Ethiopia will not attend this week’s latest round of US-brokered talks on a disputed Nile dam project with Egypt and Sudan, the country’s water ministry has announced.

Ethiopia will skip the talks in Washington, DC on Thursday and Friday “because the country’s delegation hasn’t concluded its consultation with relevant stakeholders”, the Ministry of Water, Irrigation and Energy announced on its Facebook page on Wednesday.

“The decision has been communicated with the US Treasury secretary.”

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By The Golden Rule Constitution A Proposal For A New Ethiopian Constitution

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Amendment 1

The House of Peoples Representatives with a Three Fourths majority Vote may propose for adoption, a New Constitution. The proposed Constitution shall be put to a National Referendum by The Federal Government within Three months of it passing The House of Peoples Representatives. If the proposed Constitution shall receive Two Thirds of the Votes cast in its favor, it shall be valid to all intents and purposes as The New Constitution of The Federal Democratic Republic of Ethiopia.

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Amendment 2

Until such time that a New Constitution shall be adopted by The Federal Government, all Federal Bills shall require a Three Fourths majority vote and all State Bills shall require a Two Thirds majority vote of all the members of their respective Legislatures in order to become Law. And during such time there shall not be held any referendum for the secession of a State. —–   Read -PDF version of the Constitution of The Federal Democratic Republic of Ethiopia

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The Golden Rule Constitution

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Asmara, Eritrea, Feb 27, 2020 / 11:14 am (CNA).- Cardinal Berhaneyesus Demerew Souraphiel, the head of the Ethiopian Catholic Church, was prohibited from leaving the Asmara airport Saturday. The move comes after tensions between the Church and government in Eritrea.

The BBC reported that Cardinal Berhaneyesus, Ethiopian Archbishop of Addis Abeba, had been issued a visa, but officials at the airport of the Eritrean capital said Feb. 22 they had been ordered by those “higher up” not to allow him into the country.

The cardinal intended to attend an event marking the 50th anniversary of the dedication of Kidane Mehret cathedral in Asmara.

Last year the Eritrean government seized and closed a number of Catholic healthcare sites. It is believed the seizures are retaliatory, after the Church in April 2019 called for reforms to reduce emigration. The bishops had also called for national reconciliation.

In June and July 2019 the government shuttered as many as 29 Catholic hospitals, health centers, and clinics.

Eritrea’s bishops framed the problem as one of religious liberty, saying: “It is our firm belief that, with the recent requisition of our clinics, a specific right of our religion has been violated, which prescribes, ‘to love others and to do good to them.’ Any measure that prevents us from fulfilling … the obligations that come to us from the supreme commandment of brotherly love is and remains a violation of the fundamental right of religious freedom.”

Eritrea is a one-party state whose human rights record has frequently been deplored, and government seizure of Church property is not new.

A 1995 decree restricting social and welfare projects to the state has been used intermittently since then to seize or close ecclesial services.

In July 2018, an Eritrean Catholic priest helping immigrants and refugees in Italy told EWTN that authorities had recently shut down eight free Catholic-run medical clinics. He said authorities claimed the clinics were unnecessary because of the presence of state clinics.

Christian and Muslim schools have also been closed under the 1995 decree, according to the US Commission on International Religious Freedom’s 2019 annual report.

Eritrea has been designated a Country of Particular Concern since 2004 for its religious freedom abuses by the US Department of State.

Many Eritreans, especially youth, emigrate, due to a military conscription, and a lack of opportunities, freedom, education, and health care.

A July 2018 peace agreement between Ethiopia and Eritrea, which ended a conflict over their mutual border, led to an open border which has allowed for easier emigration.

The Eritrean and Ethiopian Catholic Churches are closely linked. Both use the Alexandrian rite, and the Eritrean Catholic Church was separated from the Ethiopian Catholic Church only in 2015.

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The Battle of Adwa The Battle of Adwa The Battle of Adwa

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By Mulugeta Haile

Ras Mekonnen was one of the greatest Ethiopians who died before he lived up to his potential-becoming Emperor of Ethiopia. His Amhara, Tigrai, and Oromo ethnicity helped him become a shuttle-diplomat, bringing peace to regions that did not comply with Emperor Menelik’s central government.

Due to his Tigrai identity he was able to march to the region of Tigrai and accord peace with Ras Mengesha, the son of Emperor Yohannes, who had rebelled

against Emperor Menelik. His Oromo ethnicity coupled with his father-in-law’s Muslim and Oromo heritage helped him win the favor of locals to eventually become the first Governor of Harar. With 82 mosques and 102 shrines, Harar is the fourth holiest city of the Islamic world. Ras Mekonnen’s introduction of Christian settlers into the region could have been like Israel and Palestine with ongoing conflicts. However, the Ras transformed Harar into a unique hub for people of multi-religious and multi-ethnic backgrounds to live in peace and harmony. Even though he did not live to see it, every ground-breaking vision the Ras initiated in Harar was a success story.

Education was a quintessential element to Ras Mekonnen. In 1900, he sent a young Tekle Hawariat to Russia who later became the author of the first written Ethiopian Constitution. At home the Ras established the first school in his palace compound. His son, Lij Tafari, (The Emperor of Ethiopia) Lij Imeru, (The Most Beloved Ras), Lij Beshawered, (The first mayor of Deredawa), Zewdie Belaynhe (The first Ministry of Labour), and Dr. Malaku (The first degree holder from the U.S., and founder of EWF) were the products of the Harar’s school.

When Lij Taferi, Lij Imeru, and Lij Beshawered moved to Addis Ababa to join the Emperor Menelik School, the school’s professor had to create a special class because their knowledge was more advanced than the rest of the local students, such as Lij Iyasu, the grandson of Emperor Menelik (The leader of Ethiopia from 1913-16).

In 1901, Ras Mekonnen provided means and materials to build the first hospital in Harar at his own expense. Joseph Vitalien, a black Diaspora, was his private doctor and later that of Emperor Menelik. Dr. Vitalien was also mentor to Lij Tafari who became the first Ethiopian Emperor who claimed blacks in the Diaspora as his own subjects.

In 1903, the Ras introduced Haji Abdullahi Sadiq, a native Harari, to Emperor Menelik. The Haji was an adventurer and a master in trade throughout the Middle East. While the Haji was in Istanbul he met Robert Skinner, a US ambassador during the Ottoman Empire. Skinner came to Ethiopia as the first U.S. envoy with the Haji’s connection. Two years later Haji Sadiq became the first Ethiopian envoy to the U.S. and presented Emperor Menelik’s message to President Theodor Roosevelt.

The first high official of Emperor Menelik in Europe was Ras Makonnen. The Ras went to Italy to sign The Treaty of Wuchale in 1892. After he signed the treaty, he learned that this treaty had two different versions. Afework Geberyesus, was a student in Rome, helped him to understand the Italian version, which stated that Ethiopia was a colony of Italy. Upon arrival in Addis Ababa, the Ras informed Emperor Menelik that his signature at Wuchale in Ethiopia was also approved the power of Italy over Ethiopia.

To strengthen Harar’s linkages with the Red Sea and Indian Ocean trade routes, Ras Mekonnen appointed Sheik Mohammed Ali, an Indian business man as a Bejirond(Treasurer) of the Harar. The Sheik was in charge of merchant vessels that were deployed on the Red Sea and Indian Ocean. Sheik Mohammed helped the Ras’ army with advanced weapons. It was not by accident that the Ras’ army was armed to the teeth at the battle of Adwa.

The Ras foresaw an inevitable war looming ahead and used Zeila, the Somali port, to secure sufficient equipment and manpower. On his way to the battle, the Ras stopped in Addis Ababa to meet with Emperor Menelik.

Emperor Menelik, after visiting the Ras’s army, with admiration was believed to have said, “አልጋው ያንተ አይደለም ወይ መኮንን?” (Doesn’t the Throne belong to you Makonnen?). The Ras replied, “እኔ አልጋውን ልጠብቅ እንጂ ልገለብጥ አልመጣሁ” (I am here to protect the throne not overthrow it.)

The predicament of Ras Mekonnen before the war broke out; there was a rumor in Addis Ababa that the Italians were using Ras Mekonnen to overthrow the throne of Emperor Menelik. On the other hand, the Ras had the intention of solving the Ethio-Italian’s crisis through diplomacy. He kept writing to the Italian generals while still marching to the battles. His diplomatic effort was taken as cowardice by the Italian generals while Empress Taytu considered it as a fulfillment of the plot against her husband, Emperor Menelik.

