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Crisis Overview
Ethiopia isaffected by the worst drought for 50 years, with over 10.2 million people in need of food assistance as of March 2016, compared to 2.9 million in the beginning of 2015. In 2016, the number of people in need is expected to reach over 15 million. Most of the regions of Amhara, Oromia, and SNNPR are reported to be at least in Crisis (IPC Phase 3) food insecurity. In the most affected areas, over 75% of meher cropping production has been lost, one million livestock have died, and over 1.7 million are reportedly at risk due to poor body conditions. Meher cropping represents 90% of the country’s total grain production, which accounts for 80% of Ethiopian agriculture.
Key findings
Anticipated scope and scale
El Niño is expected to last at least until April/May 2016, exacerbating the food insecurity caused by the upcoming lean season. Over 15 million people are expected to be in need of humanitarian assistance in 2016.
Poor households in affected areas in southern Afar and Sitti zone in Somali region, in East and West Hararghe zones in Oromia, and in Wag Hemra and North Wollo in Amhara region, are expected to remain in Emergency (IPC Phase 4) until September
Priorities for humanitarian intervention
Food is a priority with 10.2 million in need of humanitarian assistance in March 2016, compared to 2.9 million at the beginning of 2015. Projections indicate that the number of people in need of assistance might reach over 15 million in 2016.
Nutrition support is also increasingly necessary. Forecasts indicate a 2016 target of treating 450,000 people for severe acute malnutrition, compared to 350,000 in 2015.
WASH interventions, in terms of restoration of non-functioning water sources, water treatment, and purification of wells and ponds, are also primary needs given the severe impact of the drought on harvesting and pastoral activities.
Humanitarian constraints
Main constraints are caused by the lack of adequate transportation and water infrastructure.
In some areas the deterioration of the security situation might also hinder the access to affected populations.