Reports of Sexual Violence in Ethiopia's Amhara Conflict

Overview of the Conflict and Allegations

On January 5, the Ethiopian army conducted searches in the Amhara region as part of operations against the Fano militia. During one such search in South Gondar, Enat, 21, reported that three soldiers entered her home. She stated that after confirming Fano fighters had visited her workplace, the soldiers reportedly insulted her and threatened her eight-year-old niece with a weapon. Enat reported she was subsequently raped by one soldier while the others maintained guard.

Since the conflict began in August 2023 between the Ethiopian army and Fano militia, thousands of women, including those from the Amhara ethnic group, are believed to have experienced sexual assault. While regional documentation of sexual violence is limited, BBC data collection indicates thousands of rape reports from July 2023 to May 2025, involving victims aged 8 to 65.

Independent media access to Amhara has been restricted. The BBC team in Nairobi interviewed women and medical professionals within the region to gather information regarding the conflict's human impact.

The conflict initiated following government attempts to disband regional military groups, including those in Amhara, which had previously allied with the army during the 2020-2022 Tigray civil war. Fano militias reportedly perceived this action as a betrayal, believing it would increase their vulnerability. Subsequently, Fano launched a rebellion, capturing significant towns. Fano states its objectives include regional autonomy and protection against perceived marginalization by the Ethiopian government. The army has responded with a crackdown, labeling Fano as