Humanitarian crisis unfolds in Ethiopia as millions are displaced by conflict and drought

The escalating dual impact of conflict and drought in Ethiopia has resulted in a staggering displacement crisis, with millions forced to leave their homes. Current statistics reveal that there are 3,459,881 internally displaced people (IDPs) across 2,544 sites, constituting 701,449 households.

Conflict stands as the primary driver of displacement, affecting approximately 2.2 million IDPs, representing 64.66 per cent of the total cases. Drought follows closely as the second leading cause, compelling around 612,250 IDPs to flee, making up 17.7 per cent of the overall displacement.

Breaking down the regional impact, the Somali region bears the brunt of drought-induced displacement, with an estimated 410,749 individuals affected, accounting for 67.1 per cent of the national population impacted by drought.

Conversely, the Tigray region is grappling with the severe repercussions of conflict, hosting the highest number of conflict-related IDPs, approximately 943,285 individuals. This alarming figure constitutes 42.2 per cent of the national total for conflict-induced displacements.

The International Organisation for Migration (IOM) underscores that these numbers transcend mere statistics, representing the profound suffering experienced by millions of Ethiopian men, women, and children torn away from their homes and communities. Urgent attention and concerted efforts are imperative to address the root causes of conflict and provide essential support to the affected populations. The situation demands immediate humanitarian intervention to protect and restore the lives of those ensnared in this profound tragedy.