Thousands flee to Kenya amid conflict
CAPTION: More than 50 000 Ethiopians have crossed into northern Kenya fleeing conflict back home. (Courtesy Photo).
NAIROBI, (CAJ News) – ABOUT 50 000 people have crossed into northern Kenya from Ethiopia following violent clashes in the neighbouring country.
Further arrivals could place additional pressure on already stretched local services and resources.
This is according to the International Organization for Migration (IOM), as the situation continues to evolve and the Kenyan government and inter-agency partners plan a response covering up to 80 000 people in anticipation of further arrivals and growing humanitarian needs.
Local communities are sheltering most of those seeking safety.
Nomagugu Ncube, IOM Kenya Chief of Mission, said the situation remained fluid and the number of arrivals could increase in the coming days.
“Meeting their immediate needs, while also supporting the communities that are now hosting thousands, is an urgent priority,” she said.
As of Thursday (29 October), an estimated 50 000 people had arrived in Moyale, Marsabit County.
While most of those arriving are staying with local communities along the border, others are sheltering at five temporary sites.
Communities hosting new arrivals are already facing pressure on resources and services.
Those arriving need water, shelter, healthcare and basic supplies. Protection and sanitation services are also among the immediate needs identified.
As part of the wider United Nations (UN) humanitarian response, IOM is working with the Government of Kenya, the UN High Commissioner for Refugees, the Department of Refugee Services and other humanitarian partners to monitor cross-border movements, assess displacement and address priority needs.
Working with national and county authorities and partners, IOM is also planning an emergency response that would provide shelter and essential household items, targeted emergency shelter for the most vulnerable families, water tanks and water purification tablets, as well as assessments and monitoring.
The East African country of Ethiopia has recently entered a severe security crisis, marked by a massive, multi-front military offensive in the north and sudden outbreaks of heavy regional fighting in the south.
This deterioration threatens the fragile peace achieved under the 2022 Pretoria Agreement and raises fears of a return to full-scale civil war.
