The Tigray I desire to: 1

By Daniel Muzey and Amanuel Alemayehu (Wedi Teresa)

The continuous sacrifices carried out by successive generations of Tigrayans have sparked a persistent inquiry within me: "What is the purpose behind all of this?" Over the years, I have dedicated considerable time to pondering this question, yet it continues to resurface relentlessly. Why do we persist in enduring these sacrifices? What is the underlying reason? Does it stem from hostility directed toward us by the world and our surroundings? Or is it the result of cruelty from our neighbors? Alternatively, could the source of the issue be concealed within us? 

• Language: English
• Publisher: Amanuel Alemayehu
• Release date: Mar 7, 2024
• ISBN: 9798224308996

Book preview

Mapping Out a Plan for Execution

The continuous sacrifices carried out by successive generations of Tigrayans have sparked a persistent inquiry within me: What is the purpose behind all of this? Over the years, I have dedicated considerable time to pondering this question, yet it continues to resurface relentlessly. Why do we persist in enduring these sacrifices? What is the underlying reason? Does it stem from hostility directed toward us by the world and our surroundings? Or is it the result of cruelty from our neighbors? Alternatively, could the source of the issue be concealed within us? 

As I reflect on these raised questions, I have chosen to explore external and internal factors contributing to these sacrifices. In this article, I aim to delve into our social structure, culture, political attitudes, and customs, conveying a message that resonates with every Tigrayan, focusing more on the present and the future rather than dwelling solely on the past.

The people of Tigray face challenges like any other population worldwide. However, their resilience and strength have allowed them to navigate these trials, establish institutions, and fight for survival. They possess the potential to emerge as a nation that retains its history of sacrifices and struggles. 

Our issues do not solely stem from a single party or individual but seem to originate from internal problems that we might unwittingly contribute to. Therefore, in contemplating Tigray's present and future obstacles in becoming an established state, I have endeavored to deeply analyze these problems, considering the challenges and available resources. 

The information presented in this article reflects my understanding to the best of my abilities, but it does not imply that other perspectives or ideas are unworthy of consideration.

Now presented in book form, this initial post boldly puts forth my suggestions. I earnestly request the reader’s understanding and invite criticism, evaluation, and all forms of feedback. I will diligently update it with revisions to the best of my ability.

To Remember and Honor

I dedicate this book to those who have lost their lives, serving as a testament to strength and resilience. Just as the Tigers have steadfastly fought for the people of Tigray in the past and continue to do so, may this dedication honor their enduring spirit.

Recognition and Appreciation

I extend my heartfelt gratitude to each one of you who provided encouragement throughout the writing process of this article, offered invaluable assistance in editing my work, and took the time to read and provide constructive feedback, such as Moses W/Gabriel, Nega Zeru, and Daniel Teklu (Dr.), who gave me your precious time, Manjus, Haile Selassie Grimay (son of my mother), Alemseged (Mr.), Goitoom Kebede (Dche), Beyene Mikru, Hagos Godefay (Dr.), Fishatsion (Dr.), Atnket Mezgebe (Dr.), Zeray Tenaw, Mulugeta G/Christos and for editing and providing constructive comments to make it a book Binyamin Tewolde, Asmelash (Dr.), Hagos (Farmer), Kibrom Abrha, Tesfaldet G/Georges (Dr.), Tekleberhan W/Aregay (Dr.), Abraham Gebrewold, Solomon G/Ezgiabher (Gole, Dr.), Tsegazeab Kassa Moses G/Christos and Susan Fisseha and Samira Haile by publishing my writings. 

Also, artist Ashenafi Chaka, who painted the cover for me, and my brother Ermias Mulualem for the publication.

About the Author

Amanuel Alemayohu, born in 1961, attended Tekejeba 1st and 2nd grades, followed by Endada Sweden from 3rd to 6th grades, and Negstesaba Secondary School from 7th to 9th grade. On May 20, 1976, his father, brother, and cousins joined the TPLF. Upon completing his training in the Tekeze Deserts, he was assigned to the Central Military Office, where he acquired military mapping and data collection skills. In 1980, he shared his map findings with his colleagues, which proved valuable for operations in various parts of Tigray.

In March 1980, Amanuel sustained a leg injury and received treatment before being assigned to a training center. Later, he was stationed at the Central Military Office, Nefas Mewcha and Debre Tabor Fronts with Martyr Haile Araya, the South Wollo Front, and even Addis Ababa with Tsadkan and his comrades. Subsequently, he worked in Addis Ababa on Peace and Stability on the Southern Front alongside Martyr Hailemariam Desalegn. However, in the winter of 1985, he fell out of favor with some of his leaders, resulting in an honorable dismissal.

Amanuel completed his secondary education in 1988, achieving outstanding results. In 1989, he enrolled at Mekelle University. Following the invasion of Eritrea (then Shabia) in 1990, he accepted a job offer from the government. He became an instructor of data and military mapping at the Data Training Center (Welmera), where he trained numerous professionals. After voluntarily resigning from the army after the invasion of Eritrea, he pursued his university studies for three years.

