC News
Ethiopian troops have withdrawn from a key town in central Somalia.
Islamist insurgents say they now control Guriel, where Ethiopia had a big military base to secure the road linking the two countries.
A BBC correspondent in Somalia says it is not clear why the Ethiopian troops withdrew without any fighting.
Guriel was a stronghold of the Union of Islamic Courts (UIC), which lost power to Ethiopian-backed government troops a year ago this week.
More from BBC News
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Eritrea accuses Ethiopia of border attack, Ethiopia denies
Office of the Spokesperson
Ministry of Foreign Affairs
Addis Ababa, Ethiopia
December 27, 2007
The version of the story about an incident along Ethiopia Eritrea border recounted by Eritrea on December 26, 2007 is not based on what really took place. There was an incident, it is true. But the incident is of Eritrea's making which is being looked into. It is possible that it may have been a result of an accidental encounter between the reconnaissance missions of the two parties. The claim that there was an attack by Ethiopia is just pure fabrication.
In the first instance, why should Ethiopia wish to provoke Eritrea? Ethiopia has said time and again that it wants to settle the dispute with Eritrea right away and using whatever mechanism may be available. Ethiopia has said repeatedly that it is ready to recommit itself to the commitment that both parties have entered into under the Algiers agreements to refrain from the threat and use of force. Ethiopia has absolutely no claim over an inch of Eritrea's territory. Thus Ethiopia has no cause to pick a fight with Eritrea.
On the other hand, it is Eritrea that continues to claim with no justification that Ethiopia occupies sovereign Eritrean territory. This has been restated in a letter written by the Eritrean President on the 21st December 2007 and addressed to the President of the UN Security Council.
Therefore, if there is any party with the motive for conflict, it is Eritrea, not Ethiopia. That is why the latest claim by Eritrea has no basis and that it should be viewed as pure fabrication, or with, little doubt, an exaggerated and distorted account of an event that took place along the common border. It is our hope that the fabricated story is just a fabricated story which does not have a more sinister objective.
Ethiopia government praises Burundi deployment in Somalia
ADDIS ABABA (AFP) — Ethiopia on Thursday welcomed the recent deployment of Burundian peacekeepers to Somalia and asked for more help from the African Union in its struggle with Islamist insurgents there.
"The ministry of information commended Burundi's recent efforts in deploying 192 soldiers to join the AU peacekeeping mission in Somalia," said a government statement.
"Ethiopia called on African countries that made pledges to contribute troops for the proposed African Union (AU) peacekeeping mission in Somalia to meet their promises."
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UN Says Exchange Of Gunfire On Eritrea-Ethiopia Border - AFP
ADDIS ABABA (AFP)--The U.N. said Thursday Eritrean and Ethiopian soldiers facing off along their disputed border exchanged gunshots Wednesday.
In a statement, the U.N. Mission in Ethiopia and Eritrea said that its Indian battalion posted on the border heard an exchange of fire in the early hours of Wednesday.
"UNMEE expresses concern about this firing incident between Ethiopia and Eritrea and is calling on both parties to show maximum restraint," the statement said.
Some 200,000 troops are deployed along the border, fueling international fears of a new flare-up after the failure of a mediation between the two foes.
Related Links
Ethiopia denies report
Press Release from Ministry of Foreign Affairs
A border panel was dissolved a month ago with Ethiopia refusing to recognize a ruling that granted Eritrea a flashpoint border town.
The two Horn of Africa neighbors already fought a bitter war between 1998 and 2000 that left an estimated 70,000 dead.
Eritrea's Information Ministry accused Ethiopia of launching a small scale attack.
"In continuation of its ongoing provocations against the sovereignty and territorial integrity of Eritrea, the TPLF regime (Ethiopia) has unleashed a relatively small scale attack," a statement said.
It said the attack targeted Eritrean forces tasked with patrolling the border area and that it "met with utter failure."
The Ethiopian government flatly denied Eritrea's accusations and said it hadn't carried out any hostile military operation along the border.
"This is simply an outrageous accusation by Eritrea. Ethiopia has declared that it is not going to start any war or organize any form of provocation," said Bereket Simon, spokesman for Prime Minister Meles Zenawi.
"The government in Asmara, it seems, is trying to hide the internal situation to the outside world by accusing us on the international stage," he added.
"There has been no attack from Ethiopia. The Ethiopian government is not interested in any provocative actions," Bereket added.
The Ethiopian Ministry of Foreign Affairs confirmed that an incident took place but returned the accusation, blaming Eritrea.
"There was an incident, it is true. But the incident is of Eritrea's making which is being looked into. It is possible that it may have been a result of an accidental encounter between the reconnaissance missions of the two parties," the ministry said in a statement.
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STORY HIGHLIGHTS
- Bhutto was first female prime minister of a Muslim country
- Bhutto survived assassination attempt in October
- Her father, a former prime minister, was hanged in 1979
- She led Pakistan from 1988 to 1990 and again from 1993 to 1996.
- Benazir Bhutto was assassinated on Thursday December 27, 2007
- Educated at Harvard and Oxford
Benazir Bhutto assassinated
Al-Jazeera Video
RAWALPINDI, Pakistan (CNN) -- Pakistan's former Prime Minister Benazir Bhutto was assassinated Thursday in the wake of a suicide bombing that killed at least 14 of her supporters, doctors, a spokesman for her party and other officials said
Bhutto suffered bullet wounds in the aftermath of the bomb attack, TV networks were reporting.
Police warned citizens to stay home as they expected rioting to break out in city streets as a shocked Pakistan absorbed the news of Bhutto's assassination.
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Ethiopia is a leading purchaser of U.S Arms and Services in Sub-Saharan Africa according to a report released by Congressional Research Service. In 2006, Ethiopia has concluded a $9 million US Arms and services deal, making it a top client of US arms and services in Sub-Saharan Africa, followed by Uganda, Chad and Kenya. $3 Million in US Arms and services were already delivered to Ethiopia in 2006, the report shows.
From 1999-2002, Ethiopia received $7 Million in U.S. Defense Articles and
Services, and from 2003-2006, the number was $10 million.
For more refer to the report by CRS
Ethiopia - Amhara Credit and Savings Institution and Dedebit Credit and Savings Institution among Top 50 Microfinance Institutions
Two Microfinance Institutions from Ethiopia are among the Top 50 Microfinance Institutions in the world according to a report by Forbes magazine. Amhara Credit and Savings Institution ranks sixth in the world and Dedebit Credit and Savings Institution ranks 31st in the world.
With 537,000 borrowers and another 225,000 savers (as of December 2006), Amhara Credit & Savings Institution in Ethiopia is one of Africa's largest microfinanciers. On overhead it consumes only 5 cents of every net dollar lent (that's after interest costs are subtracted).
