UN Emergency Fund Releases 15 Mln USD for Victims of Violence in Southern Ethiopia

Addis Ababa July 13/2018The United Nations Emergency Fund has released 15-million-USD humanitarian assistance to people affected by inter-communal violence in Southern Ethiopia. Dispute at southern Ethiopia led to lose of life in April causing property damage and large scale displacement. UN News quoted Secretary-General António Guterres as saying that, “Nearly one million people are displaced and require urgent help, especially during this rainy season.” Releasing money from UN Central Emergency Response Fund (CERF) is, therefore, one of the fastest ways to ensure that aid reaches those who need it the most, he added. Guterres said, new measures to bring unity and reconciliation under the leadership of Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed have spurred great enthusiasm within the country and the enthusiastic support of the international community. More than 36,600 people will receive urgent nutrition assistance; some 600,000 people will be supported with water, sanitation and hygiene service; around 71,200 households will receive non-food item kits, and 175,000 people will benefit from extra healthcare services, it was learned. The Government of Ethiopia and humanitarian partners launched in late June a joint Response Plan requesting additional 117.7 million USD for the coming six months to deliver immediate life-saving help for those affected by the inter-communal violence in the southern part of the country. This year’s Ethiopia Humanitarian and Disaster Relief Plan requires 1.6 billion USD to reach millions of people with food and non-food support.