21 people killed, 61 injured in Southern Ethiopia ethnic violenceHeavy fighting between ethnic groups in southern Ethiopia has killed at least 21 people and wounded 61, its state news agency said on Saturday, amid escalating violence that has sent hundreds fleeing across the border to neighbouring Kenya.Outbreaks of violence in the south between the Oromo and other groups have escalated since Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed - the first leader from the Oromo ethnic group in Ethiopia's modern history - came to office in March. Fighting broke out between Somalis and Oromos in Moyale, a town bordering Kenya, on Thursday and Friday, the Ethiopia News Agency said, citing Suraw Mohammed, deputy spokesman of Somalia Regional State. He said some of the displaced had fled to Kenya, while those who had stayed in Ethiopia were receiving humanitarian aid. SEE ALSO :Government declares 12-hour curfew in NarokThe two groups have been engaged in prolonged conflict which has however intensified in recent months. Patrick Mumali, Moyale sub-county deputy commissioner, confirmed late on Friday that hundreds of Ethiopians have crossed the border to Kenya.

Source: Ethiopian News December 15, 2018 10:30 UTC