The Awra Amba community in Ethiopia’s Amhara region is facing severe disruptions due to ongoing conflict between Fano fighters and government troops. Once thriving on tourism and cooperative initiatives, their economy has plummeted, with fear of violence affecting daily life and education. Amidst calls for political reform and dialogue, community leaders express a strong desire for peace and unity in addressing the crisis.
The Awra Amba community, located in Ethiopia’s Amhara region, has been significantly impacted by ongoing conflict between the Fano armed group and the Ethiopian federal government. Established as a cooperative society in the 1970s, Awra Amba is known for its egalitarian principles and peaceful conflict resolution. However, violence has escalated, making it too dangerous for locals to leave their village or engage in regular activities such as schooling and trade.
Local resident Aregash Nuru expressed sadness over the changing political climate, stating, “The political situation has changed everything.” Prior to the current conflict, the village, which emphasizes equal work distribution and cooperation, thrived with tourism and trade. The community also supported welfare projects benefitting the elderly and orphans, but the ongoing violence has disrupted this economy.
Tourist visits once numbered in the thousands, allowing community members to sell handmade textiles. Current safety concerns have halted visits, and community member Worksew Mohammed noted, “It is too dangerous for them to come here.” Travelling for agricultural sales has also become perilous due to robbers and weakened law enforcement.
Additionally, the government has imposed internet blackouts, hindering students like Alamu Nuruhak from accessing learning materials. The community has also had to close its school due to pressure from Fano fighters, impacting education for many youths. In 2022, residents faced terrorism firsthand when one local was kidnapped for ransom, prompting community leader Zumra Nuru to flee to Addis Ababa with his family.
Researcher Bantayehu Shiferaw Chanie emphasized the need for political reform to resolve the conflict, as Amhara voices have been excluded from negotiations. The community’s ongoing struggles echo historical tensions; during the Derg regime in the late 1980s, they were targeted as well. Yet, amidst adversity, founder Zumra Nuru remains hopeful, stating, “We just want peace,” advocating for dialogue and unity in overcoming conflict.
The Awra Amba community in Ethiopia’s Amhara region is facing severe challenges due to the ongoing conflict involving the Fano armed group and federal troops. Despite its historic commitment to peace and conflict resolution, the community’s economy has been devastated, education disrupted, and safety compromised. Political representation for the Amhara region is essential for peace, highlighting the need for dialogue. Amid these trials, the community continues to strive for a peaceful resolution, emphasizing unity as a path forward.
Original Source: www.aljazeera.com
