QRCS to provide aid for 38,000 people in Ethiopia

Qatar Red Crescent Society (QRCS) has signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) with Action for the Needy in Ethiopia (ANE), to conduct humanitarian projects for the benefit of refugees and host communities in the country.

The new plan is in implementation of an MoU signed with Qatar Fund for Development (QFFD) in June 2017 to launch a humanitarian programme at a cost of $3mn (nearly QR11mn). The agreement was signed by QRCS Secretary General Ali Hassan al-Hammadi and ANE managing director Salihu Sultan.The signing was attended by Mesganu Arga Moach, ambassador of Ethiopia, Feisel Aliyi Abrahim, Deputy Chief of Mission, and Issa Mohamed al-Ishaq Director of Communication QRCS.Al-Hammadi welcomed the guests and commended their humanitarian efforts for the vulnerable in Ethiopia.He emphasised the active role of the Ethiopian ambassador in strengthening ties with QRCS."This agreement was possible because of the USD 3mn grant from QFFD to provide shelter, water, sanitation, food, and livelihood support for Ethiopia. This contribution would help alleviate the economic and humanitarian difficulties suffered by 38,000 beneficiaries," he remarked.Sultan stated: "This agreement establishes a strong foundation to support the neediest people in Ethiopia. This relationship will help saving the lives and protecting the livelihoods of thousands of people affected by disasters in different parts of the country"."Since its establishment, ANE has been trying to fill the gaps in addressing the dire humanitarian needs of the most vulnerable people in the country and has made remarkable achievements in saving lives and improving the livelihoods of refugees and host communities," he added.The Ethiopian ambassador thanked al-Hammadi for hospitality and support for the Ethiopian people. He promised to ensure all necessary arrangements with the government authorities and secure all facilitations for the project.The multi-sector project will cover the regions of Gambela and Oromia, southwest of Ethiopia, where 800,000 refugees are hosted by already poor and underserved communities.Over a period of 24 months, QRCS and ANE will partner to construct 768 household latrines in refugee camp, construct two shallow water wells, provide 2,000 personal sanitary kits for women and girls, procure construction materials, construct traditional and standard improved shelters, and hold 240 training and education sessions on water-borne diseases and hygiene promotion through community engagement.