Development work in Ethiopia

In Ethiopia, we support children and young people’s education in areas affected by conflict. We work together with the Ethiopian Guenet Church and the EMWAC church.

Ethiopia is one of the poorest countries in the world, and conflicts between different groups have continued for decades.

The situation in education is particularly challenging in the Tigray and Oromia regions. Prolonged conflict, poverty and low-quality teaching make it difficult for children to attend and succeed in school.

In Tigray, more than half of the children have not returned to school after the war, and many students lack basic skills. Schools have been destroyed during the conflict, and many that remain are poorly equipped.

In northern Oromia, school dropout is also common.

What does Fida do in Ethiopia?

Fida’s goal is that children can go to school and grow up in a safe environment. The Ethiopia Country Programme helps children access education and learn better, while also supporting families in their daily lives.

Fida works in the Oromia region, in North Shewa, and in south-eastern Tigray.

Between 2026 and 2029, the Ethiopia Country Programme will directly reach around 69,000 people and indirectly impact more than 200,000 lives. The programme covers all government primary and secondary schools in the villages of the target area.

What does Fida’s work in Ethiopia include?

• Teachers are trained to improve the quality of teaching and to make lessons more inclusive.
• Children take part in clubs that support learning and help them stay in school.
• Parents and other community members are involved in supporting and developing school life.
• Families are supported through savings groups and practical information for everyday life. When a family’s financial situation is more stable, it is easier for children to attend school and thrive.
• Local organisations and actors are strengthened so they can advocate for children’s rights.
• Cooperation between schools, communities and authorities is improved. As a result, more children receive quality education and learn basic skills that enable them to continue their studies.
• School dropout decreases, and children’s well-being improves.

Fida’s implementing partners are the Ethiopian Guenet Church Development and Welfare Organisation, and the Ethiopian Mulu Wongel Amagnoch Church Development Commission.