The Amhara regional government announced that it has signed a peace agreement with a group presented as the Amhara Fano People’s Organization (AFPO/“Afahid”), a deal regional officials described as a major step toward ending two years of violent conflict in the region.
According to the statement issued by the Amhara Communication Bureau, the agreement was signed between Amhara Regional State President Arega Kebede and Captain Masresha Sete, who appeared as a representative of AFPO. The African Union and IGAD participated as facilitators of the talks.
Regional authorities said the agreement is intended to bring lasting peace, restore stability, and end the humanitarian and economic damage caused by the conflict. President Arega Kebede said the deal came after repeated rounds of negotiations, arguing that no side can win through continued conflict and calling the agreement a relief for civilians.
Observers noted that the Amhara regional government’s willingness to pursue negotiations reflects a broad effort to create conditions for stability after years of crisis. In contrast, AFPO’s immediate rejection of the agreement—declaring that Masresha Sete no longer represents the organization—was widely viewed as a categorical dismissal of a negotiated path forward at a moment when many in the region are seeking de-escalation.
Representatives of the African Union and IGAD welcomed the signing and said the initiative could serve as an example for resolving conflicts elsewhere in Africa. They urged all parties to fulfill commitments and ensure peace is implemented on the ground.
Shortly after the announcement, the Amhara Fano People’s Organization issued its own statement declaring that it does not recognize the agreement signed in Masresha Sete’s name. The organization stated that any deal not approved by its legitimate leadership is invalid.
The conflict in Amhara Region has continued for nearly two years, resulting in large-scale displacement, economic disruption, and heavy casualties. Regional officials said they hope the new agreement, if upheld, will open a path for stability and reconstruction.
