14 August 2024
Addis Ababa,Ethiopia – The humanitarian community in Ethiopia is mourning the tragic killing of Mr. Yared Melese, a nutrition officer with Action for Social Development and Environmental Protection Organization (ASDEPO). Melese was kidnapped for ransom and subsequently murdered by unidentified armed criminals in Dawunt Woreda, North Wello Zone, Amhara Region.
Dr. Ramiz Alakbarov, Humanitarian Coordinator in Ethiopia, strongly condemned the attack, calling it an “unacceptable breach of the Code of Conduct.” He extended deepest sympathies to Melese’s family and colleagues.
Melese’s death brings the total number of humanitarian workers killed in Ethiopia this year to eight, with six of these fatalities occurring in the Amhara Region. At least 14 aid workers have been kidnapped for ransom, primarily in the Central and North Gondar zones of the region.
The humanitarian community expressed deep concern over the increasing dangers faced by aid workers, emphasizing that such attacks hinder the delivery of life-saving assistance to vulnerable populations. Dr. Alakbarov called for a swift investigation and prosecution of the perpetrators, stressing the importance of respecting the Code of Conduct to ensure the safety of humanitarian personnel.
