Spatial Based Analysis of Internally Displaced People in The Case of East Harerge Zone, Oromia Region, Ethiopia

Internally displaced persons (IDPs) are individuals or groups forced to flee their homes due to human-induced or natural causes. This study aims to analyze IDPs in East Harerge Zone using Geographic Information System, focusing on spatial aspects of internal displacement. The research examines the causes, hotspot areas, spatial patterns, trends, and statistics of displacements in the Zone. A mixed research approach was employed to understand the contextual situation of IDPs, incorporating their own meanings, experiences, and challenges. Primary data sources included observations and key informant interviews with Zonal, Woreda Disaster Risk Management Office (DRMO) officials, and humanitarian workers in East Harerge. Secondary data sources comprised published and unpublished documents such as Displacement Tracking Matrix (DTM) datasets from 2017-2022, humanitarian reports, journals, books, administrative boundary data, and IDP population figures. The study reveals a high number of displacements in East Harerge Zone from 2017 to 2022, with IDPs originating from 15 out of 24 Woredas (63%) and displaced to various locations within the country, including Dire Dawa, Somali Region, and other regions. Conversely, IDPs were also displaced to East Harerge Zone from the Somali region, residing in 22 out of 24 Woredas (92%). The spatial distribution of displacement, causes, hotspot areas, and existing IDP sites were discussed in a spatial context using ArcGIS software. The causes of displacement were analyzed in conflict, drought, and flood-induced bases. Therefore, this study will be an input for All disaster risk management offices starting from National to Woreda level to make better decision and policy to strengthen spatial bases disaster management mechanism using GIS and remote sensing technologies.