In Ethiopia, in less than two days in a row, the United States, France, Britain and Canada have called for a ceasefire in Tigray. The conflict has cost thousands of lives and caused significant damage as well. In particular, many infrastructures have been looted or destroyed. Report in the town of Mekoni, where a large agricultural company was attacked at the beginning of the conflict.
With our special returning envoy from Mekoni, Sebastien nemeth
The pens from the company Aleka Moges are empty. The 800 cows, goats, chickens, machines … everything has been stolen or destroyed. Employees accuse the Amharas military, after capturing southern Tigray, of attacking.
Owner Abadinu Gusa says: “They accused the company of belonging to the old power, but that is not true. We tried to protect ourselves with sticks. We stopped them for an hour. But too many have returned. We were overwhelmed. Soldiers were there, they refused to help us. About ten employees were injured. I think the Amharas did this to gradually starve Tigray. “
Some employees are still left. Ibra Khaday had been a supervisor for two years. He tried in vain to protect the company: “We tried to fight. But they were armed. We were terrified and had to flee. Everyone was so happy to work here. After the attack, I cried for days and days. It is as if we have lost our own home. ”
Today, the company no longer operates but is still the target of looters. A dozen guards were recruited. Meresa patrols with the rifle to protect what can still be protected: “They take the chance after the attack. They are interested in the metal and some parts that are left. They come at night with sticks and even weapons. It happened to me to shoot and you have to be vigilant. ”
The owner claims that contacts saw stolen animals and equipment circulating in the Amhara area. But he does not think he will ever be able to get them back.
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