Ethiopia and the United Arab Emirates have signed a $100 million grant agreement to support Ethiopian micro, small, and medium enterprises, particularly in the innovation and technology sectors. The agreement was signed in Addis Ababa and involves financial support from the UAE through the Khalifa Fund for Enterprise Development. Ethiopia's Minister of Innovation and Technology, Getahun Mekuria, highlighted that the funds would benefit enterprises in various sectors including agribusiness, agro-processing, IT services, energy, and manufacturing. This financial support aligns with Ethiopia's focus on innovation as a key driver for its development goals, as emphasized by Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed.

In Ethiopia, 18 Muslim activists have been sentenced by the Ethiopian Federal High Court to prison terms ranging from seven to 22 years on charges related to terrorism. These charges are based on accusations that the activists sought to establish an Islamic state through terrorist activities. The group has been detained for nearly three years and is also banned from certain civic activities for five years. The case stems from protests that began in 2012 by Muslims who claimed the government was imposing a non-traditional form of Islam and interfering in religious affairs. The government, on the other hand, has expressed concerns about the rise of hardline Salafism in the country, which is predominantly moderate Sufi Islam.

The Addis Ababa Light Rail Transit (AALRT), a US$475 million project financed by China, is the new talk of the town in Ethiopia's capital. It promises to transport 80,000 commuters daily, easing traffic congestion. The AALRT was inaugurated in time for the 24th African Union Summit in January and is part of Ethiopia's Grand Transformation Plan II (GTP2). Despite delays due to electricity issues, the service is expected to start soon with heavily subsidized fares. Prime Minister Hailemariam Desalegn, who had promised an earlier start date, is visiting China to seek funds for the AALRT's expansion, demonstrating the project's significance for Ethiopia's infrastructure and economic plans.

Ethiopia is on track to become a natural gas producer by 2018, with an expected output of 40 billion gallons a year, as reported by China Poly Technology, which has invested $5 billion in the project. A pipeline is being built from the Ogaden region to Djibouti for exporting gas to Europe. Ethiopia's efforts to exploit its oil and gas resources have been hindered by security issues and political instability, particularly in Ogaden, a region seeking pacification due to a history of insurgency and banditry. The Ogaden National Liberation Front (ONLF), labeled a terrorist group by the Ethiopian government, has been a significant source of unrest, including a 2007 attack that killed Chinese and Ethiopian workers. The government has made some progress in reducing the insurgency but faces international criticism over alleged human rights abuses in Ogaden.

Ethiopia is aiming to generate $1 billion in revenue from mining exports in the fiscal year 2019/20, according to Betru Haile of the Ethiopia Ministry of Mines and Petroleum. The country is launching a mass sensitization campaign to combat illegal mining activities, which have been a factor in the low mining revenues of the previous year. Ethiopia's mining exports dropped to $49 million in 2018/19, marking a significant decrease. The government has set up gold trading centers to curb contraband and is optimistic about mining firms commencing production and those affected by foreign currency shortages and unrest resuming operations.

During President Barack Obama's visit to Ethiopia, a construction agreement was signed between the Ethiopian government and the US-Icelandic firm Reykjavik to initiate the first phase of the Corbetti geothermal electricity plant. This project, part of the Power Africa initiative, aims to provide 30,000 MW of clean electricity across Africa. The $4 billion plant will contribute to Ethiopia's goal of increasing its power generation capacity as part of its green growth strategy and economic plan, GTP II. The project is expected to take 8-10 years to complete and is seen as a significant step towards helping Ethiopia achieve middle-income status by enhancing its energy infrastructure.

In Ethiopia, erratic rainfall and droughts have severely impacted harvests and livestock, exacerbating food insecurity. Women, who are primarily responsible for feeding their families, are disproportionately affected due to patriarchal norms limiting their financial autonomy. To address this, Farm Africa and Mercy Corps have initiated over 300 village savings and loan associations (VSLAs) as part of the BRACED programme, funded by the UK Department for International Development. These groups empower women by providing them with financial training, loans, and support to diversify income sources and become more resilient to climate shocks. The article highlights the success stories of women like Workinesh Denda, who has started a business selling fuel-efficient stoves, and Shela Shekene, a farmer who invested in livestock. The savings groups have shown significant growth in weekly contributions, indicating the community's increasing engagement with the initiative.

