Mekelle, November 12, 2024 (Tigray Television) — President of the Tigray Interim Administration, Getachew Reda, has called for urgent action to address the ongoing challenges faced by returnees in Tselemeti and southern Tigray, where displaced people continue to face significant security threats and infrastructure destruction. Meanwhile, thousands of IDPs from Western Tigray are still languishing in camps due to the incompleteness of the Pretoria Peace Agreement.
In a meeting with a United Nations delegation, President Getachew highlighted the difficult conditions in these areas, where the lack of security and damaged infrastructure have delayed the resettlement process under the Pretoria Peace Agreement. He stressed that many returnees in southern Tigray and Tselemeti are unable to fully reintegrate due to persistent threats, making it impossible for many IDPs to return to their original homes.
President Getachew further expressed concern over the IDPs from Western Tigray, who remain displaced despite the peace agreement, urging the federal government to accelerate the implementation of the accord. He emphasized that without full resettlement, the region’s socio-economic recovery would remain stalled.
The President also noted the dire humanitarian situation, including food shortages and inadequate medical care for displaced communities. He reiterated the need for continued emergency support alongside sustainable solutions, stressing that the displaced populations are enduring immense hardships.
Raouf Mazou, Assistant High Commissioner at the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees, assured that international organizations are committed to providing the necessary support for displaced populations in Tigray. The UN delegation, which expressed concerns over the conditions in the region, also announced plans to visit an IDP shelter to witness the situation firsthand and better understand the needs of the displaced.
As Tigray continues to face these challenges, President Getachew’s calls for swift action and international assistance highlight the urgent need for a comprehensive solution to ensure the safe return of all displaced and the rebuilding of affected infrastructure.
