Recent earthquakes in Ethiopia’s Afar Region have displaced more than 58,000 individuals, including 4,000 workers from Kesem Sugar Factory. The tremors, some as strong as 5.8 magnitude, affected the Dulesa and Awash Fentale districts in Gabi Rasu Zone, forcing people into temporary shelters and mountainous areas.
Ahmed Ibrahim, the regional Command Post Coordinator, reported widespread panic and confirmed property damage, though no significant injuries or fatalities were recorded. He noted the disruption of eight health facilities, with temporary services now available at shelters. Damage to roads, including the Sidiafage-Kesem route, has further complicated relief efforts.
Among the infrastructure affected is the Kesem Sugar Factory, where structural damages include cracks in fields and collapsed buildings. Factory General Manager Ali Hussein stated that thousands of employees and their families have been safely relocated while damage assessments continue.
Authorities are providing food, water, and other essential aid, while emergency water supplies have been deployed. Earlier assessments by humanitarian organizations estimated over 81,000 individuals were impacted, emphasizing urgent needs for shelter and clean water.
In response to the seismic activity, Addis Ababa’s administration has set up a task force to evaluate the city’s preparedness and vulnerability, following tremors felt in the capital.