5,500 Former Tigray Combatants Disarm and Begin Rehabilitation Training in Mekelle

Addis Ababa, November 5, 2026 (FMC) – A total of 5,500 former combatants in Ethiopia’s Tigray Region have laid down their arms and joined rehabilitation training at a rehabilitation center in Mekelle, the Ethiopian National Rehabilitation Commission (ENRC) has announced.

The training program was launched in the presence of ENRC officials, diplomats, and representatives of international partner organizations supporting the rehabilitation process.

Speaking at the event, ENRC Commissioner Temesgen Tilahun said the Commission had facilitated the reintegration of more than 92,000 former combatants into civilian life across different regions since its establishment, contributing to efforts to strengthen sustainable peace in Ethiopia.

He noted that a growing number of former combatants in Tigray are expressing interest in abandoning armed conflict and returning to civilian life by joining rehabilitation centers under the Disarmament, Demobilization and Reintegration (DDR) program.

The Commissioner also highlighted that the federal government is implementing the process in close coordination and cooperation with relevant stakeholders.

Established under Council of Ministers Regulation No. 525/2015 within the framework of the Pretoria Peace Agreement, the Ethiopian National Rehabilitation Commission is mandated to oversee the disarmament, demobilization, and sustainable reintegration of former combatants into their communities.

The Commission is conducting rehabilitation programs in Tigray, Amhara, Oromia, and Afar regions, providing former combatants with training and support to facilitate their reintegration into society and enable them to lead peaceful civilian lives.