The Ras, in the middle of this dilemma, marched 1640 km to face the enemy while Menelik and Taytu’s huge armies were behind him. If he did not receive a response letter securing a peaceful solution from the Italians he would be forced to begin the war before they arrived. However, if he failed to do either, he probably would have been detained by Empress Taytu’s men as a traitor.

With this background, the Ras had to begin his first battle against the Italian and its alien forces (Eritreans, Somalians, and Libyans). The Ras’ first victory at the battle of Amba Lage had paved a way to the victory of Mekele, and Adwa, which put Ethiopia’s, Emperor Menelik, and Empress Taytu’s names on the international arena.

The following article is translated from the book of His Excellency, Heruy Wolde Selassie, which depicted the prelude of the Battle of Adwa from the bird’s eye view.

Enjoy the reading

“The battle of Ambalage was led by Ras Mekonnen as a commander in chief. Ras Makonne and Ras Mikayel on the rear side, Ras Mangesha and Ras Alula on the right flank, Ras Wolay on the left, and Fetwarari Gebeyehu on front. Headed on horseback, each led their army towards to the Italian trench.

“To avoid bloodshed, Ras Mekonnen wrote the following message to the Italian Major Pietro Toselli, ‘Though I am here to fight, I still don’t want bloodshed so I would advise you to lead your camp and retreat. Emperor Menelik with his army is advancing swiftly; please let us avoid this preventable war. I have also an unanswered letter which I wrote to your boss, General Oreste Baratieri, I hope your help to get the answer to my letter.’

“Major Toselli’s answer was ‘The letter has reached to Geneal Baratieri and his response would come in due course. However, if your intention is peaceful, you should have waited in your camp for the answer.’

“Ras Mekonnen concluded that peaceful settlement was not attainable and decided to proceed. Fetawrari Gebyhu’s army advanced throughout the night, and at day break it reached the Italian trench and the Italians started to shoot.

“When the heavy sound of gunfire exchanged between Fetawrari Gebyhu’s army and the Italian, the rest of the Ethiopian army advanced quickly from all sides to join Fetawrari Gebeyhu. In a few minutes, the Italian trench was encircled. From the left, as the Ras Wolay’s army pushed forcefully, the Italian army started retreating to the hill and began to fire the mortar from the distance. From the center, the armies of Ras Mekonnen and Ras Michael jumped over the trench and dashed to the hill. They mixed themselves with the Italian army and fought fiercely hand to hand with sword and shield. From the right side, Ras Mangesha’s and Ras Alula’s armies ran into the rear side and began a surprise attack. Within one hour, the Italian army was completely defeated, and tried to escape, however, the passage was too narrow so they decided to throw themselves from the 400 meter-high cliff while only a few succeeded in escaping and most were forced to surrender.

“Major Toselli was a courageous soldier and refused to surrender and fought until he was killed. The casualties from both sides were numerous, the Italian lost about three thousand, and one thousand on the Ethiopian side with many injured.

“After the victory, the Ethiopian soldiers assembled themselves in various groups and began to weep and cry to mourn their dead. When Ras Mekonnen heard the weeping and crying, he chided. Standing in the middle of his army he said, ‘My friends, this is not a time to weep but to rejoice.

“It is a great honor to die for our country and for our Emperor, instead you should now address your heroic deeds,’ upon which the mood changed into war songs. They boasted about their captives and captured weapons.

“After this, Ras Makonen ordered that all dead bodies should be buried, irrespective of whether they are Ethiopians or Italians. He personally attended the burial ceremony of Major Toselli and ensured that it was done honorably.

“After Ras Mekonnen wrote a report to Emperor Menelik he marched to the next battle ground, Mekele. In his report, he mentioned that Fetawrari Gebeyhu and Kengazmach Taffese have been detained because they had breached the principle of the war; they laid their army into battle without informing to the Command Center.”

What continued in Mekele and Adwa are the histories of triumph of the united people of Ethiopia, which sent a message to the attendees of the Berlin conference that their intentions would not come to pass in Ethiopia.

I will leave you with final statement of General Baratari, the commander in chief of the Italian army, which he wrote only a few hours before he began the battle of Adwa, “The battle spirit of my soldiers is so high, but the enemy’s is fearless and belittle death.”

Happy 124^th Adwa’s victory Day!!!

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The US had drafted a deal to regulate the operation of the hydroelectric dam being built by Ethiopia and filling the massive water reservoir behind it

Egypt said on Saturday it would use “all means available” to protect the interests of its people, a thinly veiled warning to Ethiopia after the Horn of Africa nation refused to sign an agreement drafted by the US government to regulate the operation of a giant hydroelectric dam it is building on the Nile and the filling of a reservoir behind it.

Egypt, the most populous Arab nation with 100 million people, depends on the Nile for more than 90 per cent of its water needs. It has maintained throughout years of negotiations that while it appreciated the dam’s importance to Ethiopia’s development, it was seeking an agreement that reduced to manageable levels the impact of a reduced share of the river’s water on its economy and food security.

To Addis Ababa, the $4 billion Grand Ethiopian Renaissance Dam has become a symbol of national pride and a centrepiece in its development and ambition to become Africa’s largest power exporter, a feat that would match its growing political and diplomatic leverage in the region.

A general view of the Saddle Dam, part of the Grand Ethiopian Renaissance Dam (GERD), Ethiopia, near Guba in Ethiopia. AFP

Egypt initialled the agreement in the latest round of negotiations held in Washington on Thursday and Friday. Ethiopia stayed away from the negotiations after it asked for a delay to allow for more internal consultations on the issue, according to a statement released late on Friday by US Treasury Secretary Steven Mnuchin. The US government, together with the World Bank, has for months been mediating in the Egyptian-Ethiopian dispute, with several rounds of talks held in Washington.

Sudan, which is another downstream country like Egypt but which would not be significantly impacted by the dam, also did not sign the draft.

The statement by Mr Mnuchin, which did not say whether further negotiations were planned, pledged that Washington would continue to work with the three nations until an accord was signed, an upbeat scenario that Egypt on Saturday appeared not to fully share given what Cairo sees as Addis Ababa’s intransigence and time-buying tactics.

“All Egyptian bodies will continue to give the issue the maximum attention it deserves as part of shouldering their national responsibilities to defend with all means available the interests of the Egyptian people, their fate and future,” said a statement by the Egyptian Foreign Ministry on Saturday.

halt the Dam’s construction, but top officials, including President Abdel Fattah El Sisi, have repeatedly referred to the country’s share of the river’s water as an existential issue and warned that Cairo would never accept a status quo imposed by Addis Ababa.

However, some pro-government social media influencers have been urging the government to take military action, arguing that Cairo has already tried and failed to resolve the issue through negotiations.

Egypt, according to the ministry’s statement, has over the last five years “negotiated in good faith and with a genuine political will to reach an agreement that satisfies the interests of all three nations, but the tortuous negotiations did not bear fruit.”

Egypt, it continued, decided to initial the agreement because it felt that it protected its water interests. “Egypt is looking forward to Sudan and Ethiopia to follow suit, accept the agreement and sign it as soon as possible,” it said.

In last month’s round of negotiations in Washington, the three countries agreed on a schedule for a staggered filling of the dam’s reservoir and mitigation mechanisms during dry periods and drought, but said they still needed to finalise details on safety and how to resolve future disputes.

Mr Mnuchin’s statement praised the agreement for addressing “all issues in a balanced and equitable manner” and “provides for the resolution of all outstanding issues on the filling and operation of the Gerd.”

It said Washington appreciated Egypt’s “readiness” to sign the accord and was looking forward to Ethiopia concluding its internal consultations on the issue and signing the agreement as soon as possible.

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WHITE HOUSE – The Trump administration has concluded two days of what was supposed to be the final round of talks on the Grand Ethiopian Dam without reaching a deal and without the presence of Ethiopia after that country said Wednesday that it is walking away from negotiations on the project.

Addis Ababa and Cairo have been at odds in a water war on the issue of the filling and operation of the giant Ethiopian dam that Egypt worries could threaten its supply of water from the Nile.

Instead of meeting with the three countries involved in the conflict, U.S. Treasury Secretary Steven Mnuchin, host of the negotiations, participated in bilateral meetings with ministers of foreign affairs and ministers of water resources of Egypt and Sudan.

