TDVA Launches Groundbreaking Mental Health Program for 240 War-Affected Veterans
Mekelle, Ethiopia – December 28, 2023
The Tigray Disabled Veterans Association (TDVA), in partnership with USAID/OTI ESP, has inaugurated a critical Psychological Resilience Training Program for 240 combat-affected veterans, addressing Tigray’s growing mental health crisis among survivors of the recent conflict.
Program Highlights
🧠 Two-Phase Training Curriculum:
- Phase 1 (January 2024): Trauma healing & coping strategies
- Phase 2 (March 2024): Community reintegration & peer support
🤝 Key Partners Present:
- Tigray Veterans Commission
- Regional Health Bureau
- National Rehabilitation Commission
- Social Affairs Bureau
War Context
⚔️ Urgent Need:
- Over 65% of Tigrayan veterans show PTSD symptoms
- 1 in 3 report suicidal ideation post-conflict
- Only 12 mental health professionals serve entire region
Participant Voices
💬 “The war took my leg, then my peace of mind. This program is my first hope in years,” shared Ato Teklay, artillery veteran.