In southern Ethiopia, women are facing the challenges of climate change, which has affected their harvests and food security. To combat this, over 300 village savings and loan associations (VSLAs) have been established to empower women financially. These groups, part of the BRACED programme funded by the UK Department for International Development and led by Farm Africa and Mercy Corps, allow women to save money and take out small loans to start businesses and diversify their income. The initiative also includes training in financial management and natural resource conservation. Success stories include Workinesh Denda's fuel-efficient stove business and Shela Shekene's cattle venture. The project has led to increased savings and is changing community attitudes towards women's economic roles.

Ethiopia's coffee industry, vital for its economy and cultural identity, is facing a severe threat from climate change. Rising temperatures and increased drought conditions have led to a 1.3 degrees Celsius increase in average temperature over the past 30 years in eastern Ethiopia, causing drought and disease in coffee plants. This has resulted in significant losses of coffee plantations annually. The Ethiopian government is encouraging farmers to cultivate coffee at higher altitudes to combat these challenges. The Ethiopia Coffee and Tea Development Marketing Authority is also providing training and introducing hardier coffee varieties. Despite these efforts, there is a risk that traditional coffee-growing culture may be lost, and the quality and taste of Ethiopian coffee could change if production shifts to new areas. The government is exploring new markets, such as China, to sustain the industry.

Ethiopia is taking steps to manage its forests better to combat climate change and promote development for its population. The government's Climate Resilient Green Economy strategy includes adding 5 million hectares of forests by 2020 and restoring 22 million hectares of degraded landscapes by 2030. The Oromia Forested Landscape Programme, supported by an initial $18 million from the World Bank, is a community-centered initiative that has started in the Chilimo Forest Reserve. Local cooperatives have been given rights to manage the forest, with incentives to use alternative resources and plant non-native trees for income. The program aims to reduce deforestation, lower greenhouse gas emissions, and protect water resources. However, challenges such as population pressure and illegal logging persist, and there is a call for education on forest conservation and stricter penalties for illegal activities.

Ethiopia, renowned for its Arabica coffee, is facing a crisis in its coffee production due to climate change. Rising temperatures and drought have led to a 1.3 degrees Celsius increase over three decades, causing stronger droughts and diseases in coffee plants. This has resulted in significant losses of coffee plants annually. The Ethiopian government is encouraging farmers to grow coffee at higher elevations to combat these issues. The Ethiopia Coffee and Tea Development Marketing Authority is also introducing hardier coffee varieties and training farmers in climate adaptation techniques. However, there is a risk that traditional coffee-growing culture may be lost, and the quality and taste of coffee could be affected. The government is exploring new markets for these new coffee varieties as some traditional varieties, like 'Harar' coffee, are at risk.

Ethiopia, renowned for its coffee production, is facing a threat from climate change as rising temperatures and droughts impact coffee yields. The Environment, Climate Change and Coffee Forest Forum (ECCCFF) reports a 1.3°C increase in temperature over three decades in eastern Ethiopia, leading to stronger droughts and diseases in coffee plants. The Ethiopian government is encouraging farmers to cultivate coffee at higher altitudes to combat these issues. Birhanu Tsegaye from the ECTDMA suggests that new areas are becoming suitable for coffee production due to the changing climate. Aman Adinew, CEO of Metad Agricultural Development, has experienced delays in harvest and exports due to unripened beans. Ethiopia's coffee industry is vital, employing up to 20% of the population. The government is also introducing hardier coffee varieties and training farmers in climate adaptation techniques. However, there are concerns about the loss of traditional coffee-growing culture and the potential impact on coffee quality.

In Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, Hukun Aden Mohammed, a businesswoman and single mother, is benefiting from the country's growing acceptance of Islamic banking. She has received sharia-compliant loans from the Somali Microfinance Institution (SMFI), which has enabled her to expand her business and plan for future growth. Islamic banking, which does not charge interest and avoids funding activities prohibited under Islamic law, is helping to increase financial inclusion in Ethiopia, particularly among Muslim communities. While Ethiopia has seen an increase in the number of adults with bank accounts, it still trails behind other sub-Saharan African countries. The National Bank of Ethiopia issued directives on Islamic finance in 2011, and since then, institutions like SMFI have served many customers, with aspirations to become a fully-fledged Islamic bank. Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed's administration is seen as creating a more favorable environment for Islamic banking, which could attract more foreign investment from the Middle East.

The article discusses the efforts of the Ethiopian government and NGOs to preserve the Yayu Coffee Forest Biosphere Reserve, a UNESCO-recognized site crucial for the conservation of wild Coffea Arabica and the livelihoods of over 150,000 people. Despite the importance of the reserve, it lacks a coherent management plan. The Ethiopia Population, Health and Environment Consortium (PHE) and other partners are working to address this by scaling up environmental schemes and considering trading forest coffee on the Ethiopian Commodity Exchange (ECX). Local NGOs are also connecting cooperatives with international markets. The Oromia Forest and Wildlife Enterprise (OFWE) supports cooperatives in sustainable resource use and marketing of forest products. However, the reserve faces challenges from nearby infrastructure projects, which could negatively impact the environment and local communities. There are plans to use the Yayu biosphere as a carbon sink for a coal-fired fertilizer plant, aligning with Ethiopia's Climate Resilient Green Economy strategy.

Ethiopia is set to launch its first satellite with the assistance of China in September, aiming to enhance climate change monitoring and environmental management. Solomon Belay Tessema, the director general of the Ethiopian Space Science and Technology Institute, highlighted the satellite's potential to improve water resource management, mining activities, and support climate change adaptation strategies such as crop insurance programs for small-scale farmers. Melkachew Temsgen from Oromia Insurance Company noted the benefits of satellite data in providing accurate weather information for insurance purposes, which could reduce costs and improve efficiency. While some Ethiopians consider the satellite a luxury for a developing nation, Tessema argues that satellite technology is essential for economic development and that Ethiopia is already behind in leveraging this technology.

Ethiopian Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed is in a dispute with the Tigray People's Liberation Front (TPLF), the former dominant party in Ethiopia's politics. The House of Federation (HoF), controlled by Abiy's allies, voted to withhold budget subsidies from the Tigray region after Tigray held an election against the federal government's decision to postpone it due to COVID-19. The TPLF, which had split from the Ethiopian People’s Revolutionary Democratic Front (EPRDF) in 2019, won the election. The HoF declared the election void, and tensions have escalated, raising concerns of a potential security crisis. Both sides are accused of brinkmanship, and there are calls for national dialogue to resolve the crisis, though terms for such dialogue are contentious.

The article recounts the aftermath of the Ethiopian Airlines Flight ET302 crash that occurred a year ago, involving a Boeing 737 MAX 8, which resulted in the deaths of all 157 people on board. Ethiopian Airlines pilot Benyam Alemayehu shares his personal grief over the loss of his friend, Captain Yared Getachew, who was flying the jet. The crash had a profound impact on the local community of Adadi, Ethiopia, and the airline itself. Ethiopian Airlines CEO Tewolde Gebremariam expressed the airline's resilience despite the tragedy. An interim report pointed to the Maneuvering Characteristics Augmentation System (MCAS) as a factor in the crash, similar to the Lion Air crash in Indonesia. The article also discusses the longstanding relationship between Ethiopian Airlines and Boeing, suggesting that despite the incident, their partnership is likely to continue.

The article discusses the efforts of Ethiopia's Ministry of Forestry, Environment and Climate Change (MoFEC) to combat air pollution and climate change through urban greening initiatives. Habtamu Worku, a resident of Addis Ababa, expresses his concerns about the lack of green spaces in the city. The ministry, with the help of REDD+ national representative Yitbetu Moges, is working to integrate local, regional, and federal efforts to expand green spaces, aiming to cool cities, reduce noise pollution, and absorb carbon emissions. Cities like Bahir Dar, Hawassa, and Adama have seen improvements from such programs. However, financial constraints limit comprehensive greening in Addis Ababa, leading to a focus on surrounding mountainous areas and small city spots. The government is also encouraging community involvement and considering economic incentives for residents. Negash Teklu from the Population Health Environment Ethiopia Consortium emphasizes the importance of urban planning and public attitude changes for successful urban greening. The article underscores the urgency of these initiatives as Ethiopia's urban population grows.

