23 November 2020, Addis Abeba, Ethiopia
Armed conflict in any region gives rise to human displacement both within and outside
borders. Multiple reports, including data from the United Nations High Commissioner for
Refugees, confirm that more than 30,000 Ethiopian refugees have now fled into Sudan.
The extent and gravity of displacement within the Tigray and surrounding regions is yet
to be wholly elaborated.
At the outset, Africa Humanitarian Action (AHA), born out of the Rwanda Genocide,
wishes to reiterate its deep sensitivity to any and all violations of human rights, and calls
for restraint to avoid abuses and killings of innocent civilians.
This unfolding humanitarian crisis calls for an immediate and all-round humanitarian
response. AHA seeks and is set to do its part to the best of its capacity, in collaboration
with Government and local authorities and with the cooperation and support of the
International Humanitarian Community. AHA is undertaking preparedness measures to
remain on standby for an integrated humanitarian response; one that has identified the
needs and the efficient paths necessary to alleviate human suffering.
AHA’s former Country Representative to Sudan has just been assigned at the Head Office
to coordinate and manage needs assessment and preparedness exercises, in order to
deliver the appropriate assistance to internally displaced persons. The Head Office will
liaise with national offices and international partners and will assemble a team for quick
deployment. Meanwhile, our offices in Khartoum and in the Afar region are monitoring
developments from close proximity. An implementation proposal will be shared with all
concerned stakeholders following the needs assessment.
AHA fully recognizes that humanitarian access and security are imperative to reach and
assist people in need, and calls on all parties to uphold their obligations under
international human rights and humanitarian law.
Media Contact:
AHA – Head Office
info@africahumanitarian.org
Tel: +251 (0)11 660-4800 / 660-3700
Twitter: @ahaction
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