Survivors in Crisis: Tigray's Struggle with HIV and Health System Collapse Post-War

In the aftermath of the Tigray war, a woman recounts surviving sexual violence and worsening HIV, reflecting the wider health crisis. The conflict decimated Tigray's health system, increased disease prevalence, and halted critical aid. Despite attempts to rebuild, Tigray faces escalated health challenges amidst political and financial instability.

A woman in Ethiopia's Tigray region recounts enduring horrific sexual violence and worsening HIV, emblematic of the region's broader health crisis post-conflict. The Tigray war severely damaged the health system, with sexual violence rife and a significant rise in HIV cases.

The war has left Tigray's health infrastructure devastated, leading to limited access to healthcare and alarming disease outbreaks. With only 17 per cent of health facilities operational, survivors face inadequate medical support, mirrored by increased prevalence rates of HIV, malaria, and other infectious diseases.

Despite efforts to rebuild, financial and political turbulence continues to challenge recovery efforts. International aid cuts have exacerbated the crisis, forcing health services to curtail operations. The region remains in a plight, struggling with its health system's collapse and navigating the aftermath of conflict.

(With inputs from agencies.)