Ethiopia
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GIZ has been working in Ethiopia on behalf of the German Federal Ministry for Economic Cooperation and Development (BMZ) since 1964, operating as GTZ until the end of 2010. With 111 international and 634 local staff, Ethiopia hosts one of our largest in-country teams worldwide (as at March 2013). 14 development advisors are working in various bilateral programmes. In addition, 19 CIM experts are deployed in various institutions and programmes in Ethiopia.
Three times the size of Germany, the Federal Democratic Republic of Ethiopia is a landlocked country in the Horn of Africa with a population of around 87 million. Despite average economic growth of 10% since 2005, an estimated 40% of Ethiopians are still living below the poverty line. In UNDP’s Human Development Index (HDI 2011), Ethiopia ranks 174th in the list of 187 countries (category: low human development). For decades, the rural population in the Ethiopian highlands has suffered from increasing food insecurity stemming from high population growth, deforestation and unsuitable agricultural production techniques. At the same time, the private sector shows little diversity.
In response to these challenges, the Ethiopian Government has adopted an ambitious Growth and Transformation Plan, its aim being to achieve the Millennium Development Goals and double value added in agriculture – the country’s economic mainstay – within the next five years. As declared objectives of the Ethiopian Government, combating poverty and promoting economic growth are therefore high on the political agenda.
In line with the Ethiopian Government’s objectives, German development cooperation with Ethiopia currently focuses on the following priority areas:
- Education
- Sustainable land management
Urban governance and decentralisation, quality infrastructure, renewable energies, and conflict management together with the Civil Peace Service (CPS) are other fields of activity for GIZ in Ethiopia. GIZ also participates in eight development partnerships with the private sector in Ethiopia. We work for a number of international clients in addition to the Ethiopian Government. These contracts are executed under the responsibility of GIZ International Services (IS) and include the building of infrastructure of Ethiopian universities for the Ministry of Education and project management for the construction of the African Union Peace and Security Building.
Projects and Programmes
Support for the seed sector
Project description
Title: Support for Ethiopia’s seed sector Commissioned by: German Federal Ministry of Food, Agriculture and Consumer Protection (BMELV) Country: Ethiopia Lead executing agency: Ministry of Agriculture (MOA) Overall term: 2012 to 2015
Context
In many of its regions, Ethiopia is characterised by very favourable conditions for agricultural production, and it has plenty of available land. The existing potential, however, is far from being fully realised. One of the key factors is the lack of high-yielding plant varieties that are adapted to local environmental conditions. The varieties currently under cultivation are often low quality or disease-prone.
Farmers have limited access to improved seeds. For one thing, agricultural science has not produced enough varieties that are adapted to the respective locations. Furthermore, the varieties that have been adapted – and certified for Ethiopia – are not available in sufficient quantities in order to cover demand.
Objective
The population’s food security is markedly improved through the use of high-yielding, adapted wheat and barley varieties. Seed and plant breeders develop high quality and locally adapted varieties for this purpose.
Approach
Wheat and barley breeding programmes will be supported through a German-Ethiopian exchange of experience, training activities for breeders and technicians, as well as field trials focusing on the cultivation of new plant varieties on the grounds of the Agricultural Training Center (ATC) in Kulumsa.
The promotion and usage of an Ethiopian species and gene bank will play a significant role. These activities will be supported by the German plant gene bank. Private German seed companies provide advisory services and make different plant varieties available for growing trials. Later, the project will focus on establishing farmer groups who can generate more seeds and thereby meet demand over the long term.
Results achieved so far
The project enables the development and distribution of adapted, high-performance seeds: higher yielding varieties increase the harvests of Ethiopian farmers, enhance their food self-sufficiency and improve their family income situation. The subsequent overall increase in availability of cereals promotes trade and also contributes to price stabilisation for consumers. Last but not least, the project helps to maintain crop genetic diversity.
