Japan today launched two crucial development projects in Ethiopia, one aimed at improving educational facilities in the Sidama Region and the other focused on supporting survivors of Gender-Based Violence (GBV) in the Tigray Region.
The projects, funded through Japan's Grant Assistance for Grassroots Human Security Program (GGP), represent a total investment of USD 144,851 (approximately ETB 18 million).
A launching ceremony held today was attended by Ambassador SHIBATA Hironori of Japan to Ethiopia. He was joined by Younsu Kim, Country Director of Good Neighbours Ethiopia, the implementing partner for the Sidama project, and Abeba Haileselassie, Executive Director of the Women's Association of Tigray (WAT), the implementing partner for the Tigray project.
In the Sidama Region, the "Project for the Improvement of Yekatit 25 Primary School in Yirgalem Town" will receive USD 54,161 (approx. ETB 6.7 million). The funds will be used to construct a new school building featuring four furnished classrooms, significantly enhancing the learning environment for the school's 1,800 students.
In Tigray's Mekelle City, USD 90,690 (approx. ETB 11.3 million) has been allocated for the "Project for the Construction of a Shelter for Protection and Self-support for Victims of Gender-Based Violence." This vital project involves building a shelter designed to offer stable protection and support services for around 150 survivors of GBV.
Speaking about the initiatives, Ambassador Shibata highlighted Japan's commitment to supporting community-level development in Ethiopia.
Japan's GGP has been active in Ethiopia since 1989. During this time, it has funded over 450 projects across the country, focusing on critical areas such as education, vocational training, access to water and sanitation, health, economic growth, and food security. These latest projects underscore Japan's ongoing partnership in addressing key human security needs in Ethiopia.