The Ethiopian Human Rights Commission (EHRC) has reported that unsanitary and substandard treatment of detainees has resulted in the deaths of three individuals and injuries to more than 150 others. The situation in Addis Ababa detention centers has deteriorated, with many detainees being transferred to Awash Arba Detention Camp and other informal detention centers following the implementation of the state of emergency.

According to the EHRC’s 3rd Annual Human Rights Situation Report, released on July 5, 2024, three people have died and 190 others have fallen ill due to overcrowded and unsanitary conditions in the city of Galan, also known as Awash Siddha. The report covers the period from June 2023 to June 2024.

The EHRC highlighted significant human rights violations in the Awash Arba detention center, where detainees lack access to medical treatment. High temperatures and the remoteness of the facility exacerbate these issues, contributing to the dire conditions.

The report also revealed widespread arbitrary arrests, mass detentions, and detentions for non-compliance with court decisions across various jurisdictions. Many detainees who were granted bail in Addis Ababa remain incarcerated, reportedly because they were “wanted by the command post, let the supreme order come.”

In addition to the arrests in Addis Ababa, the EHRC confirmed arbitrary arrests by government security forces in the Amhara Region, including in cities such as Bahir Dar, Debre Tabor, Debre Markos, Fenote Salam, Gondar, Lalibela, Mekaneselam, Kobo, and Showa Robit. The treatment of detainees was described as inhumane, with reports of severe mistreatment and neglect.

Daniel Bekele, PhD, the outgoing head of the EHRC, emphasized the need for peaceful means, dialogue, consultations, and a transitional justice process to break the cycle of conflict and address large-scale human rights violations in Ethiopia. He urged all parties involved in armed conflicts and those concerned with the country’s human rights situation to support the national consultation and transitional justice process to ensure its successful implementation.

In a landmark move, the 78th session of the United Nations General Assembly has unanimously adopted a resolution aimed at enhancing international cooperation for building capacity in artificial intelligence (AI). The resolution, titled “Enhancing International Cooperation on Capacity-building of Artificial Intelligence,” was proposed by China and co-sponsored by over 140 countries.

The adoption of this resolution by consensus reflects the extensive global agreement on the critical importance of strengthening AI capacity building, particularly in developing countries. It demonstrates the shared political will among UN member states to address the widening digital divide and ensure all countries can benefit equitably from AI’s rapid advancement.

“This resolution speaks volumes about the global commitment to bridging the AI divide through solidarity and cooperation,” said Ambassador Fu Cong of China, who introduced the draft resolution. “By working together, we can empower sustainable development and build a community with a shared future for humanity.”

The resolution reaffirms key global frameworks like the UN Charter, the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development, and the Addis Ababa Action Agenda. It recognizes both the opportunities and potential risks posed by AI, underscoring the need for AI systems to be safe, secure, reliable, trustworthy, and aligned with human rights.

A central focus of the resolution is addressing the capacity challenges faced by developing countries, such as insufficient digital infrastructure, knowledge, skills, and resources. It calls for expanded public and private investment, increased funding and technical assistance to help these nations build AI capabilities and achieve the Sustainable Development Goals.

The resolution encourages all member states to incorporate AI capacity building into their national development strategies. It also emphasizes the importance of strengthening international cooperation through policy exchanges, knowledge sharing, technology transfer, training, and research collaboration.

“This landmark resolution represents a significant step forward in our collective efforts to ensure AI benefits people worldwide, not just in a few countries,” said UN Secretary-General António Guterres. “I commend Member States for their unity and commitment to this crucial endeavor.”

With the resolution’s adoption, the international community has reaffirmed its pledge to work together to bridge the global AI divide. Experts believe this could pave the way for more coordinated, impactful actions to empower sustainable development through AI innovation and technology transfer.

Ahadu Bank, one of Ethiopia’s fastest-growing financial institutions, has announced exceptional financial results for the fiscal year ending June 30, 2024. Despite a challenging domestic and global business environment, the bank recorded a remarkable profit of over 175 million Birr before tax and other deductibles.

“Our performance is astonishing given the challenging business environment,” said Sealem Liben, CEO of Ahadu Bank. “In a particularly difficult fiscal year, we remained committed to delivering exceptional financial products with excellent customer service, which paid off remarkably.”

The bank’s operating income surged to 1.15 billion Birr, reflecting sustained growth in banking activities and diversified revenue streams. Ahadu Bank also increased its paid-up capital to 1.03 billion Birr, reinforcing its financial stability and capital adequacy while positioning the bank well for future expansion and investment opportunities.

Ahadu Bank’s total assets reached 6.3 billion Birr, demonstrating a strong liquidity position, prudent asset management, and strategic investments. The bank expanded its reach, with 104 branches across Ethiopia, providing convenient access to financial services for over 700,000 customers.

“The bank’s commitment to financial inclusion, strong partnerships, and collaborations with stakeholders as well as the deployment of digital technology has been instrumental in its success,” added Sealem. “This year’s performance indicates our ability to grow rapidly and deliver the positive economic impact with quality service that is expected of Ahadu Bank.”

Looking ahead, Ahadu Bank is poised to continue its growth trajectory, guided by its new five-year strategic plan and a business model focused on business growth, human capital, agile operational platforms, a customer-centric operating model, and a strong commitment to environmental, social, and governance (ESG) principles.