Treasury statement

According to a Treasury statement late Friday, the United States “facilitated the preparation of an agreement on the filling and operation of the Grand Ethiopian Renaissance Dam (GERD) based on provisions proposed by the legal and technical teams of Egypt, Ethiopia and Sudan and with the technical input of the World Bank.”

“The United States believes that the work completed over the last four months has resulted in an agreement that addresses all issues in a balanced and equitable manner, taking into account the interests of the three countries,” the statement said, adding that the final testing and filling of the dam “should not take place without an agreement.”

The statement noted “the readiness of the government of Egypt to sign the agreement” and recognized that “Ethiopia continues its national consultations.”

Ethiopia leaves

On Wednesday Ethiopia said it would not participate in the latest rounds of negotiations. The country’s ambassador to the United States, Fitsum Arega, said on Twitter that, “Ethiopia will not sign any agreement that gives up its rights on how to use its own Nile water.”

A second statement by Ethiopia’s Water, Irrigation and Energy Ministry, published by Ethiopia’s state-owned media, said it would not take part in this week’s meetings because it has not completed internal consultations.

“They aren’t really talks without Ethiopia,” said Bronwyn Bruton, deputy director of the Atlantic Council’s Africa Center.

Sources tell VOA that Ethiopia has been urging Mnuchin since Feb. 13 to postpone the talks, as well as remind the U.S. of its “neutral observer status.” Mnuchin responded that the U.S. will continue talks as planned.

Mnuchin also disputed Ethiopia’s characterization of his role, saying that the observer status the U.S. agreed to is limited to regional technical negotiations and does not include Washington talks.

Despite the setback, the process may not be entirely lost.

Ethiopia is calling this a postponement, said William Davison, senior Ethiopia analyst at the International Crisis Group.

“They’re not suggesting that the meeting has been canceled forever, but only that they need more time to prepare for it,” he said.

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Andrea Shalal

WASHINGTON (Reuters) – The United States will continue to work with Egypt, Ethiopia and Sudan until they sign an accord on a giant Blue Nile hydropower dam, after failing to secure signatures from the three countries this week, U.S. Treasury Secretary Steven Mnuchin said Friday

The three countries had expected to sign an agreement in Washington this week on the filling and operation of the $4 billion Grand Ethiopian Renaissance Dam (GERD), but Ethiopia skipped the meeting and only Egypt has initialed the deal thus far.

In a statement released late Friday, Mnuchin said he held separate bilateral talks with key ministers from Egypt and Sudan over the past two days after Ethiopia asked for a delay in what was to be the final round of talks.

Ethiopia on Saturday expressed its disappointment at the U.S. statement following the talks. The government is, however, “committed to continue its engagement” with Egypt and Sudan to finalize an agreement on the initial filling and annual operation of the dam, it said in a statement.

It was not immediately clear whether further talks would be scheduled.

Mnuchin said he looked forward to Ethiopia concluding its internal consultations to allow a signing of the deal “at the earliest possible time”, and stressed that final testing and filling of the dam “should not take place without an agreement.”

“The United States reaffirms its commitment to remain engaged with the three countries until they sign the final agreement,” he said.

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What Kind of Victory is Needed Today? Is Victory for All Possible in Ethiopia Today? What would it look like today?

February 29, 2020

Thank you for inviting me to speak to you today at this 124th anniversary of one of the most shaping events in our shared history as Ethiopians, the victory at Adwa in 1896, where Ethiopians worked together to defend our sovereignty from the invasion of foreign forces who were seeking to subjugate our people. The deciding battle against the colonization of this country was fought at Adwa. It is an honor to be with you to reflect on our history and what we might learn from it today.

I want to especially thank the president of Debre Berhan University and Dean of College of Social Science and Humanities, Ms. Tsedale Gebretsadik for organized this event meant to commemorate the significance of this day. Those of us present here are not the only ones who will be celebrating. Many of our fellow Ethiopians and friends throughout the country and world will also remember this day, honoring the courage and sacrifices made by those who came before us to fight this battle. 

It is great to be back at Debre Berhran University for the second time; the first being when I had the privilege of addressing many of your students last year. Since then, our journey as people of this country, has had highs and lows. We still have many challenges ahead as we recognize the tensions within our country that continue to birth ethnic violence and conflict in some places. We also are looking to an election in August of 2020. What will make a difference in the outcome? What led to that victory in 1896 that could help us better navigate the future? 

Every generation has choices to be made. What lessons can be learned from the choices made by our ancestors, both at Adwa and beyond, which could bring greater clarity to us today? What choices will be most important for our shared future? 

First, I will highlight some of the many components leading to the victory at Adwa. I will not be speaking as a historian, I will leave that to others; however, I will speak as a simple citizen who greatly loves the people of this country and the land God has given to us. I am committed to contribute to the betterment of the people of our Ethiopian society in any way I can. I trust that many of you may have a similar calling to serve the interests of others in some capacity.

It is good to be in the land that gave birth to a hero, Emperor Menilek II, who played a major role in the preparation of the strategy that led to the victory of Adwa. This is his birthplace. This land was a significant factor in the Adwa victory for without the knowledge of the area as well as other components, the outcome would have been different. The citizens of that time were called to stand up to defend and protect the country. Likewise, we also are now being called in this generation to defend and protect this country so that we can pass it on to the next generation, like has been done for generations. 

My talk today will highlight the Adwa of yesterday, the Adwa of today and the Adwa of tomorrow. I will speak as someone who is guided by faith, conscience, principles and values and as someone who strongly believes in valuing the humanity of each and every one of us, especially those who are citizens of this country.

God has created human beings with great worth, dignity and purpose, which means they should never be “dehumanized.” That means not abused, exploited or devalued. It means not violating another person’s basic human rights; however, because being human also means being free to make choices; we all have failed at certain points. It makes it all the more important for others to rigorously, and even sacrificially, defend the worth and rights of their fellow human beings when others attempt to devalue or exploit them.

ADWA OF YESTERDAY

This struggle for liberty for the people of Ethiopia is what undergirded the battle for Adwa over a century ago. It was a reaction to the invasion of foreign forces, who so devalued the lives and liberty of the Ethiopian people of that time that they used threats, deceit and force in their attempt to subjugate and dominate them to serve their own interests. The response of these Ethiopians was, “No, we will not allow it!”

When negotiations did not work, Ethiopians used the meager resources they possessed to resist, taking up arms to defend and protect the people and their dignity, their national interest and territorial integrity. They may not have had the sophisticated weapons like those of their adversaries; however, they did have the strongest weapon within them: their convictions that what was being done against them was wrong and a belief in their dignity. They said, “We are worthy of freedom and will not settle for less.” They gave all they could to the effort. Menelik even warned them, saying, “Anyone who doesn’t defend our country will be punish.”

Below is the Emperor Menilek’s II declaration of the Adwa battle:

“Up until now, through the grace of God, who permitted me to live by destroying my enemies and expanding the territorial boundaries of our country. It is also through the grace of God that I am ruling. Therefore, I have no fear of death. More importantly, God has never let me down and I am confident that he will let me be victorious again.”

“At this time, another enemy has entered our territory by crossing our God given sea. His objective is to destroy the country and to change the religion. As a result of a major cattle disease that devastated a large number of our livestock and brought great sufferings to our farmers and pastoralists in the last few years, I remained quiet and patient to numerous hostile provocations. And yet the enemy continued to dig dipper in the ground like a hog.”

“Now God willing or with God’s help, I will not surrender my country. My fellow country folks, I do not believe that I disappointed you in the past. You have not also disappointed me. If you are strong, then help me with your strength to fight the enemy. If you are not strong, I seek your moral support for the sake of your children, wife and religion. If, on the other hand, you seek lame excuse not to join the national campaign against our enemy, I will be upset and I will not have mercy on you, I will punish you. My campaign begins in October, and I expect volunteers from Shoa to gather in Woreilu by mid October.”

According to historian Ayele Nekerie, Menelik’s war declaration was widely heeded and welcomed throughout Ethiopia, a clear affirmation of his popularity. Menelik’s declaration is an important literary document in the context of preparation, the will to fight and become victorious at the Battle of Adwa. Menelik appealed to love of family, religion and country. He reminded Ethiopians that the intention of the enemy is to take away the core values and traditions cherished by the people.

It has been written that Menelik won the loyalty of all the bickering factions in Ethiopia, who in the face of a common enemy, put aside their differences and contributed 100,000 strong Ethiopian troops form all over the country. Unity of the Ethiopian people was crucial in the face of a superior force on paper.

