The African Union has raised alarm over fresh developments in Ethiopia’s Tigray region, warning that recent events risk undoing progress made since the signing of the 2022 peace agreement that brought an end to open fighting.
In a statement issued on January 30, 2026, African Union Commission Chairperson Mahmoud Ali Youssouf said the continental body is “closely monitoring the unfolding situation in parts of Tigray Region” and called on all sides to act with restraint to protect peace gains achieved so far.
Youssouf stressed that the calm achieved after years of conflict must not be placed at risk, pointing to the Permanent Cessation of Hostilities Agreement as the foundation of stability in the region. The agreement was signed in Pretoria on November 2, 2022, between the Ethiopian government and the Tigray People’s Liberation Front, marking a major step toward ending the conflict.
The Chairperson underscored the continued relevance of the accord, describing it as central to maintaining peace and security in Tigray and beyond.
He urged all parties to exercise maximum restraint, avoid steps that could erode trust, and address outstanding concerns through dialogue rather than confrontation.
Youssouf emphasized that respecting both the obligations and the spirit of the Permanent Cessation of Hostilities Agreement is essential to ensure that progress made since the ceasefire is not reversed.
The African Union reaffirmed its firm commitment to the full and effective implementation of the agreement and said it remains ready to support both sides in advancing peace building and reconciliation.
The Chairperson also noted that the AU, through its high-level Panel on Ethiopia, is prepared to step up efforts to promote dialogue, cooperation, and confidence building among the parties, with the goal of securing lasting peace and stability in Tigray.
Despite the ceasefire, the situation in the region remains fragile. Tigray has been at the center of a conflict that attracted global attention due to its humanitarian impact and the risk of wider instability in the Horn of Africa.
The African Union said dialogue and restraint remain the only viable paths forward, warning that actions that threaten the fragile peace process could have serious consequences.
Youssouf’s statement also reaffirmed the AU’s role as a mediator and peace broker, highlighting its responsibility to support efforts aimed at restoring stability in conflict-affected areas.
As Ethiopia continues to navigate a delicate period, the AU said its support for peace and reconciliation remains unwavering, offering hope that a return to violence can be avoided.
The Chairperson’s call for restraint echoes similar concerns raised by regional and international actors who have expressed unease over renewed tensions in Tigray.
The Permanent Cessation of Hostilities Agreement remains the cornerstone of the peace process, providing a framework for dialogue and the prevention of further violence.
With the AU Panel on Ethiopia ready to intensify engagement, the statement reflects a strong desire to preserve momentum toward durable peace.
The African Union said it will continue to stand with all efforts that support stability, reconciliation, and long-term peace in Tigray and across Ethiopia.
