Day 1: Participatory Development of Productive Landscapes in Sidama Region

This project aimed to foster sustainable farming practices and natural resource management across 14 kebeles in Sidama. The beneficiaries included Watershed Management Committees (WMCs), technical farmers, and vegetable gardening groups.

Some areas faced initial barriers, including limited local resources and the need for ongoing government support. However, participants from the Watershed Management Committees shared how new skills in resource management empowered them in protecting and enhancing their environments. “We’ve learned how to manage our soil and water resources better, which has improved our farm productivity,” noted a committee member.

Digital tools, such as Geographic Information Systems (GIS), have allowed communities to predict and mitigate environmental risks. Real-time mapping of erosion-prone areas is enabling communities to take preemptive measures, reducing risks of natural disasters. “The maps show areas at risk, which helps us take action to protect our farms and even save lives,” shared another beneficiary.

Additionally, about 250 farmers have already seen improvements in their vegetable gardens thanks to experience-sharing programs. Many farmers reported increased resilience to climate variability, helping ensure stable livelihoods.

Day 2: Establishment of Sustainable Drinking Water Supply System in Bura, Dale, and Bona Zuriya Woredas

This project’s mission was to provide reliable access to safe, affordable drinking water for communities in the Bura, Dale, and Bona Zuriya Woredas. In collaboration with local authorities and companies, People in Need led efforts to implement and maintain these water systems.

The project was largely successful in establishing sustainable access to clean drinking water, with over 30,000 residents now benefiting from improved water access. Community members expressed their gratitude for the convenience and health benefits of having nearby water sources. “Before, we had to walk long distances to collect water, which was often unsafe,” explained a mother from Bura Woreda. “Now, clean water near our homes has improved our health and daily lives.”

In addition to improving access to drinking water, there was a strong emphasis on the importance of clean water for public health. Residents highlighted a noticeable reduction in waterborne diseases, resulting in better overall community health. Local firms involved in the project praised the focus on sustainable water management practices. A representative from a local company noted, “The technical support we received has helped us maintain the infrastructure and respond to community needs effectively.”

Day 3: Improvement of Health, Hygiene, and Sanitation in Hawassa Zuriya Woreda

Focused on enhancing hygiene and sanitation across 23 kebeles in Hawassa Zuriya Woreda, this project worked closely with health workers, schools, and local facilities to foster better health practices.

In addition to substantial gains, the project faced challenges in some facilities, such as inadequate plumbing in local hospitals, which hindered immediate connections to clean water. This underscored a continued need for government support to ensure infrastructure compatibility. Health Extension Workers (HEWs) valued the project’s training, which equipped them to promote effective hygiene practices locally. “We’ve seen a noticeable change in handwashing and sanitation habits,” reported a health worker.
School staff and pupils also emphasized the improvements made in hygiene facilities, such as access to clean water in schools. “We now have clean water in our school, which helps students maintain better hygiene and reduces the number of children falling ill, another important aspect is a much better enrolment of girls in school now” remarked a school headmaster.
In addition to improving access to drinking water, there was a strong emphasis on the importance of clean water for public health. Residents highlighted a noticeable reduction in waterborne diseases, resulting in better community health overall.

Conclusion

The Czech Development Cooperation projects in Ethiopia have significantly improved local communities' resilience and livelihoods by enhancing water access, promoting sustainable farming, and improving hygiene. The integration of modern tools like digital mapping has empowered beneficiaries to better manage resources and prepare for environmental risks. Crucial to this success is the strong collaboration with the Ethiopian government, ensuring sustainable and lasting impacts. These projects demonstrate the importance of international partnerships in driving systematic change and supporting socio-economic development.