Samuel Getachew

Richard Pankhurst (Prof.), a British national and one of the founders of the Institute of Ethiopian Studies of the Addis Ababa University and a true friend of Ethiopia, passed away this week. Pankhurst, who was born into a family of activists, recently suffered from a case of pneumonia, and had been battling Parkinson’s disease for some time.

In the midst of challenges faced by the tourism industry in the country, Ethiopia attracted 800,000 visitors last year, earning the country much-needed foreign exchange to the tune of USD 5.6 billion, a report revealed.

He is in his 30s, and Ethiopia’s latest music sensation, Sami Dan, is fast becoming one of east Africa’s most promising young musicians. A reggae artiste, Sami Dan is now carving out a successful career with his band, Zewd Band.

Zemedeneh Negatu, a leading businessman, who was the managing partner of EY Ethiopia, has parted ways with the multinational consultancy and advisory firm, EY (formerly Ernst & Young), ending a decade-and-a-half old relationship. Zemedeneh has now assumed a new role – Global Chairman of Fairfax Africa Fund LLC.

February was designated as Black History Month by President Gerald Ford in 1976 in the United States.

As the Obama presidency is near its end and historians are set to reflect on the legacy of America's first black president, one cannot help but look favorably on the impact he has had on the continent of Africa. 

The favorite words of Ethiopian Broadcasting Corporation host, Selamawit Dejen Woretaw, are "Smile, as it is the world's most powerful gesture."

Ethiopian should use its partnership to diversify its activities. With the construction of its own hotel, which is currently underway, Ethiopian is indeed aiming at the diversification of its business activities.