Mon Jan 27 15:30:00 UTC 2025: ## Earthquake and Displacement Crisis Deepens in Ethiopia

**Addis Ababa, October 26, 2024** – A joint government and humanitarian assessment reveals a severe humanitarian crisis in the Fentale district of Oromia region, Ethiopia, following a series of earthquakes that began in late September. The tremors, some registering up to 5.8 on the Richter scale, have impacted the entire district, affecting all 18 kebeles (the lowest administrative level). The situation is particularly dire in Daga Hedu Kebele, classified as facing “severe” needs, and Benti Kebele, described as facing “extremely severe” conditions. Other vulnerable kebeles near the epicenter include Haro Kersa, Debiti, and Kobo.

The earthquakes have compounded existing challenges stemming from ongoing conflict and drought, leaving communities struggling to cope with the cumulative impact. Nearly 20,325 people have been displaced from Fentale district alone, taking refuge in 11 designated Internally Displaced Persons (IDP) sites. Many are living in precarious conditions near Metahara town, lacking food, shelter, and essential supplies. The assessment reports that the impact on living conditions is “very high,” affecting up to 75% of individuals in affected communities. Public health risks are also significant, with limited access to clean water and sanitation raising concerns about disease outbreaks.

The seismic activity, concentrated in the Awash area of Afar region, has affected a wider area, including parts of Amhara and Oromia regions. The total number of displaced individuals across these three regions now approaches 100,000, including nearly 10,000 displaced in the North Shewa Zone of Amhara. Residents report that aid from the government and humanitarian organizations remains insufficient to meet their needs, with many living in overcrowded shelters lacking essential supplies. The ongoing seismic activity, with approximately five tremors daily, continues to exacerbate the already dire situation.

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