MoWSA and CFRD join hands to boost lives of low-income rural communities

Addis Ababa, August 5, 2024 (FBC) – The Ministry of Women and Social Affairs of Ethiopia (MoWSA) and the China Foundation for Rural Development (CFRD) joined forces to implement a project aimed at uplifting the lives of the poor and vulnerable members of society in seven major development fields.

This agreement signed in Addis Ababa today marks the second phase of their cooperation framework, highlighting their dedication to making a positive impact in the lives of those in need, MoWSA stated.

At the signing ceremony, Minister Ergogie Tesfaye of the MoWSA emphasized the long-standing relations between Ethiopia and China in economic, social, and political aspects. She highlighted the Chinese Foundation for Rural Development as a prime example of their enduring friendship and cooperation.

Minister Ergogie expressed confidence that the joint projects would significantly contribute to Ethiopia’s efforts in supporting vulnerable citizens. She reaffirmed her ministry’s commitment to collaborating with the CFRD for the effective implementation of these initiatives.

Ms. Yin Qian, the Country Director for CFRD Ethiopia, assured that the foundation would offer the required assistance and support in the specified areas.

Meanwhile, Mr. Yang Yihang, Minister Counsellor for Economic and Commercial Affairs at the Chinese Embassy in Ethiopia, emphasized China’s commitment to boosting Ethiopia’s economy through various investment activities within the country.

The collaborative project aims to expand school meal services to rural areas, provide educational materials for students, install solar-powered renewable energy sources in underserved schools, improve sanitation facilities, empower women economically, expand access to clean drinking water, and ensure that people in water-scarce areas have access to this essential resource.

This initiative will be carried out jointly by the MoWSA and other relevant ministries and regional states in Ethiopia. Implementation of the project will commence as of the agreement signing date, according to the Ministry.

The China Foundation for Poverty Alleviation (CFPA) is a non-profit organization in China, established in 2006, that focuses on poverty alleviation and rural development. It collaborates with government agencies, corporations, and other organizations to implement projects and improve the lives of impoverished individuals and communities through initiatives such as education, healthcare, infrastructure development, and microfinance.