The steadfastness, unity of the defense force surpass recurrent challenges

By Abdurezak Mohammed

Last Saturday’s failed coup attempt in Bahir Dar, Amhara State Capital, has saddened and shocked most Ethiopians. Though it was a failed attempt, the coup caused the loss of time tested higher military and regional leaders. The government and the people have been condemning this atrocious and tragic act. The state’s administration in cooperation with the national defense force foiled the coup attempt within hours without creating much damages it had been intended for.

According to the office of the Prime Minister and the State’s communication office, the coup was coordinated by Amhara State Peace and Security Office Head Brigadier General Assaminew Tsige who was shot dead as he refused to surrender on Monday near . Assaminew served for decade at a jail for he had led similar coup attempt. But he was pardoned and released about a year ago as a part of the reform the nation is pursuing. The evil arrangement orchestrated by this security head killed the State’s Chief Dr. Ambachew Mekonnen, Attorney General of the State – Migbaru Kebede, and Structure Advisor to the Chief – Ezez Wase were murdered.

In parallel with the assassination of Amhara State Officials (most likely linked to) the Chief of the Ethiopian Defense Force General Seare Mekonnen and a retired Major General Geza’e Abera were killed by one of the army chief’s security personnel at his residence in Addis Ababa. Likewise, last year’s assassination attempt on the Prime Mininister at Meskel Square in Addis Abeba was another similar challenge the nation faced.

In a message of condolence, Defense Minister Lemma Megersa stated that Saturday’s fascist killing of top military and government officials is very heartbreaking and this tragic can never affect the national defense force’s unity. The unity and steadfastness of the defense shall be maintained regardless of the challenges

According to Lemma, the defense force has been undertaking various activities cooperatively in all areas and many results are being achieved as a result. “The force has foiled the attempt successfully; it also continues carrying out its duties effectively in order to sustain peace, order and security."

To him, the national defense force is not the force of one ethnic group; it is the force of Ethiopia. “Our defense force is always ready and capable enough to assure sustainable peace, order and stability through curtailing such problems.”

He reiterated that the loyalty of the defense force for its country and people has been proved when the country in the past days when the nation went through similar situations. So, our defense force will work for our country and our people cooperatively without splitting by ethnicity, religion and language. It achieved different victories by keeping the country and its boundary from external enemy. And also, it is our pride and guaranty, he added.

On his part, Lieutenant General Hassen Ibrahim, Defense Force Intelligence Main Department Head, in his press conference in connection with Saturday’s tragic killings of higher military and government officials stated that the main target of this terrible act was to split the unity of our people and our defense force. He said that this is impossible and in vain hope. “Our defense force has a unity that shall be maintained forever.”

Federal Police Commission Commissioner General Endashaw Tassew in his press conference about Saturday’s barbaric killings of higher military and government officials stated that after the incident the police arrested the criminals and restored the peace and security of Amhara State in collaboration with State’s Security Forces, defense force, and National Intelligence and Security Service. From this, the work of stabilizing the city (Bahir Dar) and the State, and arresting the suspects have already almost been achieved. He said that the federal police force is ready to surmount its responsibility.

The Ethiopian Herald June 28, 2019

Army members say egregious act never frustrates defense forces

By Abdurezak Mohammed

ADDIS ABABA – Members of Ethiopian Defense Forces said the recent assassination of senior military officials would rather strengthen the army than causing frustration as it was intended.

Commenting on the recent killing of Chief of Staff of the Armed Forces General Seare Mekonnen and re­tired Major General Gezae Abera the members noted that the army is unit­ed as ever and the death of the generals would never frustrate it from discharging its responsibility, as they told the state daily, Addis Zemen.

Human Resource Team Leader with Military University, Lt. Col. Leteber­han Desta stated that Gen. Seare Me­konnen was a highly devoted leader who played a great role in keeping unity of the people and peace of the country.

“The death of our leaders would strengthen our unity more than ever and maintain our commitment as usual,” she said. On his part, Maj. Feleke Mengiste said General Se’are Mekonnen had a great role in the ongoing reform. “But since all members of the army share great responsibility his death would not affect the army’s goal.”

“We will maintain the ongoing national reform, play our part to unite the nations, nationalities and peoples of the country and also work for the equality of our citizens,” he added.

Lt. Col. Gebremedhin Gebremeskel stated that defense forces do not work for a particular community or group. “We are the assurance for the safety of all Ethiopian nations, nationalities and peoples.”

He said Ethiopia is currently undergoing a reform process during which various challenges are likely to happen. During such moments, the defense forces are expected to play a great role in ensuring peace and security of the country and its peoples. He reaffirmed that the defense forces are ready to discharge their responsibility as required.

The Ethiopian Herald, June 28/2019

UN, AU, governments condemn fatal attacks

By Abdurezak Mohammed

ADDIS ABABA – The United Nations, African union and governments of various countries have condemned in strongest terms the June 22nd attack that claimed the lives of civil and military officials in Bahir Dar and Addis Ababa.

