By: Getahun Tsegaye
Staff Reporter
Addis Ababa, Ethiopia – A high-level forum aimed at reviewing progress since what is described as “years of liberation” was held in Humera, the administrative center of the Welkait Tegede Setit Humera Zone in Amhara region.
The discussion focused on the enduring questions of identity and boundary — issues that continue to define both local politics and the national discourse on federalism and self-determination, Amhara Media Corporation reported.
Speaking at the forum, Ashete Demlew, the Zone Administrator, underscored the significance of upholding the law and historical truth in addressing the identity of the people of Wolkait. “Our identity agenda is a matter of truth and justice,” he said. “When we talk about how this question should be resolved, the law is the instrument of the solution.” Demlew emphasized that while much has been accomplished in asserting Amhara identity and reclaiming local governance, “our work is not yet finished.” He noted that the struggle now centers on securing legal recognition for the freedom already achieved and ensuring equitable access to national resources and constitutional rights.
The administrator also stressed that resolving the Wolkait issue has broader implications for regional peace, stating, “Properly addressing this matter could contribute to lasting peace in East Africa.”
Colonel Demeke Zewdu, Deputy Administrator and Head of Security of the zone, also addressed the gathering, reaffirming the legitimacy of the identity struggle. “Our people, who have come out of oppression, are now breathing the air of freedom,” he said. “But protecting that freedom is one of the most important remaining tasks, and it is something we all must contribute to.” A veteran of the identity movement and a founding member of the Welkait Committee, Colonel Demeke has become a central figure in the campaign to have Wolkait recognized as part of the Amhara region.
The forum also reflected on the trauma of the 2020 Mykadra massacre, during which more than 500 ethnic Amhara civilians were reportedly killed by TPLF-aligned forces. “Even if we forget everything else, we will never remain silent about the atrocities committed against our people in Maykadra,” Ashete stated. He added that recent reports of violence against Amhara refugees in eastern Sudan are further proof of the threats still facing the community.
The event came on the heels of a peacekeeping force graduation in the zone, which local leaders say is part of a broader strategy to ensure security, reinforce identity, and promote lawful self-determination. Colonel Demeke praised the newly trained force, calling it “a symbol of stability and progress,” and emphasized its importance in ongoing cooperation with federal security structures.
Wolkait remains one of Ethiopia’s most contentious regions, with deep-rooted historical, political, and cultural claims shaping its present-day struggle. Incorporated into the Tigray Region in 1991 under the TPLF-led federal restructuring, the area has since become a flashpoint in debates over ethnic federalism, regional identity, and national unity.
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Hey, what are you talking about? The whole Wolkait Humera area is mine. I have the deed right here in my hand. The ruler of Gondar in 1941 Guglielmo Ciro Nasi awarded it to my father. You all know and remember General Nasi was the ruler of Gondar who was loved by the citizens there. They even fought for him against the Ethiopian freedom fighters and the British. My father was in the area buying oil seeds and honey when he met the General. So stop claiming my land without my consent. Otherwise I’m gonna tell on you to the champ on The Horn Abruzzi Wedi Afo. He is gonna kick your behind until you beg for no more.