The Koka OVC project aims to help caregivers of the project's children to earn an income and thus become independent through various initiatives.

Injera bakery

An injera bakery has been started on the site of the OVC Center. A dozen women bake about 800 injeras every day. Injera is the mainfood in Ethiopia. It is a sour pancake that is eaten with all meals, in combination with a sauce of tomatoes, onions and spices. Most of the injeras are sold to Florensi, the rest is for the children and the project staff. The women who work in the bakery are organized in a 'Women Empowerment Association'. They earn a salary and save money. In 2021, the majority of women left the team to set up their own business or economic activity with the saved money. New women have replaced them, who also get a chance to build a better future. SAEDO has been able to provide microcredit with donations from private sponsors to set up this activity.

Basket weaving

A group of women from the area around the Center were trained to make wickerwork. After the women had completed the training, the project really got underway. In consultation with an employee of the OVC center, local raw materials (grasses) are purchased with which the women can make products.

They receive compensation for the products they made. 

 

At the moment, the women are making coasters, wall plates and two types of baskets. The quality of the products is very good. 

We hope that we can reach a new target group with this project and provide these women with a structural and sustainable income.

Stitching Futures - sewing project for women

In 2025, the OVC Center in Koka will launch “Stitching Futures,” a new initiative designed to empower women while simultaneously meeting essential community needs.

For six months, ten women will receive sewing and entrepreneurship training. Under the guidance of a local tailor at the OVC Center, they will learn to repair children's school uniforms and make new ones. They will also make reusable sanitary pads for girls and women.

At the same time, they will learn how to generate income through sewing.

The program not only improves access to school uniforms and eco-friendly menstrual products but also provides women with self-confidence, a sense of belonging, and opportunities to support themselves and their families.

Those interested in supporting “Stitching Futures” can make a donation through the Desta Foundation, with the subject line “sewing project.”