By The Habesha News Desk
September 3, 2025
Fno union is welcome news, and many people hope to see one Amhar Fno under one leadership. They search for clear structure, shared goals, and a trusted command that can guide action and speak with one voice.
“The Covenant of Qara has been renewed!! The journey of unity continues:: Be united.”
This phrase reads like a modern rallying line, not a recorded covenant, but its message is simple: align purpose, reduce fragmentation, and build public trust. In this guide, we outline why unity matters, what a central structure could look like, how to balance local autonomy with a common strategy, and what steps can turn slogans into stable coordination under one leadership. The path ahead is about discipline, inclusion, and measurable results through a credible Fno union.
Historical Background of the Fano Movement
Origins and Early Resistance
The historical background of the Fano movement starts in Ethiopia’s long tradition of local resistance. Fano originated during times when Ethiopia faced foreign invasions, most notably in the late 19th and early 20th centuries. According to research and sources like Martin Plaut and The Africa Report, the word “Fano” was first used as a symbol of patriotic and popular resistance. In 1896, when Italy tried to colonize Ethiopia, Fano represented the decentralized militia groups and ordinary people who defended their land.
Fano became a household name again during the 1930s, as young men and peasants armed themselves to fight Italian occupation. These Fano units were not formal armies but passionate volunteers and community defenders. The movement stood for self-reliance, bravery, and the determination to resist domination. This spirit became part of the Amhara cultural memory, with “Fano” standing for any popular movement against injustice or repression. These early Fano groups inspired later generations, who saw their acts of defiance as a model for community defense.
Evolution During the Imperial and Derg Era
During Ethiopia’s imperial era, particularly under Emperor Haile Selassie, Fano continued to exist, but often in the background. The imperial state tried to centralize power, and many local militias, including Fano, were sometimes seen with suspicion by national authorities. While some Fano participated in rebellion against unpopular imperial policies, others assisted the empire during crises, defending their regions in times of instability.
With the rise of the Derg in 1974, a Marxist military government, the landscape shifted dramatically. The Derg sought to suppress independent armed groups, but Fano’s decentralized and local nature made it hard to eliminate. In the 1970s and 80s, especially during the Red Terror and various rural conflicts, Fano groups sometimes re-emerged in pockets of armed resistance, especially in Amhara regions. The Derg era was marked more by repression and attempts to enforce top-down control, yet Fano’s tradition survived in the memory of community self-defense and local resistance. While not always openly active, the legacy of Fano kept its relevance during hard times.
Post-2018 Re-emergence and Urbanization
The Fano movement saw a dramatic revival after 2018. Political reforms led by Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed weakened Ethiopia’s strong central party system. As Tigrayan-led federal rule ended, Amhara communities felt threatened by both internal and external conflicts, especially over land and identity. Many young people started to organize once again under the Fano name, seeing themselves as defenders of the Amhara people. Mass protests from 2016 to 2018 also served as fertile ground for Fano’s comeback.
Unlike earlier times, the recent Fano movement became more urbanized. Today’s Fano groups recruit from towns and cities, not just rural villages. The rise of social media and urban-based activism gave Fano new forms of organization. Modern Fano also reflects the frustration of unemployed youth, contested land borders with neighboring regions, and a distrust of both regional and federal governments. The latest wave of Fano is therefore not only fighting old-style invasions or oppression but is also part of complex, modern political struggles for Amhara representation, rights, and security.
Overall, the historical background of the Fano movement is a story of repeated cycles of grassroots resistance, adaptation, and survival in response to changing Ethiopian realities. The Fano’s flexibility and deep cultural roots help explain why it keeps reappearing whenever Amhara or Ethiopian communities feel threatened.
Fragmentation and Crisis
Decentralized Structure and Regional Factions
Decentralized structure defines the heart of the current Fano Movement crisis. Each major region in the Amhara state — Gojjam, Gondar, Wollo, and Shewa — has its own Fano faction. These groups often operate independently. They report to local commanders and prioritize defending their own zones rather than following a central plan. For example, the Fano in Gojjam and the Fano in Gondar have their own leaders, tactics, and even recruitment methods. This has brought both strength, through local buy-in, and weakness, because it blocks unified action.
Gojjam, Gondar, Wollo, and Shewa Factions
Gojjam, Gondar, Wollo, and Shewa have become household names in Amhara’s Fano struggle, each representing unique regional interests and histories. Gojjam Fano, often led by figures such as Zemene Kassie, tend to be well-armed and deeply rooted in rural traditions. Gondar Fano is known for more organized operations and a focus on broader Amhara unity. Wollo’s Fano are famous for their strong defense of border areas. Shewa Fano, whose bases stretch from towns to the capital’s outskirts, exhibit a more urbanized style. While each group is vital, their independence sometimes sparks rivalries or confusion about who truly speaks for Fano as a whole.
