Addis Ababa: Readymade Textile and Apparel are being manufactured at large scales in Ethiopia by utilizing local raw materials, Manufacturing Industry Development Institute revealed. The 12th International Research Conference on Cotton, Textile and Apparel Value Chain in Africa (CTA-2024) held at the Ethiopian Institute of Textile and Fashion Technology (EiTEX) in Bahir Dar University. The two-day conference featured insightful discussions, presentations of research outputs by esteemed presenters, and commentary from specialists within the field of study. Deputy Director General of Manufacturing Industry Development Institute, Sileshi Lema said on the occasion that the national movement being carried out under the theme 'Made in Ethiopia' has enhanced the domestic capacity of the industry sector. Ethiopia has been importing textile and apparel products from abroad by spending a minimum of one billion USD annually over the past years, Sileshi said however, he indicated that currently the country is produci ng textile and apparel in large scales to substitute imports. Scientific Director at the Ethiopian Institute of Textile and Fashion Technology (EiTEX) of Bahir Dar University, professor Tamerat Tesfaye on his part said the Institute is discharge its role by providing training to produce qualified professionals and skilled manpower in the field. Among the graduate of the Institute, 25.6 percent have already established their own business and provided job opportunities for others, he added. "The textile Apparel industry plays a pivotal role in supporting livelihoods through job creation, driving economic growth and fostering cultural experiences across the African continent," Source: Ethiopian News Agency
Month: June 2024
Environmental issues bother more Cameroonians than jobs, Afrobarameter reports
Nchendzengang Tatah On a bus from one town to another in Cameroon, there is a high probability of hearing people discussing environment-related issues more than employment. Afrobarameter in a survey carried out in 34 African countries in 2021 to 2023, reports that 52% of their respondents will want government to prioritise environmental protection. According to the report published in the Continent Magazine, Issue 164 of June 1, 2024, sixteen countries over the continent had more people concerned about the environment with twenty others prioritizing jobs. The issue of the environment has stimulated national discussions for some time now following various disasters across Cameroon. According to Prof. Nkwatoh Athanasius Fuashi, a leading researcher in Forest Resources Economics and Management, the leading environmental challenges are climate change and pollution. A case in point cited by Prof. Fuashi is Buea, where a flash flood in the first quarter of 2023 claimed two lives. Indigenes have said such massi ve water movement has not been recorded in their recorded history. Environmentalists blamed construction on drainage lines for the severity of the incident. Residents of the town have continued to worry over rising temperatures and reduced rainfall in recent years. Inadequate waste disposal is also visible with overflowing bins and stinky waste sites throughout the town. Buea is located at the foot of an active volcano, Mount Cameroon. With a focus on the environment during the 31st edition of World Press Freedom Day, journalists have become stirred towards these issues too. Journalism training institutions like the Department of Journalism and Mass Communication, University of Buea envisage introducing special courses on environmental journalism as disclosed by its chair, Dr. Nengieh Lizzie. Source: Cameroon News Agency
Center Region: Hyena chops off toddler’s hand in zoo
By Charity Nginyu At the Mvog-Betsi Botanical Zoo Garden in the Center Region, a 6-year-old child had a terrifying encounter with a spotted hyena, resulting in the partial amputation of his forearm. The Minister of Forestry and Wildlife on Friday issued a statement addressing the alarming incident, emphasizing the need for increased vigilance and safety measures within the zoo. According to the Minister of Forestry and Wildlife, the child was recklessly disregarding safety precautions by crossing the designated barrier and attempting to touch the hyena. Despite the enclosure's double mesh of grids, the child managed to insert his arm, leading to the unfortunate encounter. Immediately following the incident, the child was transported to the Yaoundé Emergency Center (CURY), where he underwent surgery. According to the Ministry, he currently remains under observation at the center as medical professionals monitor his recovery. Despite the alarming nature of the incident, the Minister of Forestry and Wildli fe assured the public that the Mvog-Betsi Botanical Zoo Garden remains a secure environment for recreation. However, they stressed the importance of heightened vigilance among zoo personnel to prevent any potential safety breaches. In light of this unfortunate event, visitors are urged to adhere to all safety guidelines and barriers established within the zoo premises. Source: Cameroon News Agency