In a somber address to colleagues and partners, Dr. Tedros, Director-General of the World Health Organization (WHO), conveyed grave concerns over the deteriorating health situation in Ethiopia. His message, delivered by proxy due to travel commitments, highlighted the dire circumstances facing millions of Ethiopians, particularly in regions ravaged by conflict.
The press release by WHO underscored the widespread hunger and disease gripping areas such as Tigray, Amhara, Afar, and Oromia. Years of conflict have left these regions reeling, with essential health systems and infrastructure degraded or destroyed.
Of particular concern are the alarming outbreaks of cholera, malaria, and measles. The cholera outbreak, now in its 20th month, has afflicted over 41,000 individuals across 54 districts, marking the largest cholera outbreak in Ethiopia’s history. Meanwhile, malaria cases have surged to 1.1 million this year, following a record-high of 4 million cases in 2023. Additionally, over 15,000 cases of measles have been reported in 2024 alone, spreading across more than 100 districts.
Compounding these challenges are environmental factors such as droughts, floods, and the disruptive impacts of climate change, exacerbating an already precarious situation.
Despite the valiant efforts of WHO and its health partners, including the health cluster, to deliver life-saving interventions on the ground, the press release lamented the acute funding shortfall crippling their operations. With only 4% of the required $187 million received so far this year, WHO faces the grim reality of scaling down operations unless urgent funding is secured.
Last year’s funding shortfall, where only one-quarter of the appeal was met, forced WHO to deplete internal emergency funds, which proved insufficient. As a result, emergency staff may face drastic cuts, jeopardizing critical health interventions.
The press release emphasized the indispensable role of investing in WHO and its partners, stressing that such investments save lives. Mobile health teams venture into remote and perilous regions to address acute malnutrition among infants and children. Vaccination campaigns mitigate the risk of deadly disease outbreaks, while ensuring access to essential healthcare services, particularly in conflict-affected areas.
Dr. Tedros’s impassioned plea served as a clarion call to action, urging Excellencies and partners to rally behind WHO and its vital mission. The fate of millions hangs in the balance, with timely and robust support serving as a beacon of hope amidst the encroaching shadows of despair.
As the world watches, the urgency to act has never been more palpable. The global community stands at a crossroads, where decisive action can avert an escalating health catastrophe in Ethiopia.