The Amhara Regional Security Council says it has set a new strategy to move the region from “relative peace” to a “comprehensive and lasting peace,” Addis Standard reported.According to regional officials, militants who had previously resisted are now engaging in the peace process, undergoing training, and reintegrating into their communities. Mengesha Fentahun (PhD), head of the Amhara Regional Communication Bureau, said rehabilitation programs will be strengthened, with added focus on education and development.This announcement follows earlier federal assessments that acknowledged gaps in peace and security. In June, Minister of Peace Mohammed Endris claimed that nearly all districts in Amhara were stable, yet the federal government admitted at the same time that kidnappings, looting, and school closures persisted.Education remains one of the most heavily impacted sectors. Mulunesh Dessie (PhD), Deputy Chief Administrator and head of the Regional Education Bureau, said instability has left millions of children out of school. In the 2024/2025 academic year alone, 4.1 million students missed enrollment — a number exceeding the population of many African nations, Addis Standard noted.The humanitarian crisis is also severe. A forum of higher education institutions last year highlighted widespread suffering, with massive damage to health services. State Minister for Health Ayele Teshome reported that since 2019, more than 450 health centers, 40 hospitals, and over 120 ambulances have been destroyed, leaving communities with dire shortages of essential care.Despite the government’s claims of progress, ongoing clashes between security forces and Fano militants continue to inflict human and material losses, raising questions about how soon the region can achieve the “comprehensive peace” its leaders are now promising.
