The United States Agency for International Development (USAID), the largest foreign aid agency in Ethiopia, has suspended all foreign aid for 90 days, raising concerns about the impact on the country’s development across various sectors, including health, education, agriculture, and humanitarian assistance. This suspension has forced other international organizations to step in and manage projects previously initiated by USAID, creating challenges as they scramble to adapt and reallocate resources.

While organizations such as UNHCR, UNFPA, FAO, and the International Rescue Committee (IRC) continue to provide support during this review period, the absence of USAID’s significant contributions threatens the well-being of vulnerable populations in Ethiopia. A source from a relief organization expressed concern that this suspension could adversely affect those reliant on essential services like food aid and healthcare.

For instance, a project aimed at assisting displaced citizens in southern Ethiopia has been disrupted due to USAID’s withdrawal. This has left organizations dependent on USAID’s support in a precarious position regarding funding and resource allocation.

Following the suspension of U.S.-funded humanitarian aid, Action Against Hunger announced it had to cut food assistance to refugees in Gambella region. This organization has been a key player in addressing malnutrition in Ethiopia since 1985, but the funding freeze jeopardizes its ongoing efforts.

In response to the suspension, U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio has permitted U.S.-funded aid organizations to temporarily resume existing rescue operations but has restricted them from entering new aid supply agreements.

The implications of USAID’s suspension are dire for millions of Ethiopians who depend on food assistance amid ongoing crises exacerbated by drought and conflict. With over 20 million people in urgent need of support, the gap left by USAID’s absence could lead to increased suffering and instability in one of the world’s most vulnerable countries.

By partnering with HayaSebat Marketing and Branding, the Ethiopian Quality Award Organization (EQA) aims to enhance its visibility.

Founded by Addis Ababa University 17 years ago, the EQA has teamed up with HayaSebat to broaden its outreach and engage a larger audience.

During the signing ceremony on January 30, Aschalew Tamiru, CEO of HayaSebat Marketing and Branding PLC, stated that his organization will aid EQA in promoting its services. He noted that while EQA’s offerings are transformative, they require more support from those who recognize their significance for the nation. “Our company is assisting various businesses and financial institutions in capacity building and skill development while establishing sustainable marketing strategies that will endure for years,” he said.

He added, “As part of our corporate social responsibility, our primary goal is to help them close the gap and strengthen their presence quickly.”

Aschalew told Capital, “For instance, we will enhance their social media presence, which is already showing remarkable success since we took over the initiative.”

At the press conference following the signing ceremony, he further explained, “We are focusing on lead generation to boost registrations for the 12th round of the quality award.”

Tewodros Mebrat, the CEO of EQA, highlighted the trust and success the organization has cultivated over the years.

“We have a gap to bridge with the public, but we are reliable in our operations,” he told Capital.

“We are already witnessing positive changes since they began assisting us, and the agreement with HayaSebat will increase our visibility.”

The Ethiopian Quality Award Organization, a non-profit established 17 years ago by Addis Ababa University and Walta Media and Communication Corporate, aims to create a national quality brand by recognizing and rewarding individuals who implement quality systems in goods and services.

HayaSebat Marketing and Branding PLC, founded by highly qualified professionals, seeks to provide a wide array of exceptional services in training and consulting, branding, event organizing, marketing, and digital marketing.

It does not generate revenue through its support of EQA.

The Journey of Nigst at a Chinese Company

In the heart of Ethiopia’s bustling construction and development sector, one woman’s journey stands out as a testament to resilience, growth, and community impact. Nigst, the CEO’s secretary at CGCOC, reflects on her 18-year journey with the company, which has played a pivotal role in various infrastructure projects across the country. Her story not only highlights her personal growth but also sheds light on the significant contributions Chinese companies have made to local communities.

Early Beginnings

Nigst joined CGCOC at a young age, driven by ambition and a desire to make a difference. “I saw an advertisement for the position and applied,” she recalls. After successfully passing the exam, she embarked on her career journey as a secretary. However, her initial role quickly evolved into something far more challenging. Assigned as a “Right of Agent,” she was tasked with negotiating compensation agreements with local workers involved in road construction projects.