It keeps staff costs low and is frugal on such expenses as electricity. These microlending organizations have low default rates. The share of Amhara's loans in default or more than 30 days late on interest and principal payments, as of year-end 2006, was 1.5%.
These Institutions were chosen from a field of 641 micro-credit providers. To qualify, the institutions must have made available their audited financials and must have passed review by a Forbes panel of advisers.
According to Forbes, The rank is based on the size of their gross loan portfolio; efficiency, which considers operating expense and the cost per borrower as a percent of the gross national income per capita of their country of operation; risk, which looks at the quality of their loan portfolios, measured as the percent of the portfolio at risk greater than 30 days; and return, which is measured as a combination of return on equity and return on assets. Each category is equally weighted for an institution's overall ranking.
Source: Forbes Magazine
| Rank | Name | Country | Scale | Efficiency | Risk | Returns |
| 1 | ASA | Bangladesh | 14 | 83 | 56 | 40 |
| 2 | Bandhan (Society and NBFC) | India | 108 | 49 | 42 | 1 |
| 3 | Banco do Nordeste | Brazil | 46 | 27 | 213 | 25 |
| 4 | Fundación Mundial de la Mujer Bucaramanga | Colombia | 58 | 72 | 193 | 1 |
| 5 | FONDEP Micro-Crédit | Morocco | 119 | 26 | 196 | 1 |
| 6 | Amhara Credit and Savings Institution | Ethiopia | 56 | 126 | 118 | 42 |
| 31 | Dedebit Credit and Savings Institution | Ethiopia | 50 | 246 | 80 | 154 |
Ethiopia - Eritrea : Fear of War Increasing in Horn of Africa
ADDIS ABABA, Ethiopia (AP) — Isayas Gabriel remembers when tens of thousands of his fellow soldiers were cut down during Ethiopia's last war with Eritrea, a 2 1/2 year bloodbath over a seemingly insignificant border town called Badme.
Seven years after the war's official end, he is among the many watching as the countries appear to be gearing up for Round 2 — a conflict that would have implications far beyond the Horn of Africa, which the West has long feared could become a safe haven for Islamic extremists.
More from AP
Ethiopia - Ethiopian anti-poverty campaigners vindicated by court
26 December 2007 – Ethiopian activists Daniel Bekele and Netsanet Demissie may face brief additional time behind bars, as the court today sentenced them to two years and six months in prison on charges of incitement, despite demands by the prosecution that they receive the maximum sentence of 10 years.
"While we welcome the fact that Daniel and Netsanet may soon be reunited with their friends, families and colleagues in civil society, we are perplexed and dismayed by the additional sentence. Everyday they have spent and possibly will spend in prison is a deep injustice. They are true heroes of Ethiopia, true heroes of Africa and for everyone around the world who supports democracy, justice and the fight against poverty ," said Kumi Naidoo, Secretary General of CIVICUS: World Alliance for Citizen Participation and Co-Chair of the Global Call to Action Against Poverty (GCAP) who was present at the sentencing this morning.
Daniel and Netsanet, coordinators of GCAP in Ethiopia, were today sentenced to two years and six months in prison by the Federal High Court in Addis Ababa for provocation and preparing incitement in the aftermath of the May 2005 elections. On Monday, they were acquitted of conspiracy to overthrow the constitutional order, but were found guilty on the lesser charge. CIVICUS and GCAP anticipate that they will soon be released, given the two years and two months they have already spent behind bars, as well as their good behaviour and their willingness to cooperate with the court.
Before sentencing them this morning, the judges read a statement recognising their contributions to peace, democracy and the rule of law in Ethiopia. The presiding judge dissented from the verdict and has consistently maintained they are innocent of the charges, finding their actions to be fully within the constitution.
"The judges' statement today read more like a citation for the Nobel Peace Prize than justification for even a single day they have spent in prison ," said Kumi Naidoo.
Since Daniel and Netsanet's arrest in November 2005, civil society organisations in Ethiopia have come under increasing scrutiny, and many have been forced into silence on controversial issues for fear of meeting the same fate as Daniel and Netsanet.
Speaking from Ethiopian Federal court, Kumi Naidoo said, " This case has significance beyond the travesty of justice against Daniel and Netsanet. Their continued detention has had a chilling effect on civil society in Ethiopia. It is extremely important that the judges stated none of their actions were against the constitution and were in fact legitimate civil society activities. We hope that this vindication will enable civil society to fully exercise its role, including advocacy for human rights, democracy, peace and the eradication of poverty ."
Aside from their work with GCAP, Daniel is also head of the policy department at ActionAid International Ethiopia. Netsanet is also the founder of local human rights group Organisation for Social Justice in Ethiopia.
At the start of the trial in May 2006, 131 opposition politicians, journalists, civil society leaders and organisations stood accused of a range of charges from genocide to treason. They were among thousands who were detained following protests accusing the government of rigging the 15 May 2005 parliamentary elections. Many of the accused were acquitted during the course of the trial. Others were convicted but pardoned in July and August 2007 – all of whom signed a confession, admitting use of "unconstitutional means to change the constitutionally established government functions" following the 2005 elections.
Although they were asked to sign a similar statement, Daniel and Netsanet declined. They argued that their activities in 2005 were entirely legal and did not serve to undermine, but rather to protect and promote Ethiopia's constitutional order.
Recognised as Amnesty International prisoners of conscience, Daniel and Netsanet were consistently denied bail, even after seven attempts, including an appeal to the Supreme Court.
Ethiopia activists get 2 1/2 years but to walk free
Wed 26 Dec 2007, 9:45 GMT
By Tsegaye Tadesse
ADDIS ABABA (Reuters) - Two human rights activists received a two-and-a-half year jail sentence on Wednesday for inciting post-election violence in 2005, but will walk free within days as they have already served their prison time.
An Addis Ababa court found the pair "guilty of inciting violence and uprising against the government".
Their defence lawyer, Mengistu Haile Mariam, confirmed, however, they would be freed quickly.
"The two activists will be released from prison in three days' time because they have already served two-thirds of their sentences," he told reporters at the court.
Related Links
Ethiopian Court Convicts Anti-Poverty Campaigners (ActionAid International USA)
Ethiopia activists found guilty (BBC)
Monkey Trial in Kangaroo Kourt:
Daniel Bekele and Netsanet Demessie in the “Lions’ Den”
By Alemayehu G. Mariam
Ethiopian anti-poverty campaigners acquitted of treason, found guilty of incitement
25 December 2007 – After more than two years in prison, anti-poverty campaigners Daniel Bekele and Netsanet Demissie were today acquitted on treason related charges but were found guilty on the lesser charge of "provocation and preparing incitement" related to their legitimate work following the May 2005 Ethiopian elections.
