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Ethiopia: Dams, Plantations Threat to Kenyans

Published

9 years ago

14/02/2017

By Dipo Olowookere

Dropping water levels in Kenya’s Lake Turkana following the development of dams and plantations in Ethiopia’s lower Omo Valley threaten the livelihoods of half a million indigenous people in Ethiopia and Kenya, Human Rights Watch said today.

Based on publicly available data from the United States Department of Agriculture, Lake Turkana’s water levels have dropped by approximately 1.5 meters since January 2015, and further reduction is likely without urgent efforts to mitigate the impact of Ethiopia’s actions.

Human Rights Watch research based on satellite imagery shows that the drop is already affecting the shoreline of the lake, which has receded as much as 1.7 kilometers in Ferguson Gulf since November 2014. The Gulf is a critical fish breeding area, and a key fishing ground for the indigenous Turkana people.

“The predicted drop in the lake levels will seriously affect food supplies in the Omo Valley and Lake Turkana, which provide the livelihoods for half a million people in both Kenya and Ethiopia,” said Felix Horne, senior Africa researcher at Human Rights Watch. “The Ethiopian government’s moves to develop its resources should not endanger the survival of indigenous people living downstream.”

In 2015, the reservoir behind the new Gibe III dam in Ethiopia began filling. Water that previously flowed unimpeded into Lake Turkana, replenishing seasonal drops in lake levels, has since been held behind the Gibe III dam.

In 2015, the annual July-November flood from the Omo River into Lake Turkana did not occur, resulting in a drop of water levels of 1.3 meters from November 2014.

The very limited artificial release of water from Gibe III in 2016 was not enough to replenish water levels in Lake Turkana. As of January 30, 2017, lake levels were approximately 1.5 meters lower than they were two years earlier according to the data.

People living in fishing communities along Lake Turkana who spoke to Human Rights Watch in August 2016, were generally aware of the risks posed by Gibe III but largely uninformed about the plantations and the devastating impact they could have on their livelihoods.

When Human Rights Watch visited communities around Ferguson Gulf on the western lake shores that month, local residents had noticed changes from previous years in the lake levels.

People who depend on fishing for their livelihood said that their daily catch has been reduced. One 50-year-old woman living near Lake Turkana told Human Rights Watch in August 2016: “It has been difficult these days…the main issue has been hunger.

There is reduced water in the lake.” While multiple factors contribute to the decline, including overfishing and unsustainable fishing practices, a further drop in lake levels will most likely reduce catches even further.

The Kenyan government has done little to address the impact from Ethiopia’s Omo Valley development, or to press Ethiopia to take steps to mitigate the damage and to consult with and inform affected communities about the impact of the project.

The governments of Kenya and Ethiopia should urgently work with these communities to ensure upstream industrial works does not devastate their livelihoods, Human Rights Watch said.

In addition to the industrial developments in lower Omo, climate change is exacerbating the already significant problems the Turkana people face in getting sufficient food and water, and maintaining their health and security.

“The Ethiopian government has shown scant regard for the lives and livelihoods of already marginalized communities who are reliant on the Omo River and Lake Turkana for their livelihoods,” Horne said. “In its rush to develop its resources it has not developed strategies to minimize the impact on those living downstream.”

Ethiopia’s Gibe III dam, which opened on December 17, 2016, is a key component of a massive industrial project in the lower Omo Valley that includes a cascade of water-intensive mega dams, and sugar and cotton plantations.

The sugar plantations have been under development in the Omo Valley since 2011. Based on Human Rights Watch estimates derived from satellite imagery, approximately 19,500 hectares of land has been cleared on the east bank of the river for sugar plantation development.

An additional 10,500 hectares has been prepared for irrigation on the west bank. The sugar plantations are planned to be 100,000 hectares. According to the Ethiopian Sugar Corporation, the first of the four sugar processing factories should be ready to begin production in early 2017.

In Ethiopia, livelihoods of those living in the Omo Valley depend on cattle grazing and planting crops in the rich alluvial soil along the banks of the Omo River. This alluvial soil is replenished by the annual flood, which deposits water and nutrient rich sediment along the banks. A lack of floods in 2015 and an inadequate artificial flood in 2016 are making it more difficult to grow food along the Omo River.

