Two Years of the Pretoria Agreement: Progress and Challenges

Two Years Since the Pretoria Agreement: A Milestone for Peace in Ethiopia and Tigray

The Pretoria Agreement, signed on November 2, 2022, marked a crucial turning point for peace in Ethiopia. After two years of intense conflict, this agreement aimed to end hostilities between the Ethiopian government and the Tigray People’s Liberation Front (TPLF). Facilitated by the African Union, it signaled hope for healing and rebuilding in the Tigray region.

Key Provisions of the Agreement

The Pretoria Agreement outlined several critical steps to restore stability. It called for an immediate ceasefire and disarmament of TPLF forces. The agreement also mandated the restoration of essential services, such as telecommunications and electricity, in the Tigray region. Unrestricted humanitarian aid access was another central component, aiming to reach communities devastated by the conflict. The Ethiopian government pledged to re-establish federal authority in Tigray, ensuring security and order.

Achievements and Challenges After Two Years

Two years on, the truce has largely held, with a significant decrease in active fighting. Many areas in Tigray have started to recover as economic activities resume, and humanitarian aid has reached regions once inaccessible. Families separated by conflict are reuniting, and local governance structures are being restored.

However, challenges remain. Rebuilding destroyed infrastructure and addressing the trauma experienced by millions are ongoing hurdles. Displaced citizens are slowly returning home, but many areas still face severe resource shortages and security challenges.

Ongoing Issues and International Support

While there has been progress, political tensions persist. The presence of Eritrean forces near some border areas remains a concern. The international community and regional allies stress the need for a long-term commitment to peace and justice. They advocate for socio-economic reintegration to fully incorporate Tigray into Ethiopia’s broader framework.

A Commitment to Lasting Peace Despite Internal Challenges

As Ethiopia and Tigray commemorate the second anniversary of the Pretoria Agreement, they reflect on both progress and the hurdles that remain. One of the most persistent obstacles has been internal disagreements within the TPLF, which have made it difficult to fully implement the peace terms. Divisions within the TPLF leadership have created inconsistencies in commitment to disarmament and reintegration, complicating efforts to restore long-term stability.

These internal challenges have delayed the restoration of services and slowed the return of displaced residents to their homes. The disagreements within the TPLF have also strained cooperation with the federal government, often affecting essential rebuilding and reconciliation processes. However, despite these obstacles, the agreement has shown resilience. It continues to serve as a foundation for peace and recovery, offering hope for a united, stable, and prosperous Ethiopia.

While the path forward is not without difficulty, the commitment to a lasting peace remains strong. Addressing the internal challenges within the TPLF and fostering unity between Ethiopia and Tigray will be crucial in achieving the full promise of the Pretoria Agreement.