Debre Birhan, a town in Ethiopia’s Amhara Region, is facing mounting pressure as thousands of newly displaced people continue to arrive, fleeing ongoing violence and insecurity from East Wollega, Horo Guduru Wollega, West Wollega, West Shewa, and nearby areas. Armed conflict, tension between communities, and local disputes have pushed many families to abandon their homes in search of safety.
The town, already home to a significant population of internally displaced people, has become a key refuge due to its relative stability and access to basic services. However, the continued influx of new arrivals is straining shelters, services, and the host community at an accelerating pace.
A Rapidly Worsening Situation
Between June and July 2026, more than 1,000 displaced households arrived in Debre Birhan. As existing displacement sites reach capacity, many families have been forced to take shelter in unfinished buildings and makeshift structures, often lacking adequate access to clean water, sanitation, healthcare, and privacy.
A rapid needs assessment carried out by Dorcas Ethiopia identified serious shortfalls in food security, shelter, essential household items, healthcare, water and sanitation services, and protection support. Among the most vulnerable are women, children, older individuals, people living with disabilities, and those with chronic health conditions.
Dorcas Launches Three-Month Emergency Response
In response to the growing needs, Dorcas is rolling out an emergency assistance program running from August 1 to October 31, 2026. The initiative aims to support 500 newly displaced households, more than 2,500 individuals, through a combination of direct cash support and protection services designed to help families meet immediate needs while reinforcing their safety and dignity.
Cash Assistance
The program will provide multipurpose cash grants, allowing households to determine their own priorities, whether that means food, hygiene supplies, household essentials, temporary shelter materials, or medical expenses. Since local markets in Debre Birhan remain operational, this cash-based approach offers a quick, flexible, and respectful way for families to address their needs while also supporting the local economy.
Protection Services
Alongside financial aid, Dorcas will focus on safeguarding the wellbeing and dignity of displaced individuals, with particular attention to those facing heightened protection risks, including survivors of gender-based violence, at-risk children, older people, and individuals with disabilities. Where needed, staff will connect people to appropriate specialized services in the area.
Coordinated, Local-Led Response
With an established presence in Ethiopia, Dorcas is positioned to respond swiftly through its country and project offices, staffed by local team members familiar with the region’s context and coordination networks. The response will be carried out in partnership with local authorities, government offices, displacement site managers, financial service providers, representatives of displaced and host communities, and other humanitarian organizations.
Drawing on its background in humanitarian relief, Dorcas aims to combine rapid action with accountability, inclusivity, and a response shaped by the realities faced by the communities it serves.
Source: Dorcas, via ReliefWeb — Read the original report