In a statement dated 23 June 2019, UN Secretary-General António Guterres said he was “deeply concerned by the weekend’s deadly incidents”. He also called on “all Ethiopian stakeholders to demonstrate restraint prevent violence and avoid any action that could undermine the peace and stability of Ethiopia”.

He also “welcomed the commitment of the Prime Minister and Government of Ethiopia to ensure that the perpetrators of these actions are brought to justice. The United Nations remains committed to supporting the Government of Ethiopia in its efforts to address ongoing challenges.”

Also, Chairperson of the African Union Commission Moussa Faki Mahamat expressed his deepest condolences to the families of the national figures killed in the tragic events.

The Chairperson reiterate “the steadfast support of the African Union Commission to Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed and the government of the Federal Democratic Republic of Ethiopia in their pursuit of the national reform and reconciliation agenda in the country.” In a statement the respective country’s embassies sent to The Ethiopian Herald, they are shocked and deeply saddened by the June 22 fatal attacks.

“We offer our prayers, solidarity, and deepest sympathy to the families of the victims, those who were injured, and the Ethiopian people” said the statement of the U.S. Embassy. Expressing the attack as it did not only happened on Ethiopia but it is also an attack on the institution and the nation they served, the statement strongly condemn the egregious act.

“The United States stands with every Ethiopian working to secure an inclusive, prosperous, unified and stable future, and we will continue to invest in the capacity of Ethiopia’s government, institutions, and people to achieve that future,” according to the statement.

Similarly, the government of Japan condemned the attacks stating as they are convinced that the country will overcome its grief and continue to move forward toward its political and economic reforms.

“We steadfastly support the country’s progress toward peace and prosperity through our moral backing or any means available to us. And also, based upon our long-standing bilateral friendship, japan is resolved to help Ethiopia realize its aspirations for tomorrow and beyond”, the statement added.

The Ethiopian Herald, June 28/2019

Gov’t to support honey testing labs’ establishment

By Abdurezak Mohammed

ADDIS ABABA – The Ethiopian Agricultural Agency signed yesterday a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Ministry of Trade and Industry to support the establishment of quality testing laboratories for honey.

State Minister of Ministry of Trade and Industry Eshete Asfaw and CEO of Agricultural Transformation Agency (ATA) Khalid Bomba signed the accord that has been said to benefit public and private enterprises.

The agreement will provide a partnership framework for ATA and MoTI to provide financial and technical support to selected enterprises to establish and upgrade internationally accredited quality testing laboratories for honey; it was said at the event.

ATA’s CEO, Khalid Bomba, after the signing of the MoU, said that the ATA and the Ministry have been collaborating and working together on a number of projects. This particular partnership will help establish internationally recognized honey testing labs.

To him, this will positively impact markets as well as production and productivity of honey processors in the country through creating convenience to the export market.

“The support for quality testing laboratories will also have a direct effect on smallholder farmers engaged in beekeeping, as an increase in the volume of export will in turn increase their income and overall livelihoods.”

 The State Minister said on his part said that capacitating the quality testing labs through helping them to acquire the right technology and getting their services accredited will play an important role in order to build a sustainable value chain in export of honey from Ethiopia.

“These labs will be capable of providing accredited and globally recognized tests in an accurate, timely and cost- competitive manner for national honey exporters,” he added.

The Ethiopian Herald June 21/2019

Military research center obtains book on Imperial Ethiopian Army

By Abdurezak Mohammed

ADDIS ABABA – An Italian Academician Prof. Col. Enrico Piero Bossi (MD) offered his book titled ‘The history of imperial Ethiopian army’ to Ethiopian Military Research Center yesterday.

The event was held in the presence of Ethiopian and Italian senior military officials. Head of Ethiopian Military Research Center, Brigd. Gen. Teshome Gemechu, received the book from the author.

Following the handing over event, Brigd. Gen. Teshome Gemechu told The Ethiopian Herald the Defense Force has been building its capacity focusing on four pillars ‘Military Theory’ being among these. “Hence, the book would contribute immensely in this regard.”

He stated that “we, Ethiopians, consider this book as an invaluable asset.” 

The professor for his part said the objective is to pass down the history of the Army over generations. Prof. Enrico authored over 33 books; three of them revolve around the history of Ethiopia.

The Ethiopian Herald, June 14/2019

Large livestock population, little milk production

By Abdurezak Mohammed

It is paradoxical to hear about milk shortage in a country endowed with multi-millions of cattle population. Central Statistical Agency 2016/17 figures show the vast number of cattle population in Ethiopia, with 59.4 million heads of cattle and 2.17 million heads of camel, not to mention a 30.1 million heads of goat.

