Scaffolding Collapse at Ethiopian Church Claims 36 Lives
A tragic incident in Ethiopia has resulted in the deaths of at least 36 people and left over 200 injured after makeshift scaffolding collapsed at a church during a festival. The accident occurred on October 11, 2023, around 7:45 a.m. local time in the town of Arerti, located approximately 40 miles east of the capital, Addis Ababa. The casualties were gathered for an annual celebration in honor of the Virgin Mary when the structure gave way.
Local officials confirmed the rising toll, with Ahmed Gebeyehu, the district police chief, stating, “The number of dead has reached 36 and could increase.” He added that the injured individuals are being treated at a local hospital. Some victims remain trapped under the debris, as reported by local official Atnafu Abate, who did not provide further details about ongoing rescue efforts.
Response and Safety Concerns
Images shared on the official Facebook page of the Ethiopian Broadcasting Corporation (EBC) depicted the chaotic scene, with collapsed wooden poles and crowds gathering around the wreckage. Witnesses reported on the precarious nature of the scaffolding that had been erected outside the church.
In light of the disaster, a government statement offered condolences to the victims’ families and emphasized that “safety must be given priority.” Ethiopia, which has a complex history and is home to one of the world’s oldest Christian communities, faces significant challenges regarding health and safety regulations.
The country, Africa’s second most populous, is known for its diverse population of 80 ethnic groups, and building accidents are unfortunately common. The lack of stringent safety regulations often leads to tragedies like this one, raising ongoing concerns about construction practices throughout the nation.
As investigations begin, the focus remains on the immediate needs of the injured and the potential for further casualties as rescue efforts continue. The community’s response and recovery will be crucial in addressing both the human and structural ramifications of this devastating event.