"While we welcome Daniel and Netsanet's effective acquittal on more serious treason related charges, we are shocked and dismayed by their conviction today. These courageous activists could easily have been out of prison several months ago, had they signed a confession. However, they are the only two who refused as they did not want to criminalise civil society activities in Ethiopia, said Kumi Naidoo, Secretary General of CIVICUS: World Alliance for Citizen Participation and Co-Chair of the Global Call to Action Against Poverty (GCAP) who was at the trial this morning.
Daniel and Netsanet, coordinators of GCAP in Ethiopia, were today found guilty by the Federal High Court in Addis Ababa for provocation and preparing incitement in the aftermath of the May 2005 elections. They are due to be sentenced on Wednesday, 26 December.
In delivering the judgement, the judges rejected much of the testimony and evidence presented by the prosecution. There was visible shock in the court room when they were convicted of the lesser charge, based on testimony of two witnesses who the presiding judge previously ruled were unreliable. Unfortunately, his opinion is a minority opinion, as it was in April 2006, when he ruled that Daniel and Netsanet did not have a case to answer.
"We agree fully with the presiding judge who ruled that all their work during and after the elections, was professional, legal and in line with the constitution. We regret that the two associate judges ruled against Daniel and Netsanet. But we are hopeful that they will be reunited with their families on 27 December, as they have been convicted of a much lesser charge, which they may appeal, and they have already spent a considerable amount of time in prison, " said Kumi Naidoo.
Aside from their work with GCAP, Daniel is also head of the policy department at ActionAid International Ethiopia. Netsanet is also the founder of local human rights group Organisation for Social Justice in Ethiopia.
At the start of the trial in May 2006, 131 opposition politicians, journalists, civil society leaders and organisations stood accused of a range of charges from genocide to treason. They were among thousands who were detained following protests accusing the government of rigging the 15 May 2005 parliamentary elections. Many of the accused were acquitted during the course of the trial. Others were convicted but pardoned in July and August 2007 – all of whom had allegedly signed a confession, admitting use of "unconstitutional means to change the constitutionally established government functions" following the 2005 elections.
Although they were asked to sign a similar statement, Daniel and Netsanet declined. They argued that their activities in 2005 were entirely legal and did not serve to undermine, but rather to protect and promote Ethiopia's constitutional order.
Recognised as Amnesty International prisoners of conscience, Daniel and Netsanet have been consistently denied bail, even after seven attempts, including an appeal to the Supreme Court.
Kumi Naidoo will remain in Ethiopia for the sentencing on 26 December and is available for interviews.
Ethiopia - “We call for CUD’s renaissance” Ayele Chamiso
“We call for CUD’s renaissance” Ayele Chamiso
“The call is just to confuse the people” Temesgen Zewdie (MP)
By Kirubel Tadesse
Capital
Addis Ababa, Ethiopia - As the struggle to emerge as the recognized leader of CUD continues, Ayele Chamiso calls on the party’s former leaders and elders of the country [Ethiopia] to facilitate reconciliation among divided groups and members. Temesgen Zewdie, on his part, told Capital that the call is simply to confuse people and Ayele Chamiso could not and should not give any press statements on CUD’s behalf.
Ayele Chamiso, on Monday December 10, 2007, along side other party members gave a press conference to urge all former CUD leaders to come and work with his party which he claims is “the only existing legal party under the name CUD.” Ayele stated that CUD members, supporters and Ethiopians at large are saddened by the decision of the former leaders to run abroad before giving time to secure the legal status for the party.
Temesgen Zewdie (MP) told Capital that the call of Ayele is simply intended to confuse the people and look for propaganda gains. “What the people should know is that the guy has no business speaking on CUD’s behalf when in fact the general assembly he held to elect leaders was not accepted. He was told that he could not represent CUD.”
Replying to questions about former leaders of the CUD and Temesgen Zewdie’s status, Ayele told journalists that his party has the accreditation of the National Electoral Board. “It doesn’t say it is temporary, the certificate we have is just one step away from the original certificate which we will complete once we call a general meeting and elect leaders”, Ayele explained.
Elaborating on his party’s relationship with the former CUD leaders, Ayele said “we do not have the financial strength to invite them to lunch in big restaurants but we have announced that we are very happy. We also announced that we welcome them to join and work in our party, but that has not happened yet.” He added that there is a place for the former leaders since their popularity, political experience and influence can contribute to the nation and the party’s democratic process. He warned all other groups to stop from acting or giving press statements of any kind in CUD’s name since it is only his party that has the legitimate right to do so.
Temesgen Zewdie (MP), on his part explained to Capital that Ayele’s press statement is unlawful and does not represent the CUD. He added, Ayele is giving statements by obtaining the party’s stamp illegally. “We are awaiting the court’s decision which will be delivered on December 28, 2007.”
Ethiopia - Dire Dawa to launch TV transmission
By Muluken Yewondwossen
Capital
The Dire Dawa City Administration has signed a contract agreement with EURO-Tel, an Italian telecommunications company, to build a television transmitter, on December 15, 2007 at Dire Dawa.
According to Misrak Worku, manager of City Administration, EURO-Tel will be supplying equipment and will install the TV transmitter for 6.6 mln ETB. It is expected to be completed in three months. “Until that we will have production and other back log works,” Misrak told Capital.
“The studio was already built a few months ago by Aska Computers, a local company, at a cost of one and half million ETB. Currently the Dire TV program is carrying out production work in this studio,” he said. Dire Dawa City Administration has started transmission from September 2007 on Ethiopian television for twenty minutes. “We will continue our twenty minute program on ETV even after our own station is launched,” Misrak added.
When the Dire TV station starts transmission, it has a plan to transmit for two hours a day in three languages; Amharic, Oromifa and Somali. There will at the same time be ETV transmissions and Roomies TV programs on other two channels.
“This project has a great importance in providing information to our society on different aspects, especially development issues,” Misrak said. “We are training our employees to develop their capacities until the transmission work is completed. In addition we will employ professionals when our transmission starts,” he added.
EURO-Tel signed the contract agreement with Oromia Regional State government to build a television station and ten transmitters for 31.5 mln ETB last week.
Envisioning Ethiopia scrutinizes the ‘wellbeing’ of Ethiopia’s economy
By Addis Mulugeta
Capital
Envisioning Ethiopia, a community of volunteer non-partisan individuals dedicated to broadening public knowledge and understanding of major issues affecting Ethiopia’s future, scrutinized Ethiopia’s economy as per various macro-economic factors at a one day discussion panel held on December 15, 2007 at Africa Hall (UNECA). Organized under the title – “Ethiopia’s Economy: Choices at the Crossroads”, a number of academicians and practitioners attended the session.
