To foster economic recovery in Ethiopia
ADDIS ABABA – The UK Minister for Africa, Lord Collins, has announced a 16 million GBP investment to support the Disarmament, Demobilization, and Reintegration Program (NDRP), focusing on aiding over 75,000 members of the Tigray Defense Force (TDF) in transitioning to civilian life.
The initiative seeks to facilitate individual recovery and contribute to the broader economic revitalization of Tigray, with an annual allocation of 8 million GBP from 2024 to 2026.
During a visit to a demobilization camp in Mekelle, Lord Collins highlighted its importance, stating, “Disarmament, demobilization, and reintegration are critical next steps in driving forward peace. We are supporting this process, helping 75,000 ethnic Tigrayans take the first step towards recovery.” The NDRP will offer essential support, including cash assistance, medical care, and mental health services, initially focusing on Tigray to strengthen national stability.
Lord Collins announced a 6.9 million GBP investment to revitalize Ethiopia’s textiles and garments sector, co-financed by the German government and implemented by GIZ. The initiative aims to improve working conditions for 10,000 workers-70% of whom are women-and increase exports by 20%. “In Tigray, I’ve seen the benefits of peace, including businesses exporting once again to the UK,” he noted, emphasizing support for industrialization to drive economic recovery.
The program will provide technical assistance to enhance productivity and ensure compliance with environmental and social standards, connecting producers with buyers and fostering partnerships with the UK and other markets. This initiative highlights the UK’s commitment to Ethiopia’s economic growth.
During his visit, Lord Collins will tour a factory that has recently resumed exporting garments to the UK, showcasing the benefits of UK support. He remarked, “Peace and stability are the foundations of growth-that’s why we are providing vital support to help fighters in northern Ethiopia transition back into civilian livelihoods. UK support will boost the Ethiopian textile sector, creating job opportunities and driving economic recovery.”
The Minister will also observe the positive impacts of UK aid on nutrition services, engage with mothers and health workers, and speak with women and girls who are survivors of conflict-related violence. In Addis Ababa, he plans to meet with Ethiopian officials, including Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed, to discuss economic cooperation and the humanitarian situation.
This funding initiative is part of the UK’s broader commitment to support Ethiopia’s recovery, which includes a 100 GBP million humanitarian aid package this year, with 30 million GBP specifically allocated for life-saving nutrition programs.
The UK Ambassador to EthiopiaDarren Welch emphasized the importance of these efforts, stating, “The UK is proud to play a leading role in supporting the Disarmament, Demobilization, and Reintegration process, an important step in progressing the Pretoria Agreement and for Ethiopia’s path towards sustainable peace.”
Through these initiatives, the UK aims to foster sustainable development and inclusive growth in Ethiopia, reinforcing its role as a key partner in the country’s journey toward recovery and stability, Ambassador Welch remarked.
In related developments, Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed (PhD) held discussions with Lord Collins yesterday. Following the meeting, Abiy stated, “We had an extensive discussion on various issues of mutual interest.”
BY BILAL DERSO
THE ETHIOPIAN HERALD SATURDAY 12 OCTOBER 2024
