TENS OF THOUSANDS of people have fled to Kenya to escape ethnic fighting in southern Ethiopia that has left at least 18 people dead.

Some 20,000 people have now crossed the border in an attempt to find safety, according to the Kenyan Red Cross.

Refugees are continuing to pass into Kenya despite efforts being made by the Ethiopian government to stop the fighting, the BBC reports.

The clashes centre on land ownership rights between members of the Borana and Garri ethnic groups, according toAl Jazeera.

The Red Cross has said several people have been treated for gunshot wounds.

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20,000 flee ethnic clashes in southern Ethiopia

Read: Why is George Clooney watching Sudan via satellite?

Making a difference

A mix of advertising and supporting contributions helps keep paywalls away from valuable information like this article. Over 5,000 readers like you have already stepped up and support us with a monthly payment or a once-off donation.