In Ethiopia, life is slowly returning to normal in Mekelle, the capital of the Tigray region, after the Tigray People's Liberation Front (TPLF) withdrew from the city. The Tigray Peace Forces, a group allied with the Ethiopian federal government, have taken control of the area and are using drones to expand their influence in the region. These fighters entered Mekelle on Sunday following the TPLF's departure. "The federal government, in collaboration with our forces, is conducting drone strikes until our state is freed from these forces," says Ermiyas Ababu, a commander of the Tigray Peace Forces. Markets in Mekelle have partially reopened, and some local transportation services have resumed. However, residents are still waiting for a full return to normal life. "The market has resumed its activities, but for everyone to regain confidence, all markets must fully reopen. People have not been able to shop among a wide selection. Only a few essential food products are available. However, people are very satisfied that the motorized auto-rickshaws have resumed their operations at affordable prices," says Ahmedin Mehammed, a resident of the Tigray capital. A major challenge remains in Mekelle: cash is becoming scarce, making it difficult for people to conduct daily transactions. "The main problem for the population at the moment is the lack of cash. If there were cash, commercial activity would resume even more. However, compared to two or three days ago, the situation has improved today. The price of cooking oil is also reasonable. People remained at home out of fear, but there is now some movement. For example, I myself have just bought cooking oil. The price has not changed much compared to before. The market conditions are rather good," says Birhanu Araya, a resident of Mekelle. The renewed conflict in the region has cast doubt on the 2022 peace agreement, which was meant to end a two-year war that caused widespread destruction and displacement. While some signs of recovery are emerging in Mekelle, the ongoing tensions and scarcity of resources highlight the challenges ahead for the region's residents.