Organized by the Alliance of Civil Society Organizations of Tigray (ACSOT) in
collaboration with USAID/OTI-ESP, the workshop provided a platform for participants to
engage in meaningful dialogue about the challenges and opportunities surrounding the
reintegration process.

Participants were mobilized and trained by community leaders who had previously
completed a capacity-building program in August. The workshops featured focus group
discussions and interactive dialogues, allowing attendees to express their insights on
the barriers to reintegration and propose actionable solutions.

Key challenges identified included:

• Limited Community Resources: Insufficient support systems for reintegrated
  individuals.
• Corruption: Hindrances to accessing vital social services.
• Medical Care: Inadequate treatment options for injured ex-combatants.
• Disillusionment: Unfulfilled promises contributing to frustration among former
  fighters.
• Political Turmoil: Ongoing instability among Tigray’s leaders impeding effective
  reintegration efforts.

In response to these challenges, participants proposed several key solutions:

1. Political Unity: Promoting integrity among Tigray’s political leaders to foster a
   conducive environment for reintegration.
2. Financial Support: Providing start-up capital for ex-combatants to initiate livelihoods.
3. Job Creation: Developing tailored employment opportunities that meet the needs of
   former fighters.
4. Housing Assistance: Offering support for housing arrangements.
5. Psychosocial Support: Delivering mental health and emotional support services to
   aid adjustment.
6. Business Counseling: Providing guidance for entrepreneurial initiatives to
   encourage self-sufficiency.
7. Medical Services: Ensuring access to free healthcare for ex-combatants.
8. Capacity Building: Implementing training programs to enhance job readiness and
   skills.

The workshops successfully mobilized participants from all seven sub-cities of Mekelle,
fostering a strong sense of community and shared responsibility for the reintegration
process. Attendees expressed gratitude for the training and emphasized the urgent
need for ongoing initiatives to raise awareness about the challenges facing ex-
combatants.

This event underscored the importance of collaborative efforts in addressing the
complex issue of reintegrating former combatants into society, highlighting a collective
commitment to fostering peace and stability in the region. The insights gained from this
workshop will serve as a foundation for future actions aimed at creating a more inclusive
and supportive environment for all members of the community.