Ethiopia faces a major water crisis, with 37 million people lacking access to basic water services, according to a new study by the World Health Organization and UNICEF. The shortfall positions the country among the African nations most affected by water scarcity.

The study shows uneven progress across the country. Rural areas have seen substantial gains, with safe water access rising from 14 percent in 2000 to 71 percent in 2024. Urban areas, however, have not kept pace, leaving many residents without a reliable supply.

Political instability and limited financial resources are cited as key obstacles to expanding water, sanitation, and hygiene services nationwide.

For the first time, the report incorporates sanitation data from Addis Ababa. While many women and children rely on public facilities, insufficient coverage continues to generate health and social challenges, the study notes.