The economy of the country is reported to have displayed growth of more than 10%, by real Gross Domestic Product (GDP), over the past three years before its lethargic move in the past especially during the war with Eritrea and the 2003 famine that affected a fourth of the population. On such macro-economic standards as employment and workforce compensation (jobs, employment, income and labor force participation), human development indicators (education, health, poverty levels and livelihoods), banking and finance (interest rates, tax, domestic access to capital and FDI), infrastructure and sector-wise development (construction, agriculture, industry and communication) and unemployment, inflation and real earnings, the discussion posed the varied opinions held by various group of people.
The president of Ethiopian Chamber of Commerce and Sectoral Association, Eyesuswork Zafu, gave opening remarks at the event while Ambassador Peter Robleh served as moderator. The panelists included Dr. Haile Kebret from the Ethiopian economists Association (EEA) who presented the current challenges to the Ethiopian Economy, Honorable Mesfin Nemera, Member of Parliament, who saw the socio-political dimensions to economic growth and Ermias Amelga, from the newly founded Access Bank, who focused on economic growth and financial management in Ethiopia.
‘The structural analysis of price drivers in Ethiopia’, an article that was originally prepared in May 2007 as a policy input by Dr. Hashim A. Ahmed from the Ethiopian Development Research Institute (EDRI), was presented during the session, giving the conclusion that aggregate and per capita food consumption in the country is on the increase influenced by the overall employment intensive economic growth. Crop production has also been reported to have rapidly been commercialized. Two World Bank documents ‘Capturing the demographic bonus in Ethiopia: Gender, development and demographic actions, and ‘Accelerating equitable growth: Country economic memorandum’ have been conversed revealing that the country’s population doubles every 27 years at the current growth rate while a land poor class is emerging and most citizens of the country still live in immense deprivation, respectively.
Most importantly, the country profile that was reproduced by Envisioning Ethiopia from the original producer, the Economist Intelligence Unit, indicated that health services provision, telecommunications coverage, transport infrastructural facilities, press freedom, gas reserves and industrial development remain poor or extremely of lower values while private investment, foreign direct investment, volume of air traffic, hydroelectricity, agriculture, privatization, monetary policy, capital flows and foreign debt show better performances over the former factors.
Ethiopia Marks Yearlong Occupation in Somalia
By Joe De Capua
Washington
24 December 2007
VOA News
Listen to De Capua interview with David Shinn mp3 audio clip
It was Christmas Day a year ago that the situation in Somalia changed dramatically. That’s when Ethiopia invaded and drove out forces belonging to the Islamic Courts Union. However, Ethiopia’s initial, decisive military victory has turned into a yearlong occupation with no end in sight.
Among those who’ve been following developments of the past year in Somalia is Professor David Shinn of George Washington University. Dr. Shinn is a former US ambassador to Ethiopia. From Columbus, Ohio, he spoke to VOA English to Africa Service reporter Joe De Capua about the events of 2007.
“I think a lot of people are surprised that the Ethiopians are still there and still trying to figure out how to get out of Somalia. I’m convinced they’d very much like to leave but feel they’re sort of stuck. And I’m almost certain they’re surprised at the situation that they are in. And I think a lot of other people are too, although frankly it should have been fairly predictable that this was not going to go very smoothly,” he says.
Shinn adds, “It’s a very difficult situation. The situation on the ground is still very difficult and has not really improved. And one still does not see a way out of this unless there’s going to be a political solution to the problem, which is really what is required.”
Ambassador Shinn has been calling for a political solution for the past year. Asked why one has not been achieved, he says, “Because I don’t think anyone has been very serious about trying to achieve a political solution on any side of the issue. In the past year, you would have to put most of the blame on the Transitional Federal Government for not making a significant enough effort. Because they have held most of the security cards so long as the Ethiopians have been there supporting them. So, it is really up to them to make the gesture to those who oppose them. And try to bring them into the government in order to create a government of national unity that would allow the opponents to rein in those who are fighting against the Transitional Federal Government. They have not made sufficient steps to do that. They still have an opportunity to do that and I think the naming of the new prime minister, Nur Adde, makes that a greater possibility. But he has to seize the initiative and really create a new government that will be acceptable to most of those individuals who now oppose the Transitional Federal Government.”
Shinn calls on the international community, including the Arab League, to do more to find a political solution, rather than relying on AU peacekeepers, who are very few in number.
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Ethiopia - The Year in Pictures
A look back of 2007 in Pictures.
Holland Car Plc of Ethiopia rolled out its new car called Abay
Ethiopia frees 38 opposition members
Beyonce meets the Patriarch
Meles Zenawi on the occasion of the Ethiopian Millennium
Kinijit Leaders in Texas
Fear and Cries of Army Brutality in Ogaden - NYT
Meles Zenawi at G8 Summit in Germany
Erdogan: I am ashamed as a human
Supporters of the Somali Transitional Federal government display posters of the TFG Prime Minster Ali Mohamed Gedi on the left and the Ethiopian prime minister, Meles Zenawi on the right, in a suburb of southern Mogadishu, Somalia, Saturday Dec. AP/GUY CALAF
Ethiopia - Kenenisa Bekele finds happiness again after tragedy
"Ethiopia's jails nice" Terror Suspects
A 'Fake Strabucks' in Mekele Ethiopia
Ethiopia - Court Convicts Daniel Bekele and Netsanet Demissie
Ethiopian Court Convicts Anti-Poverty Campaigners
ActionAid International USA
Today Ethiopia's Federal High Court convicted anti-poverty campaigners Daniel Bekele and Netsanet Demissie, the last remaining defendants in a trial in which they were charged along with 129 others, including leading members of the opposition Coalition for Unity and Democracy.
The verdict was met with shock and dismay by ActionAid, the international anti-poverty agency which employed Daniel Bekele and supported Netsanet Demissie's Organisation for Social Justice in Ethiopia.
All the other defendants were acquitted, or else convicted, sentenced and pardoned, several months ago. But Daniel Bekele and Netsanet Demissie refused to sign an admission of guilt in return for a possible pardon. Instead they persisted with their legal defence, seeking to refute the allegation that in 2005 they were part of a conspiracy to foment political violence and guilty of, as the charge sheet put it, 'the crime of outrage against the constitution and the constitutional order'. This charge was dismissed, but they were found guilty on a lesser charge of incitement.
After leaving the court, ActionAid's chief executive Ramesh Singh said: "This is a terrible shock and disappointment to me personally, to ActionAid, and to Daniel and Netsanet's families and friends across the world. But we will continue to stand by our two brave colleagues. We will be with them if they seek to continue their legal struggle in the appeal court, and we remain hopeful that they will ultimately establish their innocence."
