In Tigray Region, large numbers of people have been displaced in Central (Adwa, Axum), Eastern (Adigrat, Wukro), and Southern (Korem, Alamata) zones following the hostilities reported in March,2024. Wukro hosts an estimated 3,708 households and 11,140 individuals across 7 camps. There is a great need for Food, emergency shelter, non-food items, water and sanitation, and access to medical services were identified as urgent needs for the newly displaced.
Based on our assessment of the prevailing conditions in Wukro, we have formulated a RAS Intervention in Cash for Food form. This initiative primarily focuses on providing the 400 Households (with 5-8 family members), that are least community members, with financial support ahead of the Easter holiday season. The beneficiaries of the Cash for Food intervention were picked in collaboration with volunteers working in the area. Our team selected individuals in the area that have been affected by the war and the aftermath, especially those in harsh situations hindering their ability to provide for themselves and their families, the widows, elderly people, prostitutes, physically disabled etc.
Some local volunteers supported us by transporting the RAS Team from Mekelle to Wukro, covering all travel costs in support of our mission. We also worked in partnership with volunteers and the local government office, we were able to closely assess the need in the area and strategically distribute the 400 beneficiaries with 1,500 ETB. The RAS Team also collaborated with the community members and local volunteers in organizing the beneficiaries for the aid distribution. They supported in organizing the logistical details, from procurement. With the total budget of 600,000 ETB we were able to reach over 20,000 individuals. The beneficiaries were mainly the senior citizens, physically disabled, etc. from the households from different Kebele and neighborhoods. We were able to work with the local peacekeeping officials, opposing party members, respected individuals observing the distribution and religious leaders to safely and equitably distribute the resources.
The Cash for Food intervention was a success in reaching the desired beneficiaries during the holiday season. We were also able to partner with different community actors to work in. In addition, our debriefs with the local government office and community members, we were able to further strengthen hope and reconciliation in the community. We are motivated by the meaningful impact we are making on the lives of those facing adversity. As we move forward, our dedication to offering essential support to the most vulnerable populations and overlooked areas of Ethiopia only increases.
RAS Global
2024
Third Humanitarian Action - Cash for Food: Wukro, Tigray