The International Organization for Migration (IOM) has reported a significant increase in the number of internally displaced persons (IDPs) across East Africa, with the rise largely attributed to the worsening conflicts in Sudan, Ethiopia, and Burundi.
According to the IOM, Sudan is experiencing the highest level of internal displacement, with over 10.2 million people forced to flee their homes due to the ongoing civil war.
Somalia follows with 3.5 million displaced, Ethiopia with 3.3 million, and South Sudan with 2 million.
The surge in displacement in Sudan is a direct result of the civil war that erupted in April 2023 between the Sudanese Armed Forces (SAF) and the Rapid Support Forces (RSF).
The conflict has devastated the country, leading to widespread violence, economic collapse, and the destruction of vital infrastructure.
The humanitarian situation continues to deteriorate as millions are trapped in conflict zones, lacking access to basic necessities.
Ethiopia’s displacement crisis is fueled by multiple factors, including the ongoing conflict in the Tigray region, inter-ethnic violence, and political instability.
The war in Tigray, which began in November 2020, has caused a massive humanitarian disaster, with millions of Ethiopians displaced internally and thousands seeking refuge in neighboring countries.
Burundi has seen a rise in internal displacement due to political unrest, human rights abuses, and environmental challenges such as floods and landslides.
The political climate in Burundi has been tense since the controversial presidential elections in 2015, which sparked widespread violence and forced many to flee their homes.
The world’s youngest nation, South Sudan, has been plagued by conflict since gaining independence in 2011.
Despite a peace agreement signed in 2018, violence persists, particularly in regions where communal tensions and power struggles between armed groups continue to displace civilians.
The rise in internal displacement across these countries is not only a humanitarian crisis but also a significant challenge for the region. Displaced populations often face dire living conditions, including inadequate shelter, food, and access to healthcare.
Additionally, the mass movement of people puts a strain on host communities and countries, further destabilizing an already volatile region.
International organizations, including the IOM and the United Nations, are working to provide aid to these displaced populations, but access remains limited in many conflict areas.
The situation calls for urgent international attention and coordinated efforts to address the root causes of displacement and to provide immediate relief to those affected.
As conflicts continue to rage across East Africa, the number of internally displaced persons is expected to rise, underscoring the urgent need for lasting peace and stability in the region.