The article discusses the closure of Maekelawi, a notorious prison in Ethiopia, and the cautious optimism among activists regarding the justice system reforms under Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed's administration. Abel Wabella, a social media activist and founder of Addis Zeybe, who was previously imprisoned in Maekelawi, visited the now non-operational prison, which was temporarily opened to the public. He criticized superficial changes and stressed the need for systematic reforms. Despite some positive developments, concerns remain over the continued use of a 2009 anti-terror law and recent arrests of activists and journalists. Rights groups are wary of 'trial by media' and emphasize the right to a fair trial. The Ethiopian government has promised accountability for officials responsible for past abuses. Bizuayehu Wondimu from the Human Rights Council highlighted the need for institutional change and better police training to protect human rights.

The article reflects on the situation in Badme, a border town emblematic of the conflict between Ethiopia and Eritrea, one year after the signing of a new peace agreement by Eritrean President Isaias Afwerki and Ethiopian Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed. It highlights the cautious optimism of the residents, including Gebreselassie Woldeabzigi, who fears displacement despite the cessation of hostilities. The piece touches on the economic activities in Badme, the symbolic significance of the town, and the reduced military presence. It also discusses the broader context of the Ethiopia-Eritrea war, including the roles of the Eritrean People’s Liberation Front (EPLF) and the Tigray People’s Liberation Front (TPLF). The article notes the closure of border crossings and the silence of Eritrea on the matter, as well as the contrasting political and economic paths of the two countries post-conflict. The involvement of Gulf countries in the peace process is also mentioned, with insights from Abebe Aynete, a senior researcher at the Ethiopia Foreign Relations Strategic Studies (EFRSS) think-tank.

Ethiopian authorities have arrested over 250 people across the country, including in Amhara and Addis Ababa, in response to a failed coup attempt on June 22. The Prime Minister's office announced the arrests on Twitter, indicating ongoing investigations and potential for more arrests. Among those detained is Christian Tadele, a spokesman for the National Movement of Amhara (NAMA), who claims the arrests target the party and the Amhara nation. The coup attempt resulted in the deaths of several senior officials, including the region's president and the national army chief of staff. The government has accused former General Asamnew Tsige, killed by security forces following the coup attempt, of orchestrating the violence. Asamnew, a released prisoner and regional security chief, had been advocating for Amhara nationalism. Analysts suggest that the government faces challenges controlling ethnonational forces ahead of the 2020 elections, and the Crisis Group has warned against the dangers of appointing hardliners to security roles.

In Ethiopia, journalists are experiencing newfound freedoms under Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed's reforms, which include unblocking websites and welcoming exiled media. However, concerns arise with the draft anti-hate speech legislation that proposes up to three years in prison for disseminating hate speech and fake news. Journalist Elias Meseret fears this could threaten media freedom, while government spokeswoman Billene Seyoum emphasizes the need for accountability. State news editor Pawlos Belete from Walta Information Center worries about the sustainability of editorial independence. Asmeret Haileselassie, a lecturer, highlights the risks of ethnic polarization in media and the importance of digital literacy ahead of the 2020 national elections to prevent violence similar to the post-2005 elections.

In Ethiopia, the rise of Islamic banking is contributing to financial inclusion, particularly for the Muslim community. Hukun Aden Mohammed, a businesswoman in Addis Ababa, has benefited from sharia-compliant loans from the Somali Microfinance Institution (SMFI), which has enabled her to expand her business. Sharia-compliant finance does not charge interest and avoids investing in businesses that are not in line with Islamic law. While Ethiopia has seen an increase in the number of adults with bank accounts, it still trails behind other sub-Saharan African countries. SMFI, which has served around 30,000 customers, is looking to transition into a fully-fledged Islamic bank, a move that has not yet been accomplished in Ethiopia. The National Bank of Ethiopia is conducting studies to assess the impact of allowing fully Islamic law-compliant financial institutions, which is part of a broader liberalisation effort to attract foreign investment.

