Amhara Fano Forces Capture Key Border Town in Major Shift Along Ethiopia-Sudan Frontier

The Amhara Fano forces have captured the strategic border town of Metema, a key location along the Ethiopia-Sudan border, signaling a major shift in the ongoing war between Amhara Fano forces and the Ethiopian federal government. Residents from Metema and surrounding areas have confirmed the forces’ control, marking Fano’s first successful seizure of a border town.

Analysts view this development as a turning point in Fano’s struggle against the government. Controlling Metema opens a critical supply route free from government oversight, giving the forces potential access to international borders for diplomatic outreach and vital resources that could strengthen their military operations. The Amhara Fano forces now reportedly control much of the western Gonder zone in the Amhara region. Military experts note that securing key logistical routes like Metema could shift the balance of power in favor of Fano.

Tensions along the Ethiopia-Sudan border have intensified. According to a September 6, 2024 report by Sudan Tribune, the conflict between the Ethiopian army and Amhara Fano forces has escalated. Dozens of wounded Ethiopian soldiers have been evacuated to the Sudanese state of Gedaref. Battles near the border, in areas adjacent to Gedaref State, have continued for five consecutive days, with Fano forces launching heavy artillery attacks on Ethiopian federal army positions near Al-Matama Yohannes.

Local sources speaking to Sudan Tribune reported that the fighting along the Ethiopian-Sudan border has claimed dozens of lives, with nearly 100 Ethiopian government soldiers wounded. Of these, 37 were evacuated to Gedaref State under heavy guard by Sudanese intelligence. Meanwhile, the Sudanese army disarmed 77 Ethiopian federal soldiers who fled to the Sudanese city of Galabat.

Earlier, on September 3rd, Sudan Tribune and East African Review reported that Sudanese authorities had closed the Galabat border crossing after Amhara Fano forces seized control of the Ethiopian side. The closure suspended all border trade and travel, with Sudanese authorities disarming Ethiopian police and military personnel at the crossing. Amhara Fano allowed stranded Sudanese nationals to return safely.

As fighting rages on, Sudan has deployed military reinforcements to the border, while Ethiopian Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed has sent additional reinforcements from Addis Ababa, launching infantry and artillery attacks on Fano positions. However, despite these efforts, the Ethiopian government has accused local citizens of siding with Fano, complicating the situation further.

In response, Amhara Fano leaders emphasized the precision of their operations in maintaining stability and protecting civilians. They acknowledged Sudan’s decision to close the Galabat border, assuring authorities of their commitment to border security. Fano reaffirmed its dedication to safeguarding Sudanese civilians, including those in refugee camps, while continuing to deliver humanitarian aid to those in need.

Fano’s capture of Metema also underscores their defiance against Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed’s government, which they accuse of neglecting Amhara’s security. Despite claims by Ethiopian Defense Chief of Staff Field Marshal Berhanu Jula that Fano’s strength had waned, their territorial gains suggest otherwise. As the conflict deepens, observers are concerned about the broader regional instability, with Sudan reinforcing its border security. Amhara Fano forces continue to consolidate their control over large parts of the Amhara region, establishing local administrations in Northern Wollo’s Bugna and Lasta districts.

EAR- Editorial Note

This news story is sourced from:

• Sudan Tribune: https://sudantribune.net/article290480/
• VOA : https://amharic.voanews.com/a/metema-conflict/7774666.html