Ethiopia Roundup: Somaliland election, helicopter crash, fight against Al-Shabaab

Ethiopia praises Somaliland for peaceful election

Ethiopia has congratulated Somaliland on its recent presidential election, recognising it as peaceful and democratic. The Ethiopian Ministry of Foreign Affairs praised the Somaliland National Electoral Commission for conducting free and fair elections, making Ethiopia the first country to acknowledge Somaliland's electoral process. International observers also commended the transparency of voter registration and candidate nomination. The election featured incumbent Muse Bihi Abdi and his opponents, with results yet to be declared. Despite this progress, Somaliland faces ongoing tensions with Somalia over an 'illegal' agreement allowing Ethiopia access to the sea for a military base, which Somalia rejects, viewing it as annexation.

Collaboration with UN agencies to launch internal displacement strategy

On November 14, 2024, the International Organisation for Migration (IOM), United Nations Developmental Programme (UNDP), and United Nations Refugee Agency (UNHCR) launched a Durable Solutions Strategy in Ethiopia to address the growing internal displacement caused by conflict and climate shocks, which is reversing years of poverty reduction. Meeting in Addis Ababa, leaders emphasised the need for development and peacebuilding solutions beyond humanitarian aid. Despite lifting 15 million people out of poverty, the country faces setbacks from crises, resulting in significant needs among displaced people and host communities. The strategy promotes the integration of humanitarian, development, and climate action efforts to ensure comprehensive recovery. The UN calls for increased donor support in line with the UN Secretary-General’s Action Agenda on Internal Displacement. Ethiopia is among 15 countries implementing this strategy, aiming to create conditions for the safe return and integration of displaced individuals while improving access to services and economic opportunities.

Low-carbon development agreement with Russia

Ethiopia and Russia signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) on low-carbon development during COP29 in Baku, aimed at enhancing cooperation in climate change mitigation and sustainable financing. The MoU, signed by Ethiopian State Minister Seyoum Mekonnen and Russian Deputy Minister Vladimir Ilyichev, establishes a working group to promote best practices in greenhouse gas emissions reduction, conduct joint research, and develop carbon regulation mechanisms. The collaboration aligns with both countries' business interests in achieving climate goals and may facilitate Ethiopia's forthcoming BRICS Memorandum on Carbon Market Partnership.

Military helicopter crash

An Ethiopian military helicopter crashed at Belay Zeleke International Airport in Bahir Dar, northern Ethiopia on Saturday, November 16, raising concerns about the presence of officials onboard. The cause of the crash and any potential casualties remain unknown. Following the incident, all flights to and from Bahir Dar have been suspended. The government has not yet commented on the situation. Defence chief Field Marshal Berhanu Jula had visited Bahir Dar the previous day for a meeting, leading to speculation about the crash's context. Reports indicate multiple helicopters had been operating in the area recently.

Fight against Somalian jihadist group Al-Shabaab

Ethiopia plans to continue its fight against Al-Shabaab in Somalia, emphasising the need to protect national security and past victories against the militant group. Ministry spokesperson Nebiat Getachew highlighted Ethiopia's key role in reducing Al-Shabaab threats in the Horn of Africa. However, relations between Ethiopia and Somalia have deteriorated after Somalia's Defense Minister labelled Ethiopia a "hostile" country, opposing its participation in the upcoming African Union Support and Stabilisation Mission. Somalia has also demanded Ethiopian troop withdrawal by December 2024, citing territorial integrity concerns linked to an agreement between Ethiopia and Somaliland. This diplomatic tension raises fears of increased Al-Shabaab activity in the region.