UN authorities are reportedly considering the suspension of delivery of humanitarian aid to the Amhara region of Ethiopia. According to a letter written by UNOCHA, it is becoming increasingly difficult and unsafe to continue humanitarian operations in the Amhara region.
Over 2 million people are dependent on humanitarian aid in Amhara. The ongoing armed conflict between Fano fighters and security forces is leading to a humanitarian catastrophe. United Nations Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs has written a letter to UN Ethiopia country head and donors. The letter contains details of the challenges being faced by aid workers in Amhara.
From January to June this year, 5 aid workers were killed, 10 were physically assaulted and 11 were kidnapped in Amhara. So far, Ethiopian authorities have not shared details of investigations into killings and abductions of aid workers with UN authorities.
The suspension of humanitarian aid to Amhara would be unfortunate. The region is already inaccessible. Today, a 5-day road block announced by Fano fighters ended. During the last five days, movement of vehicles in Gojjam, Shewa, Wollo and parts of Gondar remained largely suspended. Fano had warned to take action on vehicle drivers. Government forces tried to convince vehicle owners to come out and travel but most of the owners and drivers refused. Fano lifted the restrictions today after massive public outcry.
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