A wave of destruction of Orthodox churches has been reported in Ethiopia

In Ethiopia’s Oromia Region, a series of coordinated attacks on religious sites has taken place in recent months, resulting in the destruction, burning, or looting of 42 churches belonging to the Ethiopian Tewahedo Church. The attacks have affected several districts, including Lima, Gida Ayana, and Jimma Geneti.

According to church officials and human rights organizations, the perpetrators’ actions are systematic in nature. It is believed that the attacks are aimed not only at weakening the region’s spiritual life but also at displacing local farming communities and destroying established social ties. So far, 28 affected parishes have been documented in detail, while verification of the remaining 14 sites is still ongoing.

Among the destroyed places of worship are churches dedicated to the Most Holy Mother of God, the Archangels Michael and Gabriel, and Saint George. Many of these churches have served as key community centers for local residents for decades. Experts note that these incidents are occurring against a backdrop of general instability in western Oromia, which has left tens of thousands of citizens without access to religious institutions. Despite the gravity of the situation, Ethiopia’s federal and regional authorities have not yet released official investigation findings or announced comprehensive measures to ensure security in the affected areas.