iMMAP Inc. has been supporting OCHA and various clusters in Ethiopia since 2017 by deploying both national and international Information Management Officers (IMOs). These officers have developed and provided a range of information products and services, including data coordination, databases, and infographics. Their efforts have enhanced the humanitarian response in Ethiopia and strengthened the capacities of national IMOs, ensuring sustainable intervention outcomes.
After officially registering in Ethiopia in 2019, iMMAP Inc. expanded its operations by employing skilled and experienced IMOs and Information Management Associates (IMAs) to provide humanitarian information management support across all regions of the country. Currently, through direct employment and secondment to OCHA and Ethiopia Disaster Risk Management Commission (EDRMC), iMMAP Inc. maintains field offices in Amhara, Oromia, Somali and Tigray regions, and a head office in Addis Ababa.
Ethiopia is grappling with severe humanitarian crises caused by ongoing conflicts, prolonged drought, and climatic shocks, resulting in unprecedented emergencies. Over the past year, the situation has worsened, with 21.4 million people now in need and humanitarian organizations striving to assist over 20.1 million Ethiopians with essential services (HRP 2024, HNO 2024). Since mid-2023, escalating conflicts and severe droughts have worsened food insecurity, malnutrition, and the lack of clean water and sanitation, leading to outbreaks of diseases such as cholera, malaria, and measles. Additionally, political tensions and global economic challenges have driven inflation and created shortages of essential commodities, further complicating relief efforts.
Despite a peace agreement reached in late 2022 that improved access in northern Ethiopia, significant humanitarian needs persist as a result of a prolonged two-year conflict. Active conflict in regions such as Amhara since July 2023 has caused significant displacement and disrupted services. At the same time, ongoing hostilities in Benishangul Gumuz, Oromia, and Gambella continue to cause massive displacements and damage infrastructure.
Ethiopia's complex crises require coordinated, data-driven responses to effectively address the multifaceted challenges and improve livelihoods. The humanitarian community operating in Ethiopia is assisting the government in its delivery of the needed assistance to the affected populations. Information Management (IM) often receives lower priority in resource allocation compared to direct intervention and life-saving activities, even though effective IM is crucial for coordinating humanitarian responses and ensuring the success of these efforts.