The problem seems to lie at the doorstep of experts and institutions tasked to boost milk production nationally. According to the Ethiopian Livestock Master Plan (2015/16-2019/20), the government plans to raise total cattle milk production to 7,967 million liter by 2020 through genetics, feed and health interventions to improve traditional family cow dairy production and expand and improve specialized dairy production units.

Tariku Teka, Milk Resource Development Directorate Director at Ministry of Agriculture, told The Ethiopian Herald that the country’s milk production declined in 2016/17 due to El Nino induced drought of 2015/16. Due to the works accomplished so far, and the favorable climate in 2017/18, the country’s total milk production researched 6.44 billion liter, he said.

Studies conducted by Ethiopian Milk Processors Industry Association (EMPIA) show only 50 percent of potentials are in use. And also, many processors are not employing their full potential. As shown in the master plan, challenges contributing to low yield of milk include genetic potential, animal health services, marketing and processing issue.

Feed related challenges are: limited access to land for production of forage seed and forage; inadequate and poor access to quality forage seed and cuttings; and forage constrained by poor extension and training.Genetic potential related challenges are: inefficient artificial insemination services; and low productivity of local breeds and a low number of improved genotypes.

Animal health services challenges include: very high calf mortality; insufficient animal health extension advice; inefficient animal health services; inadequate supply of drugs; poor quality control of drugs and supplies; and lack of a bio-security system in place, as the master plan.

 Marketing and processing challenges are: seasonal demand fluctuations leading to inconsistencies in milk supply and processing; lack of milk quality and grading standards, and enforcement mechanisms; and an absence of quality-based pricing incentives.

EMPIA President Dr. Tafese Mesfin says, “The major problem in the sector is market instability. Cultural issues also affect the market, the demand for dairy products decline during fasting period for instance. And alternative market could help to compensate producers during such period, he added.

But to Dr. Gebregziabher Gebreyohannes, State Minister for Livestock Development Sector at the Ministry of Agriculture, told to The Ethiopian Herald that the major constraint originated from lack of breeding policy. And he said the country has breeding policy which is already approved. Based on this, genetic improvement directives were set.

Traditionally, our cattle are used for husbandry as well. Their milk production is very low. We have to improve these species. But, it needs more time, he said. 

Currently, in our country, there is no enough improved species as needed. Artificial insemination services are inefficient throughout the country, according to him.

Dr. Hamid Jemal, Southern Nations, Nationalities and Peoples Region Livestock Bureau Head stated to The Ethiopian Herald that on average of 1.2 million liter of milk is produced in the region.

According to him, the sector has faced shortage of inputs for genetic improvement works. But, several measures have been taken to improve milk production. The coverage of improved genetics is transformed from very low, few years ago, to 5 percent at currently. Averages of 250,000 cattle are artificially inseminated annually and 100, 000 calves are born per year.

The Ethiopian Herald, June 14/2019

Premier says gov’t prioritizes justice sector reform

By Abdurezak Mohammed

ADDIS ABABA – Prime Minister Dr. Abiy Ahmed said that reforming the justice sector has an important role to play in ensuring rule of law as he spoke to thousands of justice sector professionals in his office yesterday.

The government has not intervened and would not meddle in the justice system, the Premier told over 3,000 participants drawn from various organizations.

Dr. Abiy also said that reforming the justice system would help to avoid unjust and illegal activities unfolding in the country, reiterating the importance of building professionals’ capacities and nurturing public who believe in the supremacy of law. “Government officials are no exceptions. Those in power should be accountable to their acts,” the Premier told the crowd.

He also emphasized the role of informal social norms and values as key components in the rule of law. Indigenous norms should be utilized properly in the efforts to address conflicts and unjust acts.

Wide ranges of issues were raised by the participants including independence of judicial bodies, internally displaced peoples, rule of law, human rights, salary and incentives and others to which the Prime Minister responded.

The discussion was followed by transplanting seedlings with the Premier calling upon the participants to spend the upcoming rainy season by planting seedlings, cleaning schools, health centers and correctional facilities.

 Meanwhile, a roundtable discussion themed: ‘Greening & Cleaning Ethiopia’ also held at the Office of the Prime Minister in which “panelists raised the interrelationships between the ‘Beautifying Sheger’ project; the 4 billion trees and the monthly cleaning/cleansing initiatives which aim to address key challenges towards making Ethiopia a green, productive and climate resilient country,” according to the Office of the Prime Minister.

It further reported that “Dr. Seleshi Bekele highlighted the ways in which the tree planting initiative is rooted in Ethiopia’s green and climate resilient policy and strategy.”

“From a health perspective, Dr. Amir explained in what ways all the initiatives contribute towards addressing health challenges in Ethiopia, including communicable and non-communicable diseases, as well as impacts on early childhood development,” the office reported in its official site.

Meskerem Tamiru shared the technical details of the ‘Beautifying Sheger’ project and the way in which it exceeds cosmetic cleaning but is rooted in ensuring that the city’s river systems are cleaned of liquid and solid waste; residents are protected from river flooding and city dwellers are provided an environment of dignity, it said.

