Volunteering activities play a crucial role in shaping the socio-economic landscape of Ethiopia. From community development projects to environmental conservation efforts, volunteers have been at the forefront of driving positive change and progress in the country.
One of the key areas where volunteering have made a significant impact in Ethiopia is in the field of education. Volunteers have been actively involved in supporting schools, providing educational resources, and mentoring students. By working hand in hand with teachers and education officials, volunteers have contributed significantly in improving the quality of education in rural areas, ensuring that children have access to essential learning opportunities.
Likewise, in the healthcare sector, voluntarism has been instrumental in providing much-needed medical assistance to underserved communities in remote parts of the country. Volunteer doctors, nurses, and healthcare professionals have worked tirelessly to deliver healthcare services to remote areas, where access to medical facilities is limited. Their efforts have helped improve health outcomes, reduce mortality rates, and raise awareness about important health issues.
In the tree planting initiatives, clean-up campaigns, and sustainable development projects thereby restoring degraded lands and increasing the country›s forest coverage, volunteers have always been there and play a paramount part in preserving the country›s natural resources and protecting the environment for future generations. Their active involvements have helped raise awareness about environmental issues and promote eco-friendly practices among local communities.
Moreover, voluntarism activities have also focused on empowering women and youth, providing them with opportunities for education, skills development, and economic empowerment. By supporting women-owned businesses, organizing leadership training programs, and advocating for gender equality, volunteers have helped create a more inclusive and equitable society where all individuals have the chance to thrive and succeed.
Thus, it is important to recognize the significant contributions of voluntarism activities to Ethiopian socio-economic development, highlighting the impact they have had on various sectors and communities across the nation.
Speaking at a forum held in relation to the Summer Voluntary Service Movement Deputy Prime Minister Temesgen Tiruneh said that, citizens will dedicate their time, money, labor, knowledge and skills to the country by participating in the voluntary services.
The voluntary service is a major tool that could ensure mutual growth and prosperity for a diverse country like Ethiopia, he noted.
Stating that voluntary service promotes compassion and empathy, which is common values, the Deputy Premier said that, the service is also instrumental in resolving burning issues of the society and realizing fair and sustainable growth.
Women and Social Affairs Minister, Ergogie Tesfaye (PhD) pointed out that, following the national reform, the government has given special attention for voluntary service as it is vital to strengthen social cohesion, and foster a sense of national unity, peace and stability aside from tackling social problems.
According to her, the collaboration of the institutions enables to reduce wastage of resources and duplication of activities. Such activities will continue in a strengthened manner as well since volunteers are playing a vital role in resolving problems of the society.
The ongoing National Summer Voluntarism initiative is poised to positively impact the lives of more than 50 million Ethiopians, according to government officials spearheading the large-scale mobilization effort.
The nationwide campaign, undertaken under the theme «Benevolence and Unity for Ethiopia›s Ascendance,» aims to cultivate a spirit of solidarity and collective advancement through voluntary community services deeply rooted in Ethiopian culture and tradition.
Since the inception of the reform, the government has intensified its focus on facilitating citizen-driven benevolent activities to uplift communities. This year›s program will encompass 14 key areas, delivering an array of services valued at over 21 billion Birr (approx. 400 million USD).
Initiatives will span tree planting drives, food distribution, educational support, and health services, among other critical sectors.
The Peace, Education, and Women and Social Affairs ministries have jointly unveiled details of the ambitious undertaking during a press briefing today.
Women and Social Affairs State Minister Muna Ahmed said, «People engage in the services not through coercion but by their own volition, a testament to the Ethiopian spirit of compassion.»
Over 20,000 university students will play a pivotal role, contributing their efforts towards educational, health, and developmental endeavors across the country, according to Education State Minister Korra Tushene.
«One of the reasons that erodes the unity and togetherness of the people is, not knowing others’ culture and values and lacking intimacy in diverse community. Thus, the togetherness and understanding created in this year’s voluntary program is important for building national values.”
Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed (PhD) is the architect of this philanthropic movement as a means to harness the Ethiopian people›s benevolent spirit for sustained national progress.
Rather than a fleeting phenomenon, the program is continually expanding its reach each year, evolving into an enduring tradition that epitomizes the nation›s unity and unwavering commitment to collective prosperity through grassroots participation.
Some 39 million volunteers are expected to participate in the National Summer Voluntarism services, it was learnt.
No doubt, voluntarism plays a crucial role in building strong communities and creating positive change in society. In Ethiopia, promoting voluntarism can have a significant impact on various social issues, including lessening the burden of poverty, promoting education, healthcare, and environmental conservation. Therefore, promoting voluntarism in Ethiopia is essential for several reasons.
Firstly, volunteering allows individuals to give back to their communities and make a meaningful difference in the lives of others. By volunteering, individuals can contribute their time, expertise, and resources to support vulnerable populations and address pressing social issues. Additionally, volunteering can help build a sense of solidarity and unity among community members, fostering a culture of compassion, empathy, and collaboration.
In sum, voluntarism activities have made significant contributions to Ethiopian socio-economic development, impacting various sectors such as education, healthcare, environmental conservation, and women›s empowerment. The dedication and passion of volunteers have helped drive positive change, foster community development, and create a more sustainable future for the people of Ethiopia. As we look towards the future, it is essential to continue supporting and recognizing the vital role that voluntarism plays in building a better and brighter tomorrow for all Ethiopians.
BY TEWODROS KASSA
THE ETHIOPIAN HERALD TUESDAY 9 JULY 2024
