High-Level Event Aims to Address Humanitarian Crisis

Apr 15 , 2024


[ssba-buttons]

Development partners and government officials are expected to discuss improved humanitarian responses at a crucial event in Geneva, Switzerland this week. Co-hosted by the Ethiopian government and the UN Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (OCHA), the primary goal is to secure pledges from both development partners and the government, according to officials. Millions face hardship due to conflicts, economic downturns, climate shocks, and disease outbreaks, according to a UN statement. Last year's aid diversion incident eroded donor confidence, calling the need for stronger accountability. Development partners will pledge to increase resources and advocate for sustainable development strategies. Collaboration with humanitarian organisations will be crucial for boosting the impact of aid on vulnerable populations. Partners will urge the government to prioritise emergency funding, implement pro-poor policies, and strengthen accountability measures to prevent future aid diversions. Calls are expected to be made to streamline bureaucracy, ensuring tax exemptions for humanitarian goods, simplified visa/work permit processes, and the safe, voluntary movement of internally displaced persons (IDPs).


Radar

Construction Sector Faces 'Serious Trouble,' Minister Warns

The construction industry in Ethiopia is in "serious trouble," said Chaltu Sani, Minister of Urban & Infrastructure Development, citing major challenges with finance, competitiveness and material costs. Speaking at the opening of the BIG 5 Construct Ethiopia expo and the inaugural East African Infrastructure & Water Expo at Millennium Hall last week, Chaltu stressed the need for concerted efforts from government, private sector, and international partners to support the 67 billion dol...


Radar

Wegagen Bank, Gift Real Estate Partner to Promote Diaspora Homeownership

Wegagen Bank S.C. and Gift Real Estate Plc. signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) on June 23, to offer housing loans for homebuyers, with a special focus on the Ethiopian diaspora. The agreement enables eligible diaspora members to access loans covering up to 80pc of a home's value at reasonable interest rates. The bank's Deputy CEO Kidane Gebreselassie noted the deal will promote the real estate sector and expand homeownership options. Founder and CEO of Gift Real Estate, Gebreyesus Igata...


Radar

Jimma University Signs Sports Science Agreement to Strengthen National Programmes

Jimma University has signed a four-party Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the Ethiopian Academy of Sciences, Derartu Tulu Sports Training & Research Institute, and the Oromia Youth & Sport Bureau to advance Ethiopia's sports science and training capacity. Signed on June 26, the agreement includes joint research, shared facilities, and hosting of national and international competitions. It is expected to strengthen youth development, public health, and national pride through coor...