Starvation Deaths Rise in Tigray After Halt in Aid Due to Theft

In Ethiopia’s northern Tigray region, at least 1,400 individuals have died from starvation after the suspension of food aid, which was instigated by its theft. The suspension took place about four months ago by the UN’s World Food Programme (WFP) and USAid, the leading US aid agency. Subsequent investigations by Tigrayan officials identified nearly 500 individuals involved in stealing the aid.

This tragic situation follows a severe conflict in Tigray during 2020, which led to famine-like conditions. The war concluded last year with a peace deal between the Ethiopian government and the Tigray People’s Liberation Front (TPLF). Notably, the region faced a blockade during much of the conflict, obstructing humanitarian aid.

A prominent issue emerged when food marked with the symbols of aid agencies was discovered in local markets. However, it remains uncertain if the food aid was illicitly diverted or sold by recipients in dire need of money. Ethiopia’s army denies benefiting from any stolen aid.

The halt in aid has had devastating effects on the region. In just three of Tigray’s zones, 1,411 people starved, and it’s anticipated that the number will grow when data from the other three zones is gathered.

On a visit to Tigray’s Shire town, the BBC documented the dire conditions, with families struggling for food and children displaying signs of malnutrition. The WFP has expressed deep concern and is taking steps to restart limited food aid distribution while ensuring new safeguards prevent further diversions.