The Chiefs or Ras in Amharic put aside personal animosities and fiefdoms to march in unison to Adwa. Amongst them were Ras Makonnen, Ras Tekle Haymonot, Ras Mengesha Yohannes, Ras Sibhat of Tigray, Ras Mikael of Wollo, Ras Wole of Yejju Oromo, and Ras Gebeyehu, who died fighting at Adwa.

It has also been said Menilek II, enjoyed the unqualified support of his wife, the Empress Taytu Betul, who personally went to the battlefield in full combat gear as a cavalry commander. She turned out to be a formidable leader, and outperformed some of the male commanders. In a declaration to the Italian envoy Antonelli, prior to marching to war, she drew a line in the sand: “We have also made it known to the powers that the said article, as it is written in our language, has another meaning. Like you, we also ought to respect our dignity. You wish Ethiopia to be represented before the other powers as your protectorate, but this shall never be.”

The people of Ethiopia of that time resisted the invading forces. Menilek leadership and the Ethiopian troops stop Italy’s attempt to build an empire in Africa. The victory had further significance for being the first crushing defeat of a European power by African forces during the colonial era. The Ethiopians did not want to be colonized. They did not want to be exploited and abused in their own country. What brought that victory, in addition to conscience, was a collective unity. It became a collective victory of dignity, self respect, love of country and the ideas at its foundation. This was not only an Ethiopian victory or an African victory or a victory for black people; but instead, it was a victory of humanity against evil. The military leaders and soldiers came from all over the country and stood together as one body, to defend the one and only body they had, which was the country of Ethiopia, their home from ancient times.  

After the war was won and the remaining members of the opposing forces captured, tens of thousands bodies of the fallen soldiers, from both sides of the battle and more than three thousands Italian soldiers laid lifeless on the ground. At this time, the Ethiopian survivors tried to celebrate the victory by starting to dance a warriors and victory dance; however, the Commanders of the Ethiopian army stopped them, saying no to any celebration. The Commanders told their soldiers, “We all must respect the dead; not only our own, but also we must respect the dead among our enemies; because, they too, are human.” They asserted, “Our Ethiopian culture demands that we respect humans not only when they are alive, but also when they are dead. If there is to be a celebration with dancing, let that come later, after all have been laid to rest.”

This respect was extended even to the captured soldiers who were to be treated with dignity. This was who we were back then. This is why we are celebrating today and is why Adwa still has significance, not only for Ethiopians or Africans, but for the inherent worth and dignity of all human kind. 

ADWA OF TODAY

It has been 124 years since Adwa. Since then, what other significant victories have we Ethiopian had that transcend us the way Adwa has done? What other collective achievements have moved our society toward a similar highpoint of national character? How about in the areas of advancing education, technology, healthcare, economic prosperity, development, agriculture, infrastructure, the environment, stronger institutions, or a more inclusive Constitution? The answer is none. Instead, we have engaged in vicious cycle’s politics of ethnicity that is hurting or destroying each other; and in the process, we have deepened the divide between competing interest ethnic groups instead of building the social cohesion necessary to bring advancement that will more broadly benefit our people. Instead of strengthening our country, we have used short-sighted, victim-based or ego-based, tribal politics that have torn us apart.

Ethiopia was once respected and viewed as a leader in the world, admired by other Africans leading to the choice for the colors of our flag of Green, Yellow and Red, the symbol of freedom and pride to be adopted by more than fourteen African countries. Our pure Ethiopian flag was looked up to with respect as the only nation of black people that had their own written script and numbering system. Ethiopia as a country, was known for being one of the first Christian nations in Africa and in the world. It has also been known for religious freedom, accepting Muslims to come to Ethiopia to live in harmony with Christians.

What has brought us to the point where our country is now split in two and land-locked? The remaining country of Ethiopia is more fragile today than ever before. Ethnic federalism, ethnic-based politics and ethnic extremism are threatening our existence as a once united people and proud nation. 

In the last three decades, we have adopted an ideology that has almost destroyed what the foreign invaders failed to do. The number one enemy seeking to destroy Ethiopia this time is not coming from the outside, but it is coming from Ethiopians, ourselves, when we fail to recognize and value the humanity of others. Above all, we have failed in our defense and protection of all Ethiopians and our national interest and territorial integrity; instead, defending and protecting one’s tribe (ethnic) or one’s own self interests at a great loss to others, the country and humanity.

This ethnic based system has become an obstacle to moving forward as a people and nation. Instead of uniting around principles of truth, morality, virtue and equality, Ethiopians are failing to use their human capacities and other resources to move ahead.

As a result, we have been left behind, while many others in the world are moving forward.

• Instead of building our own roads, the Chinese are building our roads and infrastructures.
• Instead of developing our free market economy, others are capitalizing on our lack of cohesion.
• Instead of offering education to all our Ethiopian children—a 21st century education—the elite leaders send their children abroad, leaving the majority of the children unequipped and unprepared for the future.
• Instead of creating a health care system that meets the needs of our people, the leaders go abroad while the majority die or suffer health problems due to the lack of services.
• Instead of having a good land policy with private ownership, opening up investment and empowering the people to develop the land, those in power create laws that give land ownership to the government; however, the ethnic group in power claims control of the land, leaving out the majority of people.
• Instead of investing in agriculture that could feed the country, the elite and their cronies use the land to enrich themselves or they give away the right to the land to outsiders where it advances their interests, making the poor depend on foreign aid for food supplementation. Within the agricultural system, we use ancient tools to work our land, tilling with two cows rather than with more efficient machinery like combines, tractors, and harvesters. The modern tools we use are tools used to destroy each other, like AK-47s.
• Instead of creating a peaceful environment, necessary for any society to thrive, we use ethnicity, ethnic favoritism and ethnic cronyism to divide our Ethiopian children and society.
• Instead of having a shared national interest, people push tribal interests.

Ethiopia national unity has been seen as a threat by the ethno-nationalists, creating an identity based on division against others unlike us. Nearly everything is organized based on ethnicity, further emphasizing and dividing the people. The Constitution is based on ethnicity and group rights. The regions, political parties, banks, institutions, sport clubs, and the media are all consumed with ethnicity in the 21st century. It has become the fast lane for getting something before someone else where there is power attached to it; at the same time, the less powerful have been robbed of power, dignity and rights from others.

A society where morality disappears is one where unity is also a victim. What the ethno-nationalist and ethnic extremists do not realize is that ethnicity can destroy a society and country from within. It tastes like candy in your mouth, but once in your system, it eats away at you like a poison. In this kind of environment, victory becomes impossible, let alone a victory like we shared in Adwa. The result instead is mutual destruction and defeat. It is the way, not to victory, but to a declining culture; and eventually, to self-defeat, poverty and mutual destruction.

Our grandfathers gave their lives at the Battle of Adwa so they could be free and so their descendants could inherit the land; but, if the ethnic federalism’s generation of today continues as it is, there will be no ownership of our land, our Nile water and Ethiopia will be taken over by others. The Ethiopia that one generation chose to sacrifice for so we could have a better future, is what this generation of ethnic federalism is now choosing to give away, free of charge.

Look at failed or failing states in the world and those opportunists waiting to step in to take their resources or already doing so. Who benefits from their resources? It is not the citizens, but outsiders. In Ethiopia, instead of sacrificing one’s life for the collective good of a nation and to defend and protect our people, our national interest and territorial integrity, we are killing each other. At the end, there will be no winner except some forces that will enter in to take advantage of the vacuum of leadership.

ADWA IN THE FUTURE

How can we get out from the pit that has been dug as a result of ethnic federalism and ethno-based politics? Making ethnicity into an idol to worship is taking a toll on us as a society and as a nation. It is a deception based on ignoring the truth about the value of all human beings. So, how do we recover from this as a nation after so many have fallen victim to its deception, that it would protect us; rather than the truth, that it endangers us? 

It will require self-examination, truth-seeking, moral strength, righteous living and moral leadership. This country needs God-fearing leadership like the Emperor Menilek II who will boldly speak the truth, even if it is sometimes unwelcome. It was that kind of leadership and the unity of the people around common values and goals that brought the victory at Adwa. Anything less than genuine fear and respect for the truth, will fail us as people and nation. Those Ethiopians who may be feeling a call to take a stand for this, I ask you to step out and serve in this effort. The founding fathers of America consisted of these kinds of leaders who are now needed for Ethiopia. America had strong leadership at the right time who shaped the country into becoming a beacon for freedom, leading many to go there.

