Why kindergartens are so important in Ethiopia
In Ethiopia, attending kindergarten is not a matter of course for many children. Although required by law, there is often a lack of places, staff and equipment. Especially in poorer districts of the capital Addis Ababa, many children are left to their own devices during the day - without care, without protection, without prospects.
humedica supports several kindergartens in the Ethiopian metropolis - with safe spaces and the necessary equipment. In Bishoftu, south of Addis Ababa, new kindergartens have also been built thanks to humedica.
A place to play
Melat* works in one of these kindergartens in Addis Ababa. She is an experienced educator with great dedication: "I just love children. I want them to do well and get what they need." But that was exactly what was missing for a long time. The grounds were barren, uneven and there was no play equipment - no place where children could simply play carefree.
Today, it is a place full of energy, play and childlike joy. Thanks to the support of humedica, a place has been created here where children can feel safe and at ease. A colorful playground was created in front of the building - with slides, swings, seesaws and merry-go-rounds. Where there used to be a desolate courtyard, children now run around in the shade under trees, laughing and playing together.
"The children hadn't seen a playground before," recalls Melat. "They just ran around aimlessly." Things are different today:
"Our children are very happy now. They get to kindergarten earlier, no one is late or absent any more."
The new playground not only motivates - it also creates structure and strengthens togetherness. Even the parents can see how their children are changing - and recognize the kindergarten for what it should be: a place to learn, grow and blossom.
The only hot meal for many
After playing, the children are given a warm meal. Many children do not bring their own food because their families cannot afford it. The community has set up a daily meal service for them. Today, the menu includes injera - the traditional Ethiopian flatbread.
This hot meal is the only meal of the day for many children. It is important for the children's health, concentration and development. Eating together is also valuable: it promotes social interaction and teaches everyday skills.
Prospects for the next generation
Melat is a mother herself. She knows how important a place like this is for children from an early age. "I firmly believe that everyone should do their best for the next generations," she says. For her, kindergarten is more than just a childcare facility - it is a place of hope. Every day, she experiences what is possible when children are encouraged and empowered - and how this affects their future.
With your regular donation to humedica, you make exactly this possible: spaces where children can grow up, learn, play and simply be children. Because empowering children today actively shapes the future - not just in Ethiopia, but worldwide.
Help that strengthens the whole family
Many children in Ethiopia grow up in precarious conditions: Their parents work as day laborers - without a fixed wage, without security. There is no money to provide adequate food, medical treatment or education. As a result, children often have to help out themselves or are left unattended instead of being cared for and supported.
The humedica family program to combat poverty strengthens parents and thus creates opportunities for their children:
Training courses in which entrepreneurial basics are taught
Start-up capital for small business models and setting up your own business
Health insurance for the whole family
This creates a perspective for everyone: the children can play and learn in kindergarten because their parents now have a regular income and can save for the future.