ActionAid has been working in Ethiopia since 1989. We work with over 700,000 of the country’s poorest people to improve access to basic healthcare, safe, clean water and education. In times of crisis, we provide immediate relief.

We train farmers in agricultural techniques which increase the size and variety of the harvest, while conserving soil and water. And we support community schemes which provide affordable loans and credit to people (usually women) who have barely enough to survive.

Child Sponsorship in Ethiopia

Fuaz Kedir Hussen (pictured right with her younger sister Amerya) is currently at school and dreams of becoming a civil servant in her community. She and her sister make drawings and messages to their sponsors, who support the development of their schools and health centres.

More than 10 million people in East Africa are in desperate need following the worst drought in 60 years. Failed rains and rocketing food prices rocketing food prices mean that women and children are struggling to survive. Sponsorships help us deliver emergency supplies of food and water, and support families to prepare and adapt to climate changes so they can survive and not become reliant on food aid.

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Water and women leaders in Ethiopia

ActionAid supported water facilities in Janamora, over 900 kms north of the capital, serve also as strategy bring women to community leadership. “Now it is up to us to perform and prove that women can lead and benefit their community. Our vision is to take tap water to every household,” said Mitike Meles, Vice Chair Woman of the Janamora Women Water Supply and Management Association.

Janamora Women Water Supply and Management Association is the first in engaging women as leaders in the area and expects to set an example of women leadership abilities in the area.

How you can help

When you sponsor a child in Ethiopia, you'll be providing the resources for real, long-term change. You'll get two letters a year from the child you sponsor, and updates from the country programme to tell you how the money you are spending is changing the community your child lives in.

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