Residents return to Mekelle

Residents of Mekelle, the capital of Ethiopia's Tigré region, are slowly resuming daily life after the federal army retook the city and the national airline restarted flights to the region. Many locals describe the situation as stabilizing, with some expressing hope for continued peace and economic recovery.

Local perspective on recovery

Haile Mariam Hadgu, a Mekelle resident, said that people have returned to work and daily routines as if the conflict had not occurred. He emphasized the community's desire for lasting peace, stating that everyone wants to live and work without disruption.

Visits by officials

The head of Ethiopia's intelligence services and a federal minister visited Mekelle on Sunday, signaling a potential shift in the region's political and security dynamics. The visit may indicate efforts to restore stability and rebuild trust in the federal government.

Economic challenges during closure

During the period when the city was under TPLF control, many residents relied on digital transfers instead of cash, as banks and financial services were inaccessible. While the disruption was brief, some residents expressed concern about what might have happened if the situation had continued longer.

Escalation of conflict

Hostilities between the Ethiopian federal army and the Tigray People's Liberation Front (TPLF) began at the end of September, raising fears of a broader regional conflict. Ethiopia has accused Eritrea of supporting the TPLF, which briefly took control of Mekelle’s airport before being driven out last week.