Around 3.2 million euros were raised in 2023 through contributions from 19,000 supporters for long-term projects in Ethiopia.
The changes caused by climate change are becoming increasingly more consequential and are hitting the poorest particularly hard. Added to this are economically difficult times as well as political and social changes. The year 2023 was very challenging for us, as we had to limit our project work due to the security situation. Therefore, there were delays in projects. We also see our work as a contribution to a better and more peaceful tomorrow for all of us. Our supporters make a crucial contribution to fulfilling this task, for which we thank them from the bottom of our hearts.
Alexandra Bigl, board member People for People Austria
Vienna (OTS) – People for people is pleased about the valuable commitment of around 19,000 supporters in 2023 and income of around 3.2 million euros. The majority of these come – namely over 90% – from private donors and companies. This enabled the aid organization to implement numerous measures in Ethiopia from which thousands of women, men and children benefit.
Emergency aid essential for survival
Due to the still difficult security situation in the country and the effects of persistent droughts People for people in 2023 families in regions particularly affected by drought in the south and east of Ethiopia. In addition to providing vital emergency aid in the form of food for 16,700 people, the aid organization placed emphasis on long-term solutions. The families received additional seeds and fertilizer so that they could cultivate their fields again.
Secure long-term water supplies
In order to prepare people for future periods of drought, the construction of additional deep wells began in 2023 to ensure the water supply for entire communities. A large water supply project was also started in the small town of Busa, around 95 kilometers by road southwest of the capital Addis Ababa. The project is being carried out together with the Austrian Doctors and with the support of the state of Salzburg. Once completed, it will provide around 30,000 people with access to clean drinking water.
„The changes caused by climate change are becoming increasingly more consequential and are hitting the poorest particularly hard. Added to this are economically difficult times as well as political and social changes. The year 2023 was very challenging for us, as we had to limit our project work due to the security situation. Therefore, there were delays in projects. We also see our work as a contribution to a better and more peaceful tomorrow for all of us. Our supporters make a crucial contribution to fulfilling this task, for which we thank them from the bottom of our hearts.
“ Alexandra Bigl, board member People for People Austria
First year of the Albuko project area
at the beginning of 2023 People for people Work has begun in the Albuko project region, where measures in the areas of water, agriculture, education, health and income are being implemented for the long-term development of the region. Despite the mixed security situation here, important initial successes were achieved, such as the construction of two spring catchments and the establishment of two tree nurseries, in which around 260,000 seedlings were raised in the first year. Around 280 women and men took part in agricultural training and received vegetable seeds.
Overall balance People for people 2023
Since it was founded in 1981 People for people Work began in a total of 28 project regions. So far, 13 of them have been completed (as of December 31, 2023). In 2023, the overall organization People for people The following measures, among others, are made possible in the ongoing project regions:
- 9 million tree seedlings planted
- 21 wells and spring catchments built
- 4 new schools built
- 21,000 women provided contraceptives
- 675 operations to save eyesight
Detailed information on the project balance as well as the source and use of funds can be found in the 2023 annual report starting on page 34. The annual report is available online: www.mfm.at/jahresbericht
Outlook 2024
People for people is focusing on innovation in 2024: A project using compost worms to improve soil quality and agricultural yields is starting in Albuko. A fish farming cooperative will also be set up on Lake Maybahir to create jobs in the region. The microcredit program is being realigned to promote micro-enterprises and counteract rural exodus. These measures show how People for people continuously developed and reacts to social changes.
Questions & Contact:
People for people association
Martina Hollauf
Press/public relations
+43 (0)1 58 66 950-16
m.hollauf@mfm.at