Delayed Rains, Broken Promises - Why Political Choices Could Turn Tigray's Drought Into Famine Yet Again

[Addis Standard] Addis Abeba -- In June 2026, farmers around Tigray's capital Mekelle were still ploughing, spreading manure and searching for seed and fertiliser. Farmers purchased fertiliser at 13,000 birr per quintal, almost five times Ethiopia's 2020 national average. Cash was scarce as banks restricted withdrawals, and fuel and farm inputs were difficult to obtain as rumours of renewed war spread. Yet farmers continued preparing their fields because they had little choice. A growing season cannot be postponed until political