Drought Escalates in North Gondar and Afar, Livestock Deaths Reported

A severe drought in North Gondar (Amhara Region) and Kilbeti Resu Zone (Afar Region) due to poor rainfall has led to the deaths of over 10,100 livestock. Local officials warn that human lives are now at risk as food supplies are insufficient and humanitarian support has been delayed. Despite the dire situation, efforts to secure assistance have been stalled by a bureaucratic impasse, with regional and zonal authorities redirecting inquiries to one another regarding data and responsibility. Officials confirmed that over 6,500 additional animals are critically emaciated, further threatening the livelihoods of the affected communities. The lack of coordinated support leaves tens of thousands of people in 18 kebeles of Beyeda Woreda, among others, facing an impending humanitarian crisis.