IOM is working together with the Government of Kenya to establish shelter, boost livelihoods and promote peace among some 8,000 Ethiopians who were displaced by inter-community conflict in Moyale, along the Kenya-Ethiopia border.
IOM has sourced materials and technical labour for about 100 permanent shelters which are expected to be completed in May 2013. The shelters will be put up in three villages namely Mansile, Illadu and Funanyatta. Together with partner agencies, IOM has also provided medical supplies to various health Centres which were vandalized and further stocked health centres with medical supplies.
“We are grateful for the assistance IOM has accorded us. My hope is that the peace initiatives can bring lasting peace to this conflict that has pushed us away from home.” Said Yework Zaff, a beneficiary.
The host communities on the Kenya side along the border have also received a boost in their livelihood activities through the provision of agricultural inputs such as seeds, as well training of crop management which they have been trained on.
On 25 July 2012, inter-community fighting broke out between the Borana and the Gari in the Oromia region in Moyale, along the Kenya, Ethiopia border. The conflict triggered the migration of over 20,000 people from Ethiopia into neighbouring Kenya. The skirmish is reported to have been triggered by the attempt to settle around 200 people from the Gari community in the Borana area, resulting to the destruction of homes and a number of casualties.
An assessment by IOM, the United Nations Office for Humanitarian Coordination, the World Food Programme and supported by World Vision identified the priority areas for support as food, water, blankets, medicine, sanitation facilities and shelter. Majority of those displaced indicated interest to go back home once the situation allows.