Arba Minch: Early days of a new community development project

Project Partner, JeCCDO, is addressing community needs in the Southern city

20 January 2025

Set amongst lush banana plantations, magnificent lakes and vast forests, Arba Minch is a town where nature and daily life intertwine. Cars often pause to allow herds of cattle to cross the roads, and it’s not unusual to see warthogs trotting through the streets.

The town’s name Arba Minch translates to ‘Forty Springs’, which hints at the fertile nature and abundant potential of the landscape.

In recent years, Arba Minch has experienced a significant influx of people seeking employment opportunities or a haven for those fleeing conflict. However, this rapid population growth has outpaced the town’s infrastructure and services, placing immense strain on health care, education, and basic amenities. Many residents now live in impoverished conditions, often in slums without access to clean water, sanitation, education or reliable housing.

The challenges don’t end there. Rising poverty has contributed to an increase in violent crime and the spread of disease. Tragically, issues like child trafficking and sex trafficking have also escalated, affecting untold numbers women and children.

Our project partner, JeCCDO, is on the ground in Arba Minch, working tirelessly to support those most in need. With a focus on sustainable solutions and a commitment to treating individuals with dignity and care, JeCCDO identifies the most vulnerable members of the community and implements programs tailored to their needs.

We’ve seen the incredible impact of JeCCDO’s community development programs in Dire Dawa and Debre Berhan, where lives have been transformed. Now, we are excited to support their fledgling program in Arba Minch, a region where help is desperately needed. This is the first time we have been involved in one of JeCCDO’s programs in the very initial stages of research, giving us a unique opportunity to follow and support their planning as they identify key areas of need and address potential challenges.

We are excited and honoured to be on this journey with JeCCDO, and will keep you informed of developments so you can follow this project with us to bring hope and opportunity to the people of Arba Minch.  

Watch the video below to hear Mulugeta Gebru, Executive Director of JeCCDO, discuss the needs in Arba Minch, and how their team will be addressing gaps in community support and development programs.