UNICEF is underscoring the need for continual aid for children amid a worsening situation in the Tigray region of Ethiopia. Five months since the conflict began, a picture is emerging of killings and sexual violence against women and children. UNICEF reports schools and health centres looted, vandalised, and occupied by armed groups. In addition, deliberate attacks of violence and looting have left 60% of health care facilities not operational. 57% of boreholes (providing water) in 13 towns are not functional, and a quarter of the region’s schools have sustained damage. Although UNICEF and partners give humanitarian aid to the needy, there are urgent needs for children’s protection. Fighting, media blackout, and government-imposed restrictions leave humanitarian organisations unable to provide adequate aid, and they have had difficulty accurately gauging the need. Basic service outlets must be protected and the safety and security of everyone working in and accessing those services guaranteed.
Ethiopia: crisis for children
Written by David Fletcher 25 Mar 2021Additional Info
- Pray: for Ethiopia’s prime minister Abiy Ahmed, the Tigray People’s Liberation Front, militia, and Eritrean troops to meet for peace talks that will end fighting. (Romans 12:17)
- More: www.voanews.com/africa/unicef-points-continuing-crisis-children-tigray-region