The minimum you must know

Ethiopia is an inland country strategically located close to the waterway connecting the Atlantic Ocean to the Persian gulf. There have been contested regions internally and externally in bordering coastal nations such as Somalia. The Amhara region of Ethiopia has experienced unrest. But there has been comparable calm and peace recently, according to the media, compared to previous years.

Very importantly, the Ethiopian government and their opposition Tigray Rebels agreed on November 2nd, 2022 to a peace deal that concluded two full years of conflict. The African Union and South Africa were instrumental in the negotiations. The United Nations and international press all expressed optimism about the lasting success of the peace deal. Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed explained that his government’s proposal at the talks was accepted completely, and the government was ready to “open our hearts” for peace to prevail.

Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed and ceremonial President Sahle-Work Zewde have expressed a significant commitment to peace for bordering waterway countries as well. But Ethiopia also said Somalia must do more to ensure order themselves.

According to the United Nations, there are around 5.2 million people in need of humanitarian assistance in the Tigray region, including 3.8 million people who need healthcare. Months have passed since humanitarian aid reached the area. Nation states and organizations can contact the Ethiopian government, United Nations and African Union to learn how to help.