The Tigray conflict which erupted in November 2020 between the Ethiopian Federal Government and the Tigray People`s Liberation Front has resulted in significant human suffering and extensive material destruction. After nearly two years of warfare, the conflict has not only inflicted human and material damage to the people in the northern part of the country, it has also caused trauma to people in the Tigray State. Following the peace deal signed by the two parties, the State is gradually returning to a state of peace and several individuals are expressing their commitment to peace in various ways.
As part of the nation`s desire to pursue peace and ensure progress all over the country, Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed (PhD) has recently urged Tigray elites to resolve their differences through peaceful means.
In his message, the Primer emphasized the importance of peace, dialogue, and understanding to ensure the unity of the people of Tigray. In a statement delivered recently, Abiy noted that the people of Tigray still live in fear and trauma which hinders their ability to lead peaceful lives.
In his statement, Abiy has called on the Tigray elites to address the challenges of the people, emphasizing that “there is no gain in war.” In connection with this call for peace, a peace rally was held in the capital last Thursday by Tigreans residing in Addis to express their strong support for sustainable peace in Ethiopia’s Tigray State.
The peace rally, which was held under the banner “Our Choice is Peace”, reflected the strong desire of the people of Tigray to live peacefully and bring about economic prosperity, aligning with Prime Minister Abiy`s call to Tigray elites. During the event, many participants were seen expressing their commitment and deep interest to peace and pledged to be agents of peace, no matter the cost.
During the event, attendees called upon the State’s politicians and elites to prioritize peace, resolve their differences through dialogue and address the pressing challenges facing the State, refraining from actions that would threaten peace. The peace rally indicated the community’s dedication to promoting a harmonious and prosperous future for the Tigray State specifically and for Ethiopia as a whole. Indeed, the event was a clear demonstration that all Ethiopians are willing to sacrifice their personal interests in the pursuit of peace, which is the essential element for life and prosperity.
Throughout the two-year conflict, the people of Tigray endured numerous hardships and challenges. Many lost their lives; others were forced to flee their homes and witnessed the destruction of vital infrastructure. Worse, the youth, the future workforce of the country, became the primary victim of the conflict.
Ethiopia, a land with a rich history and diverse cultures where people from different backgrounds live in harmony and tolerance serves as a role model for other African countries.
As the seat of the African Union, Ethiopia plays a critical role in promoting peace, stability, and economic development across the continent, consequently ensuring broader prosperity. The various projects that are being carried out throughout the country, including the corridor development activities, and others are fruits of the peace that Ethiopia is now experiencing.
As repeatedly affirmed by the government, Ethiopia has achieved significant economic growth within the past few years. This growth has been driven by investment in agriculture, industry, tourism, and infrastructure. As a result, the nation can create job opportunities, improve agricultural production and increase productivity. What is more, the manufacturing sector, which is expected to be the future engine of the economy, has made a substantial contribution to the nation’s overall economic success.
While focusing on economic progress, the government and the people have not forgotten the essence of peace, which is the paramount element for prosperity. According to Melaku Ayenew, a researcher in peace and security, whom this reporter interviewed, peace is a central ingredient for economic progress. “Peace and stability are basic factors for ensuring economic progress in any country. Without stability, investors are deterred and foreign investment, which is a key driver of economic growth, will be crippled,” he added.
Melaku further explained that peace enables the government to focus on development activities and provide essential services, such as education, healthcare, and infrastructure, which are critical for reducing poverty and improving the living standards of the society. This is what the government is doing now. Despite all the challenges, it is doing its level best to provide essential services to its citizens. A good example of this commitment is the various infrastructural development activities and the corridor development projects that are being carried out all over the country.
Ethiopia is not only a country where people from different cultural backgrounds coexist with intolerance. It is also a place where regional and international conferences are regularly held. The African Union conference, for instance, demonstrates Ethiopia’s role as a hub for diplomacy and peace building. As a seat of this continental organization, Ethiopia is expected to meet the expectations of its guests. Peace and stability are some of the expectations from our guests. In this regard, the nation has shown its commitment to peace and stability at the national and regional levels, Melaku remarked.
It is true, that ensuring peace and stability is fundamental for Ethiopia’s continued progress and growth. With peace and stability, the country can sustain robust economic development while safeguarding the well-being and security of its people. As a key driver of prosperity and a cornerstone in shaping countries’ future, striving to uphold peace and security is not just important; it is also a matter of survival. The peace rally held last Thursday by the Tigreans residing in Addis Ababa serves as a powerful reminder.
BY LEULSEGED WORKU
THE ETHIOPIAN HERALD SATURDAY 8 FEBRUARY 2025
