Ethiopia

Overview

The economic situation remains precarious, with Ethiopia one of the poorest countries in Africa despite its rapid economic growth in recent years. However, the population is heavily dependent on rainfed agriculture, which is highly susceptible to the effects of climate change. These challenges, coupled with conflict, displacement, and poor governance, continue to strain the country's development and humanitarian efforts.

Country Facts

Population

• Estimated Population (as of April 11, 2025): 134.68 million
• 2023 Population: 128.69 million
• Second Most Populous in Africa: After Nigeria
• Projected 2050 Population: 225.02 million

People in Need

• Humanitarian Support Needed: 21.4 million
• Food Insecurity: Over 20 million people faced severe food insecurity in 2023.
• Internally Displaced People (IDPs): 3.1 million, with 4 million requiring food assistance.
• Refugees: Over 1 million refugees, primarily from South Sudan, Somalia, Eritrea, and Sudan, rely on food assistance.

Crisis 

Ethiopia’s humanitarian crisis has been driven by a combination of political instability, ongoing conflict, and severe environmental factors such as drought. Over the years, the country has faced regional conflicts, particularly in the northern region, and has experienced a catastrophic drought in the south and southeast, affecting millions. With the country's population now exceeding 134 million, approximately 21.4 million people need urgent humanitarian aid, including food, water, and health services.

In addition to the internal challenges, Ethiopia hosts over 1 million refugees from neighboring countries, exacerbating the strain on resources. These factors, along with the persistent impacts of climate change, including locust invasions, unpredictable rainfall, and agricultural challenges, have resulted in widespread food insecurity. In 2023, more than 20 million Ethiopians faced severe hunger, with millions more vulnerable due to conflict, displacement, and economic difficulties.

Despite its rapid economic growth over the past two decades, Ethiopia is struggling with key development challenges, including poverty, food insecurity, and a lack of infrastructure. These issues have been compounded by the COVID-19 pandemic, ongoing conflicts such as the Tigray war, and economic instability.

The Tigray conflict (2020-2022) displaced over 20 million people and created significant humanitarian and reconstruction needs. Furthermore, the recent unrest in Sudan has added to the refugee crisis, leading to further strain on Ethiopia’s resources. As a result, an urgent response is needed to address the growing food insecurity, displacement, and other humanitarian needs.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What are the main causes of the humanitarian crisis in Ethiopia?
The crisis in Ethiopia is driven by a combination of factors, including internal conflict (especially in the northern regions), severe droughts, food insecurity, and climate change. The Tigray conflict and the recent instability in neighboring Sudan have exacerbated displacement and humanitarian need

How many people are displaced within Ethiopia?
Ethiopia has approximately 3.1 million internally displaced people (IDPs), with 4 million in need of food assistance. The Tigray conflict alone displaced over 20 million people, and continuing instability has further affected vulnerable populations.

What is the situation with food insecurity in Ethiopia?
In 2023, over 20 million people in Ethiopia faced severe food insecurity. This is primarily due to the droughts, locust infestations, conflict, and the country's reliance on rainfed agriculture, which has been severely impacted by climate change.

How is climate change affecting Ethiopia's agricultural and food security?
Climate change has led to more frequent and severe droughts and unpredictable rainfall, which severely affects agriculture and pastoral livelihoods. This, combined with locust invasions, has deepened food insecurity, especially in the southern and eastern parts of the country.

How is Ethiopia addressing these humanitarian challenges?
Ethiopia has focused on reforms aimed at creating a more sustainable, private-sector-driven economy, and international aid efforts continue to provide support for displaced populations, food aid, and other critical needs. However, persistent conflict, poor governance, and infrastructure challenges complicate relief efforts. Ethiopia’s government and international organizations are working to alleviate food insecurity and support displaced populations, but funding shortages and logistical issues hinder progress