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In a significant step toward resolving internal displacement in Ethiopia, authorities in the Somali region have successfully relocated over 2,500 displaced individuals from Qoloji Internally Displaced Persons (IDP) sites to a newly developed settlement in Bayahow. This initiative is part of Ethiopia’s broader Durable Solutions Initiative (DSI) aimed at providing long-term solutions for displaced populations.
A Collaborative Effort for Lasting Change
The relocation project, carried out by the Somali Regional Disaster Risk Management Bureau (DRMB) in partnership with the International Organization for Migration (IOM) and other key stakeholders, marks a pivotal achievement in tackling overcrowding in IDP camps.
Completed in four phases since early December, the relocation involved 524 households—equivalent to 2,570 individuals. The final phase, which saw the relocation of 132 households (662 individuals), was celebrated as a milestone in creating sustainable opportunities for displaced communities.
“This initiative is not just about relocating people—it’s about restoring their dignity and giving them a chance to thrive,” stated a senior DRMB official.
Infrastructure and Community Integration in Bayahow
The Bayahow settlement has been designed to offer a comprehensive foundation for rebuilding lives. Essential services include a health center, schools, water and sanitation systems, and community spaces. Support from the host community has been overwhelmingly positive, with local leaders and residents ensuring a smooth integration for the newcomers.
One relocated resident, Hafid Abdirahman, shared his gratitude:
“We were well cared for during the 620-kilometer journey. With farming opportunities near the Shebelle River, we can finally build a better future.”
Economic and Agricultural Development Plans
The resettlement project goes beyond providing housing and essential items. With the backing of the regional Agricultural Bureau and the UN Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO), plans are underway to offer displaced families farming resources and livestock restocking programs. Youth employment initiatives and small business development programs are also being introduced to foster economic independence and long-term stability.
International Support and Funding
The project has received significant financial backing from the Swiss Agency for Development and Cooperation (SDC) and the Swedish International Development Cooperation Agency (Sida). This global commitment underlines the importance of addressing displacement through innovative and sustainable solutions.
An IOM representative praised the initiative:
“This progress demonstrates how collaborative planning, international support, and community involvement can create lasting solutions for displaced populations.”
A Model for Future Resettlements
Bayahow’s success is being hailed as a template for future projects under Ethiopia’s DSI framework. The initiative highlights the effectiveness of combining infrastructure development with economic empowerment programs to address displacement caused by conflict and climate change.
Local officials have emphasized the role of community acceptance in the project’s success. According to Abdu Ahmed Elmi, the Shebelle Zone Early Warning Coordinator:
“The host community’s acceptance has been incredible—100 percent.”
A Path Toward Sustainable Solutions
As Ethiopia continues to face challenges related to internal displacement, the Bayahow settlement sets a precedent for future initiatives. By focusing on dignity, opportunity, and collaboration, the project demonstrates how displaced communities can transition from dependency to resilience.