Regional State Research Articles

Practice and factors associated with neonatal sunlight exposure among mothers in Jigjiga City, Somali Regional State, Eastern Ethiopia

BackgroundSunlight is a vital natural resource for sustaining life on Earth. Sunlight exposure, especially ultraviolet B, is necessary for synthesizing vitamin D in the skin. Early life is the most prevalent time for vitamin D deficiency, and almost half of mothers in Ethiopia are estimated to have a low level of good practice of sunlight exposure, which remains a major contributing factor to vitamin D deficiency in Ethiopian children.ObjectivesTo assess the practices and factors associated with neonatal sunlight exposure among mothers in Jigjiga City, Somali Regional State, Eastern Ethiopia, 2024.Methods and materialsA community-based cross-sectional study was conducted among 417 mothers in Jigjiga city from April 16 to 30, 2024. The study participants were selected using a systematic random sampling technique. The data were collected using electronic data collection software (Kobo) and exported to SPSS software version 20 for analysis. Bivariable and multivariable binary logistic regression was performed. Finally, the adjusted odds ratio with a 95% confidence level was computed, and a p-value < 0.05 was used to declare statistical significance.ResultsAmong the mothers interviewed, 29.4% with 95% CI (22.2–38.1) had good practice in exposing their neonates to sunlight. In multivariable analysis, mothers who were married (AOR = 0.17; 95% CI: 0.03–0.92), who delivered through caesarian section (AOR = 0.05; 95% CI: 0.01–0.54), who had poor knowledge of sunlight exposure (AOR = 0.31; 95% CI: 0.1–0.96) and who had no fear of sunlight exposure (AOR = 3.06; 95% CI: 1.02–9.17) were significantly associated with good practices of neonatal sunlight exposure.ConclusionsThis study revealed that 29.4% of mothers had good neonatal sunlight exposure practice which is low compared to other studies. The mothers’ marital status, mode of delivery, mother’s knowledge, and fear of sunlight exposure were significantly associated with the practice level of the mothers.

Risk factors for neural tube defects in the war and siege-affected tigray regional state of ethiopia: a case-control study

BackgroundNeural tube defects (NTDs) remain a significant global health concern, with varying prevalence and risk factors across regions. In Tigray, the war and siege have severely disrupted healthcare services, exacerbating pregnancy complications and increasing NTD prevalence. This study investigates the sociodemographic, obstetric, and conflict-related risk factors contributing to NTDs in Tigray during the crisis.MethodsA case-control study was conducted between December 2023 and January 2024, including 103 NTD cases and 205 controls. Data were collected using a WHO-adapted birth defect survey and ODK/KOBO software. Statistical analysis was conducted using SPSS version 27, with descriptive statistics used for participant characteristics and logistic regression models applied to identify risk factors for neural tube defects, using a significance threshold of p < 0.05.ResultA total of 308 participants were included (103 NTD cases and 205 controls). Stillbirths accounted for 79.7% of NTD cases, with anencephaly as the most common defect, followed by spina bifida and encephalocele. Among NTD cases, 23.3% were male, 18.4% female, and 58.3% had unidentified sex. Associated congenital anomalies were less common, including hydrocephalus (2.9%), clubfoot, omphalocele, and cleft palate (1-1.9%). Key risk factors for NTDs included younger maternal age, low education, history of abortion or stillbirth, and lack of prenatal care. Conflict-related factors, such as violence, unintended pregnancies, and limited healthcare, worsened NTD prevalence. Food insecurity was found a significant issue, with many women relying on aid or subsistence farming and consuming fewer than two meals per day.ConclusionThe study demonstrates that neural tube defects, particularly anencephaly the most frequently observed subtype are strongly associated with increased stillbirth rates. Diagnostic challenges, including high rates of unidentified fetal sex and low detection of associated anomalies, coupled with limited prenatal care and maternal sociodemographic factors, contribute to poor prognoses. The ongoing conflict in Tigray has further worsened maternal health risks through healthcare disruptions, increased violence, unintended pregnancies, and food insecurity, potentially contributing to the higher prevalence of neural tube defects. These findings underscore the urgent need for strengthened maternal healthcare systems, targeted prevention strategies, and improved access to care, particularly in conflict-affected regions.