Leadership Rivalries and Personal Agendas
Leadership rivalries and strong personal agendas make unity almost impossible at times. Some Fano commanders want recognition for their past sacrifices or their region’s suffering. Others worry that centralizing leadership means outsiders will take control of their resources, power, or local fame. This creates an atmosphere of suspicion and infighting. Reports also highlight some leaders focusing on personal gain, political aspirations, or loyalty to select patrons, instead of serving Fano’s collective good. These rivalries have fueled internal disputes and often undermine big-picture planning, making it harder to negotiate with government or other groups.
Effects of Local Command vs. Centralized Control
Effects of the clash between local command and centralized control are felt daily on the battlefield and in public opinion. Local command allows Fano units to respond rapidly to attacks, using their deep community ties and regional knowledge. This makes them unpredictable and sometimes very successful in localized operations. However, without centralized control, Fano units struggle with coordination. They compete for supplies, act on rumors, and sometimes even encounter friendly fire incidents due to lack of standard communication. External observers note that this fragmentation weakens their political leverage and public image. While local control builds grassroots support, the absence of a united command is now one of the largest barriers to effective resistance or negotiation with Addis Ababa.
The crisis is clear: until Gojjam, Gondar, Wollo, and Shewa can function as branches of one tree instead of separate forests, Amhara’s Fano stands divided at a dangerous crossroads.
Renewed Calls for Unity
Major Appeals from Key Leaders
Major appeals from key leaders in the Amhara Fano movement have accelerated in the past year, as disunity and internal divisions threatened both their credibility and effectiveness. Voices from inside the movement and respected Amhara elders have made strong public demands for decisive, collective leadership. Influential figures, including Eskinder Nega, Mere Wodajo, and especially Zemene Kassie, have called for the immediate unity of all Fano factions. Through multiple statements, these leaders have urged their colleagues to put aside “ego and parochial interests” and focus on the survival and dignity of the Amhara people. These appeals emphasize that without unity, Fano risks losing its public support, its military advantage, and could face defeat or irrelevance.
The Role of Zemene Kassie
The role of Zemene Kassie is especially significant. He is widely recognized as the most prominent and charismatic commander in the Amhara Fano movement. In 2024 and 2025, Zemene Kassie became a visible symbol of the quest for unity. He addressed fellow commanders by name in open letters and speeches, urging them to overcome personal and ideological differences. Despite past criticism regarding his own role in Fano’s disunity, Zemene Kassie began publicly insisting on a new, inclusive leadership. He promoted negotiations, compromise, and even called on his rivals to join a united front, demonstrating a willingness to set aside power struggles for the greater cause of his people. Many observers believe Zemene Kassie’s voice has shifted public and internal sentiment towards unity more than any other single leader.
Mass Mobilization and Support Base Involvement
Mass mobilization and support base involvement have been critical to sustaining the Fano movement. In late 2023 and throughout 2024, Fano’s ability to mobilize supporters, both in rural Amhara towns and major cities, distinguished it from other insurgencies in the Horn of Africa. Coordinated calls for protests, resource collection, and support have led to thousands of volunteers, logistical supporters, and urban sympathizers who assist Fano groups at great personal risk. These broad grassroots networks have played a key role during major offensives and defensive campaigns. The support base has also pushed leaders toward unity, as popular patience with infighting has worn thin. Community gatherings and forums across Amhara, as well as diaspora fundraisers and advocacy efforts in cities like Addis Ababa and abroad, reflect the ongoing, emotional involvement of regular Amhara people in the struggle.
Formation and Objectives of the Amhara Fano National Force (AFNF)
The formation of the Amhara Fano National Force (AFNF) in May 2025 was a milestone in the movement’s quest for unity. After long negotiations among major Fano commands, the AFNF was established as a consolidated military and political structure to coordinate defense, strategies, and negotiations on behalf of all Amhara Fano groups. The main objectives are: protecting Amhara communities and territories, promoting “national democracy,” and negotiating from a position of unity with the federal government and international actors. The AFNF also aims to create mechanisms for humanitarian support, discipline within ranks, and public communication, addressing both military and civilian needs.
Structure: General Assembly, Central Council, Executive Committee, Patriarchal Elders
The structure of the AFNF was carefully designed to blend modern organization with traditional authority. It includes:
- General Assembly: The supreme body, made up of regional commanders and community delegates, sets core policies and oversees major decisions.
