(ONA, 1 November 2026) In an urgent appeal addressed to Oromo leaders, associations, scholars, elders, youth, and women across Australia, the Oromo Refugee Community in Yemen has issued a heartfelt call for solidarity as its members endure one of the most difficult periods in their lives.

The appeal, signed by Kadiir Bakkalcho of the community’s External Relations Department, paints a harrowing picture of life for Oromo refugees caught in the crossfire of ongoing conflict in Yemen. “Our Oromo brothers and sisters in Yemen are currently living in extremely difficult conditions,” the statement reads. “Due to the ongoing air and ground war, our lives have fallen into grave danger. Airstrikes, military operations, and ground clashes have plunged many families into fear, grief, and severe hardship.”

The community outlined a litany of crises facing Oromo refugees in the country. Chief among them is the constant threat to life and safety from airstrikes and ground fighting. The refugees also report that the local UNHCR office has been closed or is providing reduced services, leaving many without access to assistance, protection, and essential services. Food, clean water, medicine, and healthcare are all in critically short supply.

The burden falls especially heavily on women, many of whom have lost their husbands and are raising children alone, requiring particular support. Children, the elderly, and people with disabilities are among the most vulnerable, facing neglect and hardship without adequate care. With no work or income, the community says, life is becoming increasingly desperate.

“Honorable Oromo brothers and sisters in Australia,” the appeal continues, “we ask that you stand with us in this time of crisis. Be our voice; we respectfully urge you to make the plight of Oromo refugees in Yemen known to the Australian government, humanitarian organizations, the United Nations, and the international community.”

The community issued specific calls to action to different segments of the Oromo diaspora in Australia. Oromo scholars are asked to raise their voices; Oromo mothers and women are urged to bring the plight of women and children to the world’s attention; Oromo elders are called upon to offer guidance and a message of unity; and Oromo youth are encouraged to use their energy to help spread information and mobilize support.

Specifically, the refugees are asking for their voices to be amplified on the world stage, for advocacy with aid organizations and governments on their behalf, for humanitarian support including food, medicine, water, and protection, and for their situation to be recognized as a humanitarian crisis deserving of global attention.

“The Oromo brothers and sisters in Yemen trust in you,” the statement concludes. “In this dark time, Oromo unity is our hope and our greatest strength. Thank you. Do not forget us; be our voice.”

The appeal closes with a respectful sign-off from Kadiir Bakkalcho, who can be reached at 00967-773337328, on behalf of the External Relations Department of the Oromo Refugee Community in Yemen — a community waiting, in hope and hardship, for the world to answer.