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Sustainable land management
Project description
Title: Sustainable land management Commissioned by: German Federal Ministry for Economic Cooperation and Development (BMZ) Country: Ethiopia Lead executing agency: Ministry of Agriculture (MoA), Ethiopia Overall term: 2005 to 2014
Context
In the three Ethiopian highland areas of Amhara, Oromia and Tigray, more than 50 % of the population – approximately 20 million people – live under the constantly rising threat of food insecurity. The reasons are the high population pressure as well as inappropriate land management methods, leading to increasing deforestation, soil degradation and massive soil erosion, thereby contributing to low yields and declining productivity. The effects of climate change as well as unfavourable sectoral, political and legal conditions serve only to exacerbate the situation.
Objective
Food security has increased and land degradation has decreased in the targeted rural highlands of Tigray, Amhara and Oromia.
Approach
The project is part of the national Sustainable Land Management Programme and is being implemented jointly with a number of international donors, such as the World Bank, Finland, the EU and Germany.
Working with its partner GFA Consulting Group /COMO GIZ was commissioned by the German Federal Ministry for Economic Cooperation and Development (BMZ) to strengthen the competences, resources and capacity development of the Ethiopian Ministry of Agriculture, its decentralised structures and small-scale farmers. This work is currently being supplemented by consultancy focusing on how the requisite conditions can be improved in order to achieve broad-based implementation of the national SLM Programme.
Results achieved so far
A total of now 50,000 households, of which some 10,000 are headed by women, now practise sustainable land management. Some 77,000 hectares of land have been rehabilitated to date, and a further 79,000 hectares of forest are being maintained in accordance with participatory forest management principles. The measures contribute to increased productivity in the areas concerned and increase the resilience of small-scale agriculture to the effects of climate change.
As well as introducing technologies and measures for erosion protection, the organising of user groups for sustainable management of water catchment areas is being promoted. So far 357 municipalities have implemented participatory management planning for water catchment areas. Analyses have shown that understanding of the importance of sustainable land management has improved significantly in these areas.
Further information
- Sustainable Land Management Program – SLM Knowledge Base Information of the Ethiopian Ministry of Agriculture http://www.slmethiopia.info.et
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Ethio-German Agricultural Training Center
Project description
Title: Ethio-German Agricultural Training Center (ATC) Commissioned by: German Federal Ministry of Food, Agriculture and Consumer Protection (BMELV) Country: Ethiopia Lead executing agency: Ministry of Agriculture (MoA) Overall term: 2010 to 2014
Context
Agriculture is Ethiopia’s most important economic sector, employing some 85 per cent of the population. Yet Ethiopia is a net importer of food. There are many different reasons for this. Access to modern technologies and equipment is restricted and cultivation techniques are outdated. The average yields of the main food crops are far from optimal and natural resources are degraded because unsuitable agricultural production techniques and inappropriate equipment are used. Practical and advanced formal training for farmers in the use of machinery and farm management is virtually non-existent. While some larger farms are mechanised, most of the machinery is obsolete and in very poor condition.
In addition, the Ethiopian government has earmarked large areas, mainly in the west of the country, for private investors. Here, huge investments are currently being made in the field of agricultural mechanisation, but their success is jeopardised by a lack of qualified experts.
Objective
Modern and sustainable agricultural production methods and an improved approach to farm management are increasingly being applied on Ethiopian farms, which will significantly increase cereal and potato yields.
Approach
In the context of an economic cooperation project, an Ethio-German Agricultural Training Center (ATC) will be set up at the state-run Kulumsa Agricultural Research Center. Companies from the German agricultural and food sectors will provide the ATC with modern agricultural machinery and help provide practical training with expert instructors. The following companies are involved: AGCO (tractors and combine harvesters), LEMKEN (soil cultivation and plant protection equipment), GRIMME (potato cultivation and harvesting technology), RAUCH (fertiliser spreading technology), BEINLICH (sprinkler systems), EUROPLANT (improved potato varieties), BAYER (crop protection) and PETKUS (seed preparation).
At the ATC, Ethiopian experts are trained in modern, sustainable production methods and to use and repair machines. The training is targeted at farm managers and administrators, agro-service enterprises, machine operators and agricultural specialists in state-run and private companies as well as specialist teachers from technical training institutions. The ATC takes a holistic, integrated approach. That means that as well as teaching students about mechanised plant production, it also provides a general understanding of the systems for maintaining soil fertility, crop protection, irrigation and animal feed cultivation. In addition, the courses teach students about business administration, with subjects such as business start-ups, management and marketing.
