Peace Conference Strengthens Unity Between Tigray and Afar Regions
Promoting Coexistence through Dialogue
In a significant push towards harmony, a peace conference recently convened in Adi-Gudem, focusing on fostering unity and coexistence between the peoples of Tigray and Afar. The event attracted community members, local elders, leaders, and government officials dedicated to promoting peaceful relations.
Community Roots of Cooperation
Local media reported that this conference specifically targeted the communities of Ara-Alem Segeda in Hintalo Woreda (Tigray) and Galaeson in Abaala Woreda (Afar). The emphasis was placed on people-to-people cooperation as a cornerstone for enduring peace.
Southeast Zone Governor Kelali Hagazi highlighted the importance of ongoing collaboration between the two regions, stating, “Officials may come and go, but neighbors and communities are continuous.” He urged collective efforts to protect peace and counter negative influences seeking to disrupt stability.
Historical Harmony and Continuing Commitment
The Governor of Hintalo Woreda, Goitoom Tesfaye, recalled the traditional peaceful coexistence between the two communities, which have historically resolved differences through dialogue facilitated by elders and local residents. Haji Ali Hadis, representing the Galaeson station in Abaala Woreda, echoed this sentiment, reaffirming that the people of Tigray are like brothers to those of Afar, and he pledged to uphold peace and unity.
Ensuring Sustained Peace for Stability
The conference participants emphasized the importance of sustained peace for both communities to ensure stability and prosperity. The gathering concluded with awards being presented to individuals recognized for their exceptional contributions to promoting unity and coexistence.
Impact of the Tigray Conflict
The conflict in Tigray, which erupted in November 2020, has severely impacted relations between Tigray and Afar regions. An assessment from the International Organization for Migration (IOM) recorded that by March 2021, over one million internally displaced persons (IDPs) were documented in Tigray, with an additional 45,343 in Afar.
Current Developments
On October 3, 2024, an agreement was announced to accelerate the repatriation of individuals displaced due to the two-year conflict. Tigray Interim Administration President Getachew Reda visited Semera, the capital of the Afar Region, for discussions that focused on revitalizing the historical relationship between the two communities, safeguarding shared security, and furthering development.
Both parties resolved to restore disrupted interpersonal relations, reopen critical roads, and maintain regular meetings to monitor the implementation of agreements. Awol Arba, President of the Afar Regional State, reinforced efforts aimed at securing lasting peace and cooperation.
Challenges Still Looming
Despite the positive developments, tensions between the two regions have occasionally resurfaced. In November 2025, the Afar Regional State accused the Tigray People’s Liberation Front (TPLF) and allied forces of launching cross-border attacks, seizing six villages, and shelling civilians. In response, the regional government warned of potential retaliation if hostilities continued.
The Tigray Interim Administration refuted these claims, suggesting that such incidents were attempts to undermine the Pretoria Agreement. They alleged that armed groups in Afar executed repeated attacks on Tigray, citing external support as a contributing factor. However, the administration maintained its commitment to preventing chaos and instability in the region.
This ongoing dialogue and recent initiatives represent significant steps toward mending the fragile relationship between Tigray and Afar, focusing on a shared vision of peace, stability, and mutual respect. For continued updates on developments in these regions, stay connected through local news platforms.
