UNICEF Deputy Executive Director, Ted Chaiban, recently visited Ethiopia and called on the international community to increase their support for children and families in the country. Chaiban emphasized the urgent need to address the ongoing humanitarian crisis and prevent further escalation of the situation.
Ethiopia is currently experiencing various challenges, including a severe El Niño-driven drought affecting northern, central, and southern regions. This drought has resulted in alarming levels of malnutrition, with nearly 1 million children projected to suffer from acute malnutrition in 2024. Additionally, around 350,000 pregnant and lactating women are at risk of malnutrition.
During his visit to the drought-affected Tigray region, Chaiban witnessed firsthand the devastating impact on families. He met a mother named Lemlem, who expressed her despair as the drought worsened their situation. The region is struggling to cope with the crisis, and access to essential resources is limited.
In addition to the drought, Ethiopia is facing a public health emergency with outbreaks of cholera, measles, dengue fever, and malaria. These diseases pose a serious threat to children and are preventable with proper intervention. The country is also grappling with the effects of ongoing conflict, further exacerbating the challenges faced by vulnerable communities.
UNICEF, in collaboration with the Government of Ethiopia and other partners, is working tirelessly to provide critical support, including nutritional assistance, access to safe water, immunization services, education, and child protection. However, more resources are needed to expand the humanitarian response and reach all children in need.
Chaiban stressed the importance of acting quickly to save the lives of millions of children and called for increased funding to support UNICEF’s efforts. He emphasized the need for a peaceful resolution to ongoing conflicts to ensure that all children receive the assistance they require.
The UN in Ethiopia has requested US$3.24 billion, while UNICEF is appealing for US$535 million to address the urgent needs of children in the country. It is crucial for the international community to step up and provide the necessary support to prevent further suffering and safeguard the well-being of Ethiopian children.