Ethiopia needs visionary and highly principled leaders to bring the people together with common values that will lead to a real and sustainable victory for all. What Ethiopia needs is not a social contract, like we now have, between government and the people; but instead, it must start with a social covenant among our diverse people that brings social cohesion around values and principles. This will provide a life rope to pull us out of the pit of ethnic idolization to build a stronger and more united society where we value the humanity of others before any other identity characteristics and where we care for each other, not only because it is right, but because no one will be sustainably free until all are free. 

What Ethiopia needs now is to value the humanity of others, our strongest common bond. If you want another victory, join the I’m Human Movement and be part of this call. We must create a social covenant among all our people to morally commit to valuing each other and their rights. This is a battle of ideas and principles where our Creator has given us truth and a conscience so we might better know the way forward. It not a struggle for “me or my ethnic group only,” but it is a struggle for “we the people of Ethiopia”

A new and united Ethiopia will only rise up by committing to a new social covenant among us. That covenantal agreement must include a commitment to uphold the rights of all our people and to live lives of truth, justice and virtue towards each other. This would be a victory for the soul of our nation. This would be a victory that surpasses Adwa. Will you be part of it?

May God help us to see the deception and danger we face when we use our lesser identities like the ethnicity to destroy ourselves instead of our common identity as human beings to unite us.

Once again, Happy 124^th Anniversary of Ethiopia’s Victory at the Battle of Adwa.

Long Live Ethiopia.

Thank You!

The post Mr. Obang Metho speech at the 124th Anniversary of Ethiopia’s Victory at the Battle of Adwa at the Debre Berhan University appeared first on Ethiopian Registrar News/Breaking News/Your right to know!.

By Naomi Schalit
Senior Politics + Society Editor
The Conversation

On the first day of March 124 years ago, traditional warriors, farmers and pastoralists as well as women defeated a well-armed Italian army in the northern town of Adwa in Ethiopia. The outcome of this battle ensured Ethiopia’s independence, making it the only African country never to be colonised. Adwa turned Ethiopia into a symbol of freedom for black people globally. It also led to a change of government in Italy.

The town of Adwa is located in Northern Tigray, closer to the southern border of Eritrea. Yeha, the capital of Ethiopia’s ancient empire from 980-400 BC, and the monastery of Aba Garima, which was founded in the sixth century AD, are located near the town.

The battle between Ethiopia and Italy took place in the mountainous terrain of the area.

Adwa still stands as witness to what ordinary Africans can do when they come together as farmers, pastoralists, women and rural people, workers and artists. They are able to score a decisive victory against global colonialist forces.

Ethiopia’s place in the world
Since the beginning of slavery and colonialism in the 16th century, similar battles had occurred around the world. The outcome of every war was the same. Europeans ended up ruling the native peoples of the Americas, Africa, Asia and Australia.

Ethiopia stood as the antithesis of the colonial worldview. Regarded as the origin of humankind, it was, according to Harvard professor Ephraim Isaac

about 10,000 years ago, one single nation or community of a single linguistic group.

The people spoke an Afrasian language, which is the origin of almost all languages currently spoken in Ethiopia, Eritrea and Somalia.

Ethiopians developed the Geez or Ethiopic writing system. From the fourth century, an indigenous Christianity, Orthodox Tewahido, developed through the synthesis of belief in the Ark of the Covenant, the gospel and ancient traditional practices.

The Kebra Nagast, the national epic that elaborates this belief, provided the basis for the emergence of a Solomonic dynasty that incorporates diverse lands and cultures into one country. Muslim immigrants were welcomed and protected by the Christian king in the seventh century.

In the 19th century, the three successive kings, namely Emperor Tewodros of Gondar, Yohannes of Tigrai and Menelik of Shoa, sought to centralise power.

The road to Adwa
A decade before the Battle of Adwa, European powers had decided the fate of Ethiopia. At the Berlin Conference of 1884-5, 14 European countries divided Africa among themselves. Before the conference, only about 10% of Africa was controlled by Europeans; the remaining 90% was ruled by indigenous and traditional rulers. Italy had a colonial possession over Assab port since 1882. At the Berlin Conference, European colonial powers agreed that Italy could take over Ethiopia as its future colony.

Italy expanded its presence in the Red Sea, an area that had become important since the opening of the Suez Canal in 1869. With British support, Italy took control of the port city of Massawa in 1885. From Massawa, Italy moved slowly inland, leading to a number of clashes with locals, which culminated in the battle of Adwa. Italy suffered heavy defeats but this didn’t deter them.

Italy’s expansion across Ethiopia was facilitated by the devastation caused by rinderpest – an infectious viral disease – that killed up to 90% of the country’s livestock. Famine and disease wiped out a third of the population between 1888 and 1892. This period is regarded as Kifu Ken, evil days.

Italy took advantage of the devastation. It sought to divide and conquer Ras Mangasha of Tigray and Nigus Menelik of Shoa. The Italians eventually signed the Treaty of Wuchale with Menelik in May 1889. The treaty was written in Amharic and Italian. The treaty would later be the trigger for the battle of Adwa. Menelik was to discover that the language in the two versions of the treaty differed. The Italian version effectively made Ethiopia Italy’s protectorate, in contrast to the Amharic version.

Preparing for war
As the tragic devastation of the Kifu Ken eased, Menelik began preparing for war against the Italians. On 27 February 1893, he renounced the Treaty of Wuchale. He then ordered the creation of food depots at major towns along the way to Adwa for the upkeep of his army. The Italians fortified their positions in Tigray, attacking Mangasha at Coatit on 13 January 1895.

On 17 September 1895, Menelik declared a total mobilisation of war against Italy. He called on all Ethiopians to defend their country, family and religion. He ordered every capable person to fight and those incapable to pray for Ethiopia’s victory.

Ethiopians from every tribe, culture and community answered Menelik’s call. Regional leaders from diverse ethnic and cultural backgrounds responded unanimously creating an army of 100,000. They had inferior weapons but a strong cause.

The battle
The first showdown occurred at Amba Alagi on 7 December 1895, where a relatively smaller Italian army was wiped out. The second encounter was at Mekelle, where the Italians were stationed behind a strong fort. The Ethiopians surrounded the Italians for two weeks and, upon Empress Tayitu’s advice, cut off the fort’s water supply.

The Italian commander agreed to surrender if they would be allowed to leave with their firearms. Menelik agreed that they could leave the garrison unharmed.

But the Italians remained in their strongholds, fortifying their position at Adigrat and Sauria. Menelik was not in a hurry to attack these forts.

After two weeks of inactivity, General Baratieri decided to advance for a surprise attack. It was 1 March 1896, or, according to the Ethiopian calendar, Yekatit 23, 1888, the day of Saint George. The priests carried the Tabot, a replica of the Ark of the Covenant, a religious icon that symbolises the sanctity of Ethiopia, to the battlefield. The 20,000 Italian and Italian-trained native troops who advanced in three columns fought bravely with their cannons and machine guns before facing a decisive defeat. Causalities were severe on both sides.

One of the key leaders of the Ethiopian forces was Etege Tayitu Bitul, wife of Emperor Menelik. A fearless strategist and brilliant administrator, she led 6,000 cavalry to the war front, and employed traditional music and war chants that motivated the fighting spirit of the warriers.

The impact
The Adwa victory led to a change of government in Italy. Due to public protest and failure of his colonial policy, Prime Minister Francesco Crispi resigned.

Negotiations between the two countries resulted in the Addis Ababa Treaty. One of its key components was the unconditional acceptance of Ethiopian independence and sovereignty.

News of an African victory spread throughout the world.

Adwa turned Ethiopia into the symbol of redemption and freedom for black people. Marcus Garvey, W.E.B. Du Bois, Bob Marley, George Padmore and others drew inspiration from the African victory. The first Afro-Brazilian newspaper was named O Menelick, publishing pride in black identity and African connection with prominent women writers from 1915-1916.

Adwa connected black people with Africa’s ancient glory and future hope, as Marcus Garvey wrote:

Look to Africa for the crowing of a black king. He shall be the redeemer.

The green, yellow and red Ethiopian flag was adopted by several African countries after colonial liberation and a universal national anthem was created for black people.

The post The battle of Adwa: an Ethiopian victory that ran against the current of colonialism appeared first on Ethiopian Registrar News/Breaking News/Your right to know!.

