Ethiopia marks 65th army anniversary amid Tigray tensions
Ethiopia celebrated the 65th anniversary of its Special Operations Command on Sunday in Hawassa, with Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed praising the military's modernization efforts, as renewed tensions simmer along the Tigray border the region devastated by civil war between 2020 and 2022.
Ethiopia on Sunday marked the 65th anniversary of its national army with a colourful military parade and official ceremony in the capital, Addis Ababa, at a time when tensions are once again simmering in the northern Tigray region.
The event, attended by senior government officials, military commanders and invited guests, featured marching troops, displays of military hardware and aerial manoeuvres.
The anniversary commemorates the founding of the modern Ethiopian National Defense Force (ENDF) and highlights its role in safeguarding the country’s sovereignty.
Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed, addressing the gathering, paid tribute to members of the armed forces for what he described as their sacrifice and resilience in defending the nation.
He emphasised the importance of a strong, disciplined military in ensuring national unity and stability, particularly in a period marked by internal and regional challenges.
Military officials also reiterated the ENDF’s commitment to professionalism and constitutional order, noting that the armed forces remain prepared to respond to threats against the country’s territorial integrity.
The anniversary comes amid renewed tensions in Tigray, where a devastating two-year conflict between federal forces and the Tigray People’s Liberation Front (TPLF) formally ended with a peace agreement signed in November 2022 in Pretoria.
While the deal halted large-scale fighting, sporadic security concerns and political disagreements have continued to surface, raising fears about the durability of the peace process.
Observers say the timing of the celebration sends a message of strength and reassurance, both domestically and internationally, as Ethiopia seeks to consolidate peace while maintaining readiness against instability.
The government has repeatedly stated its commitment to implementing the peace agreement and promoting national reconciliation.
However, analysts note that rebuilding trust and stabilizing affected regions remains a complex and ongoing process.
The 65th anniversary ceremony therefore served not only as a commemoration of the army’s history but also as a symbolic reminder of the central role the military continues to play in Ethiopia’s evolving political and security landscape.