Initial contact has been established with important participants in the public and private sectors. Training courses have also been held. A field demonstration area has been set up in Kulumsa using existing funds.
Contact
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Transboundary water cooperation in the Nile Basin
Project description
Title: Nile initiative on water Commissioned by: German Federal Ministry for Economic Cooperation and Development (BMZ) Country: Africa supraregional, based in Kampala, Uganda Lead executing agency: Nile Basin Initiative (NBI), based in Entebbe, Uganda Overall term: 2002 to 2013
Context
At nearly 6,700 kilometres in length, and with a catchment area of nearly three-and-a-half million km2, the Nile is one of the most important rivers in the world. It is by far the most important freshwater reservoir in its region. Eleven states share the Nile Basin, which is home to 230 million people, almost a quarter of the African population. For the states of the basin, the waters of the Nile are the foundation of economic and social development. The demand for water is constantly growing across the entire Nile Basin, although the availability of the resource remains limited and is also subject to additional climatic influences.
In February 1999, the Nile Basin Initiative was formed by nine of the basin states: Burundi, DR Congo, Egypt, Ethiopia, Kenya, Rwanda, Sudan, Tanzania and Uganda. Since 2012, South Sudan has also been a member. The Initiative aims to promote the sustainable and cooperative use of the Nile’s water resources.
Since 2002, GIZ has been supporting the NBI on behalf of the German Federal Ministry for Economic Cooperation and Development (BMZ). In close coordination with other donors, GIZ is currently working on the Institutional Strengthening Programme.
Objective
The institutional and technical capacities of the Nile Basin Initiative have been strengthened for its transition to a permanent river basin organisation. This will enable it to sustainably pursue its mandate for transboundary water cooperation in the Nile Basin.Central to the project is the dialogue among Nile riparians on the connections between regional challenges and national water policies. The objective is to develop a mutual understanding about the requirements for national water policies arising from these interconnections, and to initiate corresponding processes of reform.
Approach
GIZ currently supports the Nile Basin Initiative by providing technical, organisational and procedural advice in the following areas:
- Policy and strategy development for core aspects of water cooperation, such as environmental protection, climate change and the harmonisation of national water policies
- Development of common standards and principles for accessing and managing water resources across the entire river basin
- Creation of a knowledge management system for the Nile Basin Initiative
- Implementation of joint cooperation projects between states in contributory catchment areas to the Nile
Results achieved so far
GIZ’s involvement with the Nile Basin Initiative has shown that it is possible to achieve tangible results even in a complex political context. For instance, the Nile Basin Sustainability Framework has been established, which provides a shared structure in which the parties can develop policies, strategies and guidelines that will ensure the collective, sustainable use of water in the Nile Basin. The technical and organisational capacities of the NBI have been strengthened, among other things by introducing a new knowledge management system. This is improving the way the river basin states share information, and provides regular updates on the river system.
Important results have also been achieved in terms of conflict prevention and confidence building between the river basin states. Promotion of dialogue between the states has produced consensus about the core elements of appropriate water policies and common standards. In some countries, these have already verifiably contributed to the process of reforming the water sector. Thanks to the results described here, cross-border conflicts over water will be even less likely in the future.
Further information
- Nile Basin Initiative (NBI) www.nilebasin.org
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African Union Commission – Peace and Security Building
Project description
Title: African Union Commission – Peace and Security Building Commissioned by: German Federal Foreign Office Financier: German Federal Foreign Office Country: Ethiopia Lead executing agency: German Federal Foreign Office Overall term: 2008 to 2013
Context
Peace and security are priority issues for the whole international community, including the countries of Africa. The African Union (AU) Commission implements a strategy to maintain peace and security throughout the African continent. To support its efforts, the German Federal Foreign Office has donated a specialised, state-of-the-art building with a garden for the AU’s Peace and Security Department. Besides hosting the Peace and Security Council, the building will also be home to the Continental Early Warning System, which will enable the Council to monitor critical information on ongoing crises, and help it manage its civil and military operations.