Date February 30, 2020
By Ermias Hailu

Following to the launch of the Great Ethiopian Renaissance Dam (GERD), Egypt has been “the behind the curtain” organizer, financer, and leader of the instabilities Ethiopia has been experiencing. Egypt has developed and implemented a “Grand Ethiopian Destabilization Strategy” to destabilize Ethiopia. The strategy was developed after a careful study and analysis of the internal weaknesses of Ethiopia, such as the fluid nature of EPRDF, growing dissatisfaction of the Ethiopian people on EPRDF governance, historic and current rivalry within different ethnic and religious groups, weaknesses of the current federal structure and economic disparity and poverty.  Egypt’s destabilization strategy has been implemented by involving various foot soldiers such as President Isaias of Eritrea, Dr. Berhanu Nega of Ginbot 7, Ato Daud Ibsa of OLF and so many underground agents with full involvement of various media outlets such as ESAT. The Egyptian intelligence has recruited many Ethiopian agents sold out for money and their political ambitions and these agents have been working 24/7 hand in hand with Egypt and Eritrea in spying and destabilizing Ethiopia (Please refer to Prophet Daniel book referred below for details).

The central focus of Egypt’s destabilization strategy has been to weaken EPRDF by eliminating its leadership and dividing the Ethiopian people by demonizing the TPLF and the Tigrayan people which they have been able to implement it effectively.  According to Prophet Daniel Abera’s book titled “When the Real World is Revealed” dated September 2014, PM Meles was killed by a “radioactive material exposure” that was planned and executed by the Egyptian’s intelligence.

The destabilization strategy of Egypt has the following goals:

• Weaken the EPRDF government and install Egypt friendly government in Ethiopia that will sign a binding water share agreement that protects so called “historical share “of Egypt (an agreement between Sudan and Egypt in 1959 with the then Egypt poppet President of Sudan, Gen. Ibrahim Abboud, allocated 78% of the Nile water by volume to Egypt). If this goal is achieved, Egypt will allow the completion of GERD as it will benefit Egypt as “free of charge” reservoir.
• In case Egypt fails to install a friendly government, it will continue to destabilize and weaken Ethiopia including its defense force(https://www.zehabesha.com/who-is-the-mastermind-behind-the-instability-and-current-assassinations-in-ethiopia/) and destroy the GERD prior to its completion. It was reported yesterday in the media that , Egypt has threatened it would use “all means available” against Ethiopia to protect the interests of its people.

Where does Egypt stand regarding to the realization of its goals?

• Ethiopia is currently not stable and undergoing political transition.
• Even though Egypt has a very high hope that you will be easily manipulated to sign a water share agreement that benefits Egypt, it could not succeed so far except the verbal commitment you gave to President Sisi in Cairo on July 11, 2018.
• However, Egypt is currently pressurizing Ethiopia through USA and World Bank to agree on the dam filling and operation agreement that could jeopardize its sovereignty over the GERD, the Abay river and its tributaries.

The Statement by the Secretary of the USA Treasury on the GERD issued on February 28, 2020 clearly reveals the following about USA:

• It has not been acting as observer (as we were told by your government) but a deal maker on behalf of Egypt
• It has not been acting in good faith and has not been a neutral facilitator. It has taken side with its “Middle East main strategic partner Egypt” and has been trying to dictate Ethiopia to sign a one-sided agreement, drafted by its Treasury Department, that could colonize and enslave Ethiopians for generations to come.
• It has arrogantly and irresponsibly declared that Ethiopia cannot fill and use the dam without signing an agreement with Egypt and Sudan. This statement clearly violates the sovereignty of Ethiopia and empowers and provides legitimacy for Egypt to work against Ethiopia.

Based on the above observations, it can be easily concluded that the USA is and will not be a neutral facilitator due to conflict of interest and Ethiopia should withdraw from the ongoing negotiation with an immediate effect.

It is expected that you are going to face the following various pressures from Egypt and its friends (including those Ethiopians sold out to serve Egypt):

• Threat on your life and bribe offer
• Delay and suspension of various financial commitments by various countries and organizations
• Aggressive blackmailing on you (to revoke your Nobel prize), the GERD and Ethiopia
• Increased internal destabilization activities particularly in Oromia and Amhara and between Tigray and Amhara
• Threat of war from Eritrea (which is part of Egypt proxy war on Ethiopia) at the border between Tigray and Eritrea under the pretext of Badme or interference on Ethiopia’s internal issues by President Isaias under the pretext of “saving Ethiopia from chaos/ laundering Ethiopia from TPLF Ideology”.

The way forward with Egypt-Take the Bull by the Horns

Even if Ethiopia agrees to sign the zero-sum agreement drafted by USA, Egypt’s destabilization of Ethiopia will continue for generations to come to make sure that Ethiopia will be always weak and under the control of Egypt so that it could not be able to revoke the agreement. Therefore, Ethiopia should not compromise on its bold and firm stand that any agreement with Egypt must be a win-win one. That is a guarantee for the future peace and stability of Ethiopia!

Regarding the various pressures that Ethiopia and you are going to face, the following are my advices:

• Enhancement of Internal stability
  • Immediately work out a reconciliation agreement with TPLF by involving senior EPRDF leaders such as Ato Abadula, Dr. Kasu Ilala, Ato Addisu Legesse, Wzro Genet Zewde etc. It is high time that you chose President Isaias (the foot soldier of Egypt and with burning unforgiveness driven revenge on TPLF) or TPLF. The bible says, “What fellowship can light have with darkness?”
  • Highly minimize military activity in Oromia and try to contain and solve the problem through discussion. The Military government (Colonel Mengistu Hailemariam) of Ethiopia failed due to excessive use of military against its people. Any military action on your own citizens looks the preferred option in a short term but is same as adding fuel to the fire which will further complicate and aggravate the problem.
  • Campaign to rally the Ethiopian people to counter Egypt’s threats. That will be a unifying factor of all Ethiopians.
  • Give more time to stabilize the country and minimize foreign trips. Egypt will try to destruct you from focusing on internal issues by using its friends that will invite you from left to right in a frequent manner.
  • Last but not least the present day “Alula Aba Nega” Tegadali Syie Abraha is in town. Promote him to Defense Minister and he shall defend Ethiopia against any aggression, bridge the gap between you and the TPLF and build the confidence of the Tigray people on your government.

Prepare a Negotiation Strategy

• Develop a negotiation strategy that enhances Ethiopia’s negotiation power over Egypt and give clear objectives and maximum and minimum goals for the agreement
• In the previous negotiations, it looks to me that Egypt and USA were setting the negotiation agenda. Ethiopia as the owner of the GERD and the Origin of the Blue Nile must set the agenda, a draft agreement and must be on the driver seat throughout the negotiation. It is recommended that the Negotiation team is refreshed and further reinforced by adding more legal and technical experts including hired legal advisers from Europe (Turkey, France and Germany etc.).
• I recommend the following structure for the agreement:
  • Part 1: GERD Filling Agreement- to be finalized as soon as possible
  • Part 2: GERD Temporary Operating Agreement- to be finalized with Part 1 agreement
  • Part 3: Water Share and Operating Agreement which replaces Part 2 agreement- a permanent comprehensive and win- win agreement with an exit clause and expiration date that must be renegotiated from zero draft every 25 years – to be agreed within the next three to five years.
  • More information is provided in my article https://www.zehabesha.com/the-final-push-of-egypt-to-secure-zero-sum-water-share-agreement-with-a-destabilized-ethiopia/

Countering the threats and sabotages of Egypt

• God is on your side
• Rally all Ethiopians and mobilize black Africans in Africa and diaspora.
• Intensive diplomatic offensive at all fronts
• Egypt must know the proverb “the person who lives in glass house should not be the first to throw stones”. If Egypt bombs the GERD, Ethiopia has also the right in self-defense to bomb the Aswan dam which will wipe Egypt from the world map . Hence Ethiopia must pass a clear message to Egypt that “all options are on the table” to protect the sovereignty of Ethiopia.
• Ethiopia/Ethiopians must be ready to face short term financial and other challenges to make sure Ethiopia’s sovereignty and interest is protected in a long term.

Countering the pressures from USA

• Even though, I strongly believe that Ethiopia must further enhance its relationship/friendship with the USA, the fact is that we live in a multipolar world that limits the dominant role of USA. The EU, African Union, Great Britain, China, Russia, India, Turkey, Brazil, South Africa and Nigeria could play a facilitation role in bringing Egypt and Ethiopia to an agreement.
• Avoid total dependence on USA and establish strategic alliance with multiple global players

God bless Dr. Abiy and Mother Ethiopia!

