Struggles of Returnees in North Western Tigray

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The humanitarian crisis in North Western Tigray has created significant challenges for thousands of returnees. Despite initial hopes for recovery, returnees face numerous obstacles, including insecurity, lack of basic services, and limited support from government and aid organizations.

image source: Dimtsi Weyane

Displacement and Return

In July 2024, over 1,500 internally displaced persons (IDPs) returned to the Tselemti district of North Western Tigray. By September, the UN reported that 56,000 people had returned to their original communities, with many resettling in districts like Tselemti, Laelay Tselemti, and Mai Tsebri.

However, these returnees have found themselves in desperate circumstances, struggling to access healthcare, education, and other essential services.

Education Crisis in Tselemti

Schools in Tselemti and surrounding areas have remained closed for months, leaving tens of thousands of children without access to education. Residents attribute this to unresolved disputes over whether instruction should be in Tigrinya or Amharic.

Berhane Alemu, a local teacher, described the dire impact:

"Education has been suspended entirely. Children are losing their future because of political disagreements."

This disruption has affected 21-year-old Kibrom Meressa, who had hoped to continue his education:

"If schools don’t reopen, my dream of finishing my studies is over."

Healthcare System on the Brink

Residents in Tselemti report a near-total collapse of healthcare services. Clinics are understaffed, medical supplies are scarce, and patients often face exorbitant costs for transportation to distant hospitals.

Guesh Desale, a coordinator for returnees, explained:

"There’s only one ambulance in the district. People have to pay up to 5,000 birr for fuel to get help, leading to preventable deaths."

Nurse Mihret Alene noted that the lack of maternal care and basic medications has worsened public health, particularly for women and children.

Security Concerns and Lawlessness

Returnees live in constant fear due to the absence of local administration and law enforcement. Armed groups frequently engage in theft and kidnappings, leaving the population vulnerable.

Mebrat Legesse, a social affairs official, shared:

"The lack of governance has created a vacuum where criminals operate without fear. Civilians are scared to withdraw money from banks or even farm their lands."

Humanitarian Aid Falling Short

While thousands of returnees have arrived, many report receiving little to no assistance. Of the 11,000 people who returned to Mai Tsebri, only a small portion received minimal food supplies.

"Most of us got nothing," said Guesh. "People are left to fend for themselves in unbearable conditions."

Political Tensions Add to the Crisis

Internal disputes within the Tigray People’s Liberation Front (TPLF) have further complicated recovery efforts. A leadership split has stalled decision-making, leaving returnees without meaningful support or clear plans for resettlement.

Urgent Need for Action

The ongoing crisis in Tselemti, Laelay Tselemti, and Mai Tsebri demands immediate attention from regional and federal authorities. Without swift intervention, returnees will continue to face extreme hardship, insecurity, and the collapse of essential services.

The people of North Western Tigray are calling for solutions to rebuild their lives and restore hope.

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