About UNICEF

UNICEF has worked in Ethiopia for more than seven decades, partnering with the Government, communities, civil society and development partners to advance the rights and well-being of children.

Ethiopia is home to one of Africa's largest child populations. While the country has made significant progress in improving children's lives, millions of children continue to face challenges related to poverty, malnutrition, lack of access to quality services, climate shocks, displacement and conflict. UNICEF works with partners at national, regional and community levels to help ensure that every child survives, thrives, learns and is protected.

Today, Ethiopia hosts one of UNICEF's largest country programmes globally. With staff working across the country and a strong field presence, UNICEF supports efforts to improve maternal and child health, nutrition, education, water and sanitation, child protection, and social policy. UNICEF also leads and supports emergency responses, helping children and families affected by conflict, drought, disease outbreaks and other crises.

Since beginning its partnership with Ethiopia in 1952, UNICEF has provided technical expertise, strengthened systems and services, and advocated for policies that place children at the centre of national development. Our work is guided by evidence, built on partnerships and driven by a commitment to reach the most vulnerable children wherever they live.

Our mission 

UNICEF is mandated by the United Nations General Assembly to advocate for the protection of children's rights, help meet their basic needs and expand their opportunities to reach their full potential.

Guided by the Convention on the Rights of the Child, UNICEF works to ensure that every child can survive, develop, learn and be protected from violence, exploitation and abuse. We believe every child deserves a fair chance in life, regardless of where they are born, who they are or the circumstances they face.

Why UNICEF 

Because:

• We work in the most underserved and hard-to-reach communities.
• We combine development programmes with emergency response.
• We support government systems that benefit children at scale.
• We convene partners around shared solutions for children.
• We advocate for policies and investments that improve children's lives.
• We work for every child, everywhere in Ethiopia.