A beacon of hope and change

June 28, Shebedino, Sidama, Ethiopia

Shebedino District in Ethiopia's Sidama region has approximately 250,000 residents and is well known for its fertile highlands and diverse communities. Its rich agricultural landscape and vibrant cultural heritage have made it a key area within the Sidama Region. Shebedino is included in the regions covered by the Seqota Declaration, an initiative by the Ethiopian government designed to end stunting in children and improve nutrition across the country. To support this mission, Shebedino Health Centre is playing a big role inside the community. By building a health extension facility and sending out health workers into the community, they are creating a safe, healthier, and inclusive environment for all.

Zahara Nuri, a health extension worker with over 19 years of experience is making a difference in her community. Known and loved by nearly everyone in her community, Zahara has dedicated her life to improving health outcomes, and social well-being in her community.

Driven by the responsibility of providing for her family, Zahara, became a health extension worker. At first, she wasn't passionate about the role; her goal was to secure a job. However, as time progressed, her passion for the work grew. She understood the importance of her role. So, despite facing numerous physical and emotional challenges, she continued to serve her community. Zahara said, "I would walk 4-5 kilometers every day to visit families and educate them about the services offered at our health center." She added, "While it’s a very challenging road, the satisfaction of helping others is rewarding."

One of the programmes that helped Zahara reach vulnerable mothers and children in her community is the child grant funded by FCDO. Reflecting on her experience, Zahara said, “This grant has significantly impacted many individuals. During my fieldwork, I saw pregnant women struggling to access adequate nutrition and essential health services, and some people struggled to feed themselves. However, since the introduction of the grant, I’ve seen a positive change, with many beneficiaries now regularly visiting the hospital and improving their nutritional well-being. This support has not only addressed immediate needs but also paved the way for a better future for these families.”

Zahara's compassion extends beyond physical health. She also promotes mental well-being. Zahara wants to create a safe and inclusive environment for Million, a child with Down syndrome.  She warmly recounts her bond with Million, by saying "At first, people were hesitant to embrace him due to his differences. But now, he is loved and cherished by everyone. All it takes is for one person to act and I did.”

With generous support from the FCDO, UNICEF is now able to support over 1,400 beneficiaries in Shebedino. This collaborative effort shows the impact good partnership to bring social well-being and sustainable development in a community.