- Central Council: A smaller body that advises the Assembly and manages relations among different regions and social groups.
- Executive Committee: Responsible for day-to-day leadership, military planning, communications, and negotiations. This body includes representatives from all major former Fano factions.
- Patriarchal Elders: Traditional Amhara elders with moral authority, integrated formally as advisors and mediators to help resolve disputes and set the ethical tone for decisions.
Key Initiatives and Early Successes
The AFNF’s early key initiatives included programs for improved battlefield coordination, disciplined supply distribution, and centralized negotiations with federal officials. Special efforts have been made to reduce inter-factional friction by having joint training, pooled logistics, and intelligence sharing. On the political side, the AFNF has launched public information campaigns to combat misinformation and maintain morale among supporters. Notably, the first months following formation saw a marked reduction in clashes among Fano units, stronger rebel control in critical rural districts, and new humanitarian outreach to war-affected civilians. These early successes, while fragile, have been welcomed by the Amhara community as proof that unity is possible—even under the most difficult conditions.
Challenges to Achieving One Leadership
Ideological and Strategic Differences
Ideological and strategic differences are a big challenge for the Amhara Fano movement. Some Fano factions want a full-scale armed struggle, while others prefer negotiation or limited resistance. This split makes it hard to agree on key actions and overall direction. Some leaders push for only local interests, while others imagine a national movement representing Amhara people everywhere. Because they do not always share the same vision, Fano groups argue about their main goals. Disagreements over how to deal with the Ethiopian government, foreign relations, and even questions about working with other groups add to the confusion. As long as these strong differences remain, true unity is very difficult.
Historical Grievances and Provincial Loyalties
Historical grievances and provincial loyalties often block efforts to create one united Fano leadership. Each major region in Amhara, like Gojjam, Gondar, Wollo, and Shewa, remembers old disputes with each other. Sometimes, past betrayals or uneven distribution of resources make people refuse to trust outsiders. Local loyalty is very strong—many fighters trust only commanders from their own area. Even if leaders try to form an Amhara-wide front, old wounds can quickly resurface and damage trust. This problem is not unique to Fano, but is common in all parts of Ethiopian politics, where provinces often prefer their own interests over a greater national good.
Mistrust and Infighting Among Commanders
Mistrust and infighting among commanders weakens the Fano movement’s push for unity. Every faction wants to protect its own influence or territory. As a result, there are power struggles over resources, donations, and even credit for victories. Rumors and accusations—sometimes true, sometimes created by opponents—spread among the different groups. These divisions can lead to open fighting or standoffs, which makes enemies stronger. When one commander is accused of betrayal or incompetence, whole groups might split off, further weakening any single leadership.
External Political and Government Pressures
External political and government pressures make unity inside Fano even harder. The government and outside actors often use “divide and rule” tactics, playing factions against each other. Sometimes, local commanders are tempted by government offers of power, money, or immunity, which creates suspicion among other Fano leaders. State propaganda works hard to discredit any move toward unity, labelling one group as terrorists or another as criminals. When the government arrests or targets prominent leaders, others can become even more protective of their independence. Ongoing pressure from law enforcement and intelligence agencies keeps the whole movement looking over its shoulder, making trust almost impossible.
Influence of Infiltrators and Opportunists
The influence of infiltrators and opportunists is a silent danger to the idea of one Fano leadership. Infiltrators pretend to be true members but report secrets to the government or rivals, causing paranoia and accusations among trusted friends. Opportunists try to join the movement when it grows popular, hoping for money, status, or power, rather than because they believe in Fano’s goals. These newcomers do not care about unity—they may instead spread false rumors, encourage rivalries, or provoke splits. When members do not know whom to trust, even simple decisions become hard, slow, or dangerous. This constant threat of sabotage keeps the quest for unified leadership just out of reach.
Impacts of Disunity
Loss of Strategic Coordination
Loss of strategic coordination is one of the most serious impacts of disunity within the Amhara Fano Movement. When different factions act independently, their efforts often overlap, conflict, or even cancel each other out. Instead of forming a united front against common threats or challenges, each group makes separate decisions about targets, strategies, and timing. This means that resources, fighters, and support may be used inefficiently. Many observers have pointed out that without effective coordination, Fano groups cannot quickly respond to sudden attacks or changes on the ground, which puts both members and supportive communities at greater risk. In crisis moments, the absence of shared plans or communication can lead to failed operations and missed opportunities.
