The view forward

The Mother and Child Rehabilition Centre is on the way up again after a year marked by Corona restrictions

The help alliance project “Protection and Education for Women and Children” supports the Mother and Child Rehabilition Centre, which is located in Addis Ababa, the capital of Ethiopia. The women and mothers who are supported there have been disadvantaged in their lives for a variety of reasons. Many are only able to seriously consider the question of what they would like to learn or work for the first time through the support programme. The project supports them on this path and works out individual career development plans with the women of all ages. Hairdresser, baker, governess or hotel employee – the paths to a self-determined life are very different.

Many of the participants choose the textile industry. With sewing and embroidery, women in Ethiopia can support themselves well and earn money. The sewing programme usually starts twice a year and offers the women and mothers the opportunity to learn sewing and embroidery. But the programme had to be stopped temporarily due to the Corona restrictions. Sales of the products made, such as dresses and bags, also stopped because markets could not be held or the mothers had to stay at home to take care of the children due to the school closures. There was great joy among the participants when the restrictions were eased at the beginning of 2021 and they could start handicrafts again in the sewing centre.

In addition, new sewing, overlock and embroidery machines, ironing stations as well as various fabrics and materials could be purchased thanks to the funding from help alliance. With the significantly improved equipment, the women and mothers can now look ahead again after a difficult year and continue to work towards their goal of building a self-determined life in independence.