The UN humanitarian chief, Martin Griffiths, is visiting Ethiopia amid concerns of a worsening humanitarian crisis as fighting in the northern Tigray region escalates.

During the six-day trip, he is expected to meet government officials and travel to the Tigray region to hear from civilians affected by the war.

Ahead of the visit, Mr Griffiths said that the humanitarian needs in the country had increased this year as a result of the armed conflicts in Tigray and other regions.

The UN World Food Programme has said its supplies are running out as trucks can’t get into the northern region because of the fighting.

There have also been ethnic tensions and clashes across the country, which has increased the need for humanitarian assistance.

The UN humanitarian chief’s visit comes as Eritrean refugees hold protests demanding the safety of those living in camps in Tigray.

The UN says more than 20,000 Eritrean refugees are facing intimidation and harassment by forces loyal to the TPLF in the region.

The fighting in Tigray began in November between the regional power, the Tigray People’s Liberation Front (TPLF), and the federal government.

The government declared a unilateral ceasefire in the region last month but fighting has continued between the TPLF and Amhara regional militia – and other regions have been mobilising to join the fight.