ADDIS ABABA — Ethiopia is commemorating the 128th anniversary of the historic Adwa Victory with a series of vibrant events across the nation, highlighted by a grand celebration in the capital, Addis Ababa. The newly inaugurated Adwa Victory Memorial is the centerpiece of the capital’s festivities, featuring a military parade, artistic performances, and various other programs that pay tribute to this pivotal moment in Ethiopian and African history.
According to Ethiopian News Agency, the Battle of Adwa, which occurred on March 1, 1896, saw Ethiopian forces deliver a decisive defeat to the invading Italian army, marking a significant victory for Ethiopia and serving as a symbol of African resistance against European colonial ambitions. This victory has been celebrated as a cornerstone of Ethiopian pride and a beacon of hope for anti-colonial movements across Africa.
This year’s anniversary has seen extensive preparations led by the Ethiopian National Defense Force (ENDF), aiming to foster a strong national movement in commemoration of the victory. Celebrations are not confined to the capital; they are being observed in all regional states, city administrations, and by Ethiopian embassies and consulates around the world, showcasing the widespread national significance of the Adwa Victory.
NAIROBI, Kenya — In a move towards sustainable living and environmental conservation, Robbie Felix, a permaculturist and the Founder President of Planeta Sano, emphasized the significance of pottery and permaculture in addressing contemporary challenges such as climate change and pollution. Felix advocates for a return to traditional earthenware as opposed to the prevalent use of plastic and metallic products, which contribute to environmental degradation.
According to Kenya News Agency, the shift towards disposable modernity has exacerbated issues like pollution and climate change. Planeta Sano has been actively supporting women and youth groups in Kenya and Uganda, focusing on permaculture activities to protect local environments and adopt traditional agricultural methods for healthier living. In Kenya, the organization has assisted groups such as the ‘Rongo Women Permaculture’ in pottery making, aiming for both economic development and the sustenance of eco-friendly practices.
The dwindling numbers of traditional pottery artisans, predominantly found in remote African villages, underscore the urgency of imparting this craft to future generations. Felix highlights the potential of Africa’s educated youth, who require minimal training to engage in agriculture and pottery, generating income while contributing to environmental conservation.
Damaris Anyago, a member of the Rongo Women Permaculture group, shared insights into the benefits of permaculture and pottery, including health advantages and environmental preservation. Cooking with clay pots, for instance, not only enhances food flavor but also enriches it with essential minerals like potassium, contributing to overall well-being.
The group’s success in reviving the appreciation for pottery within the Migori community is evident in their average daily earnings from pot sales. Anyago contrasts this sustainable practice with the adverse effects of modern kitchenware, advocating for the use of clay pots over plastic and metallic alternatives to mitigate pollution and lifestyle diseases.
Caleb Omolo, Director and Founder of Sustainable Village Resources, further explained the principles of permaculture, emphasizing the development of agricultural ecosystems that are sustainable and self-sufficient. By integrating traditional practices such as pottery with natural agricultural methods, permaculture offers a holistic approach to meeting human needs while ensuring environmental sustainability.
Omolo’s organization is committed to training and equipping the youth with permaculture skills, fostering a society that prioritizes healthy living, environmental conservation, and traditional agriculture, thus reducing chemical usage and its harmful impacts.
GARISSA, Kenya — The Northern Nomadic Disabled Persons Organization (NONDO) has initiated a program to link people with disabilities (PWDs) to empowerment opportunities offered by government and donor agencies, aiming to enhance their livelihoods.
According to Kenya News Agency, Fatuma Mohamed, the organization is focused on sensitizing and making aware the availability of opportunities from government agencies such as the county revolving fund, the Uwezo and Youth Funds, the Women Enterprise Fund, and the Inua Jamii programs.
During a meeting in Garissa, which saw the convergence of various government agencies and individuals living with disabilities in the county, Fatuma highlighted the significant impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on PWDs and the subsequent need for recovery through access to funding and government tenders. She pointed out a prevailing gap in information dissemination that has prevented PWDs from applying for opportunities that could improve their circumstances. The meeting aimed to bridge this gap by providing PWDs with the necessary information and guidance on how to access these opportunities.
Fatuma called for increased media sensitization to ensure all PWDs are reached and informed. She also urged officials to assist PWDs with the technical aspects of application forms, particularly those seeking funding or tenders to enhance their incomes.
Further support for PWDs in Garissa County was highlighted by the County Executive Committee Member (CECM) for Gender, Culture, Youth, and Sports, Hawa Abdi Sahal. She mentioned the county administration’s efforts, including the creation of a directorate specifically for people with disability affairs, led by a Chief Officer. The CECM also revealed that PWDs in the county have been beneficiaries of wheelchairs and business startup tools, such as tailoring machines, salon, and haircut kits, to aid them in initiating and running businesses for income generation.
The meeting concluded with positive feedback from a section of PWDs who attended, expressing satisfaction with the information shared. They committed to forming groups to access financing through the government’s affirmative action programs funding, indicating a proactive step towards improving their livelihoods through the empowerment opportunities presented.