Thanks to its long and successful record in the management of large construction projects in Ethiopia, GIZ International Services has been appointed to manage the design and construction work for the new building in Addis Ababa.
Objective
The Peace and Security Building provides a plenary hall for the meetings of the Peace and Security Council, a situations room and a military operations room. It also houses the offices of the Peace and Security Department, as well as a library, meeting facilities and space for auxiliary functions.
Approach
The AU Peace and Security Building is being built by Flintstone Engineering, a construction company that previously expanded its operative capacity as part of the University Capacity Building Programme (UCBP). The new building will meet international design standards for environmental sustainability, incorporating climate-friendly and energy-efficient technologies. It will be centrally situated on the grounds of the African Union. Its approximately 13,500 sq m of floor space will include offices for about 360 employees.
Results achieved so far
- The preliminary design was finalised in 2010.
- Construction work commenced in January 2011.
- Temporary facilities, built for the AU to use during the construction period, were handed over in May 2011.
- Full clearance of the site was completed in May 2011.
- The complex basement construction, which is key to the building’s earthquake safety, was completed at the beginning of January 2012.
- All reinforced basement walls (96 % of all basement walls) and the slab over the basement were completed in February 2012.
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Supporting the Water Directorate of the African Union Commission and the African Ministers’ Council on Water
Project description
Title: Supporting the Water Directorate of the African Union Commission (AUC) and African Ministers’ Council on Water (AMCOW) Commissioned by: German Federal Ministry for Economic Cooperation and Development (BMZ), European Commission Country: Africa, cross-border; Headquarters: Addis Ababa Lead executing agency: African Union Commission (AUC), African Ministers’ Council on Water (AMCOW) Overall term: 2009 to 2015
Context
Millions of people in Africa do not have adequate access to safe drinking water or sanitation. Two thirds of the population live in Africa’s 59 international water catchment areas. A greater strategic focus on pan-African and regional levels as well as the internationally coordinated, sustainable management of water resources are essential to ensuring the livelihood of the population, achieving the Millennium Development Goals and maintaining peace.
At the 2008 Summit of the African Union (AU) in Sharm El-Sheikh, Egypt, African heads of state underscored their commitment to achieving the water supply and sanitation objectives more quickly. The AU Commission has tasked the African Ministers’ Council on Water (AMCOW) with developing an implementation strategy for the Sharm El-Sheikh Declaration.
Objective
The African Water Agenda is more strategically focused and more closely integrated in the African Union.
Approach
The programme develops the skills and performance capability of the AU Commission and the African Water Ministers and regional institutions, Regional Economic Communities (RECs) and River/Lake Basin Organisations (R/LBOs).
The first task is to ensure that the AU Commission and AMCOW can fulfil their mandate, namely to guide the process of adopting the implementation strategy of the Sharm El-Sheikh Declaration and to report on the implementation at the African Union summit.
Germany primarily supports three main priority areas:
- Developing the implementation strategy for the Sharm El-Sheikh Declaration and the required processes;
- Improving the internal organisation and communication between pan-African and regional levels, institutions and civil society; clarifying roles and responsibilities;
- Advising and supporting AUC and AMCOW, firstly in anchoring the principle of Integrated Water Resource Management (IWRM) in RECs and nation states, and secondly in ensuring its consistent implementation. To this end, Germany is also supporting donor coordination through the AUC and AMCOW.
The supra-regional project includes all African countries and works closely with other German water projects at regional and national level. The water supply and sanitation programme of the World Bank (WSP) and the African Development Bank (AfDB) have, in consultation with AMCOW, undertaken to implement the Sharm El-Sheikh Declaration on drinking water and sanitation.
