Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
Two Ethiopian scientists discover possible human fossils dating back some 5.8 to 5.2
million years. They are tentatively named as a subspecies of
Ardipithecus ramidus
kadabba
.
2005
After 15 May elections, mass protests turn deadly when government troops fire on un-
armed demonstrators. Thousands of people, including opposition politicians, journal-
ists and newspaper editors are detained by police.
2006
Construction begins on the controversial Gibe III dam, the biggest dam project in
Africa. Debate rages over whether the dam will bring advantages or disadvantages.
2006-09
Ethiopia invades Somalia in order to dislodge the Islamic Courts Union. It becomes
embroiled in a guerrilla war and finally pulls out in early 2009.
2006-09
Tensions between Ethiopia and Eritrea come close to boiling over and both sides begin
massive troop build-ups in the border region. Fortunately tensions subside and war is
averted.
2007
In September Ethiopia celebrates the new millennium. Why is it seven years 'late'? It
uses a different calendar to Western countries.
2008
The UNMEE mandate expires after 'crippling restrictions' from Eritrea, and UN troops
withdraw from the border region, leaving the two nations eyeing each other nervously.
2010
Colonel Mengistu Haile Mariam announces he is writing his memoirs. In 2012 a
leaked version, entitled
Tiglatchn
, appears on the internet.
2011
