Ethiopia Update
In November 2020, conflict broke out in the Tigray (northern) region of Ethiopia and had since spread to some of the surrounding regions.
At the end of March 2022, the Ethiopian government declared a ceasefire to allow aid into Tigray, and on 1 April the first UN aid convoy since 2021 reached Mekelle. Sadly conflict resumed in August.
In November 2022, a formal peace deal, including the reestablishment of humanitarian access to Tigray was brokered. We see this as an incredible answer to prayer.
If you sponsor within Ethiopia, please rest assured that we’ll let you know of any updates from our local partners as we receive them.
As the conflict escalated, there were impacts to Compassion’s ministry in several regions of Ethiopia. On this page, Compassion sponsors and supporters will find updates on the situation, prayer requests and answers to frequently asked questions.
How the conflict has impacted Compassion’s work in Ethiopia
Impact on projects
Within Tigray
In November 2022, a formal peace deal, including the reestablishment of humanitarian access to Tigray was brokered. We see this as an incredible answer to prayer.
While we're hugely encouraged by this development, as of 25 November 2022 normal programming, funding, and communication with our church partners in the region still aren't possible. Our team in Ethiopia are working hard, as a matter of urgency, to explore ways to get aid to our church partners and the children and families they serve.
Sponsors with children affected by suspended operations have been notified, and we’ll provide more information as we receive updates.
Outside of the Tigray region, most projects are now operating as normal.
Impact on gifts and letters
As we respond to this conflict, delivery letters and gifts to and from Ethiopia, outside of the Tigray region, may be delayed. Our church partners and staff are still focusing on the immediate needs of children, families, and their communities during this challenging time.
Please do refrain from discussing the conflict in your greetings to help keep sponsored children and young people as safe as possible.
How you can respond
Please pray
We’re so grateful for your faithfulness in standing alongside our staff and church partners in Ethiopia. Your prayers are so important, and we’d like to invite you to pray with us for the following:
- Thank God for bringing a measure of relief after such a prolonged and turbulent time in Tigray and an opportunity for much-needed supplies to reach those in greatest need.
- Ask the Lord that he would bring peace and healing to Ethiopia.
- Pray for the protection of children, youth and their families, and our Ethiopian staff and frontline church partners.
- Pray for our frontline church partners who are doing their best to respond to the needs of their neighbours.
- Pray for the ability to deliver normal programme activities to children and families be restored.
We understand you may have further questions. Please do call our friendly team on 01932 836490 if you have any questions or concerns. We'd love to help.
Our phone lines are open from 9:30am – 6pm, Monday to Thursday and 9:30am - 5pm on Friday.
Updated: 21 April 2022
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