Erosion of Community Trust and Popular Credibility
Erosion of community trust and popular credibility is another key problem caused by Fano’s fragmentation. The Amhara population has historically supported the Fano because they saw it as a defender of their people and rights. However, as internal disagreements and visible rivalries between Fano leaders grow, communities may begin to lose faith. People often get confused by mixed messages from different leaders. When each faction claims to represent the true Fano or tries to outshine the others, supporters might worry about hidden agendas or personal ambitions. Reports of abuse, miscommunication, or conflicting actions increase suspicions. Over time, this damages the moral authority and legitimacy that Fano movements have built up, making it harder to attract public backing or mobilize mass support.
Internal Morale and Recruitment Challenges
Internal morale and recruitment challenges usually follow when a movement is divided. Fighters and volunteers need to believe in a clear cause, strong leadership, and a chance of success. Constant disputes, finger-pointing, or leadership changes leave members confused and demoralized. New recruits may hesitate to join, not knowing which branch represents the real movement or fearing that they might have to fight against their own brothers. Rumors of betrayal, favoritism, or unequal treatment become frequent, further spreading insecurity among the ranks. Some experienced fighters may even abandon Fano altogether if they sense that infighting is more dangerous than the external enemy. Keeping fighters motivated and disciplined becomes almost impossible if there is no shared mission or chain of command.
Media Narratives and International Perception
Media narratives and international perception play an important role in shaping the fate of any resistance movement. When Fano is divided, the media often focuses on its conflicts and failures rather than its successes. Headlines may highlight leadership arrests, internal disputes, or civilian complaints, overshadowing stories of bravery and sacrifice. International observers, including human rights groups or potential donors, usually become more cautious or skeptical when movements appear fragmented. They may question the movement’s ability to protect civilians or deliver on promises, reducing outside sympathy or support. This negative portrayal can also be exploited by opponents, who use division to brand all Fano groups as criminal, chaotic, or illegitimate. Over time, the lack of unity severely weakens Fano’s image at home and abroad, jeopardizing its political and humanitarian efforts.
Pathways to Amhara Fano Unity
Dialogues and Inclusive Negotiation Forums
Dialogues and inclusive negotiation forums are essential for Amhara Fano unity. Many experts agree that bringing together all Fano factions, old commanders, youth leaders, elders, and community voices creates a safe space for airing grievances and discussing common goals. Such forums make it easier to bridge deep regional divides and clear up misunderstandings. By using independent facilitators or trusted local elders, these forums can help find compromise and encourage a culture of real negotiation instead of heated arguments. Most importantly, open discussions allow each group to feel heard and respected, which is the first step to lasting unity.
Building an Inclusive, Accountable Leadership Structure
Building an inclusive, accountable leadership structure is vital for organizational growth and public trust. An effective structure includes a rotating leadership, representation from all major regions like Gojjam, Gondar, Wollo, and Shewa, and clear lines of responsibility. Rules for leadership selection, term limits, and transparent decision-making processes help prevent power struggles and personal favoritism. A truly accountable setup should also have mechanisms for community feedback and internal audits, so leaders remember their duty is to serve the cause, not themselves. This structure makes it easier for the Fano movement to present a united front in negotiations and actions.
Empowering Grassroots Participation
Empowering grassroots participation allows Fano’s strength to come from the ground up. Local communities are the backbone of the movement. By encouraging village committees, local debate clubs, and volunteer groups, Fano can keep its base actively engaged. Grassroots empowerment includes training community leaders, listening to village concerns, and ensuring that decisions reflect the real needs of the people. When regular community members feel their voices matter, the movement becomes more resilient and responsive. This approach also helps spot new issues early and mobilizes support when it is most needed.
Communication, Narrative Control, and Diaspora Engagement
Communication, narrative control, and diaspora engagement are crucial for any modern movement. Fano needs to invest in clear messaging using radio, social media, and community outreach to explain its goals and counter misinformation. Controlling the story means not only responding to government propaganda but also celebrating victories and remembering loss. Meanwhile, the Ethiopian-Amhara diaspora plays a huge role. By involving them in planning, fundraising, and advocacy efforts, Fano gains access to international support and resources. The diaspora also leads campaigns to raise awareness and lobby foreign governments, which gives the movement credibility abroad.
Fostering Alliances with Civil Society
Fostering alliances with civil society groups greatly strengthens the movement. Working with churches, NGOs, women’s associations, youth groups, and local charities helps Fano connect with a broader audience. These partnerships can lead to shared training, humanitarian support, mutual defense, and legal aid for affected families. By aligning with trusted civil groups, the movement builds legitimacy and protects itself from accusations of extremism. Civil society allies can also act as mediators during periods of internal dispute, and their networks help spread information quickly and rally support when needed.
