Who is Fano
In contemporary Ethiopia, Fano embodies a coalition comprising both armed and non-armed Amharas. This alliance emerged prominently during the 2016 youth-led protests in the Amhara region, sparked by territorial annexation issues related to Wolkayt Tegede, Tselemt, and Raya. The modern Fano is dedicated to advocating for equal representation and the protection of Amhara rights all over Ethiopia.
The armed factions within Fano have been actively engaged in conflicts with both the TPLF and Ethiopian Federal forces. Throughout these struggles, Fano’s commitment has remained steadfast—to defend the interests and ensure the security of the Amhara community against identity-based attacks. The group continues to be a significant force amidst ongoing tensions with the TPLF and the administration led by Abiy Ahmed.
Today’s Fano movement is viewed as the modern-day continuation of a historic legacy, tracing back to those who stood against injustices, including during the resistance against Italian aggression. This lineage of resilience and advocacy underscores Fano’s enduring role in shaping a more equitable Ethiopia.
Fano is inspired by the legacy of the Ethiopian Arbegnoch and the heroes who valiantly resisted Italian fascism. We adhere to a strict code of conduct that prohibits mistreatment and theft from the populace, as well as abuse of captive government soldiers.
NordicFano
Our mission is to unite supporters of the Fano movement across the Nordic countries, with a focus on Sweden, Norway, Denmark, and Finland. We strive to provide a cohesive space for members and supporters of the Amhara Fano movement to come together and enhance our organization.
Currently, there’s a need to strengthen the unity of the Amhara diaspora in the Nordic region. Through our platform, we aim to address this by offering a centralized meeting space.
It’s important to clarify that our organization does not solicit financial support for the Fano cause. Instead, we are dedicated to fostering connections and providing accurate information about the Amhara struggle against the regime of Abiy Ahmed.
Our website will serve as a hub for aggregating Twitter posts from Amharas, facilitating greater organization among Amharas in the Nordic countries. Additionally, we aim to shed light on the sacrifices made by Amharas on the ground, who are working tirelessly to ensure a safe future for our community in Ethiopia. Join us in our mission to empower and support the Amhara cause in the Nordic region!
Gojjam Fano
In Gojjam, the Amhara Fano has been active through various local groups, but a significant consolidation occurred following the Dmama Declaration on February 24, 2024. This declaration marked the unification of the Amhara Popular Forces and the Amhara Fano in Gojjam, leading to the formation of United Amhara Fano in Gojjam Command.
The unified group is now led by veteran Zemene Kassie, serving as the chairperson, with Zenabu Lengereh appointed as the commander of the Gojjam Army and the deputy chairman. Other key figures include Asres Mare Demte and Marshet Tsehayu, who serve as the spokesman, both of whom play influential roles within the organization. Additionally, Engineer Manchelot Esubalew is responsible for conducting operations in and around Bahir Dar, the capital city of the region.
This strategic alliance aims to strengthen the position of the Amhara community within Gojjam, ensuring a coordinated and effective approach to their objectives and challenges.
Gonder Fano
The Gonder Fano, one of the oldest Fano organizations in the region, has its roots deeply entwined with the Wolqite Tegede territorial issue. Led by the veteran Mesafint Tesfu, this group has played a pivotal role in advocating for Amhara unity in Gonder. As of January 31, 2024, various Fano groups in Gonder have unified under a single command structure, now known as the Amhara Fano in Gonder.
The new council includes prominent members such as Arega Belacheew, Meseret Alemu, Destaw Demelash, Seffer Melese, Gebru Liyh, and Eshete Baye. Additionally, operational oversight is provided by other leaders including Habte Wolde, Anteneh Dres, and Dereje Belay.
This consolidation aims to enhance coordination and strengthen the collective efforts of the Fano groups in addressing the challenges facing the Amhara community in the region, ensuring a more unified and powerful response to their needs and concerns.
Wollo Fano
The Wello Fano movement played a significant role in countering the TPLF’s oppressive regime and its inversion of the Amhara region. The East Amhara Fano, led by Mere Wedajo (Mihret Wedajo), locally known as Warkaw Mire and formerly the largest Amhara Fano organization in Wollo, has now merged with other groups to form a united Amhara Fano Wollo Command since December 13, 2023. Colonel Fantahun Muhabaw now serves as the head commander, with Mere Wodajo (Warkaw Mere Wodajo) as the deputy commander. Alemneh Mebratu and Colonel Moges Zegeye are also part of Fano’s leadership under the command of Shafi Habtamu.
Shewa Fano
The North Shoa zone in the Amhara region shares borders with both the Oromia special zone in the Amhara region and the Oromia region. It has been pivotal in defending against attacks by Oromo militants originating from both the Oromia special zone in the Amhara region and the Oromia region. These threats primarily stem from the Oromo Liberation Front (OLF), labeled a terrorist group, as well as the Oromo regional government forces, which receive significant support from both the federal and Oromo regional governments.
In response, all Fanos in Shoa have rallied together under two unified commands: one led by the esteemed figure Asseged Mekonen, also known as Aba Goraw, and Dessalegne Siyasb, and the other by central command led by Meketaw Mamo as the chief commander and Abebe Mulat, also known as Amoraw, who serves as the spokesperson for the newly formed Shoa Fano command. Despite initial divisions, both commands share the common goal of ending the suffering of the Amhara people. Efforts are underway to reconcile their differences and merge under a single command. Additionally, the Shoa Fanos maintain close collaboration with their counterparts in Wollo.
Trusted Sources
Looking for credible information on the Amhara Fano movement and its fight for the rights of the Amhara people against the Abiy Ahmed regime? Look no further! We’ve curated a list of reliable media sources with direct access to Fano leaders on the front lines. These outlets are instrumental in raising awareness about the injustices happening in Ethiopia.
Here are some trusted media sources:
- Ethio News
- Ethio 251
- Ethio 360
- Messay Mekonen (anchor media)
- Dere News (Dereje Habtewold)
- Esan TV
- The Voice of Amhara
It’s worth noting that many credible Amhara Fano media outlets primarily use YouTube to share information. However, the Abiy Ahmed regime’s information army has targeted and blocked these channels. To access their content, we recommend searching for their names directly on YouTube, as using direct links may not always work. Additionally, utilizing Telegram channels for consistent updates is advisable.
Stay informed and support the fight for justice in Ethiopia with these reliable media sources!