Dr. Meheret particularly emphasized the importance of dignity and its relationship with the thoughts we generate and the environment we create, stressing that nature is not dirty in of itself – it is people that intervene, it added.

The Ethiopian Herald June 7/2019

Sidama people age-long legacy Wisdom worth telling

By Abdurezak Mohammed

The socio-cultural and customary practice of the people of Sidama has existed since the 16thC, contributing to the wellbeing of the society and their neighbors. The practices are guided and interpreted by three traditional institutions – Songo, Luwa, and Budu, according to Sidama Zone Culture, Tourism and Sport Office.

These institutions deal with various issues. Their duty is mainly dealing with injustice and arbitrating disputes among the different groups of the society. But the duties and responsibilities differ as the degree of the case increases.

In addition to this, the basic criteria for the classification of cases may vary owing to proximity in geography and kinship status.

Songo (Council of elders) is core element of customary political leadership and fosters informal justice among the Sidama people. The Songo system is run by the council of elders who are collected from different clans and sub-clans of Sidama people.

Elders are highly regarded and they sit at the helm as governors among the community hence, they are in charge of ensuring peace and order while correcting misconduct and behaviors that deviate from the norm.

There are four levels of councils that deliberate and decide on matters of societal concern which show the democratic nature of the system. Dr. Markos Tekle discussed the four levels of the Council in his PhD Dissertation briefly.

Olu Songo is the first-tier and lowest level Council where most of the substantive issues classified as minor cases are raised and dealt with. At this level, members of the same lineage or kin constitute the Council.

 Ayidu Songo is the second level of the Council, which comprises of more extended numbers of neighbourhoods than the Olu Songo. At this level, issues and cases that are dealt with but not solved or settled at the level of Ayidu Songo are tabled. A renowned and respected elder of the community chairs the Council.

Garote Songo is the third level in the hierarchy of the Council of elders. This body is composed of the entire members of the sub-group of the clan and mainly focuses on matters that are substantive to the members. Moreover, this body has the authority to review appeals that are not resolved by the lower levels.

Mootete Songo is the highest level of the Songo system. It serves as a clan Council comprising all renowned elders. It is the highest level council vested with highest authority. It is led by Moote assisted by individuals known as Woma and Gadaana. The decisions and resolutions passed by this body are final and binding without appeal.

 The leaders of the Council have regular session which the entire Sidama people attends Gudumale, a general assembly, in Hawassa city. Pressing issues relating to threats and the like are discussed here and elders may use it to mobilize the public in defence of the community. Also, all clan and sub-clan leaders use the event to strengthen cohesion among the sub clan members.

Luwa is the most important centre of culture training that instils norms to be followed among the different age bracket, from youth to older age. People passes through five Luwa generational stages: Wawasa, Darara, Mogisa, Hirbora, and Fulasa. Each stage lasts for eight years.

According to Abdulfetah Abdellah, an author who wrote a book on this issue stated that these cultural institutions are governed by four traditional governors: Gadana, Jalawa, Saddaso, and Agisho.

Gadana is the head of Luwa generational institution and is in charge of controlling whole system of the institution. Jalawa is also

 vice leader and facilitator of different honey ceremony programs communicating with the Gadana. Saddaso inspires the youth groups to integrate to Luwa generation class through campaigns. Agisho is may be an officer to Gadana, Jalawa, Saddeso and supplying materials for honey ceremonies.

As shown on the magazine entitled Fichee by Sidama Zone Culture, Tourism and Sport Office, Budu (traditional religion institution) is another important customary governing practice of Sidama people. The primary responsibilities and duties of this institution are receiving appeals and complaints from lower institutions.

And the second duty and responsibility of this institution is making prayers to God (Magano) on issues concerning: weather condition, war, drought, diseases, etc. The third responsibility of this institution is solving different disputes among the community like murder, boundary conflicts and making investigation.

There are three influential leaders or houses under traditional religious institution. These are Woma house, Maganacho house, and Kilinacho house.

Woma is Chief of traditional religious institutions and depended on the size of population. In some clans there is only one Woma that presides in all religious and cultural affairs of the members of the clans among Sidama people.

There are over one Woma in one clan branching out to the sub-clans. The position of Woma in society is varied from place to place and from clan to clan but, the common function of all Woma is work for cultural development and holds religious affairs among the community. In general the role of this institution is teaching the issues of ethics and truth for community.

Maganacho house is the house of God’s messenger and exposes conceal truth. When somebody denied exposing truth for the customary leaders, they send the case for Maganacho to pray to God to expose the truth.

Kilinacho house serve as prophets.

The Ethiopian Herald June 7/2019

Muslims celebrate 1440th Eid Al-Fitir

By Abdurezak Mohammed

ADDIS ABABA – Ethiopian Muslims celebrated the 1440th Eid Al-Fitir festival of breaking the fast yesterday at national level.

