The Government continues a scaled-up implementation of its plan to return IDPs from various parts of the country which exhibited displacement crises, according the information obtained from UN Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs.
Out of the nearly 3 million IDPs, close to 1.9 million have already returned while some 1.1. Million persons are still displaced.
According to reports from zonal authorities, 97 per cent of IDPs (116,000 out of the 120,000) from East Wollega zone and 84 per cent of IDPs (70,000 out of the 83, 000) from West Wollega zone have returned as of 22 May 2019.
About 30 per cent (287,000 out of the 962, 000) IDPs have returned in Somali region according to regional authorities.
Out of the 107,000 IDPs in Amhara region, 35 per cent have returned so far. Similarly, the overwhelming majority of IDPs in Gedeo and West-Guji zones have reportedly returned to their areas of origin.
Displacement sites continue to be dismantled and officially closed. Most of the returning IDPs are not in their homes, but in temporary sites in kebeles of origin pending rehabilitation support.
While continuing to engage with relevant local authorities to improve the implementation of the returns, including ensuring that it is safe and principled, increased rehabilitation support is also required. Most interviewed returnees call for support to rebuild their damaged houses and restore their livelihoods.