Ethiopia: Additional fighting between military and armed groups likely in southern Oromia following clashes in early April

Event

Additional clashes between government forces and fighters from the Oromo Liberation Army (OLA) are likely in the Oromia region's Borena zone into at least mid-April following recent fighting in the town of Moyale, close to the border with Kenya. The clashes, which took place April 2-3, were reportedly part of a coordinated action launched against the OLA by federal and regional security forces. It remains unclear how long the new government offensive will continue. Authorities have as yet released no reports concerning the number of casualties that occurred in the fighting at Moyale.

Authorities will almost certainly maintain heightened security, including checkpoints and road closures, in the affected areas in the coming weeks. Insurgent groups will probably also maintain increased patrols in the region. Violence is likely to affect transport in the area, especially roads connecting townships. Authorities may cut mobile communications in areas where fighting has intensified.

Context

Ethiopia has faced internal threats to stability from OLA rebels, an insurgent group actively involved in military operations against the federal government in southern and western Oromia and the North Shewa zone. The government has blamed these groups for sporadic bomb attacks and heavy clashes with armed forces. Ethiopian parliament designated OLA as a terrorist group in 2021 following its alliance with the separatist Tigray People's Liberation Front (TPLF).

Advice

Consider deferring nonessential travel to the affected areas until tensions subside and renewed fighting becomes less likely. Reach out to trusted local contacts to determine security conditions, as reporting is often delayed. Carry proper identification documents to present at security checks and heed all instructions from security personnel; remain cooperative if stopped for inspections. If operating in the affected region, maintain contact with your diplomatic mission.