Understanding HelpAge Ethiopia: A Guide to Their Work and Transition
HelpAge Ethiopia plays a vital role in supporting older people in Ethiopia. This blog post aims to clarify their work, their relationship with HelpAge International, and the recent transition process.
What is HelpAge Ethiopia?
HelpAge Ethiopia is a national non-profit organization dedicated to creating a fairer world for older people in Ethiopia. They are part of the HelpAge International network, a global alliance of organizations working towards a world where older people can live safe, healthy, and dignified lives.
HelpAge International and the Transition to HelpAge Ethiopia:
Previously, HelpAge International operated a country program in Ethiopia. In line with a global shift towards locally led development, HelpAge International underwent a transition process to establish a fully independent national entity: HelpAge Ethiopia.
This transition was carefully planned and executed, involving extensive consultations with:
- HelpAge International Staff: Ensuring a smooth handover and maintaining institutional knowledge.
- Key Stakeholders: Including the Ministry of Women and Social Affairs, the Ethiopian Elderly and Pensioners National Association (EEPNA), the Ethiopian Human Rights Commission, the Ministry of Health, and regional government bodies.
- Local Partners: Organizations with varying capacities and geographic reach, such as EEPNA, TSDA, RCWDO, SOS-Sahel, and others.
The preferred and implemented transition model involved rebranding and registering HelpAge International’s Ethiopia program as a national not-for-profit organization: HelpAge Ethiopia. This approach offered several advantages:
- Preservation of Institutional Memory: Retaining experienced staff and established processes.
- Continuity of Programs and Services: Avoiding disruptions in vital support for older people.
- Maintenance of Local Partnerships: Continuing collaboration with existing partners.
- Brand Recognition: Retaining the established “HelpAge” brand for continued visibility and donor confidence.
What Does HelpAge Ethiopia Do?
HelpAge Ethiopia works to improve the lives of older people in several key areas:
- Improving Income Security: Working to ensure older people have reliable income through social protection programs, cash grants, and livelihood development. They advocate for the inclusion of older people in government social protection initiatives.
- Amplifying the Voice of Older People: Empowering older people and their organizations to advocate for their rights and needs. They engage with policymakers and government agencies to promote supportive policies.
- Intergenerational Knowledge Sharing: Creating platforms for dialogue and exchange between different generations to foster mutual understanding and respect.
- Emergencies and Inclusive Humanitarian Response: Prioritizing the needs of older refugees, internally displaced persons (IDPs), and host communities during crises. They provide capacity building, access to food and water, and cash support.
- Advocating for Rights-Based Social Protection Programs: Promoting social pension programs and age-friendly services in healthcare, transportation, housing, and community engagement.
- Improving Health in Older Age: Establishing eye care clinics, providing palliative care, and supporting healthcare facilities in delivering age-friendly services.
Who Does HelpAge Ethiopia Work With?
HelpAge Ethiopia collaborates with a wide range of partners, including:
- Government Ministries and Agencies: Such as the Ministry of Women and Social Affairs, the Ministry of Health, and regional government bodies.
- Local Organizations: Including EEPNA, TSDA, RCWDO, SOS-Sahel, and many others.
- International Organizations and Donors: Such as UNHCR, BMZ, Irish Aid, the European Union, and various others.
The HelpAge International Network:
HelpAge Ethiopia is a member of the HelpAge International network, a global network of organizations working in over 80 countries. This network provides a platform for sharing knowledge, best practices, and advocating for the rights of older people on a global scale.
In Conclusion:
HelpAge Ethiopia is a crucial organization dedicated to improving the lives of older people in Ethiopia. Their transition from a HelpAge International country program to a fully independent national entity ensures greater local ownership and sustainability of their important work. Through their various programs and partnerships, they are making a significant difference in creating a more just and inclusive society for older people.