seattle amhara association

 Bugna’s Humanitarian Assistance Report

Read Here  … General Report

Introduction

The Amhara Association in Seattle (AAS) became aware of the severe famine situation in Bugna Woreda, located in the North Wollo Zone of Ethiopia, after reading an article published in Addis Times on December 18, 2024. The article described the dire circumstances faced by the local population, including reports of high mortality rates due to food scarcity, especially among children. On January 25, 2025, the crisis was further highlighted in a BBC Amharic report, which detailed the catastrophic food shortage and its deadly consequences. Following this, the AAS recognized the urgency of the situation and immediately began taking steps to address it.

The 2024/2025 Ayina-Bugna Famine Assessment: Key Findings from Woldia University Research

Study

In 2024, a comprehensive famine assessment was conducted in Bugna Woreda, located in Ethiopia’s Amhara region, by a research team from Woldia University. The study offers a sobering analysis of the severe socio-economic and health challenges facing the community, particularly in relation to food insecurity and access to essential services.

Initial Assessment

The research team initially conducted field visits in four critical kebeles:

  • Kob
  • Birko
  • Kidus Harbe
  • Ayena

Their findings revealed:

  • Acute food shortages leading to widespread hunger.
  • Reported deaths of mothers and children due to starvation.
  • Lack of access to medical services.
  • Severe water shortages compounding the crisis.