A conflict erupted on Wednesday in the Adda Ado district, Yangudi zone of the Afar region, resulting in several deaths, dozens of displaced individuals, and multiple kidnappings, according to residents who spoke to Addis Standard. An anonymous resident reported that militias from the Sitti zone of the neighboring Somali region crossed into the area and attacked civilians, resulting in more than 30 deaths and numerous kidnappings.
The resident pointed out the unusual nature of the attack, emphasizing that they do not share borders with the Somali region. The resident also noted the level of weaponry possessed by the militants, indicating a concerning escalation in violence. Pastoralist conflicts are common in the region, but this specific incident stands out due to the severity of the attack.
Additionally, tensions in the border areas between the Afar and Somali regions have been escalating, with reports of armed clashes since June 6, 2024. Both regions have seen a resurgence of conflict, prompting the Ethiopian Human Rights Commission (EHRC) to express deep concern over civilian casualties, displacement, and damage to property. The EHRC commended the efforts of regional authorities to address the issues through dialogue, including a ceasefire agreement in April 2024 led by the Islamic Affairs Supreme Council.
EHRC Deputy Chief Commissioner Rakeb Messele called for immediate cessation of hostilities and urged all stakeholders to prevent further escalation and harm to civilians in the affected areas. The historical context of conflicts in pastoralist regions like Afar and Somali adds to the complexity of the current situation, emphasizing the need for sustainable and peaceful solutions to address the root causes of the violence.
