Water, sanitation, electricity and shelter are needs which many of us in developed countries take for granted. In Ethiopia, only 12% of people have access to proper sanitation and only 38% have access to drinking water (UNICEF). These statistics are shocking - it is not surprising that there is such widespread waterborne infection and sickness. This could be easily avoided with adequate hygiene and sanitation. Many Ethiopians live in derelict buildings or houses made from scavenged material. For these people, facilities such as running water and electricity are 'luxuries' only to be dreamt of.

A common type of house found in undeveloped Ethiopian villages

What are we doing to change this?

Working in some of the poorest areas of Addis Ababa and its surrounding towns and villages, the St Francis Integrated Development Organisation (FIDO) helps the people who need it most - displaced people, those without clean water and people whose living conditions put them in danger.

The project's expertise is in construction and infrastructure. They enlist the help of the communities they work in both as an efficient use of resources, but also to provoke a sense of ownership over the work done and pride in its achievement. The communities are directly involved in planning for, constructing and maintaining any new buildings or utilities.

A replacement house built by FIDO for a family of 8

Recent accomplishments

Six years ago, FIDO was approached by representatives of an isolated village on the outskirts of Addis Ababa. They didn't have a school, electricity, or road access to the city. Impressively, the village inhabitants had worked together to provide 20,000 Birr of their own money towards the installation of electricity. FIDO provided the access in 2004. Grateful to FIDO, the village then raised another 10,000 Birr towards the construction of a road, giving them access to the city. Today the road is there, awaiting completion.

Beyond the need for electricity and city access, the residents recognised the need for their children to have access to education. As such, with the help of the community, FIDO constructed two classrooms in the village, with teachers provided by the community. Thanks to Ethiopiaid supporters, FIDO has made a huge difference in the lives of these inhabitants.

Local children can now attend school, thanks to FIDO

In the last two years, Ethiopiaid has supported the construction of basic latrines in villages that previously had none. FIDO has also reconstructed numerous houses, with the assistance of the residents, who, thanks to FIDO, no longer have to live in dangerous, dilapidated houses.

A community latrine, built by FIDO

Last year, Ethiopiaid purchased a truck for FIDO. Previously, all heavy building materials had to be carried by mules. The ownership of a truck will now allow all involved to work faster and further afield so that many more people can be helped. You can help us continue this work by making a donation to Ethiopiaid today.