The two men have already spent more than two years in custody. During that time they went as far as the Supreme Court in their repeated but unsuccessful efforts to obtain bail.
The court will deliver its sentence on Wednesday 26 December.
Ethiopia activists found guilty
BBC News
An Ethiopian court has convicted two anti-poverty activists of inciting violence after the elections in 2005.
Daniel Bekele, who works for ActionAid International, and local charity worker Netsanet Demissie could face up to 10 years in prison.
The men were acquitted of more serious charges of violating the constitution.
They were the last of more than 130 defendants charged in relation to the protests complaining of fraud in polls won by the prime minister's party.
ActionAid spokesman Tony Durham said the group were dismayed by the verdict.
The men will be sentenced on Wednesday.
Pardons
"Despite the lack of evidence proving their involvement in leadership and participation during the unrest, no evidence could be found to refute accusations of incitement," judge Mohammed Aminsani told the court, AFP news agency reports.
"As a result, the court has found them guilty on this respect."
Hundreds of thousands of people took part in demonstrations at alleged vote-rigging and some 193 people were killed.
Most of the dead were protesters, killed by security forces.
In August, the authorities pardoned more than 30 opposition members detained after the protest march two years ago.
Their release came a month after 38 senior opposition members were freed after signing a letter of pardon acknowledging a role in the disorder after the polls.
-------------
Related Links
Ethiopian Court Convicts Anti-Poverty Campaigners (ActionAid International USA)
Monkey Trial in Kangaroo Kourt:
Daniel Bekele and Netsanet Demessie in the “Lions’ Den”
By Alemayehu G. Mariam
Ethiopia banks on coffee harvest growth
ADDIS ABABA (AFP) — The Ethiopian government said Monday it was banking on an eight percent growth in coffee harvests for the coming season.
The agriculture ministry said in a statement it hoped to harvest 360,000 tonnes during the coming season, 220,000 of which are destined for export.
The statement said that 320,000 tonnes were reaped during the 2007 fiscal year, 176,000 of which were exported all over the world.
Coffee accounts for 60 percent of the Horn of Africa nation's export revenues and is the largest source of foreign currencies, ahead of flowers and oil seeds.
Ethiopia is Africa's top coffee producer and the world's sixth largest.
Ethiopia - On this day in 2006 Ethiopian Warplanes Attack Somalia
Exactly one year ago today, Ethiopian warplanes attacked Somalia.
In a televised address Meles Zenawi, Prime Minister of Ethiopia, said
"Ethiopian defence forces were forced to enter into war to the protect the sovereignty of the nation and to blunt repeated attacks by Islamic courts terrorists and anti-Ethiopian elements they are supporting; Our defence forces will leave [Somalia] as soon as they end their mission"
Sheikh Hassan Derrow said on that day
"The enemy of Allah has started bombing our civilians,"
Have Your Say? What are the options for Ethiopia? Withdraw and leave a power vacuum or stay the course until peace keepers take over?
Ethiopia - Gossip in the name of Ethiopian People
I have not been actively involved in Ethiopian politics as a member of any political party for a long time, however recently I have been actively surfing Ethiopian websites in order to read information about Ethiopian politics in particular and to understand the current situations in general. More than that, up to recently, before I have left Las Vegas for a while, I have actively participated in every Ethiopian political meeting that addresses Ethiopian current political and economical affairs. Recently, after I have witnessed first hand the devastation of Iraq by its own people in addition of outside factors, and then the escalation of hatred among different religious groups and the fear they created to children, women and ordinary people, I obliged to scribble my thoughts about the current senseless political drama in and outside of Ethiopia.
Most Ethiopians, including myself, often wonder about the place where this political drama occurs and the participants who are actively involving in this drama and then vehemently attempting to decide the political fate of individuals as well as political organizations and, of course, the political process of the country. Most Ethiopians know that political struggle or strike against government or institution will occur due to politico-economical oppression and suppression including lack of basic human rights as well as deficiency of economical and social freedom. Without these major politico-economical imbalances and contradictions, there is no major struggle, and even if there is, it will not be successful. Having said this, the primary people who have faced the aforementioned political, economical and social discrimination and injustice are the one who live in Ethiopia. Those people are the back bone of their struggle to determine their destiny, and to bring political democracy, economical prosperity and social harmony in their country. The 2005 election which CUD and UEDF were involved was a good example for the above statement. These organizations, particularly CUD, successfully organized the people at the grassroots level and brought them to execute their right by electing their own leaders. If was not to Weyane’s heinous and undemocratic political actions, the first democratic institutions could have been established in the country. This showed that the almighty power is concentrated in the hand of Ethiopian people. The rest is secondary. The Ethiopian Diasporas have no more function than playing a supporting role to the struggle that actively occur in Ethiopia. We can be very effective in supporting the struggle economically and politically. We can raise a lot of money to the political organization or organizations we are favoring. We can also lobbying foreign governments, political institutions on behalf of particular political organization or even on behalf of the country. HR-2003 which was, initiated, organized and executed by the few determined people (Al Mariam and others) in diaspora is a good example. Other than these, we have no major rights to make a decision on behalf of the people who suffer in Ethiopia and saying who should be the leader of particular organization or who should be knocked out from certain organizations. We do not have the moral ground until we decide to go and live again in Ethiopia and share the burden of those unfortunate people.
Of course, we have the moral duty to provide constructive criticisms to political organizations or individuals as long as it can help them to correct or amend their policies or programs to the good of the people. But when it goes beyond that and becomes destructive and demeaning, then it loses its objective. That is what has happened in the last few months in Washington DC in particular and in the western hemisphere in general. Instead of trying to understand the core of the problems or contradictions between political organizations or between individuals within political organization and help to find out a workable solution, certain individuals or group of individuals are flaring up the problems by supporting one individual/group and insulting or defaming the reputation of the other individual/group. For instance, I have read an irrelevant, childish but well calculated article in the name of the Ethiopian people to defame the reputation of Hailu Shawel. The writer attempted to explore everything from the death of Pro. Asrat to the personal family matters to destroy the good name of Mr. Shawel. Among other things the one that saddened me the most was the part he wrote, “The main reason Mr. Shawel returned from US to Ethiopia during the crisis was to prevent Dr. Negas election to Addis Ababa mayor office”. Is this how we are going to pay back the person who organized the Ethiopian people day and night by using his elderly labor, by spending his personal wealth, and by putting his feeble health at risk, and brought an effective opponent political organization in Ethiopian history? Contrary to the senseless accusation, the reason Mr. Shawel went back to Ethiopia was to be with his colleagues during the crisis and to fulfill his leadership duty although he understood well incarceration was waiting for him. Rather he should be admired for his heroic action and determination instead of insulted by those pathological and delusional pseudo-intellectuals. Mr. Shawel I salute you for your courage and political work for that unfortunate country. On the other side of the coin those name callers (misnomers) tormented one of the well accomplished economists who could survive in any part of the world and raise his children without any problems as a Weyane’s accomplice. How can you accuse a distinguished professor of being a government operative when he left his job in the US and went to Ethiopia and tried to help his country and then openly opposed the government’s undemocratic work, participated actively in the opposition force and because of that went to prison not only once but twice? The diaspora‘s bizarre behavior did not even stop to accuse Birtukan who left her young child and went to Kaliti for the sake of her people. Let me ask you questions you gossip-mongers: how many Ethiopian women have you seen in each political meeting that organized in or out side Ethiopia? How many Ethiopian women are involving actively in Ethiopian politics recently let alone in leadership position? I leave the answer to the Ethiopian people.
