Since the onset of the Tigray war five years ago, the Hitsats camp in western Tigray has become home to over 15,000 displaced individuals, facing dire living conditions and a lack of future prospects. Reports indicate that many young people, particularly the youth, are opting to abandon the camp in search of better opportunities, risking their lives on uncertain migration paths to countries like Libya and Yemen. These departures signify a deepening crisis as families seek safety, often at the cost of their well-being and security.

The Hitsats camp, surrounded by mountains and characterized by makeshift shelters made from sheet metal, has become a symbol of the humanitarian challenges faced by those displaced by the conflict. As conditions worsen, with limited access to basic necessities and ongoing fear of violence, many see no other viable option but to leave. The stories of those who have fled, including the brother of 18-year-old Amleset, who is now in Libya, highlight the desperate choices being made by vulnerable families.

These developments raise urgent questions about international assistance and the need for more effective solutions to address the crises in Tigray. The ongoing conflict and the resultant humanitarian situation necessitate global attention and action to prevent further loss of life and to stabilise the region. As youth continue to leave the camp, the implications extend beyond individual stories, affecting future generations and the social fabric of Ethiopia’s Tigray region.