Addis Ababa – The National Task Force of Ethiopia convened a meeting to assess its ongoing efforts in managing the influx of Sudanese and other foreign nationals into the country, following the conflict in Sudan. The task force, led by the State Minister of Foreign Affairs, Ambassador Burtukan Ayano, was originally formed not only to monitor the support and treatment of these migrants but also to facilitate the repatriation of Ethiopians from the conflict zones.
According to Ethiopian News Agency, the task force reviewed the initiatives undertaken since the escalation of the conflict in Sudan. Reports from the meeting indicated that over 128,000 refugees from more than 17 countries have crossed into Ethiopia through the border points of Metema and Kumruk. This figure includes over 47,000 Ethiopians who have returned and are receiving support at the border. The report also noted that more than 15,000 Sudanese refugees are residing in Addis Ababa and other major cities, benefiting from free visa renewals.
The evaluation session highlighted the Ethiopian government’s commitment to providing protection and aid to those fleeing hardships. While the task force recognized the positive impact of their efforts in refugee shelters and centers, they also called on the international community and donor countries to acknowledge Ethiopia’s significant role as a host for over 1.1 million refugees and asylum seekers, including those from Sudan, and to enhance support for these humanitarian activities.