More Than 65,000 Ex-Combatants Rehabilitated and Reintegrated: NRC

Addis Ababa, August 13, 2025 (ENA) -- The National Rehabilitative Commission (NRC) has announced that 65,500 former combatants have been rehabilitated and successfully reintegrated into society.

In a briefing to the media on the status of the program, officials of the commission stated that the federal government has so far spent 1.2 billion birr on training programs, maintaining rehabilitation centers, and providing food, clothing, and other basic needs for ex-combatants.

Partner organizations have contributed an additional 5.9 billion birr, enabling each former combatant to receive 90,400 birr to support their transition to civilian life.

Commissioner Temesgen Tilahun explained that the process involved disarmament, verification, registration, rehabilitation, psychological support, and the issuance of digital identification before reintegration.

He stressed that the initiative aims to help those who responded to peace efforts by the government, community elders, and religious leaders become active contributors to peace and development.

The rehabilitated ex-combatants have come from the Tigray, Oromia, Amhara, and Afar regions. Deputy Commissioner Tesfalem Yehdego noted that rehabilitation centers have been established in several regions, including three currently operating in Tigray.

Brigadier General Derbe Mekuria, also a Deputy Commissioner, acknowledged that the process is resource-intensive and requires close cooperation among the government, the public, and partner organizations.

He revealed that a comprehensive rehabilitation guideline has been prepared, reviewed, and will soon be officially approved.

Once the framework is in place, rehabilitated combatants holding official NRC identification will be eligible to return to their previous jobs and reclaim associated benefits.

The Commission assured that all necessary support will be provided to ensure their sustainable reintegration into society.