The conflict in Tigray, Ethiopia, has left millions of people in need of humanitarian assistance. Extreme food insecurity is widespread and access to food, water and health care is severely hampered.
Through the Integrated Services for Humanitarian Implementation — Northern Ethiopia project, FHI 360 is working to reduce morbidity and mortality and improve the well-being of people displaced and affected by the conflict by providing lifesaving services through a multisector humanitarian response. The focus is on health, nutrition, protection, and water, sanitation and hygiene (WASH) as the four most critical priorities.
The response follows a phased delivery approach:
- First phase: Immediate, lifesaving interventions that do not depend on pre-existing infrastructure or systems. Mobile medical units integrate delivery of severe acute malnutrition treatment; maternal, infant and young child nutrition counseling; truck-delivered water; essential nonfood items; and identification and referral to care and support for cases of sexual and gender-based violence.
- Second phase: Pre-existing infrastructure and systems. FHI 360 restores existing and essential health services and water systems. Activities transition from mobile services to health facilities once they are restored and considered safe by medical staff and community members.
- Third phase: Government structures and systems. Activities include increased collaboration and support for government agencies, such as the regional health bureau, to pay incentives to facility staff, provide pharmaceuticals and medical supplies, conduct supervisions, and provide technical support to manage and maintain systems in a sustained manner.
