Summarized by Brad Budsberg

 

"Ethiopia:  Rebels Destroy Food Aid"

Africa Research Bulletin (Political Series)

V. 24, N. 10, November 15, 1987, p. 8673

 

Summary:

The basic argument of this article is that the Eritrean People’s Liberation Front (EPLF), is taking actions in hopes of hurting of hurting the Ethiopian government.  In the wake of the rebellion, EPLF destroyed 23 food relief trucks, killed one driver, and 360 tons of food was set ablaze.

 

Situation Critical:

The UN and Addis Ababa authorities have warned of a danger of mass starvation in the north of the country next year following crop failures.  The destruction caused by the rebels halted the build up of supplies for distribution to people in 1988.  Donor Agencies have estimated a shortage of 300 trucks.

 

Rebels:

The Eritrean People’s Liberation Front, a group who have been fighting for autonomy for Eritrea for more than a quarter of a century, state that they are not responsible for the mistaken identity of the food trucks.  It was thought that these were the Ethiopian government using camouflage to continue activities.  The EPLF wants contact with the UN emergency operation forces.

 

Extra:

Ms. Sophie, a French nurse, was released to the French embassy after being held by the Tigre People’s Liberation Front (TPLF) for over three weeks.