Opening Remarks and welcoming
The Donor Appreciation Day event was organized by the CBM Ethiopia Country Office in collaboration with the Federation of Ethiopian Associations of Persons with Disabilities (FEAPD). The event featured opening remarks and an overview of its purpose by Mr. Abenet Leykun Berhanu, CBM Ethiopia Country Director, in person, and Dr. Rainer Brockhaus, CBM CEO, via video message. Their speeches highlighted CBM’s contributions in Ethiopia, major projects supported by the organization, and the vital role of partners and government initiatives. As emphasized, CBM is committed to fostering an inclusive and equitable world for all, with Mr. Abenet underscoring the organization’s mission to transform the lives of persons with disabilities under the motto, “no one left behind.”
Presentation on CBM Strategy by Dominique Schlupkothen, CBID Director
Dominique Schlupkothen, CBID Director, delivered a presentation on CBM’s strategic focus, stressing that “Disability-Inclusive Development is at the heart of any development agenda.” He highlighted that inclusive development is not merely an obligation but a matter of equity and rights, emphasizing the need for inclusive schools, accessible healthcare, workplaces, and physical environments. Accessibility, he noted, benefits not just persons with disabilities but also pregnant women, the elderly, and others. The Director also touched on CBM’s strategic pillars, including conflict resolution, climate change, humanitarian aid, and the disability-inclusive approach, concluding that government commitment is key to ensuring disability inclusion.
Donor Appreciation by Beneficiaries
Delegates from the German and Italian Embassies were honored with handmade gifts from the beneficiaries, which were warmly received. The Deputy Ambassador of Germany began his speech by expressing gratitude for the gifts and sharing a personal story about his grandparents’ support for charitable organizations, including CBM. He emphasized that inclusive practices are the right approach to addressing the needs of persons with disabilities, stressing the importance of targeted support based on their specific needs. He closed by thanking CBM, the donors, partners, and the government of Ethiopia for their collaborative efforts.
Keynote Address
Mr. AbaynehGujo, President of FEAPD, welcomed the distinguished guests and participants, praising CBM’s work in disability inclusion and OPD capacity-building programs. He then introduced Dr. ErgogeTesfaye, Minister of Women and Social Affairs, who delivered a keynote address focused on improving the inclusion of persons with disabilities. The Minister emphasized the importance of making schools and workplaces accessible and acknowledged the government’s efforts through proclamations and regulations. However, she noted that lack of awareness among employers continues to hinder workplace accessibility and hiring practices. Disability associations, she said, play a key role in advocating for greater inclusion. Dr. Ergoge concluded by commending the collaborative efforts of donors, partners, and the government in transforming lives, creating opportunities, and reducing barriers for persons with disabilities.
Beneficiary Testimonial Video
The event showcased powerful impact stories through two testimonial videos: one is depicting the transformation in the life of a child with visual impairment and another highlighting a woman with physical impairment, demonstrating the positive impact of Cheshire Ethiopia’s work. The event also featured a powerful drama performed by children from Hossana School for the Deaf. The performance portrayed the negative attitudes often faced by individuals who are deaf, highlighting how some families and communities mistakenly view deafness as a curse. The drama emphasized the need for greater awareness and understanding, shedding light on the traditional practices some families attempt in an effort to “cure” deafness. This moving portrayal served as a call for more inclusive attitudes and better support for persons with hearing impairments.The event concluded with a display of CBM Ethiopia’s achievements, a photo gallery, networking opportunities, and refreshments.
Please visit the CBM Ethiopia and Cheshire Ethiopia: https://www.cbm.org/ www.cheshirethiopia.org