Fikru Tsegaye WordofaEthiopia’s ambitious Green Legacy Initiative aims to transform the nation into a green paradise. However, the looming threat of climate change and natural disasters casts a shadow over this vision. Forest insurance emerges as a crucial safety net. This commentary by insurance insider Fikru Tsegaye Wordofa delves into why Ethiopia urgently needs this financial safeguard. The article shows how forest insurance can protect the country’s invaluable green assets, bolster the economy, and contribute to a sustainable future.
Dr. Brook GeneneDehydration occurs when the body loses more fluids than it takes in. Symptoms range from thirst and headaches to severe complications such as kidney problems and even death. While staying hydrated seems straightforward, many underestimate its importance for a healthy life.
Experts stress magnesium’s crucial role in water absorption and advise increasing the intake of magnesium-rich foods. Moreover, a diet rich in fruits and vegetables can also contribute to hydration. By being aware of dehydration symptoms and taking preventive measures, such as maintaining adequate fluid intake and seeking medical help when needed, one can significantly reduce the risk of death from this silent killer. EBR’s Dr. Brook Genene delves into this issue with medical professionals, examining the various health threats it poses.
Ethiopia’s Athletic Legacy at Stake
Ethiopia’s Olympic history is a tapestry woven with threads of triumph and adversity. From the legendary barefoot run of Abebe Bikila to the iconic unity displayed by Derartu Tulu and South African Elana Meyer in 1992 Barcelona Olympics, the nation has produced some of the greatest athletes of all time. However, the recent shadow of controversy has influenced the once-golden era. Internal strife, athlete dissatisfaction, and leadership disputes jeopardise Ethiopia’s Olympic dream.
This in-depth analysis By EBR’s Brook Genene delves into the heart of Ethiopian athletics, exploring the factors that have contributed to its past glories and the challenges that threaten its future. From the inspiring stories of Olympic champions to the current turmoil within the Ethiopian Olympic Committee and Athletics Federation, this article comprehensively looks at a nation grappling with its sporting identity.
Eden TeshomeThe Cooperative Bank of Oromia has announced a strategic partnership with InFTF, an international humanitarian organization focused on inclusive finance. This collaboration has resulted in the launch of Ethiopia’s first blockchain-powered remittance service, making Cooperative Bank of Oromia the first bank in both Ethiopia and Africa to offer this innovative solution.
Samuel GetachewGofa Reels From Catastrophic Calamity, Risks Remain in Other Areas
A remote village in Ethiopia’s Gofa Zone has been devastated by a catastrophic landslide that has buried hundreds of people alive. The tragedy has prompted a massive humanitarian response as survivors grapple with the loss of loved ones and the uncertainty of the future. The incident underscores the importance of investing in early warning systems and disaster prevention measures. EBR’s Samuel Getachew visits the area to speak to survivors, eyewitnesses and community leaders.
The National Bank of Ethiopia (NBE) has granted operational licenses to five new Independent Foreign Exchange Bureaus, marking a significant step in the country’s financial sector liberalization. The bureaus, which met the minimum requirements outlined in the NBE’s Foreign Exchange Directive No. FXD/Ol/2024, are:
Balancing Inflation Control with Economic Growth
Ethiopia’s central bank has imposed a credit cap to tame soaring inflation, but the measure has unintended consequences for businesses, especially exporters. While inflation has eased since the bank introduced the policy a year ago, the credit crunch stifles economic growth. Economists advise policymakers to strike a delicate balance. According to economists, targeted credit measures, support for SMEs, and fiscal discipline are crucial. By fostering a conducive business environment and prioritizing key sectors, Ethiopia can achieve both price stability and sustainable economic expansion, writes EBR’s Eden Teshome.
Red Sea Crisis Cripples Ethiopian Trade Exposes Economic Vulnerabilities
As a landlocked country, Ethiopia relies heavily on the ports of Djibouti and Eritrea for its international trade, with the Red Sea serving as a crucial maritime corridor. However, the ongoing crisis in the region, which began on October 7 with Hamas attacking Israel, is having significant ramifications for Ethiopia.
EBR’s Eden Teshome delves into the challenges faced by Ethiopian businesses amidst the escalating conflict between the Houthi rebels in Yemen and Israel’s retaliatory strikes in the Red Sea. Ethiopian importers and exporters are feeling the strain, from rerouting shipments and enduring longer transit times to dealing with skyrocketing freight rates and potential infrastructure bottlenecks. This piece explores how this regional security issue disrupts global maritime trade and forces Ethiopian firms to explore alternative markets and distribution channels.
The International Monetary Fund (IMF) has announced a staff-level agreement with Ethiopian authorities on key economic policies, marking a significant step toward concluding the first review of a four-year, USD3.4 billion Extended Credit Facility (ECF) arrangement. This agreement, pending approval from the IMF Executive Board, would enable Ethiopia to access approximately USD345 million in financing.
Ethiopia’s media landscape is undergoing a seismic shift with the rapid growth of podcasts. This new medium has empowered diverse voices, creating a platform for everything from business advice to entertainment. Podcasts are increasingly popular among the youth, with YouTube becoming the preferred platform.
While the democratization of media is a positive development, there are potential challenges. The overreliance on video formats, often driven by advertising revenue, limits the reach of podcasts. Moreover, the lack of diversity in formats and the potential for misinformation and disinformation also raise concerns.
Despite these issues, podcasts’ impact is undeniable. They are filling a void in the media landscape, providing accessible and engaging content. Fostering a balanced ecosystem that promotes creativity and responsibility as the industry matures is crucial. By addressing the challenges and capitalizing on the opportunities, Ethiopia can harness the full potential of podcasts to inform, entertain, and empower its citizens. EBR’s Brook Genene looks at the rise of podcasts in Ethiopia and assesses the advantages and impacts of this trend.
