Government-led fact-checking initiatives in countries like Brazil, Ethiopia, Indonesia, and India are raising concerns about misuse for propaganda and political interests. Fact-checkers argue these initiatives often lack transparency, impartiality, and objectivity, and can be used to stifle dissent. The World Economic Forum's report highlights misinformation and disinformation as top global risks, with potential for increased government control over information. Experts suggest that independent organizations should handle fact-checking to ensure credibility.

Ethiopian diaspora communities, particularly in the United States, are increasingly involved in spreading disinformation about the political and social situation in Ethiopia. This has exacerbated divisions and tensions both within the diaspora and back home. The article highlights the role of social media platforms and diaspora-run media outlets in disseminating false information, often driven by political motives and financial gains. The Ethiopian government, along with various armed groups, are criticized for their roles in the ongoing conflicts and disinformation campaigns. The lack of effective platforms for political dialogue and the influence of social media have significantly impacted the narratives and perceptions of the situation in Ethiopia.

Ethiopia's diaspora community, particularly in the United States, is grappling with the spread of disinformation, which is exacerbating political and social tensions both abroad and at home. The article highlights the role of social media and diaspora-run media outlets in disseminating false information, contributing to divisions and conflicts within Ethiopia. The Ethiopian government, various armed groups, and diaspora activists are all implicated in these disinformation campaigns. The article underscores the need for a unified narrative and better platforms for political discourse to mitigate the impact of disinformation.

West Africa has experienced significant political upheaval since 2020, with coups in Mali, Guinea, Burkina Faso, Niger, and Gabon, and instability spreading to Central African countries. Fact-checkers in the region have shifted their focus to combating misinformation related to these coups. Notable instances include debunking viral videos and false claims about attacks and military actions. The rise in disinformation is attributed to geopolitical interests and the influence of foreign powers like Russia. Fact-checkers face challenges in accessing reliable information and are often perceived as adversarial. Their role is crucial in maintaining accurate public discourse amid political instability.

Ethiopian Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed has ordered the military to advance on the Tigray regional capital, Mekele, following the expiration of a 72-hour ultimatum for Tigray leaders to surrender. The conflict, which began on November 4, has led to significant displacement and a dire humanitarian crisis, with the UN warning of critical shortages in the region. International organizations and rights groups have expressed alarm over potential violations of international law and the humanitarian impact. The Ethiopian government has announced a humanitarian access route, but challenges remain in delivering aid. The conflict threatens to destabilize Ethiopia and its neighbors, with thousands of refugees fleeing to Sudan.

Ethiopian Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed announced airstrikes against the Tigray region's forces, targeting heavy weapons to prevent retaliatory attacks. The escalating conflict, which could lead to civil war, involves the federal government and the regional Tigray government, both viewing each other as illegal. The Tigray People's Liberation Front, feeling marginalized by power shifts since Abiy's 2018 office assumption, defied the federal government by holding a local election. Tigray is increasingly isolated, with closed airports and borders. The UN and aid groups express concern over the humanitarian impact, exacerbated by the covid-19 pandemic. Communications are cut in Tigray, making it difficult to verify events. The federal government has restricted public meetings and arms bearing in Tigray, while the UN human rights chief calls for restored communication.

Ethiopia's Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed announced airstrikes against the Tigray region's forces, escalating a conflict that could lead to civil war. The federal government and the Tigray People's Liberation Front, former allies, now view each other as illegal. The operation aims to restore law and order, with the Tigray region increasingly isolated. The UN and African Union are involved in diplomatic efforts, while aid groups warn of a potential humanitarian disaster. Communications in Tigray are largely cut off, complicating the verification of events.

Ethiopian Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed announced airstrikes against the Tigray region, escalating tensions and potentially leading to civil war. The federal government aims to dismantle the Tigray People's Liberation Front, which it accuses of attacking a military base. The conflict has led to communication blackouts and movement restrictions in Tigray, raising humanitarian concerns. The United Nations and African Union are involved in diplomatic efforts, while aid organizations warn of a looming crisis. The situation remains volatile, with both sides reporting casualties and the potential for further escalation.

Ethiopia is on the brink of civil war as Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed orders military action against the Tigray People's Liberation Front (TPLF) following an alleged attack on a military base. The conflict has raised concerns of regional instability in the Horn of Africa, with international calls for de-escalation. The TPLF, feeling marginalized by political reforms and the postponement of national elections, has been accused of arming militias. The situation is further complicated by Ethiopia's existing tensions with Egypt over a dam project and internal ethnic violence. Observers warn of a prolonged and disastrous conflict if national dialogue is not pursued.

An Ethiopian Airlines jet crashed shortly after takeoff on March 11, resulting in the death of all 157 people on board from 35 different countries. The crash occurred in clear weather and bore similarities to a previous Lion Air crash involving the same Boeing 737 Max 8 model. China grounded its fleet of 737 Max 8 jets following the incident. Ethiopian Airlines CEO Tewolde Gebremariam stated that the cause of the crash was not yet known. The crash is a significant blow to Ethiopian Airlines and has raised questions about the safety of the Boeing 737 Max 8 model. The U.S. Federal Aviation Administration and National Transportation Safety Board are assisting with the investigation.