In contrast to the exultant reception that greeted Obama in Kenya, Ethiopians were much more subdued ahead of his visit. Though an increase in security was palpable, with military helicopters patrolling the skies and American security personnel in evidence, the day-to-day remained largely unchanged.
When asked if he thought Obama would bring any change, a 26-year old who asked to be identified only as Gebre shook his head dismissively before replying, “He’s just another person.”
“All these people come here,” he said, referring to the stream of diplomats that pour into Addis Ababa for African Union or United Nations events, stay a few nights in swanky hotels, and then fly back to their countries on private jets. “All they do is make more traffic.”
Read the rest over at VICE News.