Despite claims that they are independent of one another sports and politics are intricately intertwined, argues our columnist Taye Negussie (PhD). More often than not, politics manifests itself through sports, and the occasions of sporting events serve as apt moments to communicate about one’s political linings. This is possible because of the ways both national and local identities become associated with sports teams.
The European Union (EU) has announced new financial assistance for Ethiopia targeting projects that will, among other things, help to ensure basic services such as primary schools, health care and water supply, and to support female entrepreneurs. “The new support will also help Ethiopians better prepare for the recurring droughts that hit the country, helping them to withstand the next crisis” the EU said in a statement. A total of eight new agreements of an overall amount of almost €240 million have been announced during a visit by the European Commissioner for Development, Andris Piebalgs, to Addis Ababa, Ethiopia.
Africa is the region with highest increase in oil consumption globally – 5% in 2012 versus only a 1% increase globally
The recent oil and gas finds in Africa will continue to have a positive impact on local economies, if local African suppliers, service providers and other businesses are geared up to service this growth.
