IT’S JUST THE BEGINNING

The drought is having social, economic and ecological impacts: fears of humanitarian catastrophe have surfaced in some parts of Delanta wereda, Southern Wello, as few children face an outbreak of a skin infection. From students who are dropping out of school to take their livestock to wherever water is available; to selling livestock at highly devalued prices; to a widespread migration of a swarm of bees from the area which is of paramount ecological significance; the impact of the drought is drastic.

Agricultural productivity has significantly declined, to a point where there will not be any harvest this season to feed the human population. Crops of staples such as wheat, beans and lentils have failed but the remnants are being used to feed animals and are therefore not wasted. Even contributions to the Church have diminished, reflecting reduced income levels. Yet hope remains alive that the next Kiremt rains will turn the tide from possible despair to gradual recovery.

Despite all the hardships, locals still welcome guests to their home and in typical Ethiopian hospitality, offer what meager supplies they have. There does not seem to be much urgency in light of the long-term impact of the drought, as what has transpired so far in the season, is only the tip of the iceberg.


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