In northern Ethiopia, a population overwhelmed by incessant armed conflict

Bahir Dar is Ethiopia's third largest city, located in the Amhara region in the northwest of the country. This region has been the scene of intense armed conflict in recent years. 

Many people have fled violence in surrounding rural areas to seek refuge in the city, losing their homes, land, and livelihoods in the process.

The conflict has destroyed or rendered inaccessible health centers and medicine supplies, exacerbating the risk of disease for displaced persons who are already suffering from precarious living conditions.

 “The most vulnerable are the elderly, poor women, and children, who suffer from malnutrition, lack of medical care, and psychological distress.” Sr Woynitu

The Daughters of Charity have been present in Bahir Dar since 1991. Their work with poor and illiterate women, providing them with education and training, has given them strong legitimacy in their ability to help the most vulnerable.

"We strive to empower women in need and improve their daily incomes. In addition, we provide essential services such as food, water, shelter, healthcare, education, and support to migrants and refugees. Our efforts also extend to helping victims of human trafficking and fighting poverty."  Sr Woynitu

Food, medical care, and clothing: a vital response to improve the lives of 150 people displaced by conflict

With the collapse of family economies and inflation, feeding themselves has become the number one challenge for these populations.

The project aims to provide the basis of the local diet (teff) to guarantee at least two meals a day and improve their nutritional status.

Medical assistance is also urgently needed to restore their health and prevent disease and death. Older people are particularly vulnerable and require regular care.

Having lost everything in their flight, refugees lack clothing to protect themselves from the temperatures (heat during the day, coolness at night), which increases their vulnerability to disease.

The sisters also want to support university students from displaced families by partially financing their transportation costs to return home.

“Without this project, the fate of these refugees is extremely precarious. Already in great psychological distress, they risk falling into famine and seeing their health deteriorate irreparably.
Thank you to all donors who are willing to join us in helping those in need. Thanks to your generosity, 150 people will receive the vital assistance they need.” Sr Woynitu

If the project is funded beyond its target, the surplus donations received will be allocated to a similar project.