Malaria Crisis in Ethiopia: Conflict and Climate Change Compounding Tragedy

Conflict and climate change in Ethiopia’s Oromia region have sharply increased malaria deaths, with local farmer Lema Tefera losing four children due to lack of treatment amid violence. The WHO reports severe disruptions to health services caused by ongoing fighting, resulting in 7.3 million malaria cases and more than 1,157 deaths in 2023. Experts warn the impact of rising temperatures exacerbates the crisis, highlighting the urgent need for intervention.

In Ethiopia’s Oromia region, continuing conflict is exacerbating the burden of malaria, leading to tragic health consequences. Lema Tefera, a local farmer, mourns the deaths of four of his children, which he attributes to the lack of access to malaria treatment amidst ongoing violence. According to the World Health Organization, Africa has about 95% of global malaria cases, totaling 250 million infections and over 600,000 fatalities annually.

Health services in Oromia have deteriorated since the onset of conflict with the Oromo Liberation Army in 2018, as noted by experts. The availability of malaria medication has been critically affected, with the region experiencing a rise in cases attributed to both the disruption caused by conflict and the adverse effects of climate change. Lema’s family represents a fraction of the 7.3 million malaria cases and 1,157 recorded deaths in Ethiopia in 2023.

Malaria cases in the region have surged, with the Oromia area accounting for nearly fifty percent of both cases and related fatalities. Health facilities have collapsed, significantly impacting the provision of medical supplies, particularly antimalarial drugs. As the conflict shows no signs of resolution, doctors are increasingly concerned about the implications for public health.

The director of Nejo General Hospital, Legesse Bulcha, observed that malaria now constitutes 70% of his hospital’s patient load, a stark increase from earlier years. He discussed how climate change is contributing to the broader issue, enabling the proliferation of malaria mosquitoes in dry seasons. Experts warn that a warming climate is likely to foster conditions conducive to malaria transmission.

Rachelle Seguin, representing Doctors Without Borders, highlighted the escalating malaria crisis, indicating that 2024 may witness unprecedented case numbers due to the compounded effects of rising temperatures and prolonged conflict. The forecast for the upcoming rainy season raises concerns for worsening conditions, particularly in light of a recent freeze on U.S. aid funding critical for malaria control and other communicable diseases.

Lema Tefera, facing profound sadness, laments his inability to farm and support his family, relying instead on relatives for survival. He expresses deep emotional anguish over the loss of his children, emphasizing the dire personal and communal impacts of the ongoing health crisis in the region.

The situation in Ethiopia’s Oromia region highlights the intersection of conflict and climate change in exacerbating health crises such as malaria. The dramatic rise in malaria cases, driven by violence, inadequate health infrastructure, and rising temperatures, poses a severe threat to the health of thousands. Ongoing research and funding are critical to address the challenges posed by these dual crises and prevent further loss of life. The call for immediate intervention and support is paramount, not only to address the rising malaria cases but also to provide the necessary resources for the affected regions as they navigate the complexities of conflict and health.

Original Source: www.malaymail.com