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Image copyrightGETTY IMAGES

In our series of letters from African journalists, Ismail Einashe takes a trip to Ethiopia to find out about a lost community.

My search for the last Armenians of Ethiopia began in Piassa, the bustling commercial centre of the old part of the capital, Addis Ababa.

On previous visits to the city, I had always been intrigued by the snippets I had heard about the community and its history.

There had long been a connection between Ethiopia and Armenia through the Orthodox Church. But this developed beyond priests, to bring in diplomats and traders.

In the 19th Century, a handful of Armenians played a vital role in the court of Emperor Menelik II.

And later, in the early 20th Century, a community settled that went on to have an economic and cultural impact in the country.

Image copyrightGETTY IMAGES

On a sticky afternoon, I stood outside the gates of the exquisite St George Armenian Apostolic Holy Church that was built in the 1930s.

It looked closed but I called out “selam” – “hello” in Amharic.

A confused-looking elderly security guard came out and after I explained that I wanted to look around, he went to fetch Simon, the Armenian-Ethiopian caretaker

The quiet, dignified man came out and told me that they do not get many visitors.

Haile Selassie’s influence

The church is rarely open, as there is no priest these days, and the community, of no more than 100, is mostly elderly.

Inside the church, the altar is ornately decorated and red Persian rugs cover the floor.

This was the heart of the community that began to grow in numbers during the rule of Haile Selassie who, as Ras Tafari, became prince regent of Ethiopia in 1916 and Emperor from 1930 to 1974.

Under his leadership, Ethiopia began to rapidly modernise and Armenian courtiers, businessmen and traders played an important role in this transition.

Image copyrightGETTY IMAGES

In 1924, Ras Tafari visited the Armenian monastery in Jerusalem, where he met a group of 40 children who had been orphaned by the mass killing of Armenians by Ottoman Turks during World War One.

Moved by their plight, he asked the Armenian Patriarchate of Jerusalem if he could take them to Ethiopia and look after them there.

The 40 orphans, or arba lijoch in Amharic, were all trained in music and went on to form the imperial brass band of Ethiopia.

They were led by an Armenian, Kevork Nalbandian, who composed the imperial anthem.

The community reached its zenith in the 1960s when it numbered 1,200.

Despite their small numbers they had a crucial role in ushering Ethiopia into the modern world – from helping to develop the distinctive Ethiopian jazz style to working as tailors, doctors, business people and serving in the imperial court.

Emperor’s overthrow

But as the Armenian community was tied to the imperial history of the country, once the emperor fell the community declined.

Haile Selassie was overthrown in 1974 by the Marxist Derg junta, which went on to seize businesses and property, including that of the Armenians.

Their numbers tumbled as many fled to North America and Europe.

But a few stayed and some married within the local community, creating a unique blend of Armenian and Ethiopian cultures.

They can still be seen in the church for special religious celebrations.

Image copyrightGETTY IMAGES

But there is also the Armenian social club, which has a restaurant that reminds people of the taste of home.

Simon, the church caretaker, told me that I should go.

Delicious food

It was a Tuesday night and, apart from my friend and myself, there was a group of three Armenian-Ethiopian women who were delighted to see strangers in the restaurant.

They admitted that the community was not what it used to be. But the social club remained as a way to keep it alive.

That night, as I tucked into delicious and sumptuous börek and lyulya kebabs, I felt I was tasting the history of the Armenians in Ethiopia.

Source- BBC

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The Queen of Sheba
2 March 2020

An air of threat and war-mongering against Ethiopia is blowing through the deserts of the Egypt Arab Republic to impose colonial-era agreements on the country in total disregard to a fair and equitable share of the Abay River, which is commonly known as the Blue Nile. Ethiopia, which was never colonized and not party to these agreements, has been openly threatened and explicitly sabotaged by successive governments of the Egypt Arab Republic since time immemorial from harnessing its God-given rights to its water bodies without causing harm to downstream countries. This latest threat is not the first, nor it may be the last.

Anticipated role of South Africa

The head of state of the Egypt Arab Republic just stepped down as the President of the African Union who was supposed to have played a key role in finding an “African solution to an African problem”. And yet, selfishly, deceptively and indecorously insisted on a third party, non-African “mediators” to intervene, in utter contravention of the Cooperative Framework Agreement that the countries have officially agreed in 2015.

The Egypt Arab Republic have shamefully disavowed its continental commitment and responsibility to observe, serve and carry out the key principle of the African Union which embraces “African solution to an African problem” in advancing security, peace and self-confidence of the continent. In fact, it has selfishly insisted on the inequitable colonial era agreements which Ethiopia, the country which contributes more than 85 percent of the water, was arrogantly ignored by the signing parties at the time.

In a blatantly unfair manner that tramples on its sovereignty, the partisan observers, who turned into self-declared facilitators and enforcers, left Ethiopia with a little wiggle room for continuing in the engagement. One would hope that the new Presidency of the African Union, now occupied by South Africa–with a fresh history and first-hand account of such forms of injustices–would play a positive role.

“Hurling some missiles”

This as it may, the Egypt Arab Republic may be feverishly planning to wage an open and blatant war on Ethiopia to recklessly destroy the nearly 70 percent completed Renaissance Dam. Ethiopia may appear a light-weight against the Arab Republic’s ostensible military superiority, thanks to external support. Well, it may be important to note that the Arab Republic also has a massive Aswan Dam—and lives in a glass house. Oh yes, Aswan was built without any consultation with Ethiopia—the mother of Abay!

Needless to say, Ethiopians take immense national pride in building the Dam and thus are hugely eager to its successful completion; and the fallout from this ill-advised and willful threat may be too costly to contemplate, and way too enduring for generations, for sure.

As Prime Minister Dr. Abiy Ahmed of Ethiopia tacitly conjectured a while back, the Arab Republic may be tempted to “hurl some missiles” possibly on the Dam or vital institutional and infrastructure networks. Yes, Ethiopia may not have the capacity to directly and proportionately respond to this not-so-improbable aggression, but the fortunes of Ethiopians are not as dead-ended as one may wish to think.

Ungrateful nation

Ethiopia possesses an enormous arsenal of endless, terrestrial, virtually “free” and indestructible, but supremely powerful natural missiles which furiously cascade down from the breath-taking Ethiopian highlands, mountains, valleys and gorges. They have continued to empower the mighty “Nile of Egypt” in the form of hundreds of thousands of streams, rivers and tributaries—since time immemorial.

These very natural resources have continued to nourish the thankless nation which has consumed and thrived on the water—without gratitude, let alone, compensation. Regrettably, the Arab Republic has covertly and openly conspired to systematically and strategically weaken and divide Ethiopia—for centuries so that the river flows without any use by its natural owner.

Ethiopia may find it appropriate to refuse to play by the uncharitable, if not uncivilized, warfare book which preaches an eye-for-an-eye should the war between two countries broke out. In reaction to the ever-belligerent position of the Arab Republic, Ethiopia could initiate a sustained campaign to utilize all its waterbodies making up the “Mighty Nile” in a determined, if not retaliatory, manner. An official reaction to resort to such a “passive” national campaign—in retaliation for the aggression—is easy to contemplate given the unflinching national resolve and popular support to build the Dam—oh, yes, on its own.

Building baby dams

Ethiopia may need to consider that the effort to build the Renaissance Dam, the “Mother of All Dams”, is pursued along with building a thousand “baby dams” (BBDs) in the emerging country as a renewed strategy for its development. Ethiopia may have to actively and strategically, formally and informally, officially and unofficially, implicitly and explicitly engage in BBDs in the entire catchment area of Abay, which stretches several hundreds of miles within the country, should the Arab Republic dare attack it.

While Ethiopia has to defend itself resolutely, it may need to refuse to send its natural missiles, by instead building thousands of small-scale, off-the radar “baby dams” at every hamlet conceivable in retaliation for the Arab Republic’s man-made missiles. It should be that BBDs need not be sanctioned by a government or external funding entity but simply built, managed, filled and operated by “poor and illiterate” peasants of Ethiopia—the very victims of the Arab Republic’s explicit and hidden hands of conspiracy and destabilization. Oh, yes, it may be a slightly onerous task for the Arab Republic to hunt down every Ethiopian peasant involved in BBDs.

To be sure, a BBD may be any form of water-containment effort, regardless of size or volume, directed at the country’s development from tourism to agro-industry supported by public and private investments and systematically advanced through a strategic national policy.

