World Vision Ethiopia Advisory Council and Leadership Visit to Hulla to Witness Community Impact Firsthand

On 25 October 2024, members of World Vision Ethiopia's Advisory Council (AC) and Senior Leadership Team (SLT) visited the Hulla Area Program (AP) in Sidama Region, located approximately 370 kilometres (229 miles) south of Addis Ababa. The field visit, held ahead of the AC’s quarterly meeting on 26 October 2024 in Hawassa City, showcased various initiatives aimed at transforming lives within the community.

During the visit, the AC and SLT witnessed several impactful projects, including a generator-powered water pumping system and a solar-powered water supply system that provides clean water to 9,000 children. They also visited a youth-led WASH (Water, Sanitation, and Hygiene) business production centre, which manufactures essential hygiene products like soap and sanitary kits for girls. Additionally, the team engaged with the Children’s Parliament and was inspired by their work around protecting children’s rights. They also learned about initiatives in education, such as reading corners and the Unlock Literacy model, which have helped improve the quality of education and the learning environment for children. These initiatives highlighted World Vision's commitment to sustainable development, empowering communities to manage, maintain and govern vital resources effectively.

The team engaged directly with the community, commending their dedication to sustaining the projects and ensuring long-term benefits for future generations. Project participants, community representatives, and children shared how these programs have positively impacted their lives over time. 

Azeb, 16 years old, Head of the Hulla District Child Parliament, described the transformation in her community: “In the past, parents ignored their children’s rights, leading to unsafe living conditions and vulnerability to abuse. Now, thanks to World Vision Ethiopia, we have a platform to advocate for our rights. We attend school, live safely, and are protected from harmful practices. Our voices are heard, and we are actively involved in decisions that shape our futures.”

Hana, a mother of two and the Vice Chairwoman of the Hulla District Community Care Coalition echoed the impact of these efforts, more so on community attitudes.

“Before World Vision’s child protection training, we were unaware of the extent of child rights violations in our community. Our lack of awareness led us to engage in practices like circumcision of girls, which harmed our children’s well-being. I had planned to have my two daughters circumcised, but after the training, I decided against it. Now, I advocate for children who cannot yet speak for themselves, a purpose my daughters proudly share. We educate the community about the various forms of abuse that were once seen as normal but are, in fact, harmful to children, such as verbal insults and corporal punishment. Today, I can confidently say that our village has abandoned harmful traditional practices and that incidents of abuse are generally on the decline. Even after World Vision transitions out of the AP, we will continue this work because you have empowered us,” Hana assured.  

Professor Atalay Alem, the incoming Chairman of the Advisory Council, expressed his admiration, saying, "What I witnessed exceeded my expectations. I am thrilled to see how children in the community are empowered to advocate for their rights. These projects are truly life-changing." He conveyed his confidence in the meaningful contributions he hopes to make in his new role.

World Vision Ethiopia's National Director, Karmen Till, praised the field team’s dedication, stating, "Visiting you with the Advisory Council during this final phase has been inspiring. We’ve seen just a small part of the relationships and trust you’ve built with the community. Social, mental, and cultural changes take time, and the positive transformations we witnessed are the fruits of long-term commitment. Thank you for everything you do for your community."

Mr. Getu Gizaw, the outgoing Advisory Council Chairman, shared heartfelt gratitude for his tenure, remarking, “Being part of this great ministry, which advocates for the most vulnerable children, is a tremendous privilege and honour. Witnessing the positive impact on countless Ethiopian children and their families has deepened my commitment to this mission.” He praised the dedication of the AC members and World Vision Ethiopia leadership for making his role rewarding and enjoyable. Confident in his successor, Professor Atalay pledged his ongoing support, saying, "I will continue to pray and support however I can."

The community members expressed appreciation for World Vision's dedication and the efforts of the AC and SLT to witness the transformations first-hand. Through this visit, the AC and SLT reaffirmed their commitment to helping Ethiopian communities thrive and ensuring that vulnerable children have a brighter future.

Hulla AP is supported by World Vision Korea and is currently in its two-year transition phase. By 2026, the project will be fully handed over to the community, empowering the local community to sustain and build upon the positive changes initiated during the last 18 years. 

By Hilina Hailu, Communications Coordinator, World Vision Ethiopia