On April 11, 2025, Getachew Reda, former Interim President of the Tigray Regional State Administration, was appointed as the Prime Minister’s Advisor on East African Affairs. The announcement, made by Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed (PhD), signals a new phase for Reda’s political career, as he takes on a key advisory role within the federal government.

Reda’s appointment comes after his successor, General Tadesse Werede, assumed leadership of the Tigray region. Nominated by the Tigray People’s Liberation Front (TPLF), General Tadesse’s appointment was officially accepted by the federal government. This leadership shift marks a pivotal moment in Tigray’s political landscape, following years of conflict and change.

A peaceful handover ceremony was held, attended by Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed, federal ministers, and other stakeholders. In his inaugural address, General Tadesse outlined key priorities, including the repatriation of displaced people, the full implementation of the Pretoria Peace Agreement, and the rehabilitation of former combatants. He emphasized the need to restore peace, safety, and the rule of law in Tigray.

General Tadesse’s administration will focus on rebuilding Tigray’s war-torn infrastructure, restoring public services, and preparing the region for democratic elections. He underscored the importance of safeguarding civil and political rights, fostering political pluralism, and strengthening national unity through inclusive consultations with Tigray’s people and political stakeholders.

Getachew Reda officially stepped down as Interim President on April 10, 2025, marking the end of his two-year tenure. His resignation was formally acknowledged by Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed. This transition comes in the wake of the two-year conflict in Northern Ethiopia, which devastated the region and caused widespread destruction.

The conflict that began in November 2020, when TPLF forces attacked the Ethiopian National Defense Force’s Northern Command, resulted in the deaths of up to one million people. The war came to an end with the signing of the Pretoria Peace Agreement, which included the support of the African Union, the United States, and the European Union.

The war caused extensive damage, with an estimated $20 billion in infrastructure losses. The affected population has faced severe hardship, with over three million people pushed into extreme poverty. The Ethiopian government estimates that at least $20 billion will be required to restore the region’s infrastructure and bring about meaningful recovery.