A recent briefing from the Oxford Poverty and Human Development Initiative (OPHI) highlights the ongoing challenges of multidimensional poverty in Ethiopia, revealing that approximately 68.7% of the population is classified as multidimensionally poor. This alarming statistic underscores the urgent need for targeted interventions to address the various dimensions of poverty affecting millions of Ethiopians.

The Global Multidimensional Poverty Index (MPI) report, released in October 2024, indicates that Ethiopia’s MPI stands at 0.367, with significant disparities between urban and rural areas. The rural population faces a much higher poverty rate, with 79.7% classified as MPI poor, compared to 39.2% in urban settings. The report emphasizes that poverty in Ethiopia is not merely a matter of income but encompasses various deprivations in education, health, and living standards.

Key indicators contributing to this high MPI include nutrition, child mortality, and access to basic services such as clean drinking water and sanitation. The report reveals that many Ethiopians struggle with multiple deprivations simultaneously, which exacerbates their overall poverty experience.

The findings also highlight the need for inclusive policies that engage marginalized groups, including people with disabilities, in poverty alleviation efforts. Moses Chasich, Director of Salama Hub, emphasized the importance of incorporating diverse voices in policy-making processes to effectively tackle the root causes of poverty.

As Ethiopia approaches its goals outlined in the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly Goal 1 which aims to end poverty in all its forms by 2030, stakeholders are urged to implement evidence-based strategies that address both immediate needs and long-term structural changes.

The OPHI report serves as a critical reminder of the challenges facing Ethiopia as it strives for economic growth and social equity. With a commitment to improving living conditions and reducing multidimensional poverty, Ethiopia must prioritize comprehensive development strategies that promote sustainable livelihoods for all citizens.

The National Dialogue Commission (NDC), established nearly three years ago in response to the Northern conflict, has been called upon to prioritize regions frequently affected by violence and unrest. The commission’s mandate includes identifying the root causes of societal differences and ensuring inclusive consultations across various sectors of society.

Despite conducting agenda-gathering processes in several areas, including Addis Ababa, the NDC has faced criticism for not adequately addressing the needs of conflict-affected regions. Residents from the Amaro (Kore) Zone in Southern Ethiopia have reported ongoing tensions with the neighboring Guji Zone in Oromia Region, highlighting a persistent cycle of violence that has disrupted peace since 2017.

Local residents have expressed concerns about safety, citing attacks from unidentified militants allegedly originating from the Guji ethnic group. Gobeza Alemu and Sendu Mathiwos, residents of the Gorkha district in Kore Zone, recounted harrowing experiences of violence that have left them feeling vulnerable and unprotected by local security forces.

“The conflict remains unresolved, and many citizens are being forced from their homes,” one resident stated. “Schools have closed, businesses are halted, and we are suffering under the burden of rising living costs.” Despite efforts by local elders to mediate between communities, residents believe that a closer examination by the NDC could finally address their longstanding grievances.

During its tenth agenda gathering consultation forum held in Wolita Sodo City, Southern Ethiopia, the NDC welcomed 32 representatives from various ethnic groups. According to the commission, approximately 105,370 citizens from 932 districts have participated in previous forums.

The NDC aims to improve relations among different societal sectors and foster a political culture capable of resolving long-standing internal issues through dialogue. As calls for action grow louder, many hope that prioritizing conflict-affected regions will lead to meaningful solutions and lasting peace in Ethiopia.