EMERALD BITES


EMERALD BITES

It is chickpea pod season in Addis Abeba, a time when residents enjoy "Eshet," a favorite green nibble with roots in local households. Available from November to January, market-oriented production of these nutritious pods (rich in protein, antioxidants, and fiber) is a recent development. As a major chickpea producer (contributing about 17pc globally), Ethiopia benefits from this dual-purpose crop, used both for food and for improving soil fertility through nitrogen fixation, reducing the need for synthetic fertilisers. This popularity has created a valuable niche market, providing farmers with immediate cash flow during harvest and establishing the crop as a popular seasonal street snack in urban areas.  


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HIDDEN REMEDIES

A pharmacy in Gotera has adapted its advertising strategy after the city administration's corridor development project left its building with limited frontage. The corrugated metal sheets surrounding the structure left only a small doorway, making traditional signage impossible. Undeterred, the pharmacy has found a resourceful way to announce its presence, demonstrating resilience and commitment to serving the community—and upkeeping its owner's livelihood—despite the challenges posed by the...


In-Picture

CRANE CHAOS

A crane is working on Africa Avenue (also known as Airport Road or Bole Road), Addis Abeba's main throughfare, near Skylight Hotel. This construction has forced pedestrians off of the new granite walkways. These walkways, part of a recent corridor development project, were donated by Midroc Investment Group, the same company that owns the Millennium Hall across the street, which is also slated for renovations...


In-Picture

BENCH BOXES

In the lobby of its headquarters, Ethio Post, one of Africa's oldest postal services, has repurposed old post boxes as metal benches. Established in 1894 by imperial edict, the Ethiopian national postal service has a long history. While initially part of the broader communications infrastructure, postal and telecommunications services were separated in 1953. Ethio Post's head office building was finished in 1969...