Prevalence, antimicrobial resistance pattern, and associated factors of Salmonella serovars among human-animal interfaces in the Amhara National Regional State, Ethiopia

BackgroundSalmonellosis in humans and animals poses significant public health concerns, leading to substantial economic losses and increased healthcare costs in both developed and developing countries. This study aimed to assess the prevalence, antimicrobial resistance pattern, and associated factors of Salmonella serovars in humans and animals (sheep, chicken, and cattle) in the Amhara National Region state of Ethiopia.MethodsA prospective cross-sectional study was conducted using a consecutive convenience sampling technique from September 2022 to January 2024 at public health facilities and 25 randomly selected animal farms surrounding each health facility in the Amhara National Regional State. Socio-demographic data and relevant clinical characteristics were collected using a standardized questionnaire. After enrichment with Selenite F broth, Salmonella serovars were isolated using MacConkey, Xylose Lysine Deoxycholate, and Salmonella Shigella agar. The Salmonella serovars were characterized through a series of biochemical tests. The antimicrobial resistance patterns were determined using the modified Kirby-Bauer disk diffusion technique. Data analysis was performed using SPSS version 29, and the results were summarized in tables and graphs.ResultThe overall prevalence of Salmonella serovars among humans and animals was 12.1% (49/404; 95% CI: 9.2–15.6) and 2.7% (9/336; 95% CI: 1.3–4.8), respectively. Human isolates of Salmonella serovars exhibited high resistance rates to ampicillin (79.6%) and tetracycline (71.4%). Similarly, all animal isolates of Salmonella were found to be 100% resistant to both ampicillin and tetracycline. In contrast, a 2% resistance of Salmonella isolates was observed to ciprofloxacin among humans but 11% in animals. Data also showed that 71.4% and 88.9% of Salmonella isolates from humans and animals were resistant to three or more antibiotic classes, respectively. Close contact with patients experiencing diarrhea (AOR = 2.83; 95% CI: 1.05–7.629; P = 0.04) and with animals (AOR = 3.179; 95% CI: 1.574–6.419; P = 0.001) revealed a statistically significant association with the prevalence of culture-confirmed salmonellosis.ConclusionThe prevalence of culture-confirmed Salmonella serovars among humans and animals was significantly high. Many isolates of Salmonella from these groups showed resistance to three or more classes of antibiotics. Individuals who come into contact with those experiencing diarrhea or who handle animals are at an increased risk of developing salmonellosis. To help reduce these infections, public health initiatives should focus on improving animal handling practices and promoting better hygiene in both the environment and personal habits through one health approach.

New faunistic data on oribatid mites (Acari, Oribatida) from western, southern and southeastern Ethiopia, with description of two new species of the family Carabodidae

The present study is based on oribatid mite materials collected from two regions in Ethiopia: Oromia and South Ethiopia Regional State. A list of 70 species belonging to 54 genera and 33 families is presented. Two new species of the family Carabodidae—Carabodes (Klapperiches) paradilatatus Ermilov n. sp. and Congocepheus setiformis Ermilov n. sp.—are described from litter and mineral soil in a mixed forest.