The article discusses the political reforms and challenges faced by Ethiopian Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed since his swearing-in ceremony. It highlights the unrest in the Amhara and Oromia regions and the accusations against the ruling EPRDF coalition and its member TPLF of holding disproportionate power. Abiy, from the Oromo Democratic Party, has initiated reforms such as releasing political prisoners, delisting dissident groups from a terror list, and enacting a law favoring civil society groups. However, concerns remain about the pace of reforms and the EPRDF's future. The upcoming 2020 elections are seen as a critical test for Abiy's political career and Ethiopia's political trajectory. The article includes perspectives from Befeqadu Hailu, a blogger and human rights activist, and Abebe Aynete, a researcher at EFRSS, on the challenges of ethnic conflicts, regional autonomy, and the need for democratic legitimacy through free and fair elections.

The article discusses the situation of Syrian refugees in Ethiopia, focusing on individuals like Abdulwahid Mohammed, who manages a restaurant in Addis Ababa. Ethiopia, a predominantly Christian country, has become a refuge for Syrians fleeing the civil war. Despite being a poor nation, Ethiopia has welcomed refugees from over 20 countries, including at least 560 Syrians. The Ethiopian government, adhering to international refugee conventions, allows Syrians freedom of movement and access to UN assistance. While some Syrians have integrated into the local economy, others resort to begging. The article highlights the challenges and the hospitality Syrians face in Ethiopia, as well as the legal ambiguities surrounding their stay.

Sahle-Work Zewde's unanimous election as Ethiopia's first female president has been met with enthusiasm and is seen as a hopeful sign for gender equality in the country. Her extensive diplomatic experience and fluency in multiple languages position her as a competent representative for Ethiopia's political reforms. Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed's administration has been notable for appointing women to traditionally male-dominated roles, including the country's first female Defence Minister. Advocates for gender equality, while optimistic, call for more substantial changes to advance women's rights. Zewde's appointment has generated positive reactions on social media and marks her as the only current female head of state in Africa.

Sahle-Work Zewde's election as Ethiopia's first female president is a historic event that has been met with enthusiasm and hope for progress in gender equality. The presidency in Ethiopia is largely ceremonial, but it holds significant symbolic and social influence. Zewde's extensive diplomatic experience and fluency in multiple languages position her as a competent advocate for Ethiopia's political reforms. Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed's administration has been notable for appointing women to high-profile positions, including the country's first female Defence Minister. Women's rights activists, while optimistic, call for more substantial changes to advance gender equality. Zewde's appointment has been positively received on social media, and she is currently the only female head of state in Africa. She has pledged to be vocal about female empowerment throughout her term.

The article discusses the recent political changes within Ethiopia's ruling coalition, the Ethiopian Peoples’ Revolutionary Democratic Front (EPRDF). Historically known for its secrecy and unity, the EPRDF has begun to show signs of internal disagreement, particularly since Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed took office. The coalition's constituent parties, such as the TPLF and ANDM (now ADP), have openly disagreed on issues like administrative boundaries and ideology. The ADP and ODP, formerly the OPDO, have even changed their names, signaling a move towards autonomy. The article also touches on the challenges faced by the ADP from the National Movement of Amhara and the potential alliances being formed by various parties. With local elections approaching in 2019 and parliamentary polls in 2020, the unity of the EPRDF and the future of Ethiopia's political landscape are in question.

The article discusses the impact of the peace agreement between Eritrea and Ethiopia on local trade and migration. Teklehaimanot Tesfazigi, a 103-year-old Eritrean, reflects on the losses he faced due to the conflict and expresses hope for his hotel business following the border reopening. Kibreab Tewolde, manager of the Messebo Cement factory in Ethiopia, anticipates economic benefits from using Eritrean ports for international trade. Despite the business boom in border towns, thousands of Eritreans continue to flee to Ethiopia seeking better economic conditions and to escape political repression. The UNHCR reports a significant increase in Eritrean arrivals in Ethiopia. The article also touches on the infrastructure developments and the potential reversal of refugee flows due to economic gains.

