Mirte*, a 37-year-old mother of four children, lives in Sekota Town, Wag Himra Zone, Ethiopia. Her husband works as a daily laborer, but his earnings are irregular and insufficient to meet the family’s basic needs. As a result, the household had been struggling to provide food, clothing, education, and healthcare for the children.
The family faced an even greater challenge when Mirte*’s youngest daughter, Kal*, developed Blount disease, a condition that causes the lower leg to bend inward and makes walking difficult. The child required regular medical care and follow-up treatment, but the family’s financial constraints prevented them from accessing the services she needed.
To improve the family’s situation, Mirte* started a small business. However, the income generated was not enough to cover household expenses or the costs associated with her daughter’s healthcare.
Mirte*’s situation began to change when she was identified by the community committee and selected as a participant in the Income Generating Activity (IGA) component of the Joint Force for Food Security and Child Protection in Emergency (JF-FS&CPIE) project. At the same time, her daughter was linked to medical care and follow-up services supported through the project.
Through the project, Mirte* was able to establish a local staple cereals selling business, creating a more reliable source of income for her household. She also participated in financial literacy training, which strengthened her knowledge and skills in money management and informed financial decision-making. In addition, her children received non-food items (NFI) support, helping them attend school regularly.
The integrated support provided through the project has significantly improved the well-being of Mirte*’s family. Her business has become an important source of income, helping her meet daily household needs, contribute to her children’s education, and reducing the financial burden on her husband. She is also better able to provide nutritious meals for her children.
Most importantly, Kal* has received the medical care and follow-up treatment she needed. According to Mirte*, her daughter’s health has improved considerably. She can now walk more comfortably, participate in daily activities, and spend time playing with her sisters. These positive changes have restored hope and confidence within the family. Today, Mirte* looks to the future with optimism. Improved household income enhanced financial management skills, and access to healthcare have strengthened the family’s resilience and reduced their vulnerability. She hopes to continue expanding her business and providing her children with opportunities for a healthier and more secure future.
Reflecting on the support, Mirte* shared:
“As a mother, my greatest wish is to see my youngest daughter walk without pain and live a healthy life. As a mother I will continue striving tirelessly because my child Kal* deserves the chance to grow and play.”
*Not their real names.
This publication was produced with the financial support of the German Humanitarian Assistance
Its contents are the sole responsibility of Joining Forces and do not necessarily reflect the views of the German Humanitarian Assistance.