A coordinated effort is not an option to stop the spread of deadly enemy, COVID-19. It is a must-do. The active involvement of all individuals, countries, and international organizations tackle the grave challenge of the new decade.
Following its outbreak of COVID-19, several protective measures have been taken by the government and individuals. These preventive measures are bearing fruits.
Ethiopia is a land that hundreds of thousands of refugees have taken shelter and protected. These refugees have come to Ethiopia for several reasons-be it fleeing war, persecution, democratic stifling, or what have you.
Bearing the double burden of protecting over one hundred-fourteen million people, Ethiopia also hosts, nearly a million refugees.
There are more than a dozen countries in the world that have the size of the population of refugees that Ethiopia has hosted in its territories.
The good thing is, keeping its traditions of hosting and protecting refugees and asylum seekers, Ethiopia is still discharging its international commitments efficiently and it will remain committed even in the future.
This protection and support are still intact. Following the outbreak of COVID-19, the government of Ethiopia together with other stakeholders is doing their level best to the safety of refugees.
Key national and international organizations are also on the alert to counter potential COVID-19 spread in the refugee camps. By this time, no confirmed case is found in the camps across the country.
Enhancing the awareness of refugees and individuals working at the centers are some of the activities being undertaken at the camps.
Besides creating awareness in the refugee centers, the UNHCR is also providing necessary inputs to halt the spreads of the virus. To mention some, UNHCR donated 500 blankets, 500 sleeping mats, 2,000 bars of laundry soap, and 4,000 sanitary napkins.
Besides, UNHCR delivered essential aid items to East Wollega, West Wollega, and Kamashi zones as humanitarian assistance to IDPs and returnees. The items included 5,000 jerry cans, 1,000 sleeping mats, 25,000 bars of soap, and 1,000 blankets.
In Benishangul-Gumuz, UNHCR procured 10 infrared thermometers and handed them over to ARRA (Agency for Refugees and Returnees Affair) to facilitate temperature screening. Other activities are also ongoing at all the camps and by key partners.
The bottom line is that as Ethiopia and its partners have been doing their best, the international community’s supports should be redoubled. Scarcity of supplies and finance at this time, costs in lives. Hence, supports to Ethiopia and key partners must continue. The Ethiopian Herald April 24/2020