The Ethiopian Peoples’ Revolutionary Democratic Front (EPRDF) recently held a Congress to discuss the role of allied parties from under-developed regions in Ethiopia. These parties, dissatisfied with their junior status, were granted attendance at Executive Committee meetings without voting rights, which is unlikely to satisfy their demands for greater national policy-making roles. The EPRDF, composed of four major parties, faces internal contention over representation and influence, complicating the potential inclusion of allied parties. The article discusses historical and current political challenges, including regional unrest and the strategic importance of non-EPRDF regions due to resources and infrastructure projects. Despite the current impasse, the article suggests that the peripheral states may soon play a more central role in Ethiopian politics, especially with upcoming local and national elections.

The article by Elias Gebreselassie discusses the efforts of Ethiopia's Ministry of Forestry, Environment and Climate Change (MoFEC) to implement urban greening programs in cities like Addis Ababa to combat air pollution and climate change. Habtamu Worku, a resident of Addis Ababa, expresses the need for more green spaces in the city. Yitbetu Moges, a representative for REDD+ at the ministry, emphasizes the benefits of urban greening, including carbon absorption, cooler environments, and reduced noise pollution. The article highlights the successes of greening programs in Bahir Dar, Hawassa, and Adama, and the challenges faced by Addis Ababa due to financial constraints and dense urbanization. The government is encouraging community involvement and considering economic incentives to support greening efforts. Negash Teklu, from the Population Health Environment Ethiopia Consortium, stresses the importance of urban planning and public attitude changes for creating healthier cities. The article underscores the urgency of urban greening as Ethiopia's urban population grows.

The article discusses the potential for cooperation over the Nile River despite existing tensions between Ethiopia and Egypt. Ethiopia is constructing the Grand Ethiopian Renaissance Dam (GERD) on the Blue Nile, which has raised concerns in Egypt about water supply impacts. However, experts like Abebe Aynete from EFRSS and Alex de Waal from the World Peace Foundation believe that both countries can find common ground. They note that the countries have shared economic and security interests and that their governments are risk-averse and likely to prioritize cooperation. The article also touches on the involvement of other Nile basin countries like Sudan and Eritrea, highlighting the complexity of the issue. Despite the tensions and historical conflicts, the possibility of war over the Nile dispute is considered unlikely by the experts mentioned.

The article by Elias Gebreselassie focuses on the challenges faced by Ethiopian farmers and herders due to climate change, including drought and erratic rainfall, which have led to reduced harvests and income. It highlights a project by Farm Africa and Mercy Corps, part of the BRACED programme funded by the UK Department for International Development, which aims to provide weather information to help these communities make informed decisions and better cope with climate shocks. The project has installed 25 automatic weather stations in various regions of Ethiopia, and the data is used to predict water availability and track extreme weather events. The Ethiopian National Meteorological Agency disseminates this information through community radio broadcasts in local languages, aiding in better livestock management and reducing communal tensions over resources.

Ethiopia is engaging local communities in sustainable forest management as part of its Climate Resilient Green Economy strategy, aiming to become a carbon-neutral economy by 2025. The strategy includes adding 5 million hectares of forests by 2020 and restoring 22 million hectares of degraded landscapes by 2030. The Oromia Forested Landscape Programme, funded initially with $18 million from the World Bank, is a key initiative in this effort, starting with the Chilimo Forest Reserve. Local cooperatives are given rights to manage the forest, with incentives to use alternative fuels and cultivate crops that do not require significant deforestation. The programme also aims to protect water resources and ensure stable harvests, addressing the country's loss of forests and the need for education on conservation. Community leader Degu Woldegiorgis and World Bank expert Stephen Danyo highlight the importance of forests for livelihoods, water security, and climate stability.

