Addis Ababa: Ethiopia’s Catholic Bishops have expressed deep sorrow after deadly floods and landslides struck the Gamo Zone in southern Ethiopia, leaving many people dead and forcing hundreds of families from their homes.
In a statement released this week, the Catholic Bishops’ Conference of Ethiopia said it was saddened by the scale of the disaster, which hit the region on March 11. The bishops said many families are now suffering after losing loved ones and homes.
According to regional authorities, the number of people who died has risen sharply in recent days. More than 80 deaths were first reported, but by March 15, officials confirmed that at least 125 people had lost their lives. Many others have been displaced and are in urgent need of help.
The bishops called on all people of goodwill to come together and provide immediate humanitarian support to those affected. They stressed that the situation is serious and requires both local and international assistance.
The Catholic Church in Ethiopia has already begun responding through the Apostolic Vicariate of Soddo. Church leaders have visited the affected areas to show solidarity, understand the needs of the people, and support relief efforts on the ground.
The bishops also encouraged spiritual support during this difficult time. They invited Catholics across the country to pray for the victims and their families, especially during the three days of national mourning declared by the country’s parliament.
Quoting the Bible, the bishops reminded the faithful to stand with those who are grieving. They asked people to offer prayers, attend Holy Mass, and show compassion to those who are suffering.
The bishops expressed their heartfelt condolences to the families who lost loved ones and to all those affected across Ethiopia. They prayed for the souls of those who died and asked God to give strength and comfort to the survivors.
They ended their message with a prayer for the nation, asking for protection and healing in the days ahead.