Hundreds of Ethiopians flee tensions for Kenya through Moyale
By the AFREEQUE newsroom, based on Capital FM
Hundreds of Ethiopians, mainly women, children and young people, crossed into Kenya at Moyale to flee tensions between Ethiopia’s Oromia and Somali regions. Kenyan police also reported gunfire from the Ethiopian side from 22 October and placed security forces on alert, according to a report from the Moyale police station.
Hundreds of Ethiopian nationals, mainly women, children and young people, entered Kenya through Moyale, fleeing tensions between the leaders of Ethiopia’s Oromia and Somali regions, according to a security note from Moyale police. Crossings began during the night of 21 October and were reported at several border points, including Sessi, Kore, Biashara, Foundation and Miti; the exact number of arrivals has not been established.
Police also reported gunfire from the Ethiopian side from about 5.50am on 22 October, which was continuing when its report was written. In Kenya, security forces were placed on alert and Moyale’s cross-border peace committee was mobilised to prevent an escalation between border communities.
The Kenya Red Cross launched emergency assistance targeting 1,000 households, in coordination with the Marsabit County government and national authorities. Its teams are setting up temporary shelters and distributing tents, blankets, mats, jerrycans and cooking utensils. They are also providing fortified flour, particularly for young children and pregnant or breastfeeding women, as well as first aid. The Kenya Red Cross helps 1,000 families fleeing Ethiopia.