Further information
- African Ministers’ Council on Water (AMCOW) http://www.amcow-online.org
- African Union (AU) http://www.africa-union.org
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Energy Coordination Office (ECO)
Project description
Title: Energy Coordination Office (ECO) Commissioned by: German Federal Ministry for Economic Cooperation and Development (BMZ) Country: Ethiopia Lead executing agency: Ministry of Water and Energy, Ethiopia Overall term: 2010 to 2013
Context
Ethiopia is endowed with abundant renewable energy resources. Yet it is also a country with one of the lowest rates of energy consumption in the world. Only 14 % of its 82 million people have a direct supply of electricity in their homes; among the 66 million who live in rural areas that figure is below one per cent. This is a major limitation on the country’s growth and development.
In the absence of other affordable power sources people still rely on traditional forms of energy, such as firewood. This is causing increased deforestation and soil erosion, and it also leads to health problems. To address the situation, Ethiopia needs to develop and use its renewable, environmentally-sustainable energy resources. This calls for better coordination among the key stakeholders in the sector. It also means the general public must become more receptive to modern energy services and better aware of the benefits they bring.
Objective
Conditions in the energy sector in Ethiopia have improved and lower-income households, social facilities, and small and medium-sized enterprises benefit from greater access to modern energy technologies and/or services.
Approach
GIZ’s Energy Coordination Office (ECO) is helping to improve access to modern energy services in Ethiopia through its Energizing Development Programme (EnDev Ethiopia). EnDev Ethiopia involves capacity development measures for all the partners in the programme, such as state and non-governmental organisations, and for representatives of the private sector and local communities. This includes the use of pilot projects and other support measures to promote sustainable energy services in the country. The interventions of ECO are carried out by three technical departments.
Policy, private sector development and services – This advises the Ethiopian Government on policies, strategies, laws and programmes, and helps it to increase private sector involvement in renewable energy.
Electrification – This promotes rural electrification by building up local capacities and international linkages for the provision of small-scale solar and hydropower systems.
Bio-energy – This promotes the use of improved energy-efficient cooking technologies, such as Mirt baking stoves, the Tikikil household stove, and the Institutional Rocket Stove (IRS).
ECO works closely with the Ministry of Water and Energy and its subsidiary bodies. It also cooperates with other government institutions at national, regional and local levels, and works with various international organisations, NGOs, educational intuitions, civil society bodies, and other local entities.
Results achieved so far
- Photovoltaic solar systems have been installed in 100 off-grid and remote public health centres and four community centres. This work was performed by private companies.
- Ethiopia’s first solar technology training centre has been set up at Selam Vocational Training Centre, in Addis Ababa, in collaboration with the Ethiopian Alternative Energy Promotion and Development Centre.
- Four pilot micro-hydropower plants have been constructed in three villages of the Southern Nations, Nationalities and People’s Region, with a total capacity of 125 kW.
- To date, more than 650 small-scale producers of improved, energy-efficient cooking stoves have become established in 310 districts and seven regions. By the end of December 2011, these had produced and sold as many as 510,000 of the Mirt, IRS & Tikikil stoves.
- ECO has established Centres of Excellence at the universities of Jimma and Arba Minch.
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Supporting the development of the police component of the African Standby Force (ASF)
Project description
Title: Supporting the development of the police component of the African Standby Force (ASF) Commissioned by: German Federal Foreign Office (AA) Country: Africa, supra-regional; headquarters in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia Lead executing agency: African Union (AU), Peace Support Operations Division (PSOD) Overall term: 2008 to 2013
Context
Violent political conflicts and military aggression are hindering development in many African countries. The capacities and structures needed to settle disputes without violence and maintain peace are not yet sufficiently robust.
The African Union (AU) and the African regional economic communities and regional mechanisms now play an increasingly important role in crisis prevention, conflict transformation and peace building in Africa. A joint peacekeeping force, the African Standby Force, is to be established by 2015 for the purpose of settling armed disputes. Police units are also being prepared as part of the ASF for deployment to crisis regions.
Objective
The functional capacities of the police component of the African Standby Force are strengthened through improved planning and coordination processes in the Peace Support Operations Division (PSOD).
Approach
GIZ is carrying out a programme on behalf of the German Federal Foreign Office (AA) to strengthen the capacities of police structures in Africa. This programme is active in several African countries. It strengthens police forces and police institutions by providing expert advice, by carrying out training, infrastructure and equipment projects, and by strengthening management capacities.
