From Addis to Asmara: Tigray's Uncertain Future
From Addis to Asmara: Tigray's Uncertain Future.

Relations between Ethiopia and Eritrea have reached a critical juncture, with Tigrayan leaders caught in uncertainty future for a precarious position between the two capitals.

As tensions rise, both governments are vying for influence over Tigray, raising concerns about the potential for renewed conflict in the region.

Key Takeaways

  • Tigray leaders are increasingly divided between the interests of Addis Ababa and Asmara.
  • Relations between Ethiopia and Eritrea are at their lowest since the end of the Tigray war in 2022.
  • The political landscape in Tigray is marked by infighting and competition for resources.

Background

The Tigray region has been a focal point of conflict in Ethiopia, particularly following the civil war that erupted in late 2020. The conflict, which lasted until late 2022, left deep scars on the region and its leadership.

As the dust settles, the political dynamics are shifting once again, with Tigrayan leaders facing pressure from both the Ethiopian federal government and Eritrean authorities.

Current Tensions

The relationship between Ethiopia and Eritrea has soured significantly since the Tigray conflict. Both nations are now attempting to assert their influence over Tigray, leading to a complex web of alliances and rivalries.

Tigrayan leaders find themselves in a difficult position, as they must navigate the competing interests of both governments while trying to maintain stability in their region.

Divided Loyalties

From Addis to Asmara: Tigray's Uncertain Future
TIA president Getachew Reda (l.) and TPLF president Debretsion Gebremichael (r.) in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, 16 February 2025.

The Tigrayan leadership is not monolithic; it is characterized by factions that have differing views on how to engage with Addis Ababa and Asmara. Some leaders advocate for closer ties with the Ethiopian government, hoping to secure resources and support for rebuilding Tigray.

Others, however, see Eritrea as a crucial ally, particularly given the historical ties between the Tigray People’s Liberation Front (TPLF) and Eritrean President Isaias Afwerki.

Potential for Conflict

The ongoing tensions between Ethiopia and Eritrea raise fears of a resurgence of violence in Tigray. The region’s leaders are acutely aware of the risks associated with choosing sides, as any misstep could lead to renewed hostilities.

The international community is closely monitoring the situation, urging both governments to engage in dialogue and avoid escalation.

Conclusion

As Tigray leaders grapple with their loyalties, the stakes are high for the region’s future. The delicate balance between Addis Ababa and Asmara will be pivotal in determining whether Tigray can achieve lasting peace and stability.

The coming months will be crucial as the political landscape continues to evolve, and the choices made by Tigrayan leaders will have far-reaching implications for the Horn of Africa.

Author

  • Ericson Mangoli

    Ericson Mangoli is the founder and Managing Editor of Who Owns Africa, a platform for African journalism that focuses on politics, governance, business and entrepreneurs who are changing perspectives of the African continent.

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1 Comment

  1. The Eritrean government does not
    Trust Tigray leadership. therefore your assessment is incorrect. They’re not in a position of making alliance with Tigray or anyone else because of past repeated violations of trust.Eritrean is self-sufficient capable of economic military power without the need of alliance of anyone else.
    Completely irrelevant assertion and miscalculation!

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