Two years after the Pretoria agreement, a significant milestone in ending Ethiopia’s Tigray conflict, President Getachew Reda has called for urgent international assistance to rebuild the war-ravaged region. Speaking at an event in Italy, Reda outlined ongoing challenges, from displacement to the restoration of essential services.
Progress and Challenges in Tigray
While the humanitarian situation in Tigray has improved since the peace agreement, vast areas remain under foreign occupation, particularly by Eritrean forces, leaving over a million people displaced. Many continue to live in difficult conditions, unable to return to their homes or reclaim their lands, especially in western Tigray.
Key sectors such as health, education, and agriculture have been severely impacted, with hospitals, schools, and public facilities destroyed. Food insecurity persists as the war devastated farming, leaving much of the population reliant on humanitarian aid. Despite these hardships, the Pretoria agreement has largely held, ensuring peace in most areas.
Public Sentiment and Cooperation
The people of Tigray are reportedly frustrated with the slow implementation of the peace agreement, as many displaced individuals remain in camps. Nevertheless, collaboration between Tigray’s interim administration and Ethiopia’s federal government continues, focusing on rebuilding trust and services.
Western Tigray and International Justice
President Reda emphasized the need for a peaceful resolution to the contested Western Tigray region, advocating dialogue and reconciliation to facilitate the return of displaced people. He also highlighted the necessity of international mechanisms to address alleged human rights violations during the conflict, ensuring justice for victims.
Ethiopia-Eritrea Relations
Eritrean troops continue to occupy parts of Tigray, including border regions like Irob. Reda called on Ethiopia’s federal government to enforce the Pretoria agreement, which requires the withdrawal of foreign forces. He stressed the importance of peace with Eritrea while advocating for accountability for past atrocities.
Political Divisions and the Path Forward
Although political divisions remain within Tigray, Reda urged unity to sustain peace and rebuild the region. “Our people desire only peace,” he stated, emphasizing the resilience of the Tigrayan population despite enduring immense suffering.