Ethiopia

Ethiopia is currently experiencing a profound humanitarian crisis that has worsened the vulnerability and needs of millions. Although peace has been restored following the Pretoria Agreement, the conflict in Tigray has left lasting impacts, with many people still displaced and seeking refuge in overcrowded public buildings and schools. These facilities are already operating beyond capacity, worsening the living conditions for those affected. In addition to this, Ethiopia continues to experience social and political unrest, particularly in the Oromia and Amhara regions, where sporadic violence has contributed to instability. The ongoing economic challenges have further strained local markets, reducing the purchasing power of both displaced communities and their hosts, making recovery even more difficult.

The response efforts for shelter and NFI in these displacement areas face numerous challenges, as the needs far exceed the available resources and capacities. Displaced individuals are residing in overcrowded and unsanitary conditions, whether in collective centers, inadequate or non-existent shelters within informal settings, or overcrowded homes shared with host community members.

Returnees who have made their way back to their communities face similar hardships. A recent assessment by the Shelter Cluster and its partners found that many returnees’ homes were damaged or destroyed by conflict, and they urgently need essential household items with emergency shelter repair assistance. However, the level of humanitarian aid and recovery support in these areas is critically low.

As of October 31, 2024, the Cluster has reached 21% (685K) of its 3.3M targeted population through completed activities, with an additional 5% (177K) resources through ongoing operations and available items in stock. This leaves a gap of 74% (2.5M) still to be addressed in the last quarter of the year. The progress so far has been achieved with secured funding of 25% (USD 37.0M) out of the required USD 150.1M, resulting in a funding shortfall of 75% (USD 113.1M).

The top five donors contributing to the secured funding are BHA, EHF, ICRC, CERF and German Government. Among the activities, ESNFI(in-kind and cash-based initiatives) account for the largest share (44%) of the reached population, while shelter-related activities for both IDPs and Returnees show the most significant gap yet to be filled (79%).