11 November 2021

Statement on Ethiopia

Brooke is aware of the deteriorating security situation in Ethiopia and our thoughts are with all people and communities impacted at this very worrying time.

The government has declared a six month state of emergency following advances from rebel forces in the northern region of Tigray and there are now fears for the security of the country’s capital, Addis Ababa, where Brooke Ethiopia is based.

As ever, the safety and security of Brooke staff is our highest priority and we are currently doing all we can to support them. We are aware of previous government-instructed internet and phone blackouts and are prepared for this eventuality.

So far, there have been no implications for programme activities on the ground but we are monitoring the situation closely and will suspend work if there is a risk to anyone.

Brooke has worked in Ethiopia since 2006. Home to the third-largest equine population in the world, working animals are heavily relied upon economically in both rural and urban areas.