UN Condemns Deadly Attack on Aid Workers in Western Ethiopia

ADDIS ABABA – United Nations Condemns the killing of two aid workers by unknown gunmen in Gambella region of Ethiopia on Thursday morning.

“I strongly condemn any attack on humanitarian workers bringing much needed humanitarian assistance to people in need in Ethiopia,” said Steven Were Omamo, a UN official, on behalf of  UN Resident and Humanitarian Coordinator.

The aid workers are members with Action Against Hunger USA. They were in transit from our 24-hour pediatric Nutrition Stabilization Center in Nguenyyiel Refugee Camp when they were ambushed by armed individuals.

Omamo said the attacks on aid workers is clearly marked humanitarian aid vehicles constitute a violation of International Humanitarian Law.

“I ask the Government of Ethiopia to secure the areas with humanitarian operations and ensure the safety of aid workers,” he said.

UN OCHA’s official says he is confident that authorities will arrest and prosecute those responsible for the attack.

“I would like to express my deepest sympathies to the families, colleagues and friends of these brave and dedicated aid workers, who were selflessly committed to humanitarian work in Ethiopia,” Omamo said.

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