The African Union’s peacekeeping operations are to include civilian and police components alongside their military component. GIZ’s African police programme is supporting the AU’s efforts to establish the police component. It works with the Peace Support Operations Division (PSOD), the department of the AU Commission responsible for peacekeeping operations. It supports the police officers within the division with the planning and implementation of peacekeeping missions.
The main objective is to develop the capacities of the police force. At the same time, the programme’s experts are ready with advice on planning and organisational issues. The programme also assists police officers to comply with guidelines by developing standard procedures and through improvements to the concepts underpinning police training courses for peacekeeping missions.
Results achieved so far
Peacekeeping operations are high priority for the AU Commission and there is now strong political interest in developing the police component of the African Standby Force. This interest is manifested in a stronger focus on the steering of peacekeeping missions. Thus, the African Union Mission in Somalia (AMISOM) as well as the AU-part of the United Nations/African Union Mission in Darfur (UNAMID) are now coordinated and steered by PSOD. In the first half of 2012 the project also supported the AMISOM police unit in Mogadishu directly through the AU police officers.
Because of the presence and the professionalism of the AU police planners, the interests of the police within this structure are being pursued more intensively and in greater detail. This is helping to improve multi-dimensional planning and cooperation (i.e. among the military, police and civilian components). African police officers are now working side-by-side with soldiers and civilian experts within the PSOD’s multi-dimensional structure.
There is regular communication between the PSOD’s police component and regional police planning units. Thus, coordination and planning processes within the police sector are being harmonised and standardised across the continent (e.g. training). In October 2012, the establishment of a Strategic Support Group for the AU police component was agreed, which enables the more effective cooperation and coordination between the PSOD and the police planning elements of the regional economic communities, as well as with international partners.
This project is a component of the programme
Further information
- African Union www.africa-union.org
- African Standby Force www.africa-union.org/…
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Civil Peace Service programme
Programme description
Title: Civil Peace Service programme Commissioned by: German Federal Ministry for Economic Cooperation and Development (BMZ) Country: Ethiopia Partner: House of Federation of the Federal Democratic Republic of Ethiopia Overall term: 2008 to 2013
Context
Ethiopia is a federal country/state defined according to ethno-linguistic criteria. It has a large population that brings together many different peoples and nationalities. The new federal system is in many ways unique, but it is still in an ongoing process of development. The great diversity of Ethiopian society harbours enormous potential, yet it also brings with it the threat of violent conflicts based on differing levels of development and divergent political interests. To promote peace, the communities of Ethiopia use their own traditional conflict resolution mechanisms and seek answers in their indigenous value systems. At the same time, non-governmental and governmental actors bring in outside expertise to help address community conflicts and reconcile conflicting parties at different levels.
The Civil Peace Service (CPS) of Germany operates in many conflict regions around the world. It deploys trained peace consultants on long-term assignments, who work with local partners to improve dialogue processes and build up civil society structures. Ethiopia’s great diversity and potential for conflict has resulted in the creation of many different initiatives and peace building activities. The CPS supports these activities with intensive networking, coordination and capacity building measures.
Objective
Peace building and conflict resolution capacities have been strengthened among federal, regional and local actors, enabling the timely, systematic and sustainable transformation of conflicts.
Approach
The CPS programme takes a systemic approach to civil conflict transformation, applying solutions across all sectors and on various different levels. Its interventions focus on policy making and on strengthening relationships between the relevant actors. It is building alliances with governmental and civil society institutions at the national, regional and local levels, and it is helping these actors to collaborate with one another. The programme carries out capacity building measures within these institutions and in cooperation with the conflict-affected communities, jointly working on how to apply methods and mechanisms of non-violent conflict transformation and prevention. The CPS is also supporting the assimilation of lessons learned and best practices at the local level into regional and national policies and strategies.
The programme in Ethiopia involves the placement of both international and local experts with partner organisations, as well as the provision of some financial support.
Results achieved so far
- Trust has built up steadily between the governmental and non-governmental partner organisations, resulting in some important regional and local collaborations for peace.