Despite these difficulties, Nigst demonstrated remarkable perseverance. When she expressed her desire to return to her original position as a secretary, her boss arranged for her to transition back to the office located 71 kilometers from Dessie.

A Supportive Work Environment

Reflecting on her early days at CGCOC, Nigst describes a supportive work culture that allowed her to thrive despite her lack of experience. “I was given a lot of responsibility,” she notes. “I learned so much from my colleagues.” Being the only Habesha in the office at that time presented its own set of challenges, but it also provided her with unique opportunities for growth and learning.

As she settled into her role, Nigst witnessed firsthand how CGCOC engaged with local communities. “During my time as a Right of Agent, I saw them implementing alternative routes and providing learning materials to students,” she recalls. The company frequently collaborated with city administrations to support educational initiatives and infrastructure improvements.

Community Impact and Development Projects

One of the most significant projects that Nigst participated in was the construction of a school in Dengola, Mekelle, in partnership with Tigray Development. “We covered the entire cost of building that school,” she proudly states.  Nigst also participated in a training program for poor women funded by CGCOC and the China Foundation for Poverty Alleviation. There are many similar activities to improve people’s livelihood .These initiatives exemplified CGCOC’s commitment to giving back to the communities where they operate.

In addition to educational projects, CGCOC has been involved in various infrastructure developments aimed at improving local living conditions. Currently, the company is focusing on water supply projects, construction initiatives, and significant developments like the Bole Industrial Park and ICT parks.

CGCOC Water Co., Ltd., established in May 2010 as a wholly-owned subsidiary of CGCOC Group Co., Ltd., has made substantial strides in addressing water supply issues in Ethiopia. The company is renowned for its commitment to providing integrated solutions within the water industry, including project implementation and management.

A Vision for Sustainable Development

Nigst emphasizes that CGCOC’s approach aligns with sustainable development goals. “The company aims to create a professional platform for the water industry while adhering to its development philosophy of ‘cooperation for fortune and innovation for development,'” she explains.

With over two hundred employees—many of whom are skilled local engineers—CGCOC is well-equipped to tackle complex projects across Africa. The company’s focus on integrating domestic resources with international standards has allowed it to pioneer Chinese technology and capital output while serving local markets effectively.

A Journey of Growth

Nigst’s journey from a young secretary to a key player within CGCOC illustrates not only her personal growth but also the company’s dedication to community development and sustainable practices. As she reflects on her experiences over nearly two decades, Nigst remains optimistic about the future.

“I believe that through our work, we can continue making a positive impact on people’s lives,” she states confidently. With ongoing projects aimed at improving infrastructure and supporting local communities, cooperative projects are poised to play an even more significant role in Ethiopia’s development landscape.

The Ethio-Logistics Sectoral Association (ELSA) hosted the Business Boosting Conference along the Ethiopia-Djibouti trade and logistics corridor and beyond.

According to a statement from ELSA, this two-day conference, held from January 21st at the Sheraton Addis, aimed to strengthen economic ties and enhance trade between Ethiopia, Djibouti, and other regions.

The conference provided a unique platform for networking, knowledge exchange, and strategic collaboration between the two countries.

Participants discussed innovative strategies for increasing trade, boosting productivity, and overcoming the challenges of contemporary trade and logistics both locally and globally.

The event brought together key stakeholders from both nations, including high-level decision-makers, business leaders, officials, and industry experts, all with the goal of driving mutual growth and improving productivity.

The Ethiopia-Djibouti corridor, a vital route for regional trade, requires enhancement to support Ethiopia’s growing economy and meet regional demands.

This corridor serves as a critical link for the economies of Ethiopia and Djibouti while promoting regional economic integration.

Enhancing facilitation, coordination, automation, and modernization of this corridor, along with trade integration, will significantly improve logistics performance and, in turn, boost the region’s economy.