In his message to Ethiopian Muslims, Islamic Affairs Supreme Council Chairperson, Mufti Haji Omar Idris, said that this year’s Eid Al-Fitir is unique for it is being celebrated at the dawn of Ethiopian Muslims experiencing more unity and peace.

He said, this year`s Eid is special and unique because the Muslim community has come together in unity and peace by solving differences through discussion. As part of their brotherhood, Ethiopian Christians and other members of the society have shown their love to their Muslim brothers and sisters in various ways.

He said that higher government officials, including Prime Minister Dr. Abiy Ahmed, have expressed their love by preparing the ‘Iftar’ ceremony which has never happened before in nation’s history.

“Our Christian sisters and brothers who showed their love by cleaning prayer place for their Muslim brothers and sisters is unforgettable experience,” he stressed.

Mufti Haji Omar has urged Ethiopians to make this love, unity, and tolerance their habit for every person.

He has also appreciated Premier`s initiative of calling and encouraging the Muslim community to resolve differences.

On his part, Addis Ababa City administration, Deputy Mayor, Takele Uma wished the Muslim communities a joyful Eid.

Seconding Mufti Haji Omar`s view, the Mayor has conveyed a message of love and tolerance among all Ethiopians.

Appreciating Addis residents, particularly youths’ commitment towards cleaning and preparing prayer area for their Muslim brothers and sisters, the Mayor has called the Muslim community to make a meaningful contribution for the peace and development of Ethiopia.

The Eid Al-Fitir was celebrated colorfully all over the country. And it was celebrated warmly at Addis Ababa Stadium with the presence of religious scholars and leaders, higher government officials, and up to 1.5 million Muslims.

The Ethiopian Herald June 5/2019

Sidama people celebrate New Year’s festival

By Abdurezak Mohammed

HAWASSA– Sidama People have colorfully celebrated Fichee– Chambalaalla, a traditional new year’s feast.

The celebration took place yesterday in a neighborhood called Gudumalle, near Hawassa in the presence of senior government officials, representatives of various nations, nationalities and peoples from neighboring zonal and regional administrations.

Fiche Chambalala is one of the intangible heritages of Ethiopia registered by United Nations Education, Science and Culture Organization (UNESCO). This cultural festival will be celebrated for two weeks in different woredas of Sidama zone and other parts of the country.

Minister of Culture and Tourism, Hirut Kassaw (PhD)–Southern Nations, Nationalities, Peoples State President Million Mathewos, and Oromia State Vice President, Shimelis Abdissa – attended the ceremony.

Hirut said on the occasion that Fiche-Chambalaalla belongs not only for Sidama people but it is also a national pride as it is an intangible heritage which Sidama people contributed to the world.

She said all Ethiopians have to protect this big national and international heritage and hand over to the next generation just as our ancestors did.

“Ministry of Culture and Tourism in collaborating with concerned bodies is working to protect tangible and intangible heritages of the country,” she added.

For his part, SNNP State President Million Mathewos, said celebrating such festivals together has a great value to strengthen the relationship of peoples of the country, to him.

 He further urged Sidama people to celebrate Irrecha, the traditional thanksgiving festival of Oromo people, with their Oromo brothers and sisters.

Oromia State Vice President Shimelis Abdissa, on his part expressed that Fichee–Chambalaalla promotes unity, love, tolerance and mutual respect among people.

“During Fichee – Chambalaalla Sidama people do not kill or hunt animals and do not even fell trees. They give high respect for animals and the environment. This demonstrates the highest level of the civilization of Sidama people”, he indicated.

He also invited the Sidama peoples to celebrate the upcoming Irrecha festival with their Oromo brothers and sisters.

The Ethiopian Herald June 1/2019

BY ABDUREZAK MOHAMMED

Ramadan: Month to renew love, unity…

By Abdurezak Mohammed

Ramadan is among the pillars of Islam, it is the ninth month of the Islamic calendar. It lasts twenty-nine to thirty days, from one visual sighting of the crescent moon to the next. And also it begins at the last night of the month of Sha’ban and it ends at the last night of the month of Ramadan.

Fasting is obligatory for adult Muslims, except those who cannot fulfill it for health reasons, pregnancy, long travel, old age, breastfeeding and the like. The pre-dawn meal is referred to as Suhur and the meal at sunset that breaks the fast is called Iftar which some people referred to it as Ramadan dinner.

Spiritual rewards are supposed to come in abundance during the month of Ramadan. Therefore, believers devote themselves in prayers (Salat), reading the Qur’an and doing charitable activities.

Ramadan also teaches Muslims how to better self-disciplining themselves, self-control, sacrifice, and empathy for those who are less fortunate; thus, encouraging actions of generosity and compulsory charity (Zakat).

