Arecent analysis of cost of living data by Numbeo, a renowned data and research platform, paints a concerning picture for major African cities. The report reveals the intense pressures countries across the continent face due to a surge in living expenses. Addis Ababa, Ethiopia’s central city, emerges as the most expensive city, followed by others like Harare, Johannesburg, and Cape Town.
The modern workplace, characterized by relentless demands, extended hours, and constant connectivity, is fertile ground for a sinister foe: burnout. This insidious psychosocial affliction transcends specific professions, plaguing individuals across a broad spectrum of fields. Its consequences are far-reaching, impacting not just individual performance and job satisfaction but also physical and mental health, relationships, and overall quality of life.
Burnout’s tentacles reach far and wide, manifesting in impaired job performance, absenteeism, and even presenteeism (working while unproductive). The toll on physical health is equally problematic, with research linking burnout to hypertension, heart disease, and other medical complications.
A State under International Law
States are significant subjects of international law and actors in international relations. Under international law, a state is a legal and political entity with some characteristics. What constitutes a state under international law is defined by the Montevideo Convention. The convention outlines a permanent population, defined territory, government, and the capacity to enter into relations with other states as the definition of a state. The concept of statehood is a fundamental principle in international law, as it establishes the rights and obligations of states in their interactions with one another. Hence, an entity must meet the above criteria to be recognized as a state.
In the burgeoning landscape of Ethiopian cinema, filmmakers like Haymanot Girmay and Moges Asrat are reshaping the industry’s narrative on YouTube. Girmay, a newcomer, invested her passion and resources into her debut film “Honelgn,” delving into societal issues with a personal touch. Meanwhile, Asrat, a seasoned figure, emphasizes the delicate balance between art and profit, learning from his early challenges. Yet, Ermias Hailemichael, a stalwart in the field, expresses concern over YouTube’s impact, citing potential quality compromises and profit-centric motives. As the debate unfolds, these filmmakers highlight the need for industry criteria, fair compensation, and more significant investment to elevate Ethiopian cinema on local and global platforms. The future, they assert, lies in fostering quality content and incentivizing long-term success over short-lived gains, writes Addisu Deresse.
In today’s digital age, acts of charity and giving to the less fortunate have become increasingly intertwined with social media and online platforms. While sharing such acts can raise awareness and inspire others to contribute, reflecting on the potential consequences for the recipients involved is essential. EBR’s Eden Teshome explores the social impact of giving to the less fortunate and the ethical considerations surrounding the exposure and filming of needy individuals.
The most bizarre aspect of the Ethiopian economy is the constant surge in the prices of properties, particularly in Addis Ababa and other major towns. The fast price growth trajectory, which started almost two decades ago, has increased momentum in recent years.
In a properly functioning property market, housing price trends are anchored to some economic fundamentals such as real income and rental value. Defying these economic fundamentals, the price of houses, particularly in the capital, has been soaring to an alarming level, though there is a recent change in the dynamics. Surprisingly, the rent increase is far behind the growth in property value, considerably squeezing the yield (rent/property value). This situation indicates that something serious has gone wrong in the market that calls for policy intervention.
The victory at Adwa is a significant achievement that represents Ethiopian unity. However, the virtues that historic battle — unity, freedom, equality and justice — seem to be eroding. Guzo Adwa, a movement that started in 2013, aims to bring a unique way to commemorate the sacrifice paid for freedom by our brave forefathers as they set out to defend their motherland from the yok of colonial aggression, is trying to reinvigorate the Ethiopian public through an annual journey to the battle site. EBR reprints an updated version of content published in edition 58 by an adjunct writer, Meseret Mamo, who explored how the annual service inspires Ethiopian youth to learn from the heroes of Adwa.
While developed economies have pledged to increase climate financing sharply by 2030, developing-economy policymakers are struggling to cover the costs of action. With medium-term strategies being used to address a short-term threat, progress on the green transition will be undermined, with potentially catastrophic implications.
Ethiopia is a distant observer while the continent’s finest footballers take centre stage in Côte d’Ivoire for the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) 2023. Having graced the AFCON stage in Cameroon just two years ago, the “Waliyas” now watch from afar, a stark reminder of their struggles to sustain continental relevance.
This absence highlights a more profound malaise afflicting Ethiopian football: the glaring lack of a stadium meeting CAF and FIFA standards. Dr. Brook Genene, a prominent sports commentator for EBR, delves into this critical issue, revealing its detrimental impact on both results and player development. Indeed, Ethiopia’s recent stumbles can be partly attributed to the absence of a world-class stadium. Substandard facilities hinder both domestic and international competition, crippling player development and eroding fan confidence.
Once a bustling capital, Mekelle now wears the scars of Tigray’s brutal conflict. Its unfinished buildings and neglected shops whisper of lost opportunity, while cheap beer and quiet pubs offer solace from the harsh reality. Young people yearn for a brighter future elsewhere, fleeing to Europe or fearing jobs and famine.
The war’s economic wounds are deep. Infrastructure lies in ruins; businesses are largely looted, and unemployment soars while inflation reaches the rooftop. Hospitals struggle with staff shortages and non-payment, driving skilled doctors away in mass exodus. The spectre of famine is looming while the regional government cries for funds. Tourists, once plentiful, now stay away, deterred by images of hunger and instability in the region.
Indeed, Mekelle grapples with its new reality – hosting internally displaced people with meagre resources.
EBR’s Samuel Getachew visited Mekelle to understand how rough the road to recovery will be. He reports that it will take a concerted effort of international donors, local and federal governments, and citizens for Mekelle to rise again from the ashes and for its people to rebuild a brighter future.
Ethiopian Business Review
Dr. Brook Genene
Shimelash Wondale
Eden Teshome
Abdulmenan Mohammed Hamza (PhD)
Ishac Diwan
Samuel Getachew