Resumption of rehabilitation training welcomed by ex-combatants in Tigray region
Addis Ababa, April 20, 2025 (FMC) — The renewed rehabilitation training program in the region will significantly contribute toward building lasting peace, former combatants from Tigray region stated.
The ex-combatants have expressed their delight on the resumption of the training.
Recall that delegates from the African Union and international organizations visited the training center in Mekelle, where they observed the recommenced rehabilitation program for ex-fighters.
Former combatants Kidu Atsebeha, Tadele Kiros, and Hintsaye Hadera shared their perspectives on the renewed initiative.
Kidu Atsebeha noted that the suspension of the rehabilitation training had caused discontent among former combatants, adding that they are now pleased with its resumption.
Echoing this sentiment, Tadele Kiros stated that the ongoing activities in line with the Pretoria Peace Agreement are a source of satisfaction.
He emphasized the strong desire of the people for peace and development, asserting that the rehabilitation training equips individuals to lead productive social and economic lives.
The other ex-combatant, Hintsaye Hadera described the resumed training as a welcome opportunity to transition to a normal life.
He also elaborated on the significance of the civic education and ethics components of the training in enabling ex-combatants to lead peaceful lives upon their return to their communities.
Furthermore, Hintsaye said the rehabilitation training plays a crucial role in fostering sustainable peace.
Moreover, the former combatants acknowledged the support they are receiving in terms of training materials and appealed to the Federal Government and international partner organizations to strengthen their assistance.
Chief Commissioner of National Rehabilitation Commission Mr. Temesgen Tilahun stated that similar rehabilitation programs are underway in the Afar, Amhara, and Oromia regions to reintegrate former combatants into society.
He further noted that the rehabilitation and reintegration training centers in Mekelle and Edaga Hamus, which previously provided training in Tigray, are currently receiving and accommodating former combatants.
According to him, 5,000 former combatants are currently undergoing rehabilitation training, and about 12,000 ex-fighters from the region have already participated in the program, as reported by ENA.
Nationwide, a total of 25,000 former combatants in the Afar, Tigray, Amhara, and Oromia regions have gone through the rehabilitation and reintegration training.
The commissioner also conveyed a message to other armed groups urging them to embrace the rehabilitation training, which plays a positive role in building lasting national peace and enabling them to lead normal lives.
Continental and international partner organizations and countries have reaffirmed their commitment to continue supporting the efforts to reintegrate former combatants into society through rehabilitation training.