Humanitarian assistance delivered to more than 1.8m people in northern Ethiopia: Ministry

Addis Ababa, January 19, 2021 (FBC) –Humanitarian assistance has been delivered for over 1.8 million people after the end of the law enforcement operation in the northern part of Ethiopia, said the Ministry of Peace.

According to a press release issued today, the humanitarian aid distributed to those in need included food and non-food items as well as medical supplies.

The Government of Ethiopia is collaborating with development and humanitarian partners to extend the relief aid to 2.5 million beneficiaries across the region, the statement added.

The Ethiopian National Defence Force has been supporting the coordination of the humanitarian assistance by facilitating secured movement of people and supplies, it said.

Distribution of aid is being facilitated by the National Disaster Risk Management Commission (NDRMC), Consortium of international and local NGOs under the coordination of UNOCHA and the Productive Safety Net Program (PSNP).

Distribution is being carried out from supply centres established in Axum, Adigrat, Alamata, Shire and Mekelle cities and priorities were given for women, children, elders and persons with disabilities, it said.

The Government and humanitarian partners are working closely in accordance with the memorandum of understanding signed on 29 November 2020, the statement indicated.

A joint needs assessment is underway to identify the exact number of people in need, the statement said, adding the Government is committed to address all needs arising in the region.