Some communities have also reported restricted access to the Omo River and food shortages in 2016.

Furthermore, the plantations necessitate clearing of land used by agro-pastoral indigenous groups including the Bodi and the Mursi. The Bodi have been the most heavily affected, with a significant area of their land cleared.

“The projections of the water drawdown on Lake Turkana, routinely rubbished by Ethiopia’s government, are coming true and lake levels have started dropping,” Horne said. “This should serve as a warning about what could happen if the Ethiopian government continues to ignore the needs of downstream communities in its rush to develop its resources.”

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Unlocking Profitability: The Benefits of Hiring a Property Management Company in West Palm Beach

Published

42 minutes ago

06/12/2025

Dipo Olowookere

West Palm Beach’s vibrant real estate market beckons both seasoned and novice investors looking to reap substantial returns. However, property ownership comes with its fair share of challenges, including day-to-day maintenance, tenant relations, and the nuances of legal compliance. This is where the expertise of a property management company becomes invaluable. An efficient property manager can alleviate these burdens, permitting owners to enjoy their investments’ benefits with fewer headaches. Keep reading to discover how property management in West Palm Beach can enhance your real estate experience and profitability.

Unlocking Profitability: The Role of Property Management Companies in West Palm Beach

Property managers play a huge role in keeping rental properties profitable, especially in a competitive market like West Palm Beach. They handle the day-to-day work that often drains an owner’s time, from setting the right rental rates to advertising vacancies. Thanks to their knowledge of local trends, West Palm Beach Property Management teams help attract reliable tenants and keep units occupied.

They also serve as the bridge between owners and renters, managing everything from screenings and inspections to repairs and conflict resolution. By keeping properties well-maintained and responding quickly to tenant needs, they boost satisfaction and encourage long-term leases, ultimately protecting property value and strengthening steady cash flow for owners.

Enhancing Real Estate Value through Professional Property Management

Professional property management plays a key role in increasing long-term property value. These teams guide strategic upgrades and renovations that boost appeal and competitiveness in the West Palm Beach market. Consistent maintenance schedules protect essential features, prevent costly repairs, and support stronger property assessments. Skilled managers also anticipate market trends, directing improvements that align with evolving tenant expectations and help properties attract higher rents and responsible occupants.

By coordinating directly with contractors and service providers, they ensure all work meets professional standards while securing competitive pricing through established vendor relationships, giving property owners both savings and confidence in the care of their investment.

Streamlining Operations: How Property Management Saves You Time and Money

Property management services save investors valuable time by handling daily rental operations such as tenant acquisition, maintenance, and administrative tasks. Their expertise creates a streamlined system that frees owners to focus on growth or other pursuits. These firms also help reduce long-term costs through market knowledge, supplier discounts, and preventive maintenance that avoids expensive repairs.

They support strong financial performance with organized tracking of income, expenses, and profitability, making accounting and tax preparation easier. Their skill in budgeting and forecasting helps protect returns and keep investments on track, giving owners more flexibility while maintaining strong rental performance.

Attracting and Retaining Tenants with Expert Property Management Services

Property management companies play a vital role in attracting and keeping reliable tenants by using strong marketing tactics and thorough screening. Their tenant retention efforts, consistent communication, quick responses, and a respectful environment help reduce turnover and encourage long-term leases. Tenants feel more secure knowing they have a dependable point of contact for issues, which boosts satisfaction and stability.

Skilled managers also handle lease renewals and negotiations to maintain favorable terms. With deep awareness of tenant preferences and local market trends, they guide owners in adding desirable amenities that elevate a property’s appeal within West Palm Beach’s competitive rental market.

Navigating West Palm Beach’s Real Estate Legal Landscape with a Property Management Partner

Navigating property law and evolving regulations can be challenging for property owners, making legal compliance a complex task. Property management companies provide expertise in staying current with local, state, and federal laws, helping landlords avoid costly mistakes. They serve as advocates during tenant disputes or legal conflicts, managing issues professionally and, if needed, representing owners in court or negotiations.

