The Intergovernmental Authority on Development (IGAD) has called on all remaining armed groups in Ethiopia’s Amhara region to join the peace process, following the signing of a landmark agreement between the Amhara Regional Government and the Amhara Fano People’s Organisation (Afahid).
The peace deal, witnessed in Addis Ababa by IGAD Deputy Executive Secretary H.E. Mohamed Abdi Ware on behalf of the Executive Secretary, and African Union Commission Deputy Chairperson H.E. Selma Malika Haddadi, marks a significant step toward restoring stability in a region that has experienced prolonged unrest.
The agreement was signed by H.E. Arega Kebede, President of the Amhara Regional Government, and Captain Masresha Sete, representing the Afahid organisation.
IGAD commended both parties for what it described as a “courageous step” toward peace.
In a statement, IGAD praised the commitment of the two sides and emphasised that sustainable peace in the region requires inclusive participation.
The regional body urged remaining holdout groups to seize the moment and join the peace process, noting that continued exclusion poses a risk to long-term stability.
The African Union Commission also lauded the agreement as an important milestone in Ethiopia’s broader pursuit of peace and reconciliation.
The Amhara–Afahid accord is expected to open space for renewed humanitarian access, improved regional security, and the gradual reintegration of armed groups into civic processes.
Leaders from both sides expressed optimism that the agreement would help rebuild trust and lay the foundation for lasting coexistence.
The signing ceremony concluded with a joint appeal for unity, dialogue, and collective responsibility in advancing peace across the Amhara region.