ADDIS ABABA – City administration is working closely with various charity organizations to create a brighter future for orphaned children and vulnerable families, the Addis Ababa Women and Children Affairs Bureau announced.
The announcement came during a thanksgiving event hosted by Tora Charity Organization, which also shared its achievements over the past five years, the Bureau’s Children Protection Support and Care Expert Eyersualem Chanie highlighted the challenges faced by many children living on the streets due to the absence of families or financially incapable parents.
“Many children are living on the streets, facing harsh conditions, and it is becoming more frequent. Though exact numbers require further research, it is clear that we need collective action. Collaborating with stakeholders, involving the private sector, and working with NGOs are essential to creating a better future for these children and their mothers,” said Eyersualem.
One of the Bureau’s initiatives, Kokob Tsehay Daycare, plays a vital role in rescuing children from the streets and connecting them with charity organizations to ensure a better future. The Bureau also aims to empower women economically through various mechanisms, recognizing that improving the well-being of mothers is key to transforming communities.
Tora Charity Organization Manager Genete Gebremariyam shared the organization’s inspiring journey, beginning five years ago with just seven children aged six months to 12 years. Over the years, the charity has expanded its efforts, taking in more children and providing them with a safe and nurturing environment.
“A year after we started, we welcomed eight more children into our care,” Genete said. “Today, we are supporting 30 mothers and 20 children by providing a platform for mothers to engage in small businesses such as making Ethiopian food and supporting the educational needs of the children.”
Of the 20 children, 15 are currently attending school, from nursery to grade 8. Tora Charity Organization plans to expand these programs in the future, ensuring more children and mothers receive the support they need.
Tora Charity Project Coordinator Samson Gebregzabher elaborated on the organization’s efforts to empower women. Through various vocational programs, such as poultry farming and baking injera (Ethiopian flatbread), the charity helps women regain their economic independence and improve their living standards.
“We focus on the women’s interests, training them in areas they are passionate about. This has made a significant difference in their lives,” Samson said.
Since its founding, Tora Charity Organization has invested over 15 million Birr into its programs. Looking ahead, the organization plans to raise 23 million Birr to support 60 mothers and 10 additional children in the coming year, helping to transform their lives and ensure their future.
Tora Charity is a locally recognized NGO, officially registered under the Ethiopian Civil Society Organizations (ECSOs), and continues to work towards creating sustainable solutions for vulnerable children and mothers in Addis Ababa.
BY MESERET BEHALU
THE ETHIOPIAN HERALD SATURDAY 5 APRIL 2025
