Addis Abeba – The National Rehabilitation Commission (NRC) has officially launched a comprehensive rehabilitation and reintegration program for former combatants in the Oromia and Amhara regions, marking a significant step towards fostering peace and stability.
The program in the Amhara region commenced on January 13, 2025, at the Burqa Demobilization Center. According to the NRC, the initiative focuses on verifying, registering, and rehabilitating former combatants. It includes specialized training aimed at equipping participants with the skills to contribute positively to their communities and embrace peaceful livelihoods.
The launch event in Amhara was attended by Deputy Commissioner Brigadier General Derbe Mekuria, Eastern Command Commander General Assefa Chekol, and other high-ranking officials. The NRC emphasized its dedication to supporting sustainable reintegration and outlined plans to expand the program to additional centers across the region.
In Oromia, rehabilitation training has also commenced at the Awash Bishola Demobilization Center, targeting individuals who, according to the Commission, have “chosen the path of peace.” During the program’s opening, NRC Commissioner Temesgen Tilahun underscored the significance of verifying participants’ statuses, offering psychosocial and civic training, and providing digital identification to ease their reintegration into society.
These efforts follow a series of consultations with regional authorities. On December 27, 2024, NRC Commissioner Temesgen Tilahun met with Amhara Regional President Arega Kebede to strengthen collaboration on the Disarmament, Demobilization, and Reintegration (DDR) program. Similarly, on December 21, 2024, discussions with representatives from the Oromia Regional State were held in Adama City to finalize plans for the program’s rollout.
The NRC’s rehabilitation initiatives are building on earlier successes, as over 5,000 former combatants in the Tigray region have already completed reintegration training and transitioned back into their communities. The Commission remains committed to scaling these programs nationwide to promote lasting peace and development.