Determinants of Adoption of Improved Bread Wheat Varieties among Smallholder Farmers in Awbare District, Somali Regional State, Ethiopia

Wheat (Triticum aestivum L.) is one of the most important cereal crops grown in the Awbare district, primarily to enhance household income and ensure food security. This study aimed to assess the adoption status and identify the factors influencing the adoption of improved bread wheat varieties in the Awbare district, located in the Somali Regional State. To conduct this study, 160 randomly selected households were interviewed face-to-face. Additionally, key informant interviews and focus group discussions were utilized to supplement the data gathered from individual households. Quantitative data analysis methods, including descriptive statistics and binary logistic regression models, were employed alongside qualitative data analysis. Of the total respondents, 71 (44.3%) were adopters of improved wheat varieties, while 89 (55.6%) were non-adopters. The binary logistic regression results indicated that factors such as farm size, access to extension services, and farmers' perceptions of wheat yield positively and significantly influenced the adoption of at least one of the three recommended varieties. Conversely, variables such as sex, age, distance from the market, and distance from the development agent’s office had a negative and significant impact on the adoption of improved bread wheat varieties. This study reveals that the agricultural extension service is a significant barrier to improving bread wheat production. An effective extension program connecting stakeholders is essential for encouraging the adoption of better wheat varieties. The findings show that larger farms are more likely to adopt these varieties, highlighting the need for research and extension agencies to support smaller farmers with appropriate technologies. Sustaining the adoption of wheat varieties demands ongoing focus on the factors affecting adoption.

Analysis of Wind–Wave Relationship in Taiwan Waters

The relationship between wind and waves has been extensively studied over time. However, understanding the local wind and wave relationship remains crucial for advancing renewable energy development and optimizing ocean management strategies. This study used wind and wave data collected by the ten weather buoys in the waters surrounding Taiwan to analyze regional sea states. The relationship between wind speed and significant wave height (SWH) was examined using regression analysis. Additionally, machine learning techniques were employed to assess the relative importance of features contributing to SWH growth. The regression analysis revealed that SWH in the waters surrounding Taiwan was not fully developed, with notable discrepancies observed between the waters east and west of Taiwan. According to the power law formula describing the relationship between wind speed and SWH, the eastern waters exhibited a larger prefactor coupled with a smaller scaling exponent, while the western waters manifested a converse parametric configuration. Through an evaluation of four machine learning algorithms, it was determined that wind speed is the most influential factor driving these regional differences, especially in the waters west of Taiwan. Beyond wind speed, air pressure or temperature emerged as the secondary feature factor governing wind–wave interactions in the waters east of Taiwan.

IDENTIFICATION, CHARACTERISATION, AND EVALUATION OF HONEY BEE FLORA IN BENISHANGUL GUMUZ REGIONAL STATE, ETHIOPIA

This study aimed to identify and evaluate the major and minor bee forage sources to recommend seasonal colony management practices. Conducted in the Bambasi, Homosha, and Mao Komo districts of Benishangul Gumuz Regional State in western Ethiopia, the research involved a survey of 90 beekeepers using semi-structured questionnaires from three peasant associations per district. Honey and pollen samples were collected from established colonies in each district for melissopalynological analysis. 71 plant species were identified as forage sources for honeybees in the study area. Two primary flowering periods were observed in 2020, 2021, and 2022 G.C., corresponding to the honey harvesting seasons. During the first season, key plants included Pterocarpus lucens, Bidens prestinaria, Glycine species, Guizotia abyssinica, Guizotia scabra, and several Bidens species. From February to May, the main sources of pollen and nectar in the second season were woody plants such as Cordia africana, Syzygium guineense, Turraeanthus africanus, and Terminalia laxiflora. In the first honey flow season, Guizotia scabra and Guizotia abyssinica made up 62.13% of monofloral honey. In the second season, Turraeanthus africanus and Syzygium guineense contributed 48.23%. In Benishangul Gumuz, beekeepers report that food scarcity peaks during the rainy season (late July to August) and the dry season (December to January) when flowering plants are limited. Providing supplemental food and water and conducting regular inspections is important to support the bee colonies during these times. Additionally, rapid biodiversity loss from deforestation and agricultural expansion reduces available bee forage in the region.

