Uncategorized

Ethiopian Athletes Haile Gebrselassie and Feyisa Lilesa: A Clash of Perspectives on the Country’s Economic Hardship

Ethiopia’s economic condition has become a growing concern for its citizens, with rising inflation, soaring fuel prices, and an overall increase in the cost of living. Two of Ethiopia’s most renowned athletes, Haile Gebrselassie and Feyisa Lilesa, have recently voiced their perspectives on the issue, but their views stand in stark contrast to each other.

January 8, 2025 • By Addis Insight

Business

Commercial Bank of Ethiopia Reports 5.3 Trillion Birr in Digital Transactions in Six Months

The Commercial Bank of Ethiopia (CBE) has announced that it processed 5.3 trillion Birr through its digital banking services in the first half of the current fiscal year, highlighting the growing adoption of digital financial solutions in the country. According to the bank, 79 percent of all money transfer transactions are now conducted via digital

January 8, 2025 • By Addis Insight

Business

Air Arabia Introduces Direct Flights to Addis Ababa

Air Arabia has announced the launch of its latest direct flight service to Addis Ababa, Ethiopia’s capital, further expanding its global network. Starting January 30, the airline will operate three weekly flights between Sharjah International Airport and Addis Ababa Bole International Airport, with departures scheduled on Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Saturdays. Adel Al Ali, Group Chief

January 8, 2025 • By Addis Insight

Uncategorized

Mandatory National Digital ID for Banking Services in Addis Ababa Applies Only to New Customers—for Now

In Addis Ababa, possessing the Fayda Digital ID is becoming a necessity for accessing various services, including banking. However, banks operating in the city have so far mandated its use only for new customers, according to the National Digital ID Program. Growing Significance of the National Digital ID The adoption of digital identification systems is

January 8, 2025 • By Addis Insight

Culture

How The Melody of Myriads Became Ethiopia’s Newest UNESCO-Worthy Event

In an impressive feat of cultural and spiritual significance, Ethiopia’s Orthodox Church has seen the rapid rise of a newly established annual event, “The Melody of Myriads Ethiopian Jandereba Generation,” to the ranks of the country’s largest religious gatherings. Organized by The Ethiopian Jandereba Generation (IJAT), a general association officially recognized by the Office of

January 8, 2025 • By Addis Insight

Business

Ethiopia Adjusts Retail Fuel Prices Amid Market Changes

Addis Ababa, Ethiopia – January 7, 2025 The Ethiopian Ministry of Trade and Regional Integration has announced an adjustment in the retail prices of petroleum products, effective from January 7, 2025 (Tahsas 29, 2017 Ethiopian Calendar), at midnight (12:00 AM). The revised prices apply to Addis Ababa and will remain in effect for the next

January 8, 2025 • By Addis Insight

Politics

Veteran Ethiopian Politician and Economist Bulcha Demeksa Passes Away at 94

Addis Ababa, January 6, 2025 — Ethiopia mourns the loss of Ato Bulcha Demeksa, a distinguished politician, economist, and businessman, who passed away on January 6, 2025, at the age of 94. Born in 1930 in Boji Birmeji District, Ginbi Zone, Demeksa was a pivotal figure in Ethiopia’s political and economic spheres, leaving a lasting

January 6, 2025 • By Addis Insight

Business

WIDU.Africa: Unlocking Entrepreneurial Potential in Ethiopia through Diaspora Collaboration

In a world increasingly focused on harnessing technology to bridge economic divides, WIDU.Africa stands out as an innovative platform transforming how diaspora communities contribute to the development of their countries of origin. Launched in Ethiopia in August 2021, WIDU.Africa connects Ethiopian entrepreneurs with members of the African diaspora in Europe, creating a collaborative framework that

January 6, 2025 • By Addis Insight

Culture

Syriana: How Muhammed Abdulkader Built a Sweet Empire in Addis Ababa

In the heart of Addis Ababa, where cultures mix and flavors blend, one restaurant has managed to introduce a taste of Syria to Ethiopia’s food lovers. Syriana, a cozy spot known for its Kunafa, Baklava, and other Middle Eastern sweets, has become a go-to place for dessert enthusiasts. The mastermind behind this success is Muhammed

January 4, 2025 • By Addis Insight

Ethiopian War

Addressing the Root Cause: Why Ethiopia Must Abandon Ethnic Federalism for National Unity

Bedilu Mulualem This is a follow-up of my rejoinder: Critique of Messay Kebede’s “Elites’ Power Grab Contra People’s Empowerment” Based on lived experience and root cause analysis, Ethiopia’s ethnic federalism, instituted under the 1995 constitution, has exacerbated divisions, triggered conflicts, and undermined the practice of democracy and the protection of individual rights. By promoting a

January 4, 2025 • By Addis Insight