The other irresponsible parties who are actively pouring salts, with or without knowing, to the wound of the Ethiopian people are the so-called Ethiopian news websites (gossip-sites). In the first place I am not sure the editors of these websites are professional journalists. If they are, then, they are degrading the profession itself and the excellent name of those Ethiopian journalists who have sacrificed their time, energy, and life for the betterment of their country by exposing the evil and undemocratic nature of the government. In addition of not having the moral and ethical standard which is the litmus paper of a good journalist behavior, some of these editors’ minds are blinded by vengeance and taking sides. Conversely, other than providing unaltered news to its audiences, the exemplary and even minded journalist’s main duty is to give a balanced stage to its participants in order to entertain different ideas. This way the people will get the chance to listen to both sides and make their own decisions. Through process they will eventually develop mature democratic culture. Instead of performing this kind of noble job, the good so-called websites turn themselves into gossip sites by picking the person they don’t like and trashing his reputation. For example, one of the sites restlessly has been attacked the undisputed name of Dr. Taye by creating untrue but sensational stories. This unwavering political scientist have proved himself and gained international respect by fighting a one man battle with Weyane to keep the freedom of Ethiopian teacher association regardless of 6 years of incarceration. Taye may differ with others with ideas and policies but he is not questioned in his integrity. He earned his respect not only among his friends but also from his enemies. What about Mersha, Eyasu, Asefa and others who have been in struggle since their young age for the cause they believe without forming a family or having a house to shelter. Who are we to disrespect the good name of these heroes? Why don’t we leave the judgment to the Ethiopian people? Are we better than the vast majority of Ethiopians who reside in Ethiopia because we live in the west and have access to a computer? We are preaching about democracy, multi parties system, and basic human rights but simultaneously we could not tolerate different ideas or thinking than ours. How do we then differ from Weyane? Besides that what is the advantage of the disintegration of CUD or EPRP to other political organizations except rolling back the democratization process of the country. Do we really understand the negative impact of the crumbling of multiethnic political organization to the good relationship of different ethics and to the stability of the country as a whole? We will never see the full democratic process of the country in the future unless we solve these political crises wisely.
In conclusion, I believe Ethiopia’s destiny is at cross road. I believe Ethiopia is like an intubated patient who is admitted in intensive care with multi-organs failure. In order to survive, this kind of patient needs multi-specialty physicians who are expert in their fields. To save this patient successfully, not only expertise in their field is required, but they also need to create good communication skills to exchange ideas freely among themselves and to have a healthy working environment. Otherwise, the chance of this patient succumbing to her disease is more than fifty percent. That is why it is vital to leave personal/ group egos or vendettas to the side and work in harmony for the sake of Ethiopia’s existence. A country with non-drainable source of heroes/heroines does not cry when these children sacrifices their life for her integrity or survival. Instead of crying she would be proud of them. However, a country cries and becomes miserable when she needs a hero/heroine badly for her existence and could not find him/her. At one historical juncture Ethiopia had heroic children who fought Italian aggression and saved her from colonialism. Today Ethiopia is crying because it lacks heroes/heroines who can fight selflessly against narrow nationalism and dictatorship with good vision and bring her children together for a common cause. I hope more Hailus, Brhanus, Brtukans, Mershas, Tayes, and Eyasus will flourish to fight for their country.
GOD BLESSES ETHIOPIA.
Mulugeta Kassahun
urosurgerymd@yahoo.com
Ethiopian Human Rights Campaigners to Hear Verdict Tomorrow
VERDICT MONDAY 24TH ADDIS ABABA, ETHIOPIA
After more than two years in prison, two Ethiopian human rights campaigners on trial for treason hope to hear tomorrow morning whether they can spend the holidays at home with their families.
Daniel Bekele and Netsanet Demissie, both coordinators of Global Call to Action Against Poverty (GCAP) in Ethiopia, are the last two accused in the high profile Ethiopian trial that originally charged 131 politicians, journalists, organisations and civil society leaders. They have been detained since November 2005 on charges of conspiracy and "outrage against the constitution and constitutional order." If found guilty, the human rights campaigners could face life imprisonment or even death sentences.
Their verdict has been delayed four times since final statements were presented in August. Daniel and Netsanet have been denied bail throughout their trial.
Aside from their work with GCAP, Daniel is also head of the policy department at ActionAid International Ethiopia. Netsanet is also the founder of local human rights group Organisation for Social Justice in Ethiopia. Both Daniel and Netsanet assisted in monitoring the May 2005 election, peaceful and legitimate civil society work for which they now stand trial
As previously, CIVICUS Secretary General and GCAP chair, Kumi Naidoo, will be present in Addis Ababa for the hearing.
For background information on the trial, please visit:
civicus.org
01:39:59 pm, by nazret.com, 651 words, 8502 views 
Ethiopia - Sossina Haile The Power Behind Cooler, Greener Energy
Newsweek
Sossina Haile created a new type of fuel cell by default. In the late '90s, the Caltech scientist had an idea that she thought might dramatically improve fuel cells, the clean technology that converts chemical energy to electricity to power cars, buses and power plants. Haile's idea was to employ an entirely new type of "superprotonic" compound that might help supply power at dramatically lower cost. But when fuel-cell makers balked at revamping their entire systems to try her solution, Haile decided to fabricate the world's first solid-acid fuel cell in her lab. Early in 2008 a Pasadena, Calif., start-up called Superprotonic—founded by two of her former grad students—will ship the first commercial prototypes to energy-systems makers. The output is barely enough to power a 100-watt bulb, but hopes are high that the small start will someday produce powerful fuel cells for commercial use. "This is potentially a breakthrough technology," says former senator Bill Bradley, who sits on the Superprotonic board.
