Pictured above: Our mobile health teams provide vital care across the region

Dear John,

Over recent weeks generous supporters have been contributing to our Ethiopia Earthquake Emergency Appeal so emergency teams can help to keep people in northeast Ethiopia safe and healthy at this critical time.

As we previously reported, a series of devastating earthquakes has rocked this region over the last few months, displacing tens of thousands of people and damaging homes, schools, health clinics, farms and critical infrastructure like roads and bridges.

Now, with the Trump administration's announcement of a three month freeze to spending by the United States Agency for International Development (USAID), the situation is becoming even more difficult.

Pictured above: A damaged primary school in Afar region

Organisations receiving USAID funding are already cutting delivery of food assistance and other basic social services, which millions of Ethiopians depend upon. The Ministry of Health has told regional authorities to terminate over 5,000 staff who were supporting healthcare and emergency response efforts across the country.

Meanwhile, the earthquakes continue with several tremors a week being felt as far away as the capital, Addis Ababa. Volcanic activity has been reported at Mount Dofan in Afar region, with smoke, rocks and mud being expelled. At the same time, there are growing concerns over the safety of the Kesam-Sabure Dam and the Ethiopia-Djibouti railway. 

Over 75,000 people have been forced to resettle in temporary accommodation with limited access to basic facilities and sanitation. As communities struggle to meet people's needs we are collaborating with government agencies, other organisations and community members to ensure families can access food and healthcare.

As it becomes harder to fund vital services during this emergency we are grateful for any contribution you can make. Together, we can support communities in Ethiopia to keep people safe and healthy at this critical time.

Warm regards,

Siaffa Bunduka,

Supporter Engagement Manager