Chronological summary:

Until 1999, EC engaged in wood and metal works.

In 1999, he established his own software development company.

From 2001 to 2011, he worked in International Trade in the Middle East.

Between 2002 and 2012, he collaborated with various companies and government agencies to promote employment and entrepreneurship.

Throughout his journey, Amanuel authored several articles on politics, development, and governance, published on different websites, including Aiga Forum, Horn Affairs, and Urayna Magazine. Since 2008, he has been actively involved in driving integrated and sustainable development in the Tigray region.

On November 29, Amanuel and his family departed from Adet, and on December 3, 2012, he rejoined the struggle alongside his comrades. In the second week of December 2012, he commenced intelligence training in Hintan and Wadi Ryan. Following the completion of his training, he served in the same field at the Army Training Center.

Currently, Amanuel is dedicated to contributing to a TV/YouTube show called Under the Sky of Tigray from within the Tigray region.

Contents

Mapping Out a Plan for Execution

To Remember and Honor

Recognition and Appreciation

About the Author

Introduction

Chapter 1 - Establishing and Building the State of Tigray

Chapter 2 -The Direction of State Building

Chapter 3 – Healing

Reference Documents

Introduction

The issue surrounding Tigray goes beyond mere nationalism and encompasses the realms of development and democracy. Following the collapse of the Derg regime in 1983, different ethnic groups in Ethiopia, such as the Oromo and Amhara, primarily sought to foster and advance nationalism as their key political aspiration. By applying definitive and self-evident criteria, ethnic groups outside of Tigray in Ethiopia do not fulfill the requirements for ethnicity. They lack adequate governance, a shared history, and a cohesive market psychology. While they possess a common language and collective memory, their settlements differ. Consequently, these ethnolinguistic groups fail to meet the criteria for being classified as distinct ethnicities.

On the contrary, Tigray satisfies all the prerequisites to be recognized as a nation. The name Tigray has persisted for over a century, and its territorial boundaries are well-established, with Mekelle serving as its capital. Tigray possesses effective governance, a shared history, a functioning market, and a collective psychology. This explains why, during Derg’s decline, while other Ethiopian ethnic groups pursued the search for identity, Tigray’s demand centered around development and democracy. Noteworthy examples include the establishment of SART (Sustainable Agricultural Rehabilitation of Tigray) and the voluntary dedication of forty (40) days of free labor by the entire Tigrayan peasantry for the rehabilitation and development of the region.

However, due to a lack of leadership that comprehends the true aspirations of the people, ethnic groups like Amhara, Oromo, and Somali continue to function as separate entities while Tigray awaits their progress. The task of nation-building is considerably more challenging than establishing a nation. In the 1950s, there were approximately 102 countries in the world, illustrating the complexity involved in building a cohesive nation-state.

By 2020, it was estimated that the number of countries officially recognized by the United Nations would reach approximately 193, with only a few remaining unrecognized. This suggests that nearly one new country has emerged annually for the past 70 years. These newly established nations were born out of separations from larger countries, as the latter failed to provide a stable environment for their respective regions. Nevertheless, it is worth noting that not all of these recently formed countries have achieved development and democracy since their inception. While certain European and Far Eastern nations, including the Czech Republic, Slovenia, Latvia, South Korea, Taiwan, and Singapore, have made remarkable strides toward progress and democratic governance, others have encountered obstacles along the way. Therefore, studying the successful experiences of these particularly accomplished Far Eastern countries can offer valuable insights into effectively establishing and developing new nations.

It is crucial to acknowledge that no country can claim to have completed its nation-building process, as it remains an ongoing and continuous endeavor. Some countries, however, have laid a stronger foundation and made considerable progress in their development, while others are still in the early stages. In an interview with CNN’s Christian Amanpour, the late former US Secretary of State, Madeleine Albright, emphasized that Our democracy is not finished being built, which elucidates the emergence of figures like Donald Trump in contemporary times.

The process of nation-building is a continuous endeavor driven by societal demands. Hence, Tigray and similar countries must consistently strive toward this objective, placing development and democracy at the forefront of their state-building process. Gaining a comprehensive understanding of this concept necessitates studying other nations’ experiences and learning from their achievements and failures. We can focus on a few noteworthy countries to exemplify the key development trends essential for successful nation-building. Taiwan, South Korea, and Singapore stand out as prime examples. These nations have overcome the challenges of feudalism and capitalism to attain remarkable progress. Each country pursued a unique development path:

Taiwan

Taiwan predominantly adopted a rural and agriculture-centered approach to development. Under the leadership of the Kuomintang government, the emphasis was placed on elevating rural communities, eradicating poverty, and leveraging technology to drive industrial production.

South Korea

Like Taiwan, South Korea also introduced new technologies to empower farmers in rural and agricultural regions. Their developmental direction closely mirrored that of Taiwan. However, unlike the other two countries, Singapore faced the challenge of limited arable land for agricultural purposes.

Singapore’s success in nation-building can be attributed to its motto, Innovate or Die, which underscores the significance of focus and creativity in