Here’s How You Can Help Victims of Ethiopia Landslides
The remote mountainous region of Gofa has suffered Ethiopia’s largest climate-related natural disaster.
Residents and aid workers are still in search of survivors after the mountainous Gofa region in southern Ethiopia was severely impacted by landslides triggered by heavy rainfall. The first landslide struck on Sunday night, and two others followed on Monday, tragically burying those who had gathered to offer assistance.
Current situation
The disaster has affected more than 15,000 people, with 257 people reported dead as of July 24, including children and police officers, according to the United Nations Office for the Coordination of Human Affairs, which says the death toll is expected to rise to 500.
This event is the deadliest climate-related tragedy recorded in Ethiopia, a country particularly vulnerable to such crises. The rainy season, which began in July and is expected to last until mid-September, frequently leads to natural disasters in the region.
Prime Minister Abiy Ahmedexpressed deep sorrow over the incident, and both federal and international support have been mobilized to assist in the rescue operations and provide aid to those affected.
On Friday July 26, the Ethiopian National Emergency Coordination Center (NECC) will convene for its first meeting to discuss how to further expand the humanitarian efforts and provide aid to the community.
How to help
Staying informed and sharing updates about relief efforts can significantly impact the response to the landslides.
Volunteering goes a long way in disaster relief, especially in remote areas like Gofa. People in Need, a European NGO, has been actively involved in rescue missions at the site. “Our team is on the ground,” saysPetra Vranova, a People in Need worker, “assessing needs, coordinating with other organizations, and exploring how best we can provide help.” For more information on their work on ground and to contribute to relief efforts, visit their Twitter page or website.
The Ethiopian Red Cross Society is also on ground, assisting victims. To learn more about how to volunteer help, and to donate to the Ethiopian Red Cross, visit here.