IOM appealing for $25 million to support migrants, refugees in Ethiopia

Addis Ababa, June 2, 2023 (FBC) – Since April 21, over 23,000 Ethiopian migrants and Third Country Nationals (TCNs) arrived in Ethiopia at the remote border crossing point in Metema, Amhara Regional State, according to International Organization for Migration (IOM).

About 800 arrivals have been recorded so far in Kurmuk, Benishangui Gumuz Region. Based on current arrival trends, IOM is estimating that over 100,000 Ethiopians and 30,000 third country nationals may return to Ethiopia in the coming months, with the majority of arrivals expected in through Metema, IOM stated.

Arrivals at other border points will be monitored to scale up assistance if required, IOM said.

IOM Ethiopia is requesting USD 25 million to provide assistance to 100,000 vulnerable returning migrants, 4,000 TCNs and 85,000 refugees in the coming six months.

There is a high need to scale up immediate assistance at the border crossing point in Metema to accommodate the large influx. Without assistance, arrivals risk being stranded in a small, remote border town, IOM added.