- Capacities have been strengthened at all levels for the promotion of peace, and local dialogue structures have been established, such as peace committees in Oromia and SNNP Regional State,
- Two strategies for conflict transformation (national and regional) are now being implemented, monitored and adapted.
- Graduates of a comprehensive mediation training course are now promoting the creation of a mediation association in Ethiopia.
- Conflict transformation and peace building skills have been enhanced at all levels through the provision of training in conflict analysis, do-no-harm principles, mediation, and systemic methodologies for conflict work.
- In a number of local communities in SNNPR and Oromia, the culture of peace has been strengthened due to the activities of the broadcaster, Peace Radio, and through peace mapping exercises.
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Support to the Peace and Security Directorate of the African Union
Project description
Title: Support to the Peace and Security Directorate of the African Union (AU) Commissioned by: German Federal Ministry for Economic Cooperation and Development (BMZ) Country: Africa, supra-national (located in Ethiopia) Lead executing agency: Commission of the African Union Overall term: 2009 to 2015
Context
For decades, the African continent has been marked by crises and conflicts, which constitute a major factor in its slow economic, political and social development. However, with the transition of the Organisation of African Unity (OAU) into the African Union (AU), the continent gained a politically significant organisation prepared to take on the numerous issues to be dealt with in the field of peace and security. The AU has set itself the objective of establishing a comprehensive architecture of peace and security comprising the following structures: 1) Peace and Security Council, 2) Continental Early Warning System, 3) Panel of the Wise, 4) African Standby Force, 5) Special Fund.
The successful execution of this complex mandate requires that all elements of the peace and security structure must function and interact effectively. However, the AU is still young and, mainly due to shortages of personnel and resources, it does not yet possess the necessary organisational and political capacities to meet this requirement.
Objective
The stakeholders – not only the Commission of the African Union (AUC) but also the regional organisations, pan-African institutions and international partners – are able to carry out their peace and security tasks effectively and competently.
Approach
The programme supports the African Union in its task of building and strengthening sustainable peace and security structures for Africa. Successful partnerships have been formed with the Department of Conflict Management at the Directorate of Peace and Security. GIZ focuses one part of its support on the continental early warning system, which it supports both conceptually and through the provision of training. At the same time, the programme provides strategic advice and facilitates workshops for the Peace Support Operation Department, helping it to fulfill its task of developing the civilian elements of the African Standby Force.
Apart from this, on behalf of the German Federal Ministry for Economic Cooperation and Development, GIZ provides financing for the AU’s peace and security programme, in which a number of international partners pool their contributions for capacity building within the AU.
Results achieved so far
Progress has been made in developing the capacities of the partner institutions. They are now better equipped to establish and use the instruments of the African Peace and Security Architecture. Significant success has also been achieved in terms of the continental early warning system. In partnership with GIZ, the AU has been able to develop the core methodical elements of this system, which matches international standards while also meeting specific African needs. The aim is for the decision making bodies – especially the Peace and Security Council of the AU – to have their own reliable sources of information and analysis on conflict situations across the continent. Cooperation has improved between the Peace and Security Department of the AUC and the African regional economic communities and regional mechanisms. This has increased the effectiveness with which the peace and security architecture is being implemented.
Further information
- Website of the African Union www.africa-union.org
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Support for the Institutionalisation of the African Security Conference
Project description
Title: Support for the Institutionalisation of the African Security Conference Commissioned by: German Federal Foreign Office (AA) Country: Africa, supra-national (located in Ethiopia) Lead executing agency: Institute for Peace and Security Studies (IPSS), Addis Ababa Overall term: 2011 to 2013
Context
The African Union has made considerable progress in establishing its African Peace and Security Architecture (APSA), which is anchored in the protocol of the African Peace and Security Council (PSC). Furthermore, the AU member states have also approved a Common Defence and Security Policy (CDSP). However, these guidelines and frameworks have not yet been interpreted and transferred into concrete sector policies (e.g. security sector reforms, governance, participation of civil society). There are also new security challenges which have not been systematically addressed (terrorism, maritime security, competition for land and natural resources, drug trade and organised crime). Policy development is lacking in these areas because experience, expertise and capacities are limited at both national and regional levels. Furthermore, there is no systematic exchange of views between politicians, academics and civil society representatives in Africa.