She's hardly alone in seeing the promise of fuel cells, which produce energy through chemical reactions; their chief emission is pure water. (To prove that point, Haile once drank the tailpipe emission of a fuel-cell car on camera.) Not only do we need to find carbon-neutral fuel sources to slow global warming, but the world's energy needs will continue to grow—by an estimated 50 percent by 2050. Today, small fuel cells power a few cars and buses (Honda will begin leasing a fuel-cell FCX Clarity next summer), while large ones produce electricity at some factories and universities. They are expensive, but Haile's fuel cells may be cheaper and more durable.
Haile, a mother of two, has never followed a conventional path. Her family fled Ethiopia during the coup in the mid-'70s, after soldiers arrested and nearly killed her historian father, then settled in rural Minnesota before Haile, now 41, went to MIT and grad school. Superprotonic launched in 2003, with Haile as science adviser.
Haile's discovery may someday fill a need for a fuel cell that generates power at midrange temperatures. Low-temperature cells (20 degrees to 100 degrees Celsius) require costly platinum catalysts to speed the reactions; superhot "solid oxide" fuel cells react easily, but require expensive ceramic materials that can withstand operating temperatures of 600 degrees to 1,000 degrees Celsius. Finding a material that operates well in a midrange "is quite important," says Jack Brouwer, associate director of the National Fuel Cell Research Center at the University of California, Irvine, though he adds that it's too early to say if Haile's cell will be commercially viable.
Haile is confident it will, but she's also busy "tweaking" high-temperature systems to increase power output and lower costs. For her, the race to find new energy sources is fascinating. She says, "There's nothing better than being able to combine an intellectually exciting topic with the knowledge that it will be beneficial. To me, that's just glory."
URL: http://www.newsweek.com/id/81389
About Professor Sossina Haile
Source: CalTech
Sossina Haile received her B.S and Ph.D (1992) from the Massachusetts Institute of Technology, and M.S. from the University of California, Berkeley. Before joining the Caltech faculty in 1996, Haile spent three years as an assistant professor at the University of Washington, Seattle. Haile has received the NSF National Young Investigator Award (1994-99), Humboldt Fellowship (1992-93), Fulbright Fellowship (1991-92), and AT&T Cooperative Research Fellowship (1986-92). The Humboldt and Fulbright fellowships supported her research at the Max Planck Institut für Festkörperforschung [Institute for Solid State Research], Stuttgart, Germany (1991-1993). She is the recipient of the 2001 J.B. Wagner Award of the High Temperature Materials Division of the Electrochemical Society, the 2000 Coble Award from the American Ceramics Society and the 1997 TMS Robert Lansing Hardy Award.
Kenya showing democratic muscle
NAIROBI, KENYA -- Citizens here may soon do something rarely done in Africa: vote out a president.
With the election set Thursday, challenger Raila Odinga has a narrow lead over President Mwai Kibaki, several opinion polls show. That's uncommon in sub-Saharan Africa, land of the Big Man, where leaders seldom are unseated -- even if it means using their power to pull strings.
In Nigeria, the presidential vote this year was marred by allegations of widespread rigging. In Ethiopia, nearly 200 people were killed during postelection riots in 2005. Uganda's president changed the constitution so he could run for a third term.
Have Your Say, will there ever be a competitive election in Ethiopia in your life time?
Ethiopia - Holloman airmen become citizens
El Paso Times
Perhaps no other place than a naturalization ceremony do Emma Lazarus' famous words, "Give me your tired, your poor, your huddled masses yearning to breath free" have a truer meaning. However, put 24 military members from the four branches in the mix and those words take on a whole new meaning.
During a federal naturalization ceremony Dec. 17 in El Paso eight Holloman Air Force Base Airmen took the oath of allegiance and "officially" became U.S. citizens. Of those eight members, five were from the 49th Logistical Readiness Squadron, one from 49th Materiel Maintenance Group, one from 49th Medical Group, and one from 49th Civil Engineer.
"We are extremely excited to have so many service members taking part," said James Spurling, field representative, U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services, El Paso. "I personally review every service member's file to ensure they get sworn in."
Those Holloman airmen and their home countries were Jose Angel Rodriguez Moreno, Mexico; Narciso Antonio Ambrosito Agustin Angeles, Philippines; Koyton Gamion Duane Thompson, Jamaica; Mario Dionicio Garcia, Mexico; Darryl Castillo Supetran, Philippines; Edayiyas Assamnew Mulat, Ethiopia; Filipe Magalhaes Torres, Brasil; and Jhon Anibal Ochoa Morocho, Ecuador. All of the Air Force members held the rank of airman first class.
"This is extremely important to me because I am deploying to Iraq in January," said Airman Angeles, of the 49th Logistical Readiness Squadron. "I am the first in my family to join the military and become a U.S. citizen."
The El Paso Convention and Performing Arts Center was filled to capacity, but it was the military members seated in the front two rows who brought the loudest applause as each one was introduced by U.S District Judge Philip R. Martinez, who served as the presiding judge.
"Today it gives me great pleasure not to have to preside over a civil case or to have to sentence someone to jail. It is my privilege and great honor to take part in this special ceremony today," Judge Martinez said. "It is a long journey to get here. You are already important parts of the community. You are just taking your rightful place in the country."
According to Spurling, as long as an individual agrees to defend the United States, they can join the military. All military members who are legal resident aliens can apply for citizenship without a mandatory waiting period.
There is a five-year conditional period from the time non-military resident aliens get their green cards until they can apply to become naturalized citizens.
"Thousands of our men and women in uniform were born in other countries, we do what we can to get them sworn in," Spurling said. "The El Paso office is the fastest in the nation in getting our military members processed."
The ceremony was the largest of the year for the USCIS office in El Paso, with 1,314 individuals taking part. Similar ceremonies have been held at Fort Bliss. However, Spurling said he looks forward to having one at Holloman in the future.
The newly sworn-in citizens came from 42 countries, such as Argentina, The Gambia, Laos, Latvia, Marshall Islands, Switzerland, United Kingdom and Vietnam. The country having the most sworn in was Mexico.
One humorous moment came when an immigrant from Iran was announced and stood up only to be followed seconds later by an immigrant from Israel. The two looked at each other, shrugged their shoulders and laughed before shaking hands and waving their small American flags.
"I look forward to each of our new citizens making their contribution to the greatness of the United States of America," said Raymond Adams, field office director, USCIS, El Paso. "Our country is richer because of the valuable contributions of immigrants."
Ethiopia reports influx of Eritrean refugees fleeing oppression
ADDIS ABABA (AFP) — Ethiopia claimed on Saturday it was receiving an influx of around 600 Eritreans fleeing political oppression in their country every month.
"The ministry said many are fleeing their country and each month more than 600 Eritreans are crossing the border into Ethiopia to seek refuge. The figure is increasing alarmingly," Ethiopia's information ministry said in a statement.
