Overcoming drought: Brightening futures
14-year-old Temesgen lives with his family of ten in the small community of Karat Zuriya district in South Ethiopia. Life had always been tough for them, but the past four years have been especially challenging due to a prolonged drought in the region. Temesgen's father, Mesele, is a farmer, and the drought has made it impossible for him to harvest any crops. He reached a point where he had to sell all his livestock just to get through a hard time. This left the family struggling with severe food shortages and financial difficulties.
Temesgen and three of his school-going siblings faced the possibility of having to leave school because their family could no longer afford to pay for their educational expenses. This was heartbreaking for Temesgen, who loved going to school and dreamed of a better future. However, his father's commitment to keeping his children in school never wavered, even during the hardest times. Mesele said, “I want my children to have a better future; as a result, I would borrow cash from neighbours to buy school supplies and cover other expenses. However, at some point, this even became difficult because people would not be willing to lend me money anymore.”
The severity of the drought was very high, and it even meant that there were many days when Temesgen and his siblings went without eating. “When there was no food at home, I had to miss school because I would not be strong enough in the classroom," says Temesegen. However, when there was something to eat in the house, Temesgen and his siblings could attend class, eager to learn and interact with their friends.
Things began to change for Temesgen and his family when World Vision Ethiopia stepped in to offer support. Through the Emergency Support to Mitigate the Effects of Drought on the Food Security of the Rural Population project funded by FAO, Temesgen and his family were provided with cash assistance, which Mesele used to buy educational materials and other essentials for his children. This relief not only ensured that Temesgen and his siblings could continue their education without interruption, but it also lifted a heavy burden from Mesele's shoulders.
As a result of the support, Temesgen's life took a turn for the better. He could now attend classes regularly, enjoying the stability and routine that education provided. With the right school supplies, Temesgen's performance improved. He said, “I am glad I can attend school regularly now and don’t have to worry about missing school. I am studying hard and enjoying my time with my friends at school.”
After buying school supplies for his children, Mesele was left with some cash on hand. With the remaining cash, Melese also bought a goat to expand his income. “I bought the goat to multiply it and sell it. I am happy that the goat is pregnant, and I hope she will give birth soon," said Melese with a happy face, to support their livelihood.
The cash assistance also gave Melese and the family the freedom to invest in their farm and explore other opportunities to improve their living conditions. The six-month drought response project has been implemented in Sidama, SNNP, and the Southwest Peoples Regions of Ethiopia.
World Vision’s Global Hunger Response has continued to support millions of people affected by the recurring drought in Ethiopia. Through our efforts, we have managed to reach over four million people, providing essential aid and support to those in desperate need. However, despite the progress the drought has still left millions in need of assistance.
By Bethel Shiferaw, Communication Coordinator (HEA), World Vision Ethiopia