Charity is very important in Islam especially during the month of Ramadan. Zakat (benevolence) is obligatory as one of the pillars of Islam; a fixed percentage of the person’s savings is required to be given to the poor at the end of Ramadan. Sadaqah is voluntary charity that a Muslim offers beyond what is required of him to the needy.

All good activities in Islam are more handsomely rewarded during Ramadan than in any other month of the year. Therefore, many use this month to give a larger portion of sadaqah in order to maximize the reward that will await them at the last judgment.

Ramadan in Ethiopia

In Ethiopia, Ramadan has always been marked by brotherhood and sisterhood among Muslims and Christians. In fact, Islam has a long and unique history in Ethiopia. During Prophet Mohammed’s initial years of prophecy, and when oppression against Muslims augmented in Mecca, he instructed a group of them in about 615 AD to escape persecution in Mecca and to seek protection in Abyssinia, a Christian country known today to be in Ethiopia, which had been ruled by a Christian king, Armah, who stood for justice. The king welcomed the Muslim refugees and settled them in Tigray state, north of Wukro, Negash.

In Islamic history and tradition, Ethiopia is known as the “Haven of the First Migration or Hijra.” This was the start of a long and strong linked history of Muslims and Christians in Ethiopia.

Muslims and Christians have lived as one single and linked community ever since Islam arrived in Ethiopia. There is no exclusion in Ethiopia among the people. This culture of harmonious relationship is much stronger and visible during Ramadan. In Ramadan, social gatherings are frequent at Iftar.

In many parts of the country, Christianity followers join their Muslim brothers and sisters during the evening fast-breaking meal, Iftar. Abel Belay, 28, is an exemplary for this. Beginning from childhood, he joins his neighboring Muslims during Iftar.

The writer of this article met Abel at his neighbor’s home in Addis Ababa, Kolfe Keranyo Sub-city. Mohammed, owner of the house, said he is always happy when joined by his Christian neighbors. Abel too says: “I am Orthodox Christianity Follower. Every year, as Ramadan comes, I miss the soup.”

Muslims engage in increased voluntary charity (Sadaqah) during Ramadan. Mohammed Ali stated, “Many Muslims call the people to join them during Iftar ceremony because, this increases spiritual rewards from Allah.”

He said the Christianity followers help the Muslims during Ramadan in many things. Especially, in rural parts of the country the Christians help Muslims during Ramadan by lending a hand at farmlands. “This is our culture for many years.”

In many parts of the country, not only in the month of Ramadan, Muslims and Christians help one another not only in the month of Ramadan but also in other months as well.

The Ethiopian Herald, May 31/2019

Reckoning time proves as ancestors’ reach zenith of civilization

By Abdurezak Mohammed

ADDIS ABABA- Prime Minister Dr. Abiy Ahmed wished the people of Ethiopia a happy Fichee–Chambalaalla, a UNESCO registered New Year festival celebrated among the Sidama people, in a statement yesterday.

In his message posted on the Office of the Prime Minister later in the day, the Premier said scholars would agree that knowledge and wisdom of calendar is among the top criteria that show the levels of civilization a society attains. It proves change, centuries of track of a society and the trajectory that takes them to the zenith of civilization, he noted.

The intangible heritage clearly shows the wisdom of the Sidama People in understanding the universe and celestial bodies to calculate years, seasons and days, the statement added.

This “gives us” inspiration and capacity to properly shape “our future and our surrounding” for the better, according to the statement. “Our Sidama forefathers and foremothers” wisdom transformed to a capacity of reckoning time and space through calculating microseconds centuries and millennium ago, as indicated in the statement.

The Prime Minister also wished a year of peace, forgiveness, love and unity to the people. The festival is being celebrated in Gudumalle (near Amora Gedel) of Hawassa town, capital of Southern Nations, Nationalities and Peoples State.

Hawassa City, Public Relation Office Head Melkamu Tefera told The Ethiopian Herald that all members of Sidama community take part in the holiday irrespective of age, gender, and social status. Fichee–Chambalaalla promotes unity, love, peace, mutual respect among the people, he added.

Elders advise the community members to protect the values of the community such as supporting and respecting elders, hard work, among others. The celebration also has contribution towards environmental conservation as elders convey message on the downside of deforestation.

The youth are preparing themselves to mark the festival, said Lemlem Wela, 24, who is Hawassa to celebrate the day. She said, “ Fichee– Chambalaalla enhances peaceful co-existence, social cohesion, equity, and integration among Sidama clans. And also, the festival is unifying symbol of Sidama people.”

Women in particular, transfer knowledge and skills of costumes to their daughters and other girls in their villages, she added. Jagu Agegnehu, Head of Sidama Zone Culture, Tourism and Sport Office for his part said that the cultural festival lasts for two weeks.

He said that there is no fixed date for Chambalaalla festival. But, according to Sidama’s traditional calendar, the New Year’s Day is determined by astronomical process by observing the moon and stars’ position.

