Czechia affirms commitment to aligning dev’t programs with Ethiopia’s initiatives

Addis Ababa, November 2, 2024 (FBC) – The Czech Republic is committed to aligning its development programs with Ethiopia’s initiatives, Petr Gandalovic, Czech Ministry of Foreign Affairs’ Development Cooperation and Humanitarian Aid Department Director affirmed.

The Czech Republic has been active in Ethiopia for many years, focusing on various sectors, including education, natural resource management, and humanitarian aid, among others.

Speaking to local newswire service ENA, Gandalovic highlighted the depth of collaboration that spans different regions in Ethiopia and encompasses both humanitarian aid and development efforts.

“We are very satisfied with our long-term cooperation. We have been active in Ethiopia across many regions, focusing on both humanitarian aid and development cooperation. Our efforts primarily target natural resource management and social development, particularly education,” he elaborated.

The Czech Republic is working to assist the people of Ethiopia in various areas while fostering development cooperation, he elaborated.

According to him, the water project in the Sidama region, where the Czech Republic not only provides access to water but also educates local communities on sustainable management practices is among notable initiatives.

This includes teaching them to share water resources, establish payment systems, and reinvest in the project’s sustainability.

Addressing climate change requires action at all levels, from grassroots efforts in small farming to strategic policies set by the federal government, Gandalovic emphasized.

“We need to work on all levels, but having effective projects at the local level allows us to demonstrate that real change is possible,” he stressed.

Hence, “this is exactly what we are trying to align our development programs with Ethiopian development projects, and, of course, to join forces with other European countries in the team Europe spirit,” Gandalovic noted.

Furthermore, he acknowledged the mutual benefits of this cooperation, emphasizing that Czech experts gain valuable insights from working alongside their Ethiopian counterparts.

“I believe that Czech experts benefit from cooperation with Ethiopians. Climate change affects us all; we cannot hide from this phenomenon, whether in the Czech Republic or Ethiopia. The effects of climate change are evident in both countries,” he explained.

As Ethiopia continues to tackle significant development and environmental challenges, partnerships are crucial for advancing sustainable practices and fostering resilience against climate change.