Tigray Herald፡November 14,2024 (Mekele)
Written By Yerga Yaecobe
Important Lessons for the Tigrayan Youth Movement: Insights from the Qeerroo Movement in Oromia
The Qeerroo movement in Oromia serves as a powerful model of youth-led resistance, effectively challenging exploitation and environmental degradation caused by illegal mining operations. Through coordinated efforts, strategic actions, and community mobilization, Qeerroo members have dismantled unlawful mining operations, targeting companies involved in unchecked resource extraction that ignored both environmental and social responsibilities. This document explores the tactics and achievements of the Qeerroo movement and offers valuable lessons for Tigrayan youth in their fight against similar challenges.
How the Qeerroo Movement Combated Illegal Mining in Oromia
Targeted Actions and Community Mobilization
The Qeerroo movement, driven by young Oromo activists, adopted an organized approach that united communities across districts affected by illegal mining. They systematically identified areas of activity, mapped out the companies involved, and mobilized local communities to actively resist these exploitative operations.
Destruction of Equipment and Machinery
In a bold show of resistance, Qeerroo activists reportedly engaged in direct actions by dismantling and destroying mining equipment. This included burning trucks, bulldozers, and excavators in key zones like Guji, Borena, and West Wollega, where illegal extraction was rampant. These strategic actions raised the economic costs for the companies involved, making it financially unviable for them to continue.
Targeted Mining Areas and Companies
Guji and Borena Zones: Known for gold deposits, these areas were heavily targeted by companies like MIDROC Gold, which faced continuous resistance until forced to withdraw.
West and East Wollega Zones: Rich in mineral wealth, these areas also experienced concentrated Qeerroo actions against illegal mining.
Arsi and Bale Zones: In these regions, Qeerroo dismantled equipment and drove out miners to prevent further environmental degradation.
Focus on Environmental and Social Justice
The Qeerroo movement not only dismantled mining operations but also highlighted the severe environmental damage and socio-economic harm these activities caused. Deforestation, water contamination, soil degradation, and displacement disproportionately impacted farmers and indigenous communities. The Qeerroo framed their actions as a defense of Oromia’s natural resources and a commitment to the well-being of future generations.
Key Lessons for Tigrayan Youth
Tigray, like Oromia, faces threats from illegal mining that endanger both the environment and the socio-economic stability of its communities. This exploitation has devastating impacts, particularly in the northwestern Tigray zone and increasingly in central Tigray, where harmful chemicals and unsanctioned extraction create existential security threats. Moreover, corrupt political and security elements within TPLF operate as a criminal syndicate, driving this exploitation.
Here are critical lessons from the Qeerroo movement that could inspire similar efforts in Tigray:
Unified Community Mobilization
Tigrayan youth can follow the example of the Qeerroo by building a unified front across the region. Coordinating with local communities, environmental advocates, and regional leaders can rally support against illegal mining. A shared vision for safeguarding Tigray’s resources will empower collective action and foster a stronger, more inclusive movement.
Strategic Targeting of Mining Equipment and Sites
Tigrayan youth might consider disrupting illegal mining operations by disabling essential equipment. This approach would add financial pressure, making it costly for companies to continue their activities. Any direct actions, however, should be carefully planned with consideration for legal implications and community safety.
Focus on Environmental and Livelihood Preservation
Highlighting the devastating effects of illegal mining on Tigray’s ecosystems and local economies could strengthen the movement’s appeal. By framing their efforts as essential to protecting the environment and supporting Tigray’s agricultural and water resources, Tigrayan youth can build a moral foundation for their activities, akin to the Qeerroo’s approach.
Collaboration Across Youth Groups and Communities
The Qeerroo’s success was built on broad support from various community groups. Tigrayan youth could adopt a similar approach by working together with student organizations, agricultural associations, and regional environmental groups. Coordinated resistance across Tigray would amplify the impact of their actions, establishing a widespread movement.
Moving Forward: Building a Movement to Protect Tigray’s Resources
The Qeerroo movement exemplifies the power of youth-led initiatives in resisting illegal exploitation. By learning from their tactics, Tigrayan youth can develop a structured, community-supported approach to counter illegal mining. With strong organization, a focus on environmental protection, and a united regional movement, Tigray’s youth have the potential to preserve their homeland’s resources for future generations, just as the Qeerroo have in Oromia.
In a time when the people of Tigray are already suffering from the trauma of genocide, severe economic hardship, and social crisis, these illegal mining operations represent a silent continuation of their suffering. Tigrayan youth are urged to take a stand, drawing inspiration from the Qeerroo, to defend their environment, livelihoods, and heritage from this ongoing exploitation.