Ayanto (cultural astrologers from the community) determine the date and then it is announced to the leaders of the clans. Then the leaders of the clans announce the date for festival before Nine days, he added.

The Ethiopian Herald, May 31/2019

Togetherness, unity stands out on Wednesday’s Iftar

•Premier vows to support building of mosque, Islamic bank

By Abdurezak Mohammed

ADDIS ABABA – Prime Minister Dr. Abiy Ahmed called on Christianity followers to once again demonstrate the age-long mutual co-existence with their Muslim brothers and sisters by cleaning mosques, and other open spaces used to carry out Eid prayer. On Wednesday evening, the premier attended cohabitation and thanksgiving ceremony organized in connection with Iftar [Ramadan fast breaking dinner] evening at Millennium hall in the capital, Addis Ababa.

In the mass ceremony that over 10,000 Muslims participated, the premier stressed the need for cultivating the culture of togetherness and unity long embraced among the faithful of the two largest faiths. He also proposed the sanitation campaign to be held at the eve of Eid al-Fitr. “We need one another and Muslims believe in unity,” he said.

He also urged the Muslim community to strengthen the culture of helping the needy during this fasting season and beyond. Meanwhile, the premier pledged to support the construction of a big mosque that could accommodate large gathering of worshipers. He said the mosque would also serve as yet another tourist destination, particularly for Islam followers traveling to Ethiopia from across the world.

 He expressed greater hope that the Christian community will also repeat its history of building mosques for their brothers and sisters. The government will support the establishment of interest free Islamic Bank that can serve Muslims in Ethiopia, he added. Abiy also told the gathering to join him in his efforts of transplanting four billion tree seedlings across the nation in the coming month.

The Ethiopian Herald May 24/2019

Media in realizing unity in diversity

By Abdurezak Mohammed

Ethiopia is known as a multiethnic country, in which its population is composed of many ethnic groups. Each group has its own unique culture, norm, language, tradition, religion, and way of life. The country’s peacefulness and harmonious relationships among different ethnic groups, therefore, can be conserved by promoting unity among the people. Media institutions, on the other way, are social institutions that are established to serve the society by gathering and reporting the news of the day.

They play constructive roles in today’s society by disseminating fact based information, aware and shape the public. Contrary to this, there are a number of times that media organizations have been contributing a lot in tearing apart the social cohesion of the communities or damaging relationships between the social groups composing diversified societies – be it in terms of “race”, ethnicity, religion, culture or gender.

This article, hence, aims to share the experience of countries those have different ethnic groups and the role of media in terms of promoting unity and tolerance as well as strengthening togetherness in diverse society. Naku John, Chief Executive Officer of Federation of Uganda Media Practitioners, told to The Ethiopian Herald that the main role of media is to inform, entertain and educate. Media plays an important role in uniting multi-ethnic groups and reinforcing belongingness.

He said that through recognition, dialogue, and participation, all the citizens of a diverse society can form a greater understanding of one another’s concerns. In that sense, Uganda has worked a lot to promote good relations between and among its diverse communities. According to him, in Uganda there are 52 tribes. These tribes have their own particular norms.

The media treat all these ethnic groups irrespective of any discrimination. Media should value and pay due attention for the social and cultural values of each ethnic group; and, it has to give emphasis to issues which could further strengthen the social fabric of the community and build up unity; instead of those things which cause hatred and lead the society to conflict.

 “As a journalist, we do not have to publish or broadcast issues that might bring about undesirable impacts and tear apart our people. We should put into consideration as culture is very important to each one”, he indicated. Reporting reliable and unbiased information to the public in a time of violent conflict requires additional journalism skills and deeper understanding to dig out what causes conflict, how it develops and ends, he opined. Gwen Lister is a Namibian journalist, publisher, and press freedom activist. She was the Gwen Lister Editor of The Namibian Newspaper.

 Currently she is serving as the Executive Chairperson of the Namibia Media Trust. She said that media is essential for every nations especially those countries with most ethnic diversity to maintain unity in diversity. “I am from a country of multiethnic groups, Namibia. We have more than 14 different language groups. We serve all these equally”, she indicated. The media’s responsibility in any country is to provide the citizens with unbiased and balanced discourse, coverage, and honest reporting.

Reporters and editors should strive to seek better understanding of conflicts through learning the craft and skills of conflict-sensitive journalism, she added. David Mikkelson, American, is the Founder and Chief Executive Officer of Snopes Media Group (Snopes.com) – the internet’s largest and trusted source of dispelling rumors, face news, and urban legends. He said that media can be described as the main channel of mass communication.

Media are often used to deliver a message to a large audience who are diverse. “The media occupy an influential place in disseminating information, shaping attitudes, and motivating behavior,” he indicated. According to him, media has a unifying force. It can bring different ethnic groups together and support belongingness. Contrary, producing fake news and reporting irresponsibly and carelessly leads to conflict. So, media while reporting news must be careful, he said.

