Ethiopia Country programme

Objectives, priorities, activities

HEKS/EPER has been actively engaged in Ethiopia since 1972, dedicating its efforts to supporting communities in overcoming crises, fostering sustainable livelihoods, and fortifying social cohesion. Our overarching vision for Ethiopia is centered on the idea that «communities become resilient to crises and build sustainable livelihoods.»

In our experience, the concept of building resilience to climate and disaster risks goes beyond mere recovery from shocks; it entails cultivating preparedness to address the root causes of vulnerability among diverse groups. This involves enhancing social, economic, and ecological systems and structures that underpin these communities. Collaboration is fundamental to our approach, with projects carried out in partnership with a diverse range of stakeholders, including community groups, government offices, local and international organizations, the private sector, and research institutes.

In Ethiopia, we boast well-equipped field offices and a skilled, dedicated team intimately familiar with the local culture, fluent in the native language, and trusted by stakeholders. Our primary focus is on underserved areas where communities grapple with extreme poverty and vulnerability. Whether assisting internally displaced persons, pastoralists, or women-headed households, we adopt a people-centered approach tailored to the specific needs and contexts where we operate.

Our comprehensive programme integrates humanitarian interventions, emphasizing water access, recovery from food insecurity, and access to shelter and protection services, with development activities that prioritize access to markets and financial services, sustainable natural resource management, and gender-inclusive initiatives. Embracing the Triple Nexus approach, we collaborate with community groups to enhance peaceful coexistence within their respective environments.