Ethiopia has spent more than 6.7 billion birr to return 63,000 former combatants to their communities in the Tigray region. The National Rehabilitation Commission announced the figures as part of a wider effort to transition former fighters into civilian life following the 2022 Pretoria Peace Agreement.

At a forum in Addis Ababa, Commissioner Temesgen Tilahun said the program provides vocational training and financial aid to ensure a sustainable transition to peace. He emphasized that the initiative is key to moving the country away from conflict and toward nation-building, urging all political actors to support the process.

The demobilisation effort has reached over 80,000 people nationwide, with total spending exceeding 10 billion birr. While military officials reaffirmed their commitment to protecting the legal benefits of those disarming, the government has called on remaining armed groups in other regions to join the peace process and negotiate.