Health Challenges in Ethiopia: An Ordeal of Homelessness

Abstract

Living without adequate shelter is a major problem in and of itself. The creation of adequate housing is a structural issue that requires development actors and the government to prioritize and build low-income housing. If the shortage of low-income housing is solved, homelessness will end. However, while homelessness continues to exist, health issues are unavoidable and inherent in the problem. Consequently, addressing the health of homeless persons is important from both a relief and humanitarian perspective. This study describes homeless people’s health challenges in Ethiopia. The exploratory design of this study utilizes in-depth interviews and focus group discussions with 34 homeless persons, key informant interviews with three government officials, and multiple rounds of participant observation. Tables show detailed responses as a way of identifying common themes from various data sources. Thematic data analysis shows that persons experiencing homelessness have pitiful hygiene and sanitation practices. They are affected by physical health challenges including diabetes, high blood pressure, epilepsy, respiratory diseases, stomach problems, HIV, skin infections, injury, and foot trauma. Homeless people are susceptible to mental health problems, including insomnia and sleeping disorders, depression, personality disorders, and schizophrenia. Understanding homeless health challenges can inform policymakers, humanitarian programs, and researchers to take action to abate the severity of health issues among the street homeless in Ethiopia.