The Ethiopian herald May 15/2019

Meeting the meat export target

By Abdurezak Mohammed

Countries in the Middle East are the largest destinations of Ethiopia’s meat export—Saudi Arabia and United Arab Emirates standing at the forefront. Figures speak more in this regard. Over 95 percent of the meat export targets the two countries. Goat and sheep’s muttons take the largest slice of the export, 90 percent, according to Ethiopian Meat Producers Exporters Association (EMPEA). No need for mental gymnastics to understand the mismatch between the livestock population of the country and the export earnings.

Now that the government aims more export earning, modern animal raring has received increasing attention. The Ethiopian Livestock Master Plan (2015/16-2019/20), has it that the government plans to reach meat produce to as big as 1,933,000 tons by the year 2020. The plan period is nearly concluded. Though a comprehensive report on the attainment of the plan is yet to be compiled, Ministry of Agriculture told The Ethiopian Herald that significant progress has been registered over the plan period.

Improvement of animal health and feeding, and implementing a genetic recording scheme are among the methods to “hit” the target. The plan also envisaged to increase the herd size, number of fattening cycles and fattening units in the specialized cattle feedlots and increase the total number of animals passing through the commercial feedlot operations to 3.1 million and 6.7 million, by 2020 and 2028 respectively.

The objective is to achieve this by expanding the production capacity of the specialized cattle feedlots to 368,305 tons of beef by 2020. EMPEA Secretary Abebaw Mekonnen stated that meat export earning stood at 103.3 million USD last year and the earnings could boost meaningfully if the hurdles could be tackled. “Our ability to produce and to export is higher than that. We exported forty percent of our potential. It is possible to do even more.”

 The government has set plenty of incentive for those who show interest to work and grow. ‘We also encourage already established livestock producers to think big and start value addition schemes to benefit themselves and the nation in general, Ethiopian Meat and Dairy Industry Development Institute Director General, Haileselassie Weres said.

To him, the Ethiopian government established Ethiopian Meat and Dairy Industry Development Institute to upgrade the technological use of the sector mandated to focus on livestock products value addition along the whole livestock value chain, research, market linkage, technology transfer, capacity building of private investment facilitate logistics, investment promotion, environment and overall facilitation to make meat, dairy, honey and wax, fish and animal feed industry competitive in both global and local markets.

To tackle the challenge, the government develops a series five-year master plan for the key livestock value chains and production systems within each value chain. “The second Growth and Transformation Plan (GTP II), 2015/16-2019/20, is expected to raise the annual meat production by a significant level at the fifth year of the GTP II and it is planned to get 374.1 million USD from the exports of mainly meat and other livestock products”, he indicated.

Acting Director of Meat, Hide and Skin Directorate with the Ministry of Agriculture, Melake Assefa, stated that the Ministry and other stakeholders work to achieve the goals of the five year plan by improving the supply of animal feed to increase the productivity of animals; keeping the health of animals by sticking to prevention strategy; and cross breeding improved animals with others to upsurge meat production.

The bulk of the livestock resources are found in pastoral areas, he said, noting that the government gives special attention for the areas. “There are permanent and mobile veterinarians engaged in medical treatment.” To him, the absence of breeding policy was one of the hurdles. But now, animal Breeding Policy and Strategy is already approved. The policy address breeding system, identifying improved animals and etc. “Currently, we’re introducing the policy to the relevant stakeholders to implement the policy.”

The Ethiopian Herald May 17/2019

Hailemariam to receive 2019 Spring Imperial Decoration

By Abdurezak Mohammed

ADDIS ABABA – Former Prime Minister of Ethiopia, Hailemariam Desalegn, will receive Grand Cordon of the Order of the Rising Sun disclosed the Embassy of Japan in Addis in a press release sent to The Ethiopian Herald. The Embassy reported that the decoration is awarded in recognition of his outstanding contribution towards strengthening the bilateral relationship between Japan and Ethiopia, as well as collaborating with Japan on Tokyo International Conference of Africa’s Development (TICAD) and promoting Japan’s friendship with Africa.

“On May 21, 2019, the Government of Japan announced that foreign recipients of the 2019 Spring Imperial Decorations., the former Prime Minister of Ethiopia is among this year’s foreign recipients,” the Embassy remarked. The Embassy explained that in appreciation of Japan’s contribution to peace and stability in Africa (dispatch of personnel to UN peacekeeping operations as well as assisting PKO training centers), former PM H.E. Hailemariam supported Japan’s position on multilateral issues and collaborated with the country.

 As the IGAD chair and a UN Security Council member, Ethiopia built and strengthened its cooperation with Japan’s efforts toward South Sudan’s stabilization. The former Prime Minister also chaired successive Japan-Ethiopia Industrial Policy Dialogues and introduced the Kaizen philosophy into Ethiopia. He also promoted Japan’s private sector investment into the country, it was learnt.

The Ethiopian Herald May 22/ 2019