Ethiopia enters 2007 with anticipation of improved food security situation due to the increased harvest expected in many parts of the country. The good food security prospect has led to a new approach in the way the Government, with assistance from the humanitarian partners, is addressing emergency needs and allocating resources. In 2007, allocation of resources will be determined following more specific area-by-area- and case-by-case assessments, in order to ensure those in most need of relief items are reached. The assessment results, however, will be used as a broad national estimate for the purpose of planning and resource mobilization for emergency needs. As part of the new approach, emergency beneficiaries identified in Productive Safety Net Program (PSNP) woredas will be addressed through the existing safety net mechanism.

Despite the improved food security prospects, however, an estimated 1.36 million people will require emergency food assistance, due to the severe impacts of flooding, localized agricultural production failure and other shocks. The total emergency food required for the year is estimated to be 150,580 MT, of which 90,000 MT is considered to be carryover pledges and stock from 2006, leaving a net requirement of 60,580 MT. Furthermore, approximately US$ 128,944,676 is required to address the need in the non-food sector including flood rehabilitation/recovery gaps. The humanitarian assistance requirements for both food and non-food for 2007, estimated at US$179,338,641 are summarized below