SW News: After two years of bloody war in Ethiopia, the Ethiopian federal government and the rebel authorities of Tigray inked an agreement of "cessation of hostilities" and "methodical disarmament" at Pretoria in South Africa on Wednesday.

The Tigray People's Liberation Front (TPLF) and the Ethiopian government made a commitment to "safeguard the sovereignty and territorial integrity of Ethiopia" in their joint proclamation. According to a precise plan, TPLF fighters will be "disarmed, demobilized, and reintegrated."

The restoration of constitutional order in the Tigray region, a framework for resolving political differences, and a political framework for transitional justice to ensure accountability, the truth, and reconciliation were among the transitional measures that the two sides agreed to implement, according to Ethiopian authorities.

To ensure that all individuals in need continue to receive relief, the Ethiopian government "will expand its partnership with humanitarian organizations". Additionally, it will "continue its efforts to restore public services and reconstruct the infrastructure of all towns impacted by the fighting." The peace deal was well received by the world community. A spokesperson for UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres called this "a very positive first step." For its part, the African Union hopes that Ethiopia has entered a new age.

US Secretary of State Antony Blinken remarked, "We appreciate the breakthrough gained in Pretoria today." He also praised the "unimpeded delivery of humanitarian assistance and the protection of civilians that should ensue from the implementation of this agreement."

Getachew Reda, who led the delegation of rebel authorities in Tigray, said he hoped that "both parties honor their obligations" and that this deal demonstrated "the determination of both parties to leave the past behind."

Redwan Hussein, Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed's national security adviser, led the team on behalf of the Ethiopian government and praised the parties for their "constructive participation" in trying to put an end to this unfortunate episode.

The clashes in Tigray have claimed thousands of lives, put heritage monuments in peril and displaced millions. Worse, medical and food supplies have been cut worsening the plight of the local population.