Ethiopia is set to resume its Disarmament, Demobilization, and Reintegration (DDR) program in the Tigray region after a temporary suspension due to technical and political challenges. The initiative aims to demobilize and reintegrate 67,000 former combatants over the next four months, reinforcing ongoing peace efforts in the country. Since its launch in November 2024, the DDR program has already supported over 17,400 former combatants across Tigray, Amhara, Oromia, and Afar.

As a key element of the Pretoria Agreement signed on November 2, 2022, between the Ethiopian federal government and the Tigray People’s Liberation Front (TPLF), the DDR program plays a vital role in stabilizing the region. The first phase initially targeted 75,000 ex-combatants from Tigray, with a focus on vulnerable groups such as women, the elderly, and disabled individuals. However, financial constraints and logistical challenges led to temporary delays. With renewed funding and strategic planning, the program’s resumption signals a commitment to sustainable reintegration and national stability.

Beyond Tigray, the DDR program is designed to reintegrate over 371,000 ex-combatants across various Ethiopian regions, including Amhara, Afar, Gambela, Benishangul-Gumuz, Oromia, and the Southern Nations and Nationalities regions. Participants undergo digital registration, verification, and psycho-social and civic rehabilitation training before receiving reintegration allowances to help them transition into civilian life.

The Ethiopian government has allocated 1 billion birr for the first phase in Tigray, while international partners have contributed an additional $60 million to support the initiative. Over the next two years, the total budget for the DDR program is expected to exceed $760 million. The African Union is overseeing the process through its Monitoring, Verification, and Compliance Mission to ensure that all aspects of the program align with the peace agreement.

The success of the DDR program depends on the collaboration of local communities, the Interim Administration, international partners, and stakeholders. Sustained support is crucial to ensuring a smooth reintegration process, providing former combatants with economic opportunities and social acceptance. International partners have praised Ethiopia’s efforts, viewing the DDR initiative as a significant milestone toward long-term peace. Ambassadors and representatives from the UN, AU, EU, and various diplomatic missions have expressed their commitment to supporting the process.

With the program’s restart, Ethiopia takes another step toward reconciliation and stability. Ensuring proper implementation and continued support will be essential in preventing future conflict and creating opportunities for former combatants to rebuild their lives as productive members of society.