ETHIOPIA: Ethiopian Ministry Lauds Catholic Church’s Enduring Impact on Social Development
Habtamu Abrdew Beture
On Thursday, February 19, the Ethiopian Ministry of Women and Social Affairs formally recognized the Catholic Church as a cornerstone of the nation’s social stability, praising its decades of service in uplifting the most vulnerable members of society.
In a strategic review of national social protection efforts, the Ministry highlighted the Church’s specialized programs in women’s vocational empowerment, the rehabilitation of the elderly, the homeless, and the comprehensive care of children, labeling these contributions as essential to Ethiopia’s ongoing social and economic progress.
The Ministry specifically pointed to three high-impact areas where the Catholic Church’s expertise aligns with national development goals: Women’s Empowerment – vocational training and seed capital for income-generating micro-businesses; Social Rehabilitation – the reintegration support for the elderly and comprehensive care for those living on the streets. Child Welfare provides holistic education and specialized protection for orphans and vulnerable children.
The Ministry noted that the Church’s charitable endeavors align with the government’s mandate to ensure social protection for vulnerable citizens. By formalizing this partnership, the Ministry aims to integrate the Church’s vast network of volunteers with national social support initiatives.
“The Catholic Church’s charitable works are consistent with our Ministry’s mission. We have agreed to synchronize the Church’s extensive volunteer network with national social development efforts to reach those most in need,” reads in parts the Ministry’s Statement.
Building on this appreciation, the Ministry and the Ethiopian Catholic Church have agreed to deepen the Church’s vast volunteer network’s integration into national social initiatives. This synergy is expected to streamline aid delivery and expand the reach of social services to remote areas of the country.
His Eminence Cardinal Berhaneyesus, on his part, reaffirmed the Church’s unwavering commitment to Integral Human Development. He emphasized that the Church would continue to work hand in hand with the government to nurture a culture of charity and mutual support nationwide.
This partnership marks a significant step toward a more coordinated approach to tackling poverty and social exclusion in Ethiopia, leveraging both state resources and the Church’s grassroots reach.
