Makeshift scaffolding collapse at Ethiopia church kills 36

At least 36 people lost their lives and over 200 were injured in a tragic incident at a church in Ethiopia on Wednesday. According to state media, a makeshift scaffolding collapsed, causing chaos and devastation among the worshippers.

The incident occurred at the famous Maryam Tsiyon Church in the northern city of Aksum, which is known for its religious significance and attracts thousands of visitors every year. The church was packed with people who had gathered to celebrate the annual festival of Saint Mary, one of the most important religious events in the country.

Eyewitnesses described the scene as chaotic and heartbreaking. The scaffolding, which was erected to support a large tent for the festival, suddenly collapsed, trapping and crushing many people underneath. The sound of screams and cries filled the air as people desperately tried to rescue their loved ones from the debris.

The local authorities and emergency services immediately rushed to the scene and began the rescue operation. They worked tirelessly for hours, using cranes and other equipment to remove the rubble and retrieve the victims. The injured were rushed to nearby hospitals, where they received urgent medical attention.

The Prime Minister of Ethiopia, Abiy Ahmed, expressed his deep sorrow and condolences to the families of the victims. He also visited the site of the incident and met with the injured, assuring them of the government’s support in their recovery.

The cause of the scaffolding collapse is still under investigation, but initial reports suggest that it may have been due to the heavy rains and strong winds that hit the area on Wednesday. The church authorities have also promised to conduct a thorough investigation and take necessary measures to prevent such incidents from happening in the future.

The news of this tragic incident has shocked and saddened the entire nation. The Ethiopian government has declared a national day of mourning to honor the victims and their families. Flags are flying at half-mast, and people are coming together to offer their prayers and support to those affected by this tragedy.

The Maryam Tsiyon Church has always been a symbol of unity and peace in Ethiopia. It is a place where people from different backgrounds and beliefs come together to celebrate their faith. The annual festival of Saint Mary is a time of joy and celebration, but this year, it has turned into a day of mourning.

However, in the midst of this tragedy, there is also a glimmer of hope. The way the community has come together to support each other and the swift response of the authorities is a testament to the resilience and strength of the Ethiopian people. It is a reminder that in the face of adversity, we can rise above and come together as one.

As we mourn the loss of our fellow citizens, let us also remember to honor their memories by standing united and supporting each other during this difficult time. Our thoughts and prayers are with the victims and their families, and we hope for a speedy recovery for the injured.

In the words of Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed, “Let us all come together to heal and rebuild, and let this tragedy be a reminder of the importance of safety and precaution in all our gatherings and celebrations.” May this incident serve as a wake-up call for all of us to prioritize the safety of our communities and ensure that such tragedies never happen again.