US Ambassador defends HR report in parting words

Accusing the US State Department of making false allegations about human rights abuses, the Ethiopian Government explained, through the Ethiopian Ministry of Foreign Affairs, for the first time a few weeks ago that the American Embassy in Addis Ababa was to blame as it collected the information.

With the dispute ongoing, US Ambassador, Donald Yamamoto, offered some thoughts on the topic as he prepares to leave office.

In what might be his last briefing before departing to be Deputy Assistant Secretary of State for African Affairs, Mr Yamamato commented that the US has engaged in over 40 years of reporting the human rights situation in various countries.

He said: “We try to make it accurate and effective as possible. We do talk to government officials, including at the local level, about the situation.

“For example, in Somalia and Gambella regions, it is completely based on eyewitness accounts. We try to do our best. Overall the report is very accurate”

Under the leadership of President Obama, a new Africa team is going to be put in place. As part of these changes, Ambassador Yamamato, together with some of his staff, will depart.

Some members left last week and the Ambassador will probably leave next month.

He added in his briefing that the US will continue to strengthen its commitment and projects, working closely with the government of Ethiopia and other donor countries.

For instance, to address the food issues of the country, the Embassy discussed with senior government officials to develop a sustainable agricultural development plan. Another issue is prompting regional stability, as Ethiopia plays a pivotal role in the region. In addition, the embassy is working closely with the government to coordinate the process of democratisation.

The US is also very much concerned about investing in education and health care in Ethiopia.

With regards to Eritrea, the Ambassador explained that the US has not been successful in improving the diplomatic relationship between Ethiopia and Eritrea over three years, although it will still continue to try to bring peace between the neighbours.

About Somalia, he said the solution is going to be found by the Somali people themselves and added: “We supported the transitional federal government’s efforts to try to bring peace and stability to the region.” Yamamoto’s soon to be new boss, Jonnie Carson, the Assistant Secretary of State for African Affairs has told Eritrea and other countries not to interfere in Somalia.