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Nearly 13 Million in Dire Need of Agricultural Assistance in Ethiopia: UN Report

A recent report by the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) of the United Nations has revealed that nearly 13 million people in Ethiopia are in urgent need of agricultural assistance. The report, released on Friday, underscores the complex humanitarian challenges faced by the country, driven by a combination of climate shocks, economic instability, armed conflict, and threats to the food supply chain.

The FAO report highlights several severely affected regions, including Tigray, Afar, Amhara, Oromia, and Southern Ethiopia. The impact of ongoing conflict in the northern areas and the susceptibility of southern and southeastern pastoral regions to drought have significantly worsened the food security situation.

These challenges are further compounded by limited access to essential food commodities, even in areas where agricultural production is sufficient. The FAO stresses the urgent need for timely support to improve access to agricultural inputs for households in these vulnerable regions.

The organization’s humanitarian response plan for 2024 aims to secure $175 million in funding to assist 5.46 million people across Ethiopia. Planned assistance includes measures to enhance crop production and productivity, safeguard livestock assets, and rehabilitate animal health facilities.

The report notes that over 80% of Ethiopians reside in rural areas and depend on agriculture for their sustenance and income. Therefore, ensuring timely agricultural assistance is crucial to mitigating the adverse effects of extreme weather events, conflict, and other shocks on the country’s food security.

FAO’s response plan emphasizes the need for coordinated efforts to address these challenges and support the resilience of Ethiopian farmers and pastoralists. With the right interventions, it is hoped that the agricultural sector can recover and provide the necessary sustenance for millions of people struggling to survive in these difficult times.

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Habtamu Alemu

Habtamu Alemu is a seasoned journalist and the editor-in-chief of Ethio Eyewitness News.

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