August 2015 – Page 2 – Ethiopian Business Review

Holiday Bazaar Organizing Fees Push Companies to Look for Alternative Venues

Ethiopian holidays are often a time when Addis Ababa’s Exhibition Centre sees much activity. The Centre often hosts large bazaars in which vendors showcase their products and other items in an attempt to promote and sell their goods. In recent years, the price of organizing such events has skyrocketed – up to ETB12.6 million for a single holiday, which is significantly up from around ETB2 million in previous years. The increased costs for such events are attributed to the large influx of companies bidding to organise such events. Five years ago, around 10 companies used to bid to organise holiday bazaars; now that number has grown to 250. Equally, the fee vendors and pay has grown for more than tenfold. Industry insiders say that the growing demand for space at these bazaars warrants the price increase, while business owners say that the increased prices are taking a toll on companies looking to showcase their goods. EBR’s Fasika Tadesse spoke with both sides to understand the debate and offers this report.

A pain or a promise of a secure future?

Just before the Parliament adjourned for recess, its members approved amendments to laws that govern the collection of pensions for public and private employees. The controversial measures were met with mixed reviews. Some were happy that the government is taking measures to ensure that workers get social security in a more equitable manner. Others, however, say that the payments are burdensome on workers and employers– and that it takes too long for workers to receive their pension payments. EBR’s Ashenafi Endale explores the issue further to learn more about the intricacies of the debate.

A joy for children, a relief for parents

Although a relatively new concept in Ethiopia, summer camps are emerging in Addis Ababa. Some experts say that these programmes, which often focus on non-academic activities like sports and recreation, are beneficial for children as they offer chances to interact with peers and coaches who have time to listen, talk, relax, and reflect. Such opportunities provide them a rare chance to work together, learn how to take responsibility and solve problems, develop creative skills, build independence and self-reliance, and gain confidence – skills that are necessary to a child’s path to a healthy and productive future. EBR’s Meseret Mamo spoke with camp leaders, parents and students about the effects of summer camp on children.

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Skyrocketing

Holiday Bazaar Organizing Fees Push Companies to Look for Alternative Venues

Pension Contributions:

A pain or a promise of a secure future?

Summer Camps:

A joy for children, a relief for parents