Access to safe (or basic) sanitation is very low, with some sources citing as little as 9% in 2021 and others reporting 6% in a 2021 policy brief. While recent reports from 2023 and 2024 provide varying figures, they generally show a low overall coverage, with significantly different rates for urban versus rural areas, and large regional disparities. For example, urban areas have a much higher coverage than rural areas, where open defecation is still a significant problem. While education access has improved, many regions still grapple with completion and drop-out rates. Volunteer work can contribute directly to these areas, whether by assisting in classrooms, supporting health initiatives, or participating in community development projects focused on clean water, agriculture, or environmental conservation. Your time, skills, and effort can directly support local NGOs and organisations working tirelessly to improve living conditions and build a brighter future for Ethiopians.

Beyond the direct impact, volunteer work in Ethiopia offers an extraordinary window into a unique and ancient culture. From the Amharic language and the distinctive Ethiopian Orthodox Tewahedo Church to the famed coffee ceremonies and diverse ethnic traditions, volunteers experience deep cultural immersion, making for a lifetime memories. Our current volunteer work projects and programs in Ethiopia are detailed below.