Oromo Liberation Army warns mining firms after Tulu Kapi attack

The Oromo Liberation Army (OLA) has issued a warning to mining companies operating in Ethiopia’s Oromia region, demanding they implement verifiable environmental standards and conduct transparent deliberations with local communities. The group described these requirements as “non-negotiable.”

This notice follows a fatal attack on September 4 at the Tulu Kapi gold project in West Wollega. The incident, which involved gunmen, resulted in multiple fatalities, including security personnel, community members, and a company employee.

In response to the attack, London-listed KEFI Gold and Copper has suspended operations at the Tulu Kapi project. The company announced it would pause further disbursements and adopt prudent expenditure measures while reviewing safety protocols. KEFI is currently engaging with Ethiopian authorities and community representatives to assess the conditions necessary to resume development. The project, which had been underway since March 2026, was aiming for commercial production by 2028.