A futile attempt?

One may be tempted to call the Egypt Arab Republic to mobilize its citizens to join forces in supporting Ethiopia’s Green Campaign which has an enormous direct benefit to its own insatiable appetite to water as a win-win situation. It would also be an opportune time for the Egypt Arab Republic to reset the diplomatic clock by desisting from threats and sabotages. Alas, this may appear naïve, if not foolish, given the Republic’s well-recorded, enduring and regrettable history of conspiracy to keep Ethiopia weak, divided and under-developed.

In simple terms, a thriving, developed and strong Ethiopia, regardless of the outcome of the current Dam impasse, is not simply palatable to the Egypt Arab Republic. For that matter, one may extend this observation to the rest of sub-Saharan Africa, especially those in the respective riparian region with a potential to use their God-given water resources effectively.

It is an outrage—and an insult—to all Africans and African-descendants around the world who bravely defeated colonialism—to witness its ugly head rearing in the Egypt Arab Republic as it dangerously strives to impose it on Ethiopia—and it neighbors.

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March 2, 2020

On the first day of March 124 years ago, traditional warriors, farmers and pastoralists as well as women defeated a well-armed Italian army in the northern town of Adwa in Ethiopia. The outcome of this battle ensured Ethiopia’s independence, making it the only African country never to be colonized. Adwa turned Ethiopia into a symbol of freedom for black people globally. It also led to a change of government in Italy.

The town of Adwa is located in Northern Tigray, closer to the southern border of Eritrea. Yeha, the capital of Ethiopia’s ancient empire from 980-400 BC, and the monastery of Aba Garima, which was founded in the sixth century AD, are located near the town.

The battle between Ethiopia and Italy took place in the mountainous terrain of the area.

Adwa still stands as witness to what ordinary Africans can do when they come together.

Adwa still stands as witness to what ordinary Africans can do when they come together as farmers, pastoralists, women and rural people, workers and artists. They are able to score a decisive victory against global colonialist forces. Since the beginning of slavery and colonialism in the 16th century, similar battles had occurred around the world. The outcome of every war was the same. Europeans ended up ruling the native peoples of the Americas, Africa, Asia and Australia.

Ethiopia stood as the antithesis of the colonial worldview. Regarded as the origin of humankind, it was, according to Harvard professor Ephraim Isaac, “about 10,000 years ago, one single nation or community of a single linguistic group.”

The people spoke an Afrasian language, which is the origin of almost all languages currently spoken in Ethiopia, Eritrea and Somalia.

Ethiopians developed the Geez or Ethiopic writing system. From the fourth century, an indigenous Christianity, Orthodox Tewahido, developed through the synthesis of belief in the Ark of the Covenant, the gospel and ancient traditional practices.

The Kebra Nagast, the national epic that elaborates this belief, provided the basis for the emergence of a Solomonic dynasty that incorporates diverse lands and cultures into one country. Muslim immigrants were welcomed and protected by the Christian king in the seventh century.

In the 19th century, the three successive kings, namely Emperor Tewodros of Gondar, Yohannes of Tigrai and Menelik of Shoa, sought to centralize power.

The road to Adwa

A decade before the Battle of Adwa, European powers had decided the fate of Ethiopia. At the Berlin Conference of 1884-5, 14 European countries divided Africa among themselves. Before the conference, only about 10% of Africa was controlled by Europeans; the remaining 90% was ruled by indigenous and traditional rulers. Italy had a colonial possession over Assab port since 1882. At the Berlin Conference, European colonial powers agreed that Italy could take over Ethiopia as its future colony.

Italy expanded its presence in the Red Sea, an area that had become important since the opening of the Suez Canal in 1869. With British support, Italy took control of the port city of Massawa in 1885. From Massawa, Italy moved slowly inland, leading to a number of clashes with locals, which culminated in the battle of Adwa. Italy suffered heavy defeats but this didn’t deter them.

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Italy’s expansion across Ethiopia was facilitated by the devastation caused by rinderpest—an infectious viral disease—that killed up to 90% of the country’s livestock. Famine and disease wiped out a third of the population between 1888 and 1892. This period is regarded as Kifu Ken, evil days.

Italy took advantage of the devastation. It sought to divide and conquer Ras Mangasha of Tigray and Nigus Menelik of Shoa. The Italians eventually signed the Treaty of Wuchale with Menelik in May 1889. The treaty was written in Amharic and Italian. The treaty would later be the trigger for the battle of Adwa. Menelik was to discover that the language in the two versions of the treaty differed. The Italian version effectively made Ethiopia Italy’s protectorate, in contrast to the Amharic version.

Preparing for war

As the tragic devastation of the Kifu Ken eased, Menelik began preparing for war against the Italians. On Feb. 27 1893, he renounced the Treaty of Wuchale. He then ordered the creation of food depots at major towns along the way to Adwa for the upkeep of his army. The Italians fortified their positions in Tigray, attacking Mangasha at Coatit on Jan. 13 1895.

On Sept. 17 1895, Menelik declared a total mobilization of war against Italy. He called on all Ethiopians to defend their country, family and religion. He ordered every capable person to fight and those incapable to pray for Ethiopia’s victory.

Ethiopians from every tribe, culture and community answered Menelik’s call. Regional leaders from diverse ethnic and cultural backgrounds responded unanimously creating an army of 100,000. They had inferior weapons but a strong cause.

The battle

The first showdown occurred at Amba Alagi on Dec. 7 1895, where a relatively smaller Italian army was wiped out. The second encounter was at Mekelle, where the Italians were stationed behind a strong fort. The Ethiopians surrounded the Italians for two weeks and, upon Empress Tayitu’s advice, cut off the fort’s water supply.

The Italian commander agreed to surrender if they would be allowed to leave with their firearms. Menelik agreed that they could leave the garrison unharmed.

A key leader of the Ethiopian forces was Etege Tayitu Bitul, wife of Emperor Menelik. A fearless strategist she led 6,000 cavalry to the war front

But the Italians remained in their strongholds, fortifying their position at Adigrat and Sauria. Menelik was not in a hurry to attack these forts. After two weeks of inactivity, General Baratieri decided to advance for a surprise attack. It was Mar. 1 1896, or, according to the Ethiopian calendar, Yekatit 23, 1888, the day of Saint George. The priests carried the Tabot, a replica of the Ark of the Covenant, a religious icon that symbolises the sanctity of Ethiopia, to the battlefield. The 20,000 Italian and Italian-trained native troops who advanced in three columns fought bravely with their cannons and machine guns before facing a decisive defeat. Causalities were severe on both sides.

One of the key leaders of the Ethiopian forces was Etege Tayitu Bitul, wife of Emperor Menelik. A fearless strategist and brilliant administrator, she led 6,000 cavalry to the war front, and employed traditional music and war chants that motivated the fighting spirit of the warriors.

The impact

The Adwa victory led to a change of government in Italy. Due to public protest and failure of his colonial policy, prime minister Francesco Crispi resigned.

Negotiations between the two countries resulted in the Addis Ababa Treaty. One of its key components was the unconditional acceptance of Ethiopian independence and sovereignty.

News of an African victory spread throughout the world.

Adwa turned Ethiopia into the symbol of redemption and freedom for black people. Marcus Garvey, W.E.B. Du Bois, Bob Marley, George Padmore and others drew inspiration from the African victory. The first Afro-Brazilian newspaper was named O Menelick, publishing pride in black identity and African connection with prominent women writers from 1915-1916.

Adwa connected black people with Africa’s ancient glory and future hope, as Marcus Garvey wrote:

Look to Africa for the crowing of a black king. He shall be the redeemer.

The green, yellow and red Ethiopian flag was adopted by several African countries after colonial liberation and a universal national anthem was created for black people.

Yirga Gelaw Woldeyes, Senior Lecturer, Curtin University

This article is republished from The Conversation under a Creative Commons license. Read the original article.

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Ethiopian International Professional Support for Abbay (EIPSA)

• It rejects the Statement by the Secretary of the Treasury of the United States of America on the GERD released on 28th February 2020.
• EIPSA also calls for the Secretary of the Treasury to withdraw its statement as soon as possible.
• It also requests the Secretary of the Treasury to resign from negotiators’ role and stop the unfair and unjust pressure on Ethiopia, and the use of intimidating words and expressions.
• given the gross biasedness with which the mediation process was handled by Secretary of the Treasury, EIPSA would like to call upon the international community to show solidarity with Ethiopia.

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