Addis Ababa: Fighting is continuing in the Oromia region of Ethiopia, where government forces are battling the Oromo Liberation Army. The conflict, which has received limited international attention, is causing serious suffering for civilians in rural areas.
Human rights groups and local sources say people are being killed, abducted and forced to flee their homes. Many villages have been caught between armed groups and security forces. Roads are often blocked and communications are poor, making it difficult for aid workers and journalists to reach affected communities.
Schools and health centres in parts of Oromia remain closed or damaged. Thousands of children have missed months of education, and families say it is becoming harder to find food and basic medical care. Displacement has increased, with many people moving to nearby towns or staying with relatives for safety.
The federal government says it is carrying out operations to restore order and protect civilians. It accuses the Oromo Liberation Army of attacking officials and civilians. The armed group says it is fighting for greater political rights and self rule for the Oromo people.
Security analysts say the conflict in Oromia is part of wider instability across Ethiopia. Tensions also remain in neighbouring regions, including Amhara and Tigray, adding pressure on the government and stretching security forces.
The roots of the Oromia conflict go back many years and are linked to disputes over land, political power and ethnic identity. Efforts at dialogue have failed so far, and there is no clear sign of a breakthrough.
For ordinary people in Oromia, daily life remains uncertain. Farmers struggle to work their land, traders fear using main roads, and families worry about night time raids. Aid agencies warn that without better access and a reduction in fighting, the humanitarian situation could worsen in the coming months.
Observers say a lasting solution will need political talks as well as security measures. Until then, civilians in Oromia are likely to remain trapped in a conflict they did not choose.