Evaluation of Open-pollinated Maize Varieties for Adaptability and Productivity in Golohajo, Somali Region, Ethiopia

Maize (Zea mays L.) is one of the most important cereal crops worldwide, serving as a staple food and a vital source of dietary energy. In Ethiopia's Somali Region, however, maize production remains limited due to several constraints, notably the lack of access to improved varieties and essential production inputs. To address this gap, a field experiment was conducted during the 2023 cropping season at the Fafan Agricultural Research Center, located in Gursum Woreda, Somali Regional State (SRS), Ethiopia. The objective was to evaluate the agronomic performance and yield potential of improved open-pollinated maize varieties under local conditions. Three maize varieties were tested using a randomized complete block design (RCBD) with three replications. Data were collected on phenological traits, growth parameters, and yield components. The experiment was laid out in plots measuring 22.5 m² (5 m × 4.5 m), each containing four rows, with appropriate spacing to ensure optimal plant development. The analysis of variance indicated significant differences (p &lt; 0.05) among the maize varieties for all measured parameters, except for plant height. The variety Afan-qalo exhibited the earliest tasseling (62.33 days), silking (67.33 days), and maturity (122.3 days), while Raare-1 was the latest across these stages. Afan-qalo also outperformed the other varieties in key yield components, including the number of ears per plant (1.333), ear length (30.40 cm), thousand seed weight (306.7 g), grain yield (49.08 Qt/ha), and biomass yield (284.0 Qt/ha). Based on these findings, Afan-qalo is recommended for sustainable maize production in the study area. To further enhance maize productivity in the Somali Region and similar agro-ecological zones, future research should include a broader range of maize varieties and extend across multiple locations and growing seasons.

Enhancing quality: the influence of educational resources on preprimary schools in Gambella Regional State, Ethiopia

ABSTRACT This study investigated the quality of service provision in pre-primary schools in Gambella Regional State, Ethiopia, focusing on the availability of learning resources and facilities. Utilizing a convergent mixed-methods research design, survey data were collected from 190 teachers, 95 principals, and qualitative data were from 42 education experts. The analysis revealed significant gaps in service quality, particularly regarding classroom environments, age-appropriate furniture, and essential learning materials. Locally produced educational resources, such as counting charts and art supplies, were notably limited, while accessibility issues included inadequate playgrounds and unsatisfactory sanitation facilities, including a lack of safe drinking water. Inferential analysis demonstrated a significant positive correlation (r = 0.593, p < 0.01) between resource availability and service quality, with resources accounting for 35.2% of the variance in educational quality. These findings underscore the need for targeted enhancements in learning resources and facilities to improve educational outcomes for young children in low-resource settings.

Participatory Evaluation and Field Demonstration of Forage Varieties in Ondere Kebele, Dhagahmadow District, Somali Region, Ethiopia

Background: Livestock productivity in agro-pastoral systems is often constrained by feed shortages, which limits animal growth, reproduction, and overall production. Developing and integrating improved forage crops is a key strategy to address this challenge and enhance sustainable livestock feed availability. Objectives: This study aimed to evaluate and demonstrate the performance of improved forage crops under rainfed conditions in agro-pastoralist areas, with a focus on their growth characteristics, biomass yield, and agro-pastoralists perceptions to facilitate adoption. Methods: The study was conducted in the Degahmadow district, Jarar zone, Somali Regional State, Ethiopia, using a participatory approach involving 25 community members, including women, under the PAPREG/PRG initiative. Agronomic practices, including land preparation, sowing, and forage management, were implemented following standard recommendations. Participatory variety evaluation and field demonstrations were conducted to assess species performance based on agropastoralist selection criteria. Results: The analysis of variance showed significant species differences in key growth parameters such as crop emergence, days to flowering, plant height, herbage yield, and days to first harvest. Sudan grass and Panicum maximum had similar emergence rates (3.44 and 3.37 days, respectively), while Chloris gayana (Rhodes grass) was significantly delayed by 4 days. Rhodes grass also had the longest time to flowering (53.9 days), whereas Panicum maximum (35.8 days) and Sudan grass (38.3 days) matured earlier. Fresh biomass yields ranged from 13 to 23 tons per hectare per harvest, with no significant yield difference between Sudan grass (7.56 tons per hectare) and Panicum maximum (7.43 tons per hectare). However, Rhodes grass recorded significantly lower dry matter yield. Sudan grass had the greatest plant height, though not significantly different from Panicum maximum, and both were significantly taller than Rhodes grass. The optimal harvesting date was significantly earlier for Panicum maximum (57 days) compared to Sudan grass (78 days) and Rhodes grass (74 days). Conclusion: Agro-pastoralists ranked Sudan grass highest due to its superior biomass yield, early maturity, ease of establishment, multiple harvest potential, and adaptability to environmental stresses, followed by Panicum maximum. The close alignment between agro-pastoralists preferences and scientific findings highlights the potential for integrating improved forage varieties into local livestock systems. This study underscores the importance of participatory approaches in forage development, promoting adoption and enhancing feed security in agro-pastoral communities.

