Experts Warn of Data Privacy Risks in Ethiopia–U.S. Health Partnership Agreement
Drone Strike Kills Dozens of Pro-Government Militia in Waghemra
Experts Warn of Data Privacy Risks in Ethiopia–U.S. Health Partnership Agreement
Experts have raised concerns over the implications of a recent health partnership agreement signed between Ethiopia and the United States, warning of potential risks to the safety of private health data. According to experts, the agreement may involve the transfer of sensitive health information—including blood samples, DNA, and medical records—to the U.S. during disease outbreaks. They cautioned that the arrangement could create long-term dependency, sideline World Health Organization (WHO) guidelines, and undermine Ethiopia’s sovereign decision-making in managing its national health system. The Ethiopian government has not disclosed the full details of the agreement. Under the agreement, the U.S. has committed up to $1.6 billion in grant financing with in five years, with an additional $150 million tied to performance, while Ethiopia is expected to co-invest more than $450 million of its own resources.
Government Says Fourth Reform Review Shows Economy Stronger Than Expected
Ethiopia’s Ministry of Finance and the National Bank of Ethiopia said the Fourth Review of the country’s economic reform program has confirmed that the economy is stronger than initially projected. The government said macroeconomic reforms have resulted in sustained growth, stabilizing foreign-exchange reserves, and a rapid decline in inflation. Officials emphasized that the progress reflects domestic ownership of policy choices rather than short-term fixes, adding that the government remains focused on translating macroeconomic stability into job creation, income growth, and private investment. Last week, the International Monetary Fund approved the disbursement of $261 million to Ethiopia under its reform program.
Drone Strike Kills Dozens of Pro-Government Militia in Waghemra
A drone strike in Waghemra zone of Ethiopia’s Amhara region killed nearly 40 pro-government militia members in a camp on January 15, according to local officials. Authorities said at least 36 people were killed on the spot, with additional deaths reported later in hospital, while medical sources put the death toll above 40. Local officials said Ethiopian National Defence Forces personnel in the area described the strike as a mistake. An ENDF spokesperson, however, said no information about the incident had been received. The militia were reportedly operating in the area to counter infiltration by anti-government Fano insurgents.
Ethiopian Airlines Orders Nine Boeing 787-9 Dreamliners
Ethiopian Airlines has purchased nine Boeing 787-9 Dreamliner aircraft, weeks after ordering 11 Boeing 737 MAX jets. The airline said the new aircraft will expand its international route network and enhance connectivity. The airline’s CEO said the purchase reflects Ethiopian Airlines’ commitment to modern, fuel-efficient fleets and advanced technologies. Deliveries are expected between 2031 and 2033, bringing the airline’s total number of Boeing 787-9 aircraft on order to 20. Ethiopian Airlines currently operates Africa’s largest Dreamliner fleet, serving routes to Europe, Asia, North America, and key intra-African destinations. Boeing said the 787-9 reduces fuel use and emissions by about 25 percent compared to the aircraft it replaces, while also increasing cargo capacity.
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