Gudina Tumsa Foundation (GTF) Launches Transformative Community Development Program
By: Yitbarek Tekalign
Yesterday, at the Framont Hotel in Shashamane, a vibrant gathering of stakeholders from regional to kebele levels marked the inspiring launch of the Dodola and Nansabo Integrated Community Development Program (DoNa ICDP). The Gudina Tumsa Foundation (GTF) unveiled this ambitious initiative aimed at transforming the well-being and food security of communities in the Oromia Region’s West Arsi Zone, specifically in Dodola and Nansabo districts.
The workshop began with an uplifting welcome speech from Mr. Iyobed Yonas, GTF’s Programs Director. He highlighted the transformative and life-changing developmental and humanitarian activities the Foundation has been championing over the past three decades. Mr. Iyobed proudly noted that GTF, established in 1992 to carry on the vision of Rev. Gudina Tumsa, has consistently supported marginalized communities through its core thematic areas: education, healthcare, environment, WASH, and livelihood development.
Reflecting on the success of the previous project, the Dodola and Nansabo Youth Social and Economic Empowerment (DoNa SEE), which ran from October 2019 to September 2023, Mr. Iyobed expressed gratitude to all those who contributed to its achievements. He emphasized the significant progress in youth empowerment and community development and extended his wish for continued collaboration in making the newly launched program a success.
Mr. Aseffa Tolessa, Deputy Head of West Arsi Zone Administration, acclaimed GTF as a top developmental partner in the zone. He lauded the Foundation for its exemplary and trustworthy works, acknowledging its developmental activities and responsive disaster interventions. His appreciation resonated with the assembly, highlighting GTF’s critical role in the zone’s development.
According to Mr. Deme Debela, Livelihood Development Program Officer at GTF, the DoNa ICDP aims to significantly improve the well-being and food security of the Dodola and Nansabo communities. Scheduled to run from June 2024 to May 2029, the program targets a 20% increase in agricultural productivity and aims to provide diversified livelihood options to 80% of the population. This initiative will directly benefit 14,630 people and indirectly impact approximately 58,520 individuals.
Mr. Gutema Hirshu, DoNa ICDP Coordinator, on his part elaborated on GTF’s comprehensive intervention strategy. The program focuses on modernizing traditional farming practices, improving educational quality, and enhancing healthcare services. Key components include promoting nutrition-sensitive agriculture, training health extension workers, and delivering essential health education. These efforts aim to reduce school dropout rates by fostering a conducive learning environment and engaging parents and teachers.
Key stakeholders, including regional, zonal, and district-level government sectors, pledged their collaboration to achieve the program’s goals. With a budget of ETB 89 million, the program allocates a significant portion to direct costs, ensuring impactful implementation.
Addressing critical issues such as low agricultural productivity, environmental degradation, and limited access to quality healthcare and education, the program also emphasizes empowering women and youth through gender-responsive interventions. This approach aims to close the productivity gap and promote gender equality in agriculture.
The DoNa ICDP will also implement extensive community outreach initiatives and workshops to foster healthy behaviors, disease prevention, and nutrition education, ultimately seeking to improve the overall health, well-being, and quality of life for the communities in Nansabo and Dodola districts.
The Dodola and Nansabo Integrated Community Development Program Launch Workshop concluded with a lively panel discussion where stakeholders assured their support for the Foundation throughout the program’s duration, committing to contribute towards its successful implementation and ensuring community benefits. This enthusiastic backing sets a hopeful tone for the transformative journey ahead.