Gender roles in agroforestry value chains: evidence from fruit tree-based agroforestry in Dodota district, Ethiopia

Despite the economic significance of fruit tree-based agroforestry in Ethiopia, gender considerations throughout the value chain activities are still underexplored. This study evaluated gender roles within the fruit tree-based agroforestry value chain in the Dodota district of Oromia Regional State, Ethiopia. We used a random sampling technique to collect primary data from 178 respondents. The FAO gender-sensitive value chain analysis framework and the Binary Logit model examined women’s involvement in the fruit value chain. The results indicated that women actively participated in various stages of the fruit value chain in the study area, functioning as producers, retailers, and processors. Our finding highlighted those women in the study area played an essential role in agriculture activities such as land preparation (81.2%), seedling preparation (79.7%), planting (93.8%), manuring (78.1%), watering (84.4%), pest management (46.9%), weeding (96.9%), and hoeing (95.4%) and harvesting (98.5%). However, women’s engagement in the fruit value chain is subject to different socioeconomic factors, such as access to improved varieties, age, education level, family size, motor pump ownership, and landholding size. These findings emphasize the need for gender-inclusive policies that improve women’s access to productive resources and decision-making power within fruit tree-based agroforestry value chains. The study highlights critical insights and pathways for promoting and advancing gender equity in agroforestry systems and guiding policy interventions.

Woody plant species composition, structure, and regeneration status of ruruki forest of Liban Jawi District, West Shewa Zone, Oromia Regional State, Ethiopia

The study was conducted to assess the woody plant species composition, population structure, and regeneration status of Ruruki Forest. A total of 30 sample plots, each 20 m × 20 m, were established using a systematic sampling method. A sub-plot of 5 m × 5 m was used to count saplings and seedlings. To describe the vegetation structure of the study forest we computed DBH and height size frequency distributions of individuals and species importance value indexes (IVI).A total of 70 woody species which categorized into 64 genera, and 45 families were identified of which 57.14% were trees, while shrubs and lianas cover37.14%and5.7%, respectively. The total density of woody species recorded was 868.33 individuals / ha. The highest IVI index was recorded for Syzygium guineense species, indicating the species is ecologically important. The results of height showed that there was a greater predominance of small-sized individuals of woody species than large-sized woody species for the study forest. The general pattern of the DBH class distribution of the forest showed an irregular distribution, which implies there was some selective cutting of individual woody species for different purposes. The overall regeneration status of the forest was found to be fair. Generally, the result obtained from this study shows that there is disturbances and selective cutting of trees in the forest. Hence, there is a need for full participation in sustainable forest management to control selective cutting and to apply the best forest management practices, such as reforestation and afforestation.

Sero-prevalence of SARS-CoV-2 antibodies in Ethiopia: Results of the National Population Based Survey, 2021.

