Awra Amba’s Struggle for Peace Amid Ethiopia’s Amhara Conflict

The village of Awra Amba in Ethiopia’s Amhara region faces severe challenges due to ongoing violence between Fano and government forces. Once a peaceful utopian community known for its egalitarian practices, Awra Amba’s economy has been severely impacted, with tourism and trade stifled. Community members emphasize their desire for peace amidst unfortunate circumstances, calling attention to their resilience and commitment to dialogue.

Awra Amba, an idyllic village in Ethiopia’s Amhara region, has now become embroiled in violence due to ongoing conflicts between Fano fighters and Ethiopian federal government forces. Local accountant Aregash Nuru reflects on the dangers that have transformed her once-peaceful home, where gunfire and kidnappings have become distressingly common. Schools have closed, leaving the community in despair as they confront the changing political landscape.

For decades, violent insecurity has plagued various regions in Ethiopia, particularly during the Tigray conflict that resulted in an estimated 600,000 fatalities. Notably, Awra Amba, founded in the 1970s, was a beacon of hope, practicing egalitarian principles and conflict resolution, earning admiration from national and international observers.

Since April 2023, a deadly conflict has gripped Amhara as the armed group Fano confronts government forces. This conflict arose following a controversial decision by Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed to integrate regional militias into the national army, leading to mass violence and allegations of human rights abuses. The International Crisis Group has described this situation as an “ominous new war,” emphasizing the pressing need for global attention.

Awra Amba’s economy, previously bolstered by tourism and trade, has suffered immensely. Nuru lamented the loss of former visitors due to safety concerns, while Worksew Mohammed echoed this, stating, “We were so happy to share our story of peace with them. But now it is too dangerous for them to come here.”

Tensions have compromised the community’s ability to trade, as members hesitate to reach markets amid rising violence. Moreover, government-imposed internet blackouts have hindered education and general communication, compelling the community to close their school amid claims from Fano fighters to cease educational endeavors.

Challenges intensified when a villager was kidnapped, demanding a ransom the community could not afford. As conflict persists, the founder of Awra Amba and his son fled to Addis Ababa following an attempted abduction. Local researcher Bantayehu Shiferaw Chanie suggests that lasting peace is contingent on significant reform in government policy.

Amhara residents, reflecting historical grievances and contemporary struggles, now seek political representation from the prime minister. The UN Office of the High Commissioner for Human Rights has reported severe human rights violations tied to this ongoing conflict, further amplifying fears of a regional crisis that could extend beyond their borders.

Amid these challenges, Awra Amba’s founder, Zumra Nuru, remains hopeful, advocating for peace through dialogue: “We just want peace. We believe that all conflicts can be resolved with reasonable discussion and debate.” He draws upon the community’s past resilience, emphasizing unity to combat suffering and foster lasting harmony in Ethiopia.

Awra Amba, an exemplary model of peace and egalitarianism, now grapples with the impacts of Ethiopia’s ongoing conflict. Despite the surrounding turmoil, the community’s commitment to dialogue and collective well-being remains strong. With pressing calls for political representation and humanitarian efforts, the villagers of Awra Amba continue to strive for a peaceful resolution amid adversities, underscoring their enduring hope for a harmonious future.

Original Source: www.aljazeera.com