ERCS Launches 48 Million Birr Disaster Response Emergency Fund Project in Arba Minch
The Ethiopian Red Cross Society(ERCS), in collaboration with the International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies (IFRC), has launched a 48-million-birr Disaster Response Emergency Fund (DREF) project in Arba Minch town to support people affected by the devastating landslide that struck Gamo Zone last March, in Cash distribution, Livelihood, Mental Health and Psycho Social Support and others.
Speaking at the launch event, Ms. Alemnesh Demeke, Deputy Chairperson of the Regional Branch Office Board and Head of the Regional Revenue Bureau, highlighted the Society’s long-standing humanitarian role. She noted that beyond immediate emergency response, the organization also works to help communities recover and rebuild their livelihoods in a sustainable way.
She also recalled the Society’s previous responses to landslides and other disasters across the region, particularly in Gofa and Wolayta, where it has provided both life-saving assistance and long-term recovery support. In Gamo Zone as well, the Society has been actively assisting communities affected by various emergencies.
Ato Amanuel Aiza, Head of the Regional Branch Office, explained that the Ethiopian Red Cross Society funds the four-month project with support from the International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies (IFRC). He reaffirmed the branch’s commitment to ensuring the project is successfully implemented and reaches those most in need.
During the event, Ato Seleshi Sisay, Head of the Gamo Zone Branch Office, presented an overview of the impact of the landslide in Gacho Baba Woreda and outlined the planned response activities.
The launch brought together representatives from the Ethiopian Red Cross Society headquarters, regional and zonal branch offices, government officials at regional and woreda levels, and other invited guests.
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