An estimated 10,000 new refugees/asylum seekers have arrived over the past few days in the Doolo and Warder zones of the Somali region in Ethiopia, reportedly coming from the Lasano area of Somaliland. This influx is the result of severe fighting that broke out on 6 February 2023 in Somaliland following tensions in the region.

The arrivals are predominantly women and children and other vulnerable members of their families. The host community in the affected areas is also vulnerable and has limited access to assistance due to insecurity.

In response to the situation, UNHCR, the Ethiopian Refugees and Returnees Services (RRS), and the authorities in the Somali region are considering setting up a temporary camp in the affected areas or relocating the displaced people to refugee camps in Jijiga or Melkadida, unless the situation changes. An emergency assessment mission is planned to take place at the border area to inform the next steps.

UNHCR, authorities, and partners are planning to immediately provide core relief items such as food, shelter, and protection to the affected populations. However, the presence of DG ECHO humanitarian partners in the area is very limited, and thus, so is the response.

This report will be updated as new information becomes available.