Social development and income

The majority of Ethiopians live off the land – mostly from hand to mouth. The existing arable land has long since become insufficient for all. There is a lack of income alternatives apart from farming. Many of those who have no opportunity to improve their standard of living feel compelled to leave their homeland.

Through its work Menschen für Menschen creates opportunities for development and helps the rural population to secure their livelihood. Handicraft courses and microcredits give many families a new start in life with an additional income and stabilize their existence.

Women in rural areas of Ethiopia have many responsibilities but few rights. They often lack the opportunity to earn their own income. They take care of the children and the household. Additionally, it is their responsibility to fetch and carry water, collect firewood, and help with agricultural work. Since 1997, Menschen für Menschen has therefore offered women in our project areas the opportunity to participate in microcredit programs. So far, 31.053 women have participated. Some of them have become successful entrepreneurs who have made a significant contribution to their family’s income – or even provided the majority of it. As a result, their social status within the community has improved significantly.