In a complex and often turbulent world, it is widely recognized that while war has the capacity to destroy peace, peace also possesses the ability to extinguish the fires of war. While conflicts may occasionally disrupt this tranquility, true and lasting peace cannot be bought. It is achieved through dialogue, where free communication fosters understanding and enables disputing parties to address grievances and identify common interests. This process is vital not only for peace but also for building a sustainable economy.
Two years ago, the conflict in northern Ethiopia between the federal government and the Tigray People’s Liberation Front (TPLF), which had caused immense loss of life, economic devastation, and the displacement of millions, reached a turning point. The crisis, which had raged for nearly two years, was finally resolved through negotiations. During this period, the African Union (AU) actively pursued its policy of “African solutions for African problems,” an approach that has gained significant traction across the continent as it seeks to address its own challenges.
One of the most notable examples of this successful conflict resolution was the Pretoria Agreement, which was signed to resolve the conflict in northern Ethiopia. The war, which erupted in November 2020, primarily involved the Ethiopian government and the TPLF, leading to a humanitarian crisis that displaced millions and caused widespread suffering. With the involvement of the African Union chairman and other influential leaders, the Pretoria Agreement marked a significant turning point in the peace process. The agreement sought to establish a comprehensive ceasefire, facilitate humanitarian access, and create a framework for political dialogue.
Recently, members of Ethiopia’s Parliament questioned Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed during the federal government’s mid-year performance report, seeking clarification on the government’s efforts to prevent further conflict, especially amid rising tensions within the TPLF factions. The Prime Minister underscored the Pretoria peace agreement as a crucial symbol of Ethiopia’s commitment to lasting peace, urging armed groups to seize the opportunity for dialogue. He emphasized that the agreement sets an important precedent for Ethiopia and other nations, showcasing the country’s resolute pursuit of peace.
The Prime Minister also highlighted the government’s ongoing initiatives to foster sustainable peace, including the National Dialogue, which he described as essential for nurturing a culture of negotiation. Referring to peace as a “precious commodity,” he acknowledged that some of the challenges faced by Ethiopia and other African nations stem from “passivism mentalities and socialist ideologies.” He noted that Ethiopia has maintained peaceful relations with its neighbors for the past seven years, reinforcing its role in regional peace initiatives.
“In addition to ongoing dialogues in Afar, Somali, and Tigray states, the government has actively engaged with conflicting parties to address deep-rooted grievances and lay the foundation for sustainable peace,” the Prime Minister stated. He reiterated the government’s commitment to resolving conflicts through discussions and negotiations, encouraging armed groups to reconsider their positions and engage in dialogue to support national development. The government has also undertaken significant actions, including the establishment of the National Rehabilitation Commission and the drafting of a transitional justice policy. These initiatives reflect the government’s determination to maintain peace and address lingering issues from the conflict.
However, certain factions within the TPLF have sought to disrupt this progress, threatening to destabilize the region once again. While acknowledging the significant advancements made through peace talks, including the restoration of essential services, the Prime Minister emphasized that critical tasks remain. One of the most important of these is the implementation of the Disarmament, Demobilization, and Reintegration (DDR) process, which is vital for ensuring both peace and regional development. DDR is essential for stabilizing post-conflict societies, as it reduces the threat of violence by collecting and destroying weapons, preventing their future use. The process also involves the formal separation of fighters from armed groups and reintegrating them into society through education, training, and support systems.
Successfully reintegrating former combatants is not only a vital step in ensuring long-term peace, but it also helps restore public trust and stability. By addressing the psychological, economic, and social needs of ex-combatants, DDR programs reduce the likelihood of returning to violence and reinforce the peace agreement’s effectiveness.
As of the previous month, the National Rehabilitation Commission (NRC) reported that over 17,400 individuals who had previously participated in armed conflict completed rehabilitation training and were reintegrated into society. This achievement marks a significant step forward in Ethiopia’s efforts to promote peace and stability following years of unrest.
The NRC also highlighted the importance of resource mobilization, logistics management, and institutional capacity building, all of which are essential for the success of rehabilitation programs. The ex-combatants who have been reintegrated into their communities received training at ten permanent and temporary demobilization centers strategically located across Tigray, Afar, Amhara, and Oromia regions. This comprehensive approach not only helps these individuals adjust to civilian life but also fosters social cohesion and community development. This initiative underscores Ethiopia’s commitment to achieving lasting peace and stability by transforming former combatants into productive members of society.
The successful execution of the peace agreement, however, is contingent on the resolve of the Tigray Interim Administration. DDR is not just crucial for maintaining lasting peace but also for preventing a return to armed conflict and fostering national reconciliation. The federal government must ensure that the progress made under the peace agreement is not undermined by disruptive forces. At the same time, the international community must play an active role in supporting the peace process and holding accountable those responsible for any setbacks.
Prime Minister Abiy also emphasized ongoing efforts to address development concerns in various regions, including the relocation and reintegration of refugees in the Raya and Telemt areas and continuing negotiations in the Wolkait region. These efforts highlight Ethiopia’s commitment to national reconciliation and regional peace.
The demand for peace remains loud and unwavering. The Ethiopian government is urged to prioritize dialogue, reconciliation, and development efforts. Investing in rehabilitation, promoting national dialogue, and focusing on economic recovery, Ethiopia can move beyond its past conflicts and build a stable, prosperous future for its citizens. Furthermore, the government reaffirmed its commitment to strengthening dialogue with neighboring countries to promote mutually beneficial relations. Through these concerted efforts, Ethiopia aims to solidify its commitment to peace and stability in the region, demonstrating that dialogue and negotiation are indeed the pathways to resolving conflicts and building a prosperous future for all its people.
BY FIKADU BELAY
THE ETHIOPIAN HERALD TUESDAY 25 MARCH
