In a significant development, the African Development Bank (AfDB) is set to relocate its international staff from Ethiopia following a disturbing incident involving an alleged assault by government security forces on its personnel. This decision comes after the AfDB filed a formal complaint with Ethiopian authorities, denouncing the physical attack and prolonged detention of two employees on October 31 as a "very serious diplomatic incident."
Although the sources providing this information did not disclose a specific timeline for the withdrawal of employees based in Ethiopia, the repercussions on the AfDB's operations in the country remain uncertain. With eight projects valued at approximately $308 million, the potential impact on the bank's initiatives in Ethiopia raises questions about the future of its involvement in the region.
As the situation unfolds, the AfDB spokesperson has yet to comment on the staff pull-out.
Despite the formal complaint and assurances from Ethiopian authorities to investigate, the incident has heightened tensions, emphasizing the challenges faced by international organizations operating in complex diplomatic environments.