Rehabilitation training for former combatants in Tigray region commences

Addis Ababa, November 21, 2024 (FBC) – Efforts to ensure the sustainable reintegration of former combatants from the Tigray region have begun today by enrolling them into rehabilitation training centers.

These centers aim to provide the necessary support to transition former fighters into civilian life.

The initiative requires former combatants to hand over their arms, including heavy and medium weaponry, as part of their entry into the rehabilitation process.

In the first phase, the ex-combatants at the Mekelle Rehabilitation Training Center have handed over their individual and group weapons to the Ethiopian National Defense Forces, signifying a commitment to the disarmament and reintegration process.

It is to be recalled that following the Pretoria Peace Agreement, former militants handed over their heavy and medium weapons to the National Defense Forces in the presence of observers from continental and international institutions a year ago.

The launch event was attended by Brigadier General Derbie Mekuria, Deputy Commissioner of the National Rehabilitation Commission and representative of the Ethiopian National Defense Forces, alongside military officials, representatives of the Tigray interim administration, and partners from the African Union, European Union, United Nations, and other stakeholders.

The program envisions former combatants completing their training and reintegrating into their communities with the necessary financial and material support to lead stable civilian lives. This includes access to livelihood programs and social services.

National Rehabilitation Commissioner Temesgen Tilahun noted that the centers in Mekelle, Edagahamus and Adwa will collectively accommodate 75,000 former combatants over the next four months.

The program will focus on disarmament, providing skills training, and fostering sustainable reintegration into society, ENA mentioned in its report. This initiative underscores Ethiopia’s commitment to lasting peace and stability by transforming former combatants into productive members of society and strengthening national cohesion.

Over a two-year period, the commission plans to reintegrate the 371,971 ex-militants identified nationwide ensuring their permanent settlement within the community.

The National Rehabilitation Commission announced that the government is working with commitment on disarming and rehabilitating ex-militants in various regions, undergoing rehabilitation training and support necessary to rejoin society.