Ethiopia

African Development Bank pulls staff from Ethiopia

President of the African Development Bank Akinwumi Adesina during a past event. (Photo by Luis Tato / AFP)

By Gelle Dheere | Thursday, December 21, 2023

The decision follows a breach of diplomatic protocol and an assault by Ethiopian security forces on two staff members.

The African Development Bank yesterday took the unprecedented action of withdrawing its staff from Addis Ababa.

The decision follows a breach of diplomatic protocol and an assault by Ethiopian security forces on two staff members.

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The office will continue operating with an Officer-in-Charge, ensuring no impact on nationally recruited Ethiopian staff. The Bank emphasizes its duty of care to local employees and their families.

The decision stems from the unlawful arrest and physical assault of two Addis Ababa-based international staff on 31 October 2023. Despite the Bank's prompt intervention and the release of the staff, ongoing concerns persist.

President Dr Akinwumi Adesina stresses the lack of a satisfactory resolution and the absence of shared reports or investigations from the Ethiopian government.

In response, the Bank has requested a transparent investigation and, as a precautionary measure, shifted its international staff to remote work outside Ethiopia. Adesina highlights the commitment to personnel safety and the protection of their rights.

The incident's impact on the Bank's operations and future presence in Ethiopia is contingent on a thorough resolution and public disclosure of measures taken against those responsible.

Adesina the African Development Bank remains committed to supporting the country’s socioeconomic development. As of 30 September 2023, the Bank’s ongoing portfolio in Ethiopia comprising 22 projects, totalled $1.24 billion.

He, however, noted, “While the Bank appreciates the excellent relations it has with Ethiopia until this egregious incident, its continued operations and future presence in the country could be negatively affected if the incident is not fully resolved.”