"The Eritrean people cannot bear the burden of the dictatorial regime any more because it has allied itself with terrorists and has driven them to great poverty and endless suffering."
More from AFP
As the year ends, we are running some special sections to reflect on the past year. Here is some interesting facts about nazret.com visitors. United States is by far the single largest source of our traffic. Canada and Germany follow. Look below for the break down by continent and cities for US. We would like to take this opportunity to thank all of our visitors and wish you a very merry Christmas and a Happy New Year.
Top 10 Countries of nazret.com visitors for 2007
1. United States
2. Canada
3. Germany
4. United Kingdom
5. Sweden
6. Norway
7. Netherlands
8. Switzerland
9. Australia
10. Israel
25. Ethiopia*
*Since nazret.com has been banned in Ethiopia, our traffic from Ethiopia has dropped significantly.
Top 10 States in America
1. California
2. N/A*
3. Virginia
4. District of Colombia
5. Texas
6. Maryland
7. Georgia
8. Minnesota
9. Washington
10.New York
*State could not be determined by tool
Top 10 Cities in America
1. N/A*
2. Washington DC
3. Minneapolis
4. Atlanta
5. Seattle
6. New York
7. Reston
8. Arlington
9. Los Angeles
10. Houston
*City could not be determined
Top 10 Countries in Europe
1. Germany
2. United Kingdom
3. Sweden
4. Norway
5. Netherlands
6. Switzerland
7. Italy
8. France
9. Belgium
10. Finland
Top 10 in Asia
1. Israel
2. China
3. India
4. Saudi Arabia
5. Japan
6. United Arab Emirates
7. Malaysia
8. Hong Kong
9. Philippines
10. Qatar
Top 10 in Africa
1. Egypt
2. South Africa
3. Ethiopia
4. Kenya
5. Eritrea
6. Sudan
7. Uganda
8. Nigeria
9. Ghana
10. Tanzania
Ethiopia - Top 40 Stories of 2007 by number of views
We have run a query to see the most popular stories of the past year and news related to Beyonece's visit to Ethiopia tops our list. In fact four of the top 10 news are related to entertainment news, perhaps a sign that nazret visitors do have a life after all :). Our number 2 story for 2007, has been also one of the most googled articles, btw she is on the cover of another recent magazine [KING]. The rating is based on Most Viewed articles.
Beyonece's visit to Ethiopia tops the list
1. Beyonce for Ethiopian Millennium Party
2. Angel Melaku on Cover of "Black Men" magazine
3. Correction 50 Cent and Janet Jackson for Millennium party
5. 2 Robbers Kill Convenience Store Owner Abate Hailu
6.Nikki Tesfai, Founder of L.A. refugee agency, arrested for fraud
7. "One of the best audiences of my lifetime Beyonce
8. Holland Car PLC Rolls Out 'Abay'
9. LA man charged with killing father, sister; bodies found dumped
10. Ethiopia frees 38 opposition members
11. Mother wants Jolie's child back
12. Beyonce Considers Ethiopia As "Second Home" -ENA
13. Beyonce to perfom in Addis Ababa
14. Ethiopia Accepts UN Ruling To Turn Over Badme To Eritrea
15 Ethiopia, Eritrea on Verge of War - Report Says
16. Ethiopia set for millennium party Beyonce and 50 Cent
17. Meles Zenawi in New York City for Clinton Global Initiative conference
18. Teddy Afro, the New Reggae God of Ethiopia
19. Ethiopian protest leaders guilty
20. Beyonce welcomed at National Palace
21. Student Arrested For Buying Guns Illegally
23. Meles Zenawi's Millennium Speech
24. Saudi Arabia beheads an Ethiopian woman
25. Bush Backs Ethiopia Leader
26.Is an Ethiopian Invasion of Eritrea Imminent
27.Meles Zenawi's Interview on Al Jazeera
28.In Ethiopian Desert, Fear and Cries of Army Brutality (The New York Times)
29.Jailed Ethiopians 'to be freed' (BBC)
30. Meles Zenawi G8 Summit in Pictures
31.
Ethiopia Faces New Millennium, Uncertain of Future
32. Secretary Rice Interview With Tefera Gedamu of ETV
33.Prisoners Sign Paper in Bid for Release - Post
34.A bitter old row shows no sign of fading
35.Angelina Jolie buy 'Ethiopia island' in Dubai
36. Liya Kebede Top 15 Richest Model In the World
37.Zenawi Confronts the Ogaden Provocation
38.Ethiopia upset by U.S. bill
39.Students Protest Beyonce's Ethiopia Trip
40. Berhanu Nega Statement to United States House Sub-Committee on Foreign Affairs
Here are the Top Videos watched on nazret.com for 2007
2. Ethiopian Millennium Celebration Video
3. Kebebew Geda (Shemsu) Comedy
4. Haile Gebrselassie Revealed CNN
6. Ethiopia Drama Kezkaza Part A
7. Interview with Supermodel Liya Kebede
8. Is Ethiopia a Failed State? FP interview with Amb. Samuel Assefa
About You
Here is a Stat about You, our valued Visitor.
nazret.com visitors hail from South Africa to Sweden, from Sydney to San Francisco. Take a look at the stat below, United States is by far the single largest source of our visitors.
Top 10 Countries of nazret.com visitors for 2007
1. United States
2. Canada
3. Germany
4. United Kingdom
5. Sweden
6. Norway
7. Netherlands
8. Switzerland
9. Australia
10. Israel
25. Ethiopia*
*Since nazret.com has been banned in Ethiopia, our traffic from Ethiopia has dropped significantly.
Top 10 States in America
1. California
2. N/A*
3. Virginia
4. District of Colombia**
5. Texas
6. Maryland
7. Georgia
8. Minnesota
9. Washington
10.New York
*State could not be determined by tool
** DC is not a state but is considered as one for this analysis
Top 10 Cities in America
1. N/A*
2. Washington DC
3. Minneapolis
4. Atlanta
5. Seattle
6. New York
7. Reston
8. Arlington
9. Los Angeles
10. Houston
*City could not be determined by analysis tool, thus could be anywhere USA.
Top 10 Countries in Europe
1. Germany
2. United Kingdom
3. Sweden
4. Norway
5. Netherlands
6. Switzerland
7. Italy
8. France
9. Belgium
10. Finland
Top 10 in Asia
1. Israel
2. China
3. India
4. Saudi Arabia
5. Japan
6. United Arab Emirates
7. Malaysia
8. Hong Kong
9. Philippines
10. Qatar
Top 10 in Africa
1. Egypt
2. South Africa
3. Ethiopia
4. Kenya
5. Eritrea
6. Sudan
7. Uganda
8. Nigeria
9. Ghana
10. Tanzania
