I believe I read here that the good folks at Ethiopian had not worked out a deal with jburg airport allowing transfer of firearms. Anybody have the scoop on that?

I can't answer that but it would not surprise me in the least. I flew Ethiopian to Lusaka last year and while my gun made it there and home, it was not without a few anxious momements. Regardless of what you find out, I would suggest having a copy of your firearms permit in hand before leaving home and keep it with you after you depart and keep it with you until you get home.