Recommendation 42

The basic needs of many people in Tigray are not being met. These include: Food and food security: Ȥ Agricultural systems have been devastated by months of fighting and extensive looting and destruction. Crops and animals have been looted or burned, notably in the Eastern and Central zones. Farmers are becoming increasingly desperate, with their food security status described as catastrophic100 Ȥ Children, particularly those whose nutrition status has been compromised, are particularly at risk101 Ȥ With the electricity supply affected by conflict, grinding mills are not functioning102 Ȥ Shortages of fuel, food, and other key goods continue. Limited supply and slow resupply has led to inflated market prices, exacerbating the situation103 • Water: Ȥ Access to water, hygiene and sanitation (WASH) services is largely disrupted across Tigray, increasing the likelihood of disease outbreaks, including covid-19104 Ȥ Water pumping systems in towns are out of order due to a lack of fuel and electricity, damage, looting, and vandalism. Affected communities may have to use unprotected water sources without any treatment, in some cases traveling long distances to fetch water (a burden that falls disproportionately on girls and women)105 • Shelter: Ȥ While most displaced people are seeking shelter with relatives and friends, thousands are also living in overcrowded collective centres106 Ȥ The crisis has left people in urgent need of emergency shelter and basic household items, including kitchen utensils, blankets, and mats 100 OCHA, Ethiopia - Tigray Region Humanitarian Update: Situation Report, 8 March 2021, p.2 and p.5 101 CARE, Oxfam, ActionAid, Multiagency and Multisectoral Rapid Need Assessment in Raya Kobo, Raya Alamata, Raya Azebo, Chercher, Wajirat and Ofla Woredas of North Wollo and South Tigray Zones, 30 January 2021, page 13 102 CARE, Oxfam, ActionAid, Multiagency and Multisectoral Rapid Need Assessment in Raya Kobo, Raya Alamata, Raya Azebo, Chercher, Wajirat and Ofla