In summary, following these pathways can help achieve the broad-based, lasting unity that the Amhara Fano movement needs for success. Each step brings different strengths, making the movement more resilient and widely supported.
Community Expectations for Unified Leadership
Community expectations for unified leadership within the Amhara Fano movement are very high in 2024. According to articles on Zehabesha and Borkena, most Amhara people want one strong, trusted leadership to give Fano a clear direction and stable command. Many in the local and diaspora communities feel that unified leadership will restore purpose and credibility to the resistance and allow the Amhara to better protect their people from attacks and displacement. People hope that, with one voice and a shared strategy, Fano can act with discipline, coordinate defense efforts, and win greater support both at home and abroad. Local community members also expect more accountability from leaders, especially when it comes to protecting civilians and upholding Amhara values. Without unity, many worry about ongoing confusion and the failure to reach common goals.
Strategic and Political Implications of Unity
Strategic and political implications of Fano unity are huge for both the movement and the broader Amhara region. When Fano factions are divided, the movement struggles to make gains and often loses ground to rivals or government forces. As The Habesha, Borkena and EurasiaReview point out, bringing all factions under one central command could make Fano a more powerful force, helping it to control territory, negotiate from a position of strength, and push for Amhara interests at both the local and federal levels. Unity also gives the movement more legitimacy in the eyes of other Ethiopian groups and international observers. It could open doors to political talks or peace processes by making it clear who speaks for Fano and what its demands are. Finally, united leadership would reduce infighting, improve the strategic use of limited resources, and allow for more effective alliances with other opposition groups.
Potential Risks of Continued Division
Potential risks of continued division within the Amhara Fano movement are severe. Multiple reports, such as those from The New Humanitarian and Zehabesha, note that division creates opportunities for exploitation by both rival ethnic militias and the Ethiopian federal government. When Fano is split, it cannot coordinate defense efforts or make quick decisions in response to attacks. This leaves Amhara communities vulnerable to violence, displacement, and humanitarian crises. Divided factions may also fight amongst themselves, worsening local conflict and alienating people who once supported the cause. Disunity damages Fano’s credibility, making it harder to recruit new members or win support from neutral observers. According to analysts, lack of unity can increase the risk of ethnic tensions spilling into neighboring regions, such as Tigray and Oromia, and could even lead to a wider civil war if not addressed.
The Role of International Actors and Humanitarian Agencies
The role of international actors and humanitarian agencies in the Amhara Fano situation is complex. Humanitarian groups, including the UN, Red Cross, and other international NGOs, have tried to provide food, shelter, and medical support to displaced people in Amhara, especially in areas affected by clashes between Fano and government forces (TASSC.org, Human Rights Watch). However, reports show that insecurity, government restrictions, and fragmented Fano control often make humanitarian access very difficult or dangerous. In some places, aid is blocked or stolen, leaving thousands without help. International actors, such as diplomats and rights organizations, have repeatedly called for peace talks and respect for human rights, but have had limited success influencing either side. According to the International Crisis Group and the U.S. State Department, only a united Fano leadership is likely to be seen as a credible negotiation partner or able to guarantee humanitarian corridors. At the same time, international agencies face tough choices, balancing the need to deliver aid with not getting involved in the politics of the conflict.
Conclusion: The Road Forward for the Amhara Fano Movement
The road forward for the Amhara Fano Movement is both challenging and full of possibilities. Recent years have shown just how important unity, clear leadership, and community trust are for any movement seeking lasting change. Disunity has caused confusion, weakened trust, and stopped the movement from reaching its goals. Now, the need for one strong leadership and a coordinated vision is more important than ever.
Looking ahead, the main hope for the Amhara Fano Movement is to rebuild trust among different factions and create an inclusive leadership everyone supports. Grassroots participation must be encouraged, making sure that people from every area and background are heard. Open dialogues, transparent decision-making, and active engagement with the diaspora and civil society can help build the foundation for unity.
At the same time, there are significant risks if divisions continue. Without unity, the movement may keep struggling with low morale, unclear strategies, and a loss of credibility at home and abroad. However, with rising pressure from the community and examples of successful cooperation, there is a path forward.
The international community and humanitarian actors can support positive changes by encouraging peace, dialogue, and support for civilians. But, the real journey to unity lies in the hands of the Fano’s own leaders, elders, and community members.
The Amhara Fano Movement stands at a crossroads. The choices made now will decide its future. Working together with discipline, respect, and a shared vision, the movement can become a powerful force for defending rights, improving lives, and bringing lasting peace to the region.