BY LEULSEGED WORKU
Following the peace agreement reached between the Federal Government and TPLF, things in the war-affected areas are returning to normal. Residents who live in the conflict areas are expressing their feeling and benefiting from the humanitarian assistance delivered by the government.
Korem, which was among the victim towns of the war, is now benefiting the humanitarian assistance from the government. As it was indicated by the residents of the town, the dedication the government is showing to the people in the area is encouraging and, it should be backed by all. They have also requested international humanitarian organizations; partners and individuals to stretch their hands and support the effort of the government.
Mesay Gebreselase, is a resident in Korem Town. According to him, Korem Town had gone through hard times over the last two years. Because of the war, the town is now in need of humanitarian assistance. Beside the support from the government, other humanitarian organizations should contribute their part to save more lives. “So far, all the humanitarian assistance provided by the government is distributed fairly and all the people are getting the necessary support.”
In an exclusive interview with The Ethiopian Press Agency (EPA), he said, absence of banking service in the town is still a problem. In this regard, he has asked concerned bodies to resume the service.
Belaynesh Kebede is the other resident of Korem Town. Seconding the view of Messay, she said that the government is delivering wheat and nutritious foods to town’s residents. “The commitment of the government to address the humanitarian needs of the people deserves appreciation. However, its effort must be backed by other international humanitarian organizations, NGOs, donor community and individuals. Edible oil and other food items are still problem.”
Gizaw Tadesse, on his part said that humanitarian relief is being arrived to the town of Korem, however, it does not match with the number of people in need of help. “The aid is insufficient to cover the needs of all recipients. Thus, international humanitarian organizations have to support the government and supply aid items.
For the last two year, Korem was part of the war zone. For this reason, everyone is in need of assistance-including civil servants. Therefore, in addition to wheat, other food items should be included in the assistance. In comparison to the wartime moments where having a meal once in a day was a blessing or not having at all, the humanitarian support the government is now providing beams ray of hope. In addition to food aid, other humanitarian supports: such as clothes, mattresses and others must be provided to the people.”
It is an encouraging effort to see humanitarian assistance distributed fairly to the people of Korem. It has given as a glimpse of hope to residents. Furthermore, it must be sustainable, said Tigest Berhe. “Areas that were not affected by the war and NGOs should support those war-torn areas in a sustainable manner, said Tigst. The people of Korem are happy now because of the peace agreement.
However, we need humanitarian assistance. Government has rescued to the people of Korem. We need more assistance and service delivery institutions must resume providing basic services”
Korem Town Logistic Coordinator, Mekonnen Zegeye on his part said that when the town became free, the government has assisted to the needy. However, the number of people in need of support is so high that other humanitarian organizations should contribute their part because solving the problem solely by government’s efforts is challenging.
“There are a number of people who are in need of humanitarian assistance in Korem Town. However, there is no any international humanitarian organization in the place. The wheat delivered by the government is being distributed impartially. Humanitarian assistance from Federal Government and Amhara State is being distributed in Korem Town.”
According to him, the government is taking actions to reopen banks. Likewise, food items and other marketable items are bringing into the market; this would stabilize the market, he said.
THE ETHIOPIAN HERALD TUESDAY 29 NOVEMBER 2022
