Ethiopia is currently experiencing a severe drought crisis that has led to the deaths of over 50 people in the Tigray and Amhara regions. This crisis, exacerbated by an aid freeze and allegations of theft, has worsened the already dire humanitarian situation in the country. The Horn of Africa has been plagued by five consecutive failed rainy seasons since 2019, according to the UN, leading to widespread food shortages and displacement.
The ongoing drought has left millions of Ethiopians in desperate need of assistance. The US and UN suspended aid earlier this year following allegations of theft, which has only deepened the crisis. Tigray, which recently emerged from a two-year civil war, is particularly vulnerable, with an estimated 46 deaths reported in the town of Yechila due to food shortages. The neighbouring Amhara region has also been affected, with six deaths reported in the Wag Hemra area.
Additionally, the drought has had a devastating impact on livestock, with over 4,000 cattle perishing as a result. This has further worsened the food insecurity in the region, as livestock is a crucial source of income and sustenance for many communities.
While northern Ethiopia faces drought, the country’s southern and eastern regions have been hit by flash floods. More than 370,000 people have been forced to flee their homes due to the floods, with at least 43 people losing their lives. The eastern Somali region has been particularly affected, compounding the region’s vulnerability to climate-related disasters.
The conflict in Tigray has also contributed to the dire humanitarian situation. During the war, the region was cut off from aid, leading to an unknown number of deaths due to lack of medical supplies and food. Estimates suggest that approximately 500,000 people may have lost their lives during the conflict, exacerbating the already fragile situation.
The international community plays a crucial role in addressing the Ethiopia drought crisis. The US and UN have announced plans to resume widespread food deliveries in December after implementing measures to prevent corruption and ensure that aid reaches those most in need. However, significant challenges remain, and swift action is necessary to prevent further loss of life.
Beyond Ethiopia, East Africa as a whole is grappling with the impacts of extreme weather events. Heavy rains and flash flooding have claimed the lives of 130 people in Ethiopia, Kenya, and Somalia in recent weeks, with the UN describing these events as a “once-in-a-century” occurrence. The region is experiencing intensified climatic shocks and is increasingly vulnerable to the devastating effects of climate change.
It is crucial to understand that not all droughts or floods can be directly attributed to climate change, but it is evident that rising global temperatures exacerbate these natural disasters. The warming atmosphere draws more moisture out of the earth, making droughts more severe, while also increasing the likelihood of extreme rainfall events.
Addressing the Ethiopia drought crisis and similar climate-related emergencies requires a comprehensive approach. Governments worldwide must prioritize emissions reductions to limit global warming and mitigate the impacts of climate change. International cooperation is essential to provide immediate humanitarian aid to the affected regions and build resilience to future climatic shocks.
Without swift and coordinated action, Ethiopia and other vulnerable regions will continue to face devastating consequences, including loss of life, displacement, and worsening food security. The humanitarian crisis unfolding in Ethiopia demands urgent attention and concrete measures to alleviate the suffering of millions of people affected by drought and floods.
