Ethiopia: 200,000 people displaced since July due to violence

Event

According to the Norwegian Refugee Council, violent clashes on the border between the Oromia and Somali regions have displaced over 200,000 people since July (as of November 20). The total number of displaced people from the ethnic conflict is estimated at 700,000 since 2016. Most currently reside in overcrowded camps in the Somali region, where outbreaks of diseases such as measles and tuberculosis have been ongoing.

Context

Violent inter-ethnic clashes between members of the Oromo and Somali communities are mostly over resources, access to wells, and land issues. The 2016 escalation of the conflict was likely due to a severe drought in the area.

Advice

Individuals present in Ethiopia are advised to monitor developments to the situation and adhere to any instructions issued by the local authorities or their home government.