Gebeta Digest – 16-12-2025

1. India-Ethiopia Relations and PM Modi’s Historic Visit

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi arrived in Addis Ababa for his first-ever visit to Ethiopia, marking a significant step in strengthening bilateral ties. Modi was warmly welcomed by Ethiopian Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed Ali, who personally greeted him at the airport and even drove him to his hotel and the Science Museum, showcasing Ethiopia’s commitment to innovation (Times of India, Anadolu Ajansı, Mid-day, Social News XYZ, x.com).

During the visit, PM Modi was conferred with Ethiopia’s highest civilian award, the Great Honour Nishan of Ethiopia, becoming the first world leader to receive this accolade. The two leaders signed three Memoranda of Understanding (MoUs) to deepen cooperation, elevating India-Ethiopia relations to a strategic partnership (Times of India, The Economic Times, The Indian Awaaz, Zee News, malaysiasun.com).

Modi also participated in traditional Ethiopian ceremonies, including a coffee ceremony and visits to cultural sites such as the National Palace Museum and Friendship Park, highlighting the shared civilizational ties between the two nations (x.com).

2. Regional Security Concerns: Tigray Conflict and Regional Stability

Tensions remain high in Ethiopia’s Tigray region, with reports indicating that Tigray fighters have entered the Afar region, raising fears of renewed conflict. The Tigray People’s Liberation Front (TPLF) has expressed concern that Ethiopia’s ban threatens the peace deal, complicating efforts toward lasting stability (Al Jazeera, BBC).

The International Crisis Group warns that Ethiopia and Eritrea are sliding closer to war amid the upheaval in Tigray, underscoring the fragile security situation in the Horn of Africa (International Crisis Group).

3. Infrastructure and Development Initiatives

Ethiopia is pursuing ambitious infrastructure projects, including plans to build Africa’s biggest airport, aiming to boost connectivity and economic growth (The Economist).

Additionally, Ethiopian Electric Utility has leased space at the Wingu data center in Addis Ababa, reflecting growing investments in digital infrastructure (Data Center Dynamics).

The city of Addis Ababa faces environmental challenges, with air quality rankings placing it among the most polluted major cities globally, highlighting the need for sustainable urban development (IQAir).

4. Public Health and Social Issues

Vaccination efforts continue amid conflict, with vaccinators negotiating access in Tigray’s conflict areas to ensure immunization coverage, supported by Gavi, the Vaccine Alliance (Gavi).

A health alert was issued by the U.S. Embassy in Addis Ababa, advising travelers and residents to stay informed about health conditions (U.S. Embassy in Ethiopia).

5. Research and Urban Safety

A recent study using R programming and GIS mapped traffic crashes in Bole sub-city, Addis Ababa, aiming to improve road safety and urban planning (Nature).