Tigray, Ethiopia – Almost two years after the end of the devastating conflict in Tigray, northern Ethiopia, the region continues to grapple with severe challenges. The war, which lasted from 2020 to 2022, saw a deadly confrontation between Tigrayan forces and the Ethiopian government, supported by neighboring Eritrea and other regional allies such as the Amharas.

The conflict, as reported by the African Union, may have claimed up to 600,000 lives, with some experts even suspecting acts of genocide. Despite the Pretoria peace agreement, Tigray remains heavily impacted, struggling to recover from the widespread destruction.

As the rainy season approaches, farmers in Tigray are back in the fields, sowing seeds for the new season. In the local dialect, Teklay plants Dagusha, a pearl millet essential for making injera, a staple Ethiopian pancake, and traditional alcohol. However, the task feels burdensome and disheartening.

"During the war, our cattle were slaughtered and consumed by soldiers. We were unable to cultivate any land. Now, although the fighting has ceased, the prospects are bleak. Last year, locusts destroyed much of our crops. This year, we are continuing mainly out of obligation to our ancestors. We don't anticipate more than 50 kilograms of harvest, barely enough to fill one bag. Moreover, we do not own the land; we rent it and pay half of the production yield. I even had to sell my oxen during the conflict to survive," Teklay lamented.

His neighbor voices similar concerns about the ongoing difficulties: inadequate equipment, a shortage of animals, and overall resources. Many farmers in Tigray face dire conditions, with some resorting to using donkeys instead of oxen to pull ploughs. The peace agreement has not yet revived the agricultural sector to its pre-war state.

The international community's support is crucial for preventing a potential famine in Tigray. Tigrayan farmers are left hoping for more substantial aid to help rebuild their lives and restore their agricultural activities.