Concern delivers humanitarian aid to thousands of displaced people in Tigray

Supplies of food and household items arriving in eastern Tigray for distribution by Concern.

Concern Worldwide today distributed food and other vital aid to help 5,000 displaced people in Tigray, Ethiopia.

Since the armed conflict began in the region last November, thousands of people have fled their homes.

“While some support has been provided over the last three months, the needs of those displaced are extensive and wide ranging,” Concern Worldwide Country Director in Ethiopia Barbara White said. “They include shelter, food, water, sanitation and healthcare.”

Concern’s team has distributed food (wheat and lentils) and essential household items such as cooking pots and utensils, soap, towels and detergent. The support was funded by Irish Aid.

The families reached this week were in eastern Tigray. “They are staying wherever they can find shelter,” Ms White said. “In most cases local communities, who have little themselves, are taking in people who have been displaced from their homes. Others are staying in churches and schools with limited facilities.”

The regional conflict erupted three months ago just before the crops were due to be harvested. “Many fled leaving the crops in the ground and so now they are dependent on others for food,” Ms White said. “The aid distributed this week will make a significant difference to the 5,000 people who will benefit but it is a drop in the ocean. In the immediate area alone there are an estimated 60,000 displaced people.”

For media queries contact Eamon Timmins, Media Relations Manager, Concern Worldwide, at eamon.timmins@concern.net or 087 9880524