UN: 1.2 million children in Ethiopia suffer from severe acute malnutrition

The country has been significantly impacted by a devastating conflict that erupted in 2020 across the northern region, pitting Ethiopian Government forces against the Tigray People’s Liberation Front (TPLF). This violent confrontation was eventually quelled in November of the previous year, following a peace agreement mediated by the African Union.

Speaking to journalists at the UN Headquarters in New York on Friday, Spokesperson Stéphane Dujarric underscored that humanitarian efforts are in full swing. These efforts encompass providing medical supplies, logistical support, and bolstering communication initiatives in response to a cholera outbreak spanning Oromia, Sidama, the Southern Nations, Nationalities, and People’s Region, as well as the Somali regions.

Dujarric shared concerning statistics: "More than 16,800 cases of cholera have been reported, including 212 related deaths, as of 2 August. We are also providing medical supplies for the response to malaria which, as of 30 July, has impacted over 1.7 million people and claimed 200 lives."

He pointed out that more than 30 UN agencies and international and national NGOs are diligently collaborating to address the effects of malnutrition, which remains a pressing concern in several regions including Afar, Amhara, Oromia, Sidama, South West, and Tigray.

In recent months, vital steps have been taken. "In June and July, more than 26,000 mothers and children received nutrition support in Amhara and Southern Oromia," Mr. Dujarric conveyed. Additionally, humanitarian partners extended cash transfers to over 310,000 individuals in the Somali region, while more than 850,000 people in drought-affected areas have also benefited from financial support.

Acknowledging the urgency of the situation, Dujarric stressed the significance of timely measures: "Our humanitarian colleagues noted that timely food assistance, prepositioning of emergency drugs, and medical supplies for impacted people are necessary." He emphasized the stark reality: "More than 1.2 million children suffer from severe acute malnutrition across Ethiopia."

Despite the scale of the crisis, funding remains a critical issue. Dujarric highlighted, "The $4 billion humanitarian appeal for 2023 for Ethiopia is only 27 per cent funded. The food sector has received less than 25 per cent of the $2.2 billion required."

Approximately four months ago, the UN World Food Programme (WFP) found itself compelled to suspend food aid to Ethiopia due to rampant theft and diversion of crucial aid within the country. Recent news reports indicate that the agency has initiated the distribution of food supplies to a limited number of districts in the Tigray region, implementing enhanced controls and measures to ensure the effective delivery of food assistance. (ILKHA)