Ethiopian Cities Association (ECA), in collaboration with VNG International’s "We Are Able" program, organized a one-day experience sharing workshop in Adama. The event focused on inclusive urban safety net projects, emphasizing the participation of people with disabilities (PWDs), implementation challenges, and sustainable solutions.
Mr. Birhanu Teshome, Head of the Urban Food Security and Safety Net Office at the Ministry of Urban Development and Infrastructure, highlighted the significant progress of Ethiopia’s Inclusive Urban Food Security Safety Net Program.
"Initially covering only 11 cities, the program now benefits 1.76 million citizens across 88 cities with a budget of $703 million," he said. He added that the program has brought tangible improvements in food security and livelihood support for vulnerable groups, including PWDs.
Mr. Andualem Tenaw, Director General of ECA, stressed the association’s efforts to tackle service delivery inefficiencies, governance gaps, and uneven urban development.
"We are collaborating with local and international partners to help cities learn from best practices," he said. "This second workshop with the 'We Are Able' program is a prime example of knowledge-sharing to foster inclusive job creation and urban development."
The workshop also highlighted the "We Are Able" program, which seeks to enhance food security while ensuring that urban development considers the needs of people with disabilities. Participants discussed various activities designed to create job opportunities for residents and promote inclusive practices.
Experts from different cities presented their experiences on employment opportunities for PWDs, addressing implementation challenges and solutions. Cities represented included Addis Ababa, Dire Dawa, Harar, and Adama.
The workshop reinforced the need for stronger collaboration between cities, development partners, and disability advocates to ensure no one is left behind in Ethiopia’s urban growth.
Contact: ECA Communications Team – ethiopiancities2011@gmail.com;