Awra Amba, a village in Ethiopia’s Amhara region, faces violent conflict since April 2023, disrupting its peaceful existence and economy. The community, known for its egalitarian values, experiences increased kidnappings, safety fears, and economic strife. Calls for political dialogue are essential for lasting peace amidst reports of severe human rights violations.
The village of Awra Amba in Ethiopia’s Amhara region has endured a tumultuous two years marked by violent conflict involving Fano fighters and Ethiopian federal soldiers. Once a peaceful community known for its egalitarian principles, Awra Amba has been directly affected by the escalating violence, resulting in closures of schools, disrupted economic activities, and threats to local security.
Aregash Nuru, a 30-year-old accountant and tour guide, lamented the loss of safety as gunshots are heard from afar and kidnappings have become a painful reality. This shift in the political landscape has drastically altered daily life, transforming Awra Amba from a peaceful haven into a zone of fear and uncertainty.
Historically, the Tigray conflict from 2020 to 2022 precipitated significant loss of life, with estimates suggesting around 600,000 casualties. Awra Amba, a stark contrast during this period, had developed a reputation for peaceful conflict resolution and community solidarity. Founded in the 1970s as a utopian society, the community embodies values of equality and cooperation.
However, since the April 2023 outbreak of conflict ignited by government attempts to disband regional forces, reports of violence including mass killings and gender-based atrocities have emerged. Heightened scrutiny from international organizations such as Amnesty International and Human Rights Watch highlights a pressing human rights crisis in the region.
The once-thriving economy of Awra Amba, reliant on tourism and agricultural products, has collapsed as visitors remain hesitant to travel. Worksew Mohammed, a former tour guide, noted the drastic change, stating, “There used to be many foreigners who came to visit… now there are none. It is too dangerous for them to come here.”
Trade has been severely hindered due to increased criminal activity along roads, leading community members to fear for their safety. Ayalsew Zumra remarked, “Going to other towns is difficult, sometimes it is not safe. That means we can’t transport the produce. But that’s how we make most [of our] income.”
Additionally, the community faces unique challenges with internet blackouts instituted by the government, further hindering educational opportunities for its youth. Alamu Nuruhak, a university student, lamented the disruption, stating, “It’s difficult here to get anything done.”
The shutdown of a local school, previously funded by the community, underscores the impact of the conflict. The community’s founder, Zumra Nuru, has also faced pressure, recently fleeing to Addis Ababa amid threats to his family. With the persistence of the conflict, experts suggest that a lack of political dialogue may lead to further destabilization in the Amhara region.
The UN has reported grave human rights violations committed by both the Ethiopian military and Fano militias. The pervasive violence has left an estimated four million children out of school, amplifying concerns over the ongoing crisis. Bantayehu Shiferaw Chanie suggests a resolution lies in political engagement rather than continued military operations. “If the conflict continues, the devastation will result in a larger crisis,” he cautioned.
Amid this turmoil, the residents of Awra Amba remain steadfast in their pursuit of peace. As founder Zumra Nuru articulates, the community has navigated strife before but believes in the power of unity for a hopeful future. “We just want peace… by working together, by seeing what joins us, not what divides us, we can put an end to this suffering and bring peace to Ethiopia.”
The ongoing conflict in Ethiopia’s Amhara region has severely impacted the peaceful community of Awra Amba, which has historically thrived on principles of egalitarianism and peace. The escalation of violence has disrupted their economy, compromised safety, and halted educational efforts. As calls for political dialogue grow, the community continues to aspire for peaceful resolutions. The resilience of Awra Amba exemplifies the hope for enduring harmony amid adversity.
Original Source: www.aljazeera.com
