In recent years, Ethiopian businesses have faced significant challenges due to recurring conflicts. Nearly every region across the country has been affected by some form of conflict, including the ongoing instability in the Amhara region, which directly impacted business operations. However, the all-out war in Northern Ethiopia, which began in November 2020 and ended in November 2022, had devastating consequences for businesses in the Tigray, Amhara, and Afar regions, forcing them to either significantly reduce operations or cease business altogether. Not only did it destroy critical business infrastructure, hindering commercial activities, but it also severed trade ties between these regions.
The hostility led to the closure of business operations between the regions. Trade, a vital artery of economic life, suffered severe disruption. Borders closed, business operations stagnated, and trust between neighboring regions eroded. The aftermath of conflict left scars on both the physical landscape and the delicate fabric of interregional relations.
Prospering Business Promotes Sustainable Peace
In the wake of the hostilities, CIPE stepped forward as a catalyst for change. CIPE recognized that restoring and strengthening business relations was not just an economic imperative but also a pathway to stability and lasting peace. Private sector representatives from the three conflict-affected regions—Tigray, Amhara, and Afar—engaged in interregional dialogue, seeking common ground and practical solutions.
The feedback toward CIPE has been overwhelmingly positive, with key stakeholders from the public and private sectors appreciating CIPE’s efforts in Ethiopia to promote peace through business. One partner described CIPE’s approach in Ethiopia as standing out for its emphasis on bringing the private sector to the forefront of peacebuilding. It strategically leverages trade as a pivotal incentive and element in revitalizing and reinforcing connections between regions. Remarkably, even during the height of the conflict in Northern Ethiopia, when Tigray was under complete blockage, businesses in the Amhara region continued to supply basic commodities to Tigray, albeit through underground channels.
Inclusive Dialogue Builds Trust
CIPE facilitated a series of inclusive roundtable discussions, bringing together business association leaders from the three regions. The most recent iteration of these roundtables commenced in Mekelle (Tigray region), continued to Semara (Afar region), and concluded in Bahir Dar (Amhara region). These roundtable discussions became forums for rebuilding trust. Business leaders from Tigray, Amhara, and Afar came together, acknowledging the persistent barriers that hindered trade and economic activities. These barriers—whether logistical or regulatory—were dissected, analyzed, and addressed. The goal was clear: normalize and fortify business relations across regional boundaries.
These roundtable discussions are bearing fruit by fostering the restoration of strained relationships between the regions and revitalizing business cooperation. They have provided business leaders with the opportunity to meet face-to-face after a considerable time and engage in open, honest dialogue, which is aiding in rebuilding trust. A compelling example of this occurred during the Semera event, where representatives from the three regions collaboratively drafted and publicly shared an 8-point joint statement for peace and collaboration. In their statement, the representatives described the war as a regrettable chapter in history that should not have occurred. However, they expressed their commitment to rebuilding and enhancing relationships. Additionally, they vowed to resist any actions that impede mutual business activities, urging the government to support businesses.
The Months Ahead
Ethiopia stands at a critical juncture, facing a substantial journey toward achieving sustainable peace. However, the dedicated efforts and unwavering commitment demonstrated by organizations like CIPE are well-positioned to expedite this process, supporting Ethiopia’s quest for peace. As Ethiopia’s path toward the future unfolds, the interwoven threads of business and peace offer hope, strengthening peace through collaborative endeavors, shared commitments, and the resilience of communities.
Published Date: July 26, 2024