These companies also draft and enforce comprehensive lease agreements, minimizing misunderstandings and fostering smooth landlord-tenant relationships. By implementing fair policies and rigorous safety measures, property managers reduce the risk of discrimination claims, safety violations, and other legal repercussions, ensuring both tenant protection and the long-term success of the property.

Altogether, engaging the services of a professional property management company in West Palm Beach is a shrewd investment in real estate success. Property owners benefit from the expertise that not only safeguards but also magnifies the potential of their assets, allowing them to enjoy the fruits of investment with minimal hassle.

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Pastor Ogbueli’s Abuja Night of Glory Holds Today

Published

22 hours ago

05/12/2025

Business Post Contributor

By Blaise Udunze

Momentum is gathering for the Abuja Night of Glory taking place today, Friday, December 5, 2025, at the main bowl of the Moshood Abiola National Stadium.

The crusade is being hosted by Dominion City Church headed by Pastor David Ogbueli and it starts by 7pm.

The all-night programme will feature dynamic worship leaders like Nathanial Bassey, Dunsin Oyekan, Theophilus Sunday, Chioma Jesus, Kaestrings, Sunmisola Agbebi Okeleye, Minister GUC, Ebuka Songs, Anthony Kani, and DC Angels.

Reputed as a teacher of righteousness and anointed minister of the gospel, evidenced by the miracles that have trailed his ministry, and one who champions the cause of the poor through empowerment initiatives, Dr. David Ogbueli will be joined by renowned ministers from within and outside Nigeria, including Evangelist Andres Bisonni, Dr. Charles Ndifon, Evangelist Dan Scott, Apostle Ikechukwu Nnajiofor, and several others.

Night of Glory has, in previous editions held across Nigeria’s cities, recorded remarkable results, such as immediate healings and freedom from chronic ailments, recovery of vision and movement after many years of paralysis, along with liberation from dependencies and emotional distress. Numerous participants have also shared testimonies of breakthroughs and big personal changes after the experience. Organisers state that this year’s event, in Abuja, is anticipated to exceed previous editions.

The event is intended for all individuals trusting God for divine intervention in any area of life.

Understanding the role of faith in the destiny of individuals and nations, a dedicated prayer session for Nigeria will take place during the crusade to tackle some of the current challenges being faced in the country and also to uplift he leaders and institutions before God.

Attendance is free, and registration is encouraged via the QR codes on event banners. Organisers expect a massive turnout as worshippers travel from across the country for what is anticipated to be a transformative encounter.

Adequate security and free transportation have been put in place ALL over the city of Abuja, while those outside Abuja are expected to join online.

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Rivers Speaker, 15 Other Lawmakers Leave PDP for APC

Published

1 day ago

05/12/2025

Modupe Gbadeyanka

By Modupe Gbadeyanka

The Speaker of the Rivers State House of Assembly, Mr Martin Amaewhule, has defected to the All Progressives Congress (APC).

At the plenary on Friday, Mr Amaewhule joined the ruling party from the opposition Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), along with 15 other members of the state parliament.

This development comes some months after they had earlier declared their support for the APC in the wake of a crisis with the state governor, Mr Sim Fubura.

The lawmakers had an issue with Mr Fubura, which led to a state of emergency declared on the oil-rich state by President Bola Tinubu in March 2025.

This embargo was only lift in September 2025 after the duration of the six-month emergency rule in the state.

A few days ago, members of the Rivers Assembly passed a vote of confidence on President Tinubu, backing him to remain in office till 2031, when he would have spent eight years in office if re-elected in 2027.

Announcing their defection today, the lawmakers pinned their decision on the crisis rocking the PDP at the national level.

It is not certain if their political godfather, Mr Nyesom Wike, who is the current Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), will join them in APC.

Mr Wike, who governed Rivers State from 2015 to 2023, has been accused of instigating the crisis in the opposition PDP. He was expelled from the party last month at a national convention held in Ibadan, Oyo State.