Community Leaders Unite for Capacity Building Amidst Tigray’s Political Turmoil

Shire, Tigray – In a significant move to empower local leaders and address the pressing challenges of reintegrating ex-combatants into the society, a two-day Capacity Building training was held at the Africa Hotel in Shire.

Organized by the Alliance of Civil Society Organizations of Tigray (ACSOT) in collaboration with USAID/OTI-ESP, the event brought together forty participants (10 female and 30 male) who represent various local organizations, including the Commission of Patriots of Tigray (CPT), Association of Elders of Shire (AESh), and the Association of Women’s of Shire (AWSh), among others.

The training aimed to foster dialogue and develop strategies for the reintegration of ex-combatants into society. However, the spirit of the discussions was heavily influenced by the ongoing political instability in Tigray. Participants expressed deep frustrations regarding the current government’s ability to address not only the reintegration of former fighters but also other critical societal priorities.

During focus group discussions, poignant stories emerged highlighting the struggles of informally reintegrated ex-combatants. One participant from the CPT recounted a heartbreaking incident involving a mother and her ex-combatant daughter who returned home with a child. The mother, overwhelmed by poverty, confronted her daughter, leading to an emotional clash that underscored the dire economic conditions many families face.

Another participant from the Association of Disabled Fighters of Tigray (ADFT) shared the grim reality of an ex-combatant who had fallen into a life of crime and substance abuse after reintegration. With no support system in place, these individuals often find themselves isolated and struggling to adapt to civilian life.

A priest representing local religious leaders proposed a grassroots initiative to assist ex-combatants, suggesting that if every resident of Tigray contributed just 10 birr, a substantial fund could be generated to provide support for those in need.

Throughout the training, participants identified several key solutions for successful reintegration, including:

1. Political unity and integrity among Tigray’s leaders.

2. Providing start-up capital for reintegrated ex-combatants.

3. Creating job opportunities tailored for former fighters.

4. Offering housing assistance.

5. Delivering psychosocial support.

6. Providing business counseling.

7. Ensuring access to free medical services.

8. Implementing capacity-building programs for various job opportunities.

As discussions concluded, it became clear that while challenges remain daunting, there is a collective will among community leaders to forge a path toward healing and reintegration in Tigray. The training served not only as a platform for sharing grievances but also as a beacon of hope for a more united and supportive future for all citizens, especially those who have served in times of conflict.