SARS-CoV-2 pandemic has caused a continuing health crisis affecting the public health system globally. Population-based serological surveys are a highly valuable and recommended method to measure population exposure and spread of pandemic, given the existence of asymptomatic cases and little access to diagnostic testing. This national population-based study aims to estimate the seroprevalence of SARS-CoV-2 infection in all parts of Ethiopia and determine potential risk factors and burden of infection. A nationwide seroprevalence survey was done among 12,756 households (HHs) across the country using three-stage stratified sampling technique from April 15, 2021 to May 16, 2021 among population of Ethiopia above 15 years of age. One member of each of the selected HHs, who fulfilled the eligibility criteria, was randomly selected. We captured data using interviews and finger prick blood samples to test for anti-SARS-CoV-2 antibodies using high specificity rapid diagnostic tests (RDTs). A questionnaire was used to capture all necessary data on demographics, social exposure, and history of vaccination for SARS-CoV-2, symptoms compatible with SARS-CoV-2, and any known medical conditions. The data were collected using an open data kits (ODK) software and imported into STATA version 17 for analysis. Descriptive statistics (frequencies and proportions) were used to summarize data on the study variables. Forest plots and maps were used to visualize the seroprevalence of SARS-CoV-2 across various individual and environmental factors. The study sample was weighted, and the survey set command in Stata (svy) was used in the analyses to account for the survey design. Adjusted Odd ratio (AOR) was used to determine higher risk factors of having been infected at least once, 95% confidence interval to assess precision of the estimates, and a P value ≤ 0.05 to determine statistically significant. This study indicated the overall national prevalence of seropositivity was 9.3% that suggests nearly one in ten individuals in Ethiopia was exposed to SARS-CoV-2 infection by May 2021. All regional states in the country are affected with SARS-CoV-2 infection although infection was more common in densely populated regions. Seroprevalence was significantly higher among, individual, aged 35-44, 55-64 and 65 and over years had more odds of being infected by SARS-CoV-2 compared with those aged 15-24 years. The seroprevalence is also high among professional/technical occupations, and among those having at least one comorbidity. The participants who had seven and more members had higher odds of infection compared with those who had two or less members. The odds of infection among respondents, who reported having ever tested for COVID-19 and being sick since March 2020, were higher compared with their counterparts. Among the environmental factors, the odds of SARS-CoV-2 infection in urban residents were higher than in the rural setting. In relation to geographic administration boundaries, participants from Harari Region, Addis Ababa, and Benishangul Gumuz had higher odds of infection compared to those from Afar Regions respective. This study reveals the overall seroprevalence of SARS CoV-2 antibodies in Ethiopia was 10.0% as of May 2021. The seroprevalence of IgG antibodies against COVID-19 is higher than that of IgM antibodies, indicating a past infection. SARS-CoV-2 antibody seroprevalence was varied by regional state, sex, residence area, age, and occupational status. It also suggests that the majority of Ethiopia's have inadequate knowledge of understanding about SARS-CoV-2 antibodies, we recommend strengthening public health and social measures to mitigate the spread of COVID-19 diseases, including increased vaccination coverage and testing capability. All responsible authorities and stakeholders working locally, nationally, and globally need to support strengthening health systems and be prepared to combat morbidity and mortality and to encourage ongoing vaccination efforts. Periodic seroprevalence surveys will aid in monitoring the status and progress of the COVID-19 pandemic.

Adolescent Refugee Potential Traumatic Experience and Mental Health in Gambella Region in Ethiopia: A Model Examining Mediating Effects of Coping and Resilience.