Ethiopia is taking steps to manage its forests better by involving local communities in efforts to combat climate change and promote sustainable development. The government's Climate Resilient Green Economy strategy includes adding 5 million hectares of forests by 2020 and restoring 22 million hectares of degraded landscapes by 2030. The Oromia Forested Landscape Programme, funded initially by the World Bank, is a community-centered initiative that aims to reduce deforestation and greenhouse gas emissions. Local cooperatives are given rights to manage forests, with encouragement to use alternative resources and plant non-native trees for income. The programme also focuses on protecting water resources and ensuring food and climate security. Challenges include population pressure and the need for education on forest conservation and stricter penalties for illegal logging.

Ethiopia is engaging local communities in forest management to combat climate change and promote sustainable development for its population of 100 million. The government's Climate Resilient Green Economy strategy includes adding 5 million hectares of forests by 2020 and restoring 22 million hectares of degraded landscapes by 2030. The Oromia Forested Landscape Programme, funded initially by the World Bank, is a community-centered initiative that aims to reduce deforestation and greenhouse gas emissions. Local cooperatives are given rights to manage forests, encouraged to use alternative resources for fuel, and to cultivate crops that do not require significant deforestation. The programme also focuses on protecting water resources and ensuring stable harvests. However, challenges such as rural population growth and illegal logging pose threats to forest conservation efforts.

The Gullele Botanic Garden (GBG) in Ethiopia, a collaboration between Addis Ababa University and the city of Addis Ababa, serves as a center for plant conservation, research, education, and eco-tourism. Established six years ago, it hosts 780 plant species and aims to preserve Ethiopia's rich flora heritage. GBG is not a replacement for natural vegetation but works to reintroduce plants to their natural habitats and collaborates with universities to establish more botanical gardens. The definition of forest coverage in Ethiopia is under scrutiny, with the inclusion of bamboo and eucalyptus, which has been controversial due to its environmental impact. GBG is also involved in afforestation projects in Addis Ababa. Despite its significance, public awareness of GBG is low, but there are plans to increase visibility through media and community involvement. GBG has a vision for 2028 to be on par with internationally renowned botanic gardens and to attract international interest.

The article investigates the operations of TIENS, a company that claims to offer health cures and economic fortune through its products and multi-level marketing structure in Uganda. The company, founded in China, has established a significant presence in Uganda, with numerous stores and a network of distributors. Despite promises of health benefits and wealth, the article reveals that TIENS operates like a pyramid scheme, where the majority of members make little to no money, and the health claims of the products are dubious at best. The company's success is built on the desperation of individuals in a country with a struggling healthcare system and high unemployment rates. The article includes testimonies from Ugandans who have joined TIENS, hoping for health and wealth, only to end up with financial losses and unfulfilled promises.

The article discusses the evolution and current state of religious music in Ethiopia, focusing on the influence of the Ethiopian Orthodox Church's gospel music and its impact on other Christian denominations, particularly the Ethiopian Evangelical (Mekane Yesus) Church. It traces the history of gospel music in Ethiopia back to Saint Yared in the sixth century and follows its development through various historical events, including the Italian invasion. The article highlights the role of early gospel singers and choirs, such as the Mulu Wongel Choir and the Meserete Kristos Church Choir, and notes the emergence of modern gospel artists who are integrating traditional and contemporary styles. It also touches on the challenges faced by gospel music in Ethiopia, such as generational and cultural resistance to modernization and the country's relative isolation. Additionally, the article mentions the growth of Protestantism in Ethiopia and the restrictions on religious broadcast media, while also providing insights into Islamic music, known as manzuma, and its prominent performers.

The article discusses the opening of the Addis Ababa Rail project in Ethiopia, a $475 million investment funded by China, highlighting China's significant role in Ethiopia's infrastructure development. The relationship between China and Ethiopia, which formally began in 1970, has seen ups and downs but has strengthened over time, especially with economic cooperation agreements and mutual political systems. Despite criticisms of the quality of Chinese goods and services, such as those provided by state-owned ZTE in telecommunications, China's investments in Ethiopia are substantial, with private Chinese investments from 1992-2015 being the largest from any country. The article also touches on the potential for Ethiopia to become a light manufacturing hub and China's interest in Ethiopian agricultural exports. Concerns about over-dependence on China are mentioned in light of China's economic slowdown, but the overall tone is optimistic about the future of Ethiopia-China relations.