Tigray

Tigray is a regional state in northern Ethiopia and one of the eleven ethnically based regional states established by the 1995 constitution. Its capital is Mekelle. The region is named for the Tigrayan people, who predominantly inhabit it and speak Tigrinya.

Geography and environment: It lies in the northern highlands, characterized by rugged plateaus and deep valleys. The Tekezé River is a major watercourse; the area includes historic highland towns and monastic traditions. The climate is temperate in the highlands with a wet season from June to September.

History and politics: Tigray has a long history linked to the ancient Aksumite civilization. In the federal system introduced in 1995, it became a regional state with its own elected council. The region has seen conflict since late 2020 between the federal government and forces in Tigray, resulting in humanitarian crises and displacement; by 2022-23 some access was restored.

Demographics and culture: Most inhabitants identify as ethnic Tigrayans and practice Ethiopian Orthodox Christianity, with minorities of Muslims and Catholics. Tigrinya is the predominant language; the region is known for the Rock-Hewn Churches of Tigray, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a center of medieval Christian culture.

Economy and society: The economy is largely agrarian, with subsistence farming of crops such as teff, sorghum, pulses, and enset, plus livestock. Trade and small-scale industry exist but development remains uneven. Education and health services have been affected by conflict, though institutions and humanitarian aid have been working to recover.