Background: Refugees often experience multiple traumatic events due to persecution, conflict, and displacement, which can result in poor mental health outcomes. Objective: The current study examined whether coping and resilience mediate the relationship between traumatic experience(s) and mental health outcomes and whether these indirect effects were moderated by age, gender, and refugee camp duration. Method: A cross-sectional, correlational study design was employed. Data were collected from 14 July 2019 to 28 August 2019. A sample of 414 adolescent refugees from two refugee camps in the Gambella regional state of Ethiopia were selected using proportional stratified sampling and simple random sampling techniques. Participants completed a self-reported questionnaire. Data were analysed using Structural Equation Modelling for hypotheses testing causal models. Results: Coping and resilience fully mediated the relationship between traumatic experience and mental health among adolescent refugees. Refugee camp duration as a moderator factor weakens the positive relationship between traumatic experiences and mental health outcomes. Conclusions: This study highlights the critical importance of comprehensive intervention strategies that strengthen adolescent refugee personal, family, social, and community level coping and resilience abilities within refugee camps setting. The findings also strongly suggested that early intervention in refugee camps could protect adolescent refugees from possible psychological distress and maintain adolescents' mental health and well-being within refugee camps.

Determinants of household food security in Gulina district, Zone 4 of conflict-affected Afar Regional State, Northeast Ethiopia

ABSTRACT This study tried to identify determinants of household food security. It used across-sectional study design and mixed data analysis technique. Primary data was mainly collected from 366 household heads. HFIAS was used to evaluate household food security status. A binary logit model was used to identify determinants. The study results indicate that the majority (82.8%) of the sample households are food insecure. Family size, average monthly income, participation in non-farm activities, and total livestock units were statistically significant determinants. Therefore, it is necessary to increase interventions on the identified determinants. These findings can inform policies aimed at meeting SDG two.

Durra Gas Field Crisis of 2023 in Light of The Rules of International Law

Objectives: This study aims to highlight the dangers posed by the territorial dispute over the gas field between Iran, Kuwait, and Saudi Arabia. It focuses on peaceful methods to resolve such conflicts and clarifies the reasons fueling these disputes, particularly the reliance on national legislation to define territorial waters and economic zones, without considering international law principles regarding the rights of adjacent states. Methods: This study adopts the historical approach to explore the relationship between Kuwait, Saudi Arabia, and Iran regarding the gas field claims. It also employs a comparative approach to analyze similar international disputes and a descriptive approach to assess the gas field's ownership under the 1982 United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea. Results: The study finds that the Dorra gas field is rightfully Kuwait's, without shared rights with any other regional state, and highlights Kuwait's right to partner with Saudi Arabia. Key findings include the need to pursue peaceful dispute resolution methods and the importance of avoiding armed conflict whenever possible. Conclusion: The study concludes that the Dorra gas field is located in Kuwait's exclusive economic zone. Iran's national legislation, which defines its economic zone and territorial sea, contradicts international law and aims to claim the Dorra field under its sovereignty. Kuwait's agreement with Saudi Arabia to jointly exploit the field is a legitimate right. Iranian objections have a defined path for peaceful resolution and should not escalate to armed conflict.

Autonomy and Minority Disempowerment in Ethiopia’s Federal System

Abstract This paper explores Ethiopia’s federal system and the systematic disempowerment of non-territorial minorities. The 1995 constitution granted autonomy for minorities based on territorial boundaries empowering self-rule and regional control. However, smaller ethnic groups living outside their ethnic regions were left without political and socio-economic rights. An exception to this is the Amhara Regional State’s Oromo Special Zone. Non-territorial minorities in Oromia, Afar, Gambella, Tigray, Somali, Southern Nations, and Benishangul-Gumuz are left without political, resources and social empowerment. This contradicts the provisions outlined in undrip, ilo 169, the osce, Lund Recommendations, udhr, and iccpr. The study examines paradoxes that territorial autonomy benefits dominant ethnic groups while disempowering non-territorial minorities. This undermines inclusion, equality, democratic participation and equality. The study argues that all regional states in Ethiopia should learn from the Amhara region to protect the non-territorial rights of minorities, ensuring equal access to political power, resource ownership, and cultural recognition.

