Ethiopian Informer
ADDIS ABABA (EI): A significant drought is looming in Ethiopia’s southern and southeastern lowland regions, putting approximately 19 million individuals at risk, as reported by the Ethiopian government alongside its humanitarian partners.
This warning was issued following a joint statement released on October 5, which highlighted the potential impact of a La Niña-induced drought expected to unfold during the upcoming October-December 2024 rainy season. Many of those affected are still recovering from the severe drought that struck between 2020 and 2022, recognized as one of the most devastating in the Horn of Africa’s recent history.
Currently, over 5 million people are anticipated to face acute food insecurity in the last quarter of 2024. Historical data from previous droughts in Ethiopia underscores the importance of timely interventions, as delays or inadequate responses have frequently resulted in worsening food insecurity, malnutrition, and overall health conditions.
The Ethiopian government and its humanitarian partners have emphasized the urgent need for at least $550 million to implement preventive measures aimed at averting a broader humanitarian crisis. These measures include rehabilitating water infrastructure, providing cash transfers for multiple purposes, and disseminating early warning information.
The call for anticipatory action aims to facilitate proactive measures that safeguard communities from the anticipated effects of the drought before they fully materialize.
“We must take immediate steps to save lives,” stated Ramiz Alakbarov, UN Resident and Humanitarian Coordinator in Ethiopia. “Investing in anticipatory actions not only lessens the drought’s impact on livelihoods but also curtails the escalating costs associated with emergency responses.”
To support these efforts, the UN has already allocated $17 million for anticipatory actions—comprising $10 million from the Central Emergency Response Fund (CERF) and an additional $7 million from the Ethiopia Humanitarian Fund (EHF).
“This crisis is exacerbated by the ongoing effects of global climate change. While the government is working diligently to enhance national response systems and build community resilience, we rely on international solidarity for early investments that will save lives and bolster resilience,” remarked Shiferaw Teklemariam, Commissioner of the Ethiopia Disaster Risk Management Commission.
(File photo from WFP)
