A senior delegation from the Hailemariam & Roman Foundation (HRF) visited women and youth empowerment project and school meal program implementation in the pastoral woredas of South Omo zone. The former First Lady of Ethiopia and CEO of HRF, Her Excellency Mrs. Roman Tesfaye, the Senior Expert of the Foundation’s Youth and Women Economic Empowerment Program, Mrs. Debrework Leulseged, as well as local government officials and the project focal persons took part in the field visit.
The HRF has been implementing women and youth empowerment projects in Hamer, Bena Tsemay Woredas, and Turmi City Administration of the South Omo zone since 2020/21. This project aims to boost the economic potential of underprivileged women and youth, empowering them to generate income. In addition, the HRF has initiated a school meals program in 10 primary schools within these areas. This program not only benefits students but also provides employment opportunities for destitute mothers who are living in disadvantaged conditions.
As part of the field visit conducted from March 18-20, 2024, the high-level officials visited enterprises that are engaged in agricultural work in Kako Kebele of Bena Tsemay Woreda, an enterprise that raises day-old chicks in Yirga Kebele, and the activities of the school meal program at Delme Primary School, Hamer Woreda, and Key Afer Primary School, Bena Tsemay Woreda. The parent mothers, who were given job opportunities to prepare student meals, expressed that their living standards have improved, adding that the visit of the high-level delegation has provided them with a sense of encouragement and motivation.
The foundation’s senior delegation also expressed its satisfaction with the project progress and outcomes, and its commitment to further strengthen support.
Hailemariam & Roman Foundation
March 2024, South Omo Zone