Committee Raises Inter-Regional Transportation Fare

May 31 , 2020


[ssba-buttons]

The COVID-19 National Ministerial Committee has issued a directive that increases the tariff on inter-regional transportation by between 75pc to 100pc, intending to curb the movement of people. The directive requires vehicles with 45 seats to charge passengers 100pc more than the regular fare and buses with more than 45 seats to increase their rate by 75pc. Previously, the inter-regional transportation fare was capped at a 50pc increase from the regular rate. The new decision of the Committee has also repealed the controversial decree that permits the use of private cars on alternating days. Increased congestion in public transportation options on days when people were not able to use their cars has led to an outcome contrary to the motive of the decree, according to Zinabu Tunu, communications director at the Office of the Attorney General . The new regulation also mandates the use of masks in all public spaces with the exception of people’s own houses.


Radar

Ethiopia Unveils Consortium to Insure Millions of Farmers

Ethiopia has launched its Agricultural Insurance Consortium (AICE), pledging to protect three million farmers by 2026. Announced on July 3, 2025, at the Hyatt Regency, the initiative is backed by Pula Advisors and five major Ethiopian insurers. AICE plans to promote climate resilience through insurance bundled with the government's input voucher system. Leveraging AI platforms like Mavuno and PIE, it plans to standardise products, lower costs, and expand coverage to over 200 woredas. With agricu...


Radar

New Coopbank Partnership Targets Youth Economic Empowerment

The Cooperative Bank of Oromia (Coopbank) has signed a strategic agreement with Melka Ethiopia to provide loan services to over 120,000 young men and women nationwide. The partnership plans to promote youth economic empowerment by expanding access to finance and creating jobs, with a strong focus on rural and underserved areas. Both institutions held joint discussions to explore ways to improve youth livelihoods and financial inclusion. By closing access gaps, the partnership is expected to help...


Radar

Ethiopian Netpreneur Program Training Kicks Off

The Ethiopian Netpreneur 2025 Training Program has officially launched its first cohort in Addis Abeba with 64 entrepreneurs beginning their first round of training. Organised by the Global Digital Talent Academy, the initiative plans to empower local business owners, startup founders, and digital sector players with global-level e-commerce skills. At the launch event, Innovation and Technology Minister Belete Mola (PhD) urged participants to leverage the opportunity to build networks and shape...