Climate Change and Food Insecurity Among Pastoral Households: Assessing the Role of Information System-Based Early Warning Systems

Introduction: This study was conducted in the Adadle district of the Somali Regional State of Ethiopia to assess the extent of climate change-induced food insecurity among pastoral households and explore the role of information systems in mitigating its impact. Pastoral communities are highly vulnerable to climate-related shocks due to their dependence on climate-sensitive natural resources, making it crucial to investigate sustainable early warning strategies for food security enhancement. Objectives: The study aimed to assess the levels of household climate change-induced food insecurity and identify the role of information systems as an early warning strategy in mitigating food insecurity. Methods: A total of 156 pastoral household respondents were selected through random sampling. Descriptive statistics were employed to summarize household characteristics, while inferential analyses such as t-tests and chi-square (χ²) tests were used to examine relationships between household attributes and food insecurity. Additionally, logistic regression models were applied to explore determinants of food insecurity status. Results: The findings revealed that 61% of the surveyed households were food insecure. Among these, 33% were marginally, 17% moderately, and 11% severely food insecure. Furthermore, more than two-thirds of the respondents acknowledged the importance of an integrated information system as a tool for early warning and climate adaptation. Conclusions: The study highlights the critical role of information systems in addressing food insecurity challenges faced by pastoral communities under climate change stress. It emphasizes the need for increased food production, accessibility, and utilization, alongside capacity building to enhance resilience. The study recommends raising awareness among local communities on the value of information systems, fostering institutional development, improving access to climate-related data, and enhancing food and nutrition literacy to combat food insecurity effectively.

Barriers Associated to Exclusive Breastfeeding among Women’s of Infants Under-Six Months in Ethiopia Using the 2019 Ethiopian Mini Demographic and Health Survey

Background: Exclusive breastfeeding (EBF) is a highly effective, cost-efficient intervention to reduce infant morbidity and mortality globally. It plays a vital role in improving infant immunity and supporting physical and mental development. Despite its proven benefits, the prevalence of EBF in Ethiopia remains lower than the recommended levels set by the World Health Organization (WHO). This study aims to assess the prevalence of EBF and identify the barriers affecting its practice among women with infants under six months old in Ethiopia. Methods: Secondary data from the 2019 Ethiopian Mini Demographic and Health Survey (EMDHS) were used, employing a cross-sectional study design. The sample was selected using a stratified, two-stage cluster sampling approach. In the first stage, 305 enumeration areas (EAs) were chosen, including 93 urban and 212 rural areas. In the second stage, households were selected, and 573 women were included in the analysis. A multi-level logistic regression model was employed to investigate the barriers significantly associated with EBF practices. Results: The prevalence of EBF was 59.86%, which is significantly below the WHO's recommended threshold. Considerable variation in EBF prevalence was observed across Ethiopia's regional states, with an 8.30% difference. The random intercept binary logistic regression model was the best fit for the data. The results indicated that women's age, household wealth index, education level, family size, place of delivery, antenatal care visits, residence, and mode of delivery were significant factors influencing EBF. Conclusion: The EBF prevalence of 59.86% is well below the WHO’s recommended levels. Addressing barriers to EBF requires a comprehensive approach, including shifting community attitudes, enhancing policies, and improving women's access to education and healthcare. Key stakeholders, including health workers, policymakers, and organizations such as UNICEF and WHO, should

The Political Development of the South Caucasus Countries at the current stage

After the collapse of the Soviet Union, the countries of the South Caucasus faced a complex transformation of political processes. The process of state building in these countries took place against the backdrop of painful armed conflicts, socio-economic problems, and total poverty. Despite the fact that the movement towards democratic principles, as well as the development of a market economy, became a priority for regional states, nevertheless, crises in various spheres of public life, security issues, and the lack of experience in statehood led to the development of authoritarian tendencies in all three South Caucasian states. This article is devoted to the study of political processes in the countries of the South Caucasus at the present stage. Special attention is paid to the internal political struggle in Georgia, which has intensified over the past decade. The socio-political processes in Armenia leading to the development of an internal political crisis are analyzed. The author concludes that in Azerbaijan there is virtually no rivalry between individual political forces, since all powers are concentrated in the hands of the president, who year after year deepens his authoritarian control over the country.