Newscasts - Ethiopia's conflict-hit Oromia region struggles for healthcare
02/08/2025 13:36
Click the following link to watch video: https://share.newscasts.refinitiv.com/link?entryId=1_9qvebpxu&referenceId=tag:reuters.com,2025:newsml_RW452002082025RP1_K15&pageId=Newscasts Source: 'Reuters - General news videos' Description: Residents of remote villages in Ethiopia's conflict-affected Oromia region are gradually regaining access to healthcare after two years of disruption caused by fighting between federal forces and the Oromo Liberation Army.Sean Hogan has more. Short Link: https://refini.tv/46Ee0bO Video Transcript: In Ethiopia’s conflict-affected Oromia region, residents of remote villages are slowly regaining access to healthcare after nearly two years of disruption. The Gunfi Primary Health Center in the West Wellega zone was closed for nearly 23 months due to insecurity. Doctor Gemechis Emana, the facility’s medical director, says residents relied on makeshift solutions. Including using donkey carts to transport pregnant women to the nearest functioning hospital. He says local people have developed many health problems without access to care. The conflict between federal forces and the Oromo Liberation Army, designated a terrorist group by the government, has displaced hundreds of thousands and cut off basic services. Despite a peace deal in 2022, violence in Oromia has persisted, drawing less international attention. At the reopened clinic, expectant mothers now wait for check-ups, though medicine remains in short supply. Nearby Begi hospital, located less than 7 miles from Gunfi, is also recovering. Its Director, Doctor Ephrem Tamiru, says it has been challenging. He says much of the medical equipment in the hospital was destroyed in the conflict. And with the district more than 400 miles away from the capital, transporting medicine was very difficult due to security issues along the road. The International Committee of the Red Cross has provided medical supplies, training, and logistical support. In the first half of 2025, it says it supported 20 health facilities in Oromia, helping provide care to more than 100,000 patients. But despite the progress, it says the needs remain vast and the road to recovery uncertain.