Objective
The African Security Conference has become institutionalised as an annual event which contributes to effective implementation of the African Peace and Security Architecture.
Approach
The project supports the Institute for Peace and Security Studies (IPSS) in preparing, implementing and evaluating the African Security Conference. It provides technical assistance for the development of conceptual and thematic issues, and to help manage logistical and organisational challenges.
Results achieved so far
Contacts have been established with the Munich Security Conference in Germany, and cooperation with that organisation has begun. Borrowing from the approach used by the Munich Conference, the IPSS will organise and steer the African Security Conference, jointly with a second, independent council. Participants and partners will be drawn the fields of politics and economics, as well as from the general public; together, they will ensure an adequate and informal setting. Logistical and thematic preparation of the Conference is now underway.
Further information
- Website of the African Union http://www.africa-union.org
- Institute for Peace and Security Studies (IPSS) http://apspaddis.wordpress.com
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University Capacity Building Programme (UCBP)
Programme description
Title: University Capacity Building Programme (UCBP) Commissioned by: Ministry of Education, Ethiopia Financier: Ministry of Education, Ethiopia Country: Ethiopia Lead executing agency: Ministry of Education, Ethiopia Overall term: 2005 to 2014
Context
The Ethiopian Government has commissioned GIZ IS as the implementing agent for its University Capacity Building Programme (UCBP), a massive scheme steered and funded by the Ethiopian Government, which is also tied to a complex infrastructure management project. As the in-house agent for the Ethiopian Ministry of Education, GIZ IS managed the design and construction of 13 public universities throughout the country. Upon handing over the building component, GIZ IS is currently engaged in delivering 15 sewage and wastewater treatment plants, and other infrastructure networks at the 15 programme sites.
Objective
Thirteen new universities have been built with a total capacity of up to 148,000 students living and studying on campus. Cost-efficient construction technologies have been introduced without compromising on the envisaged quality. Wastewater treatment technologies have been introduced in a sustainable manner, with the development of appropriate capacities for their operation and maintenance.
Approach
Tying construction management to capacity development produces a marked improvement in existing skills. At the same time, it also introduces new capacities to different regions of the country. The costs of construction work carried out in this way, and the overall project costs are lower than for similar projects which have no capacity development component.
The university buildings are designed and constructed exclusively by Ethiopian companies, whose participation in the programme allows them to acquire the capacity to build and manage other such projects on their own. The cost-efficient design scheme that was developed for the programme includes project management, contract management and financial management, while also ensuring the appropriate use of modern equipment. The approach saves money by reducing both construction time and material wastage. This makes it possible to complete construction projects rapidly and without compromising on quality, as the processes are streamlined according to established principles of efficiency in construction.
The current phase involves the introduction of waste water treatment technologies that are new to Ethiopia. This includes capacity development support to make sure the new treatment plants are properly operated and maintained, and that the use of the technology is sustainable in the future.
Results achieved so far
The programme’s focus on institutional capacity development has encouraged the creation of local small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) to perform specialised trades. Overall, local companies have benefited from expanded opportunities because the programme obliges the general contractors to use local partners as sub-contractors.
- The phased approach allows an intake of students to each university while construction continues. The first batch of students already arrived in 2008 and there are currently over 100,000 students living and studying on the new campuses.
- 560 new SMEs have been established across the regions. More than 4,200 representatives of SMEs and cooperatives have received training, and almost 34,000 skilled and unskilled workers have gained new or improved technical skills as a result of upgrading measures.
- The programme is responsible for approximately 1.85 million man-months of employment, mainly in the regions. The regional economy is developing as the specialised sub-contractors remain in the regions where they have been trained. There is also a trickle-down effect from additional population moving to the towns in question, which is encouraged in part by the new infrastructure.
- Job opportunities have been created for more than 90,000 workers in the newly introduced trade of cobblestone paving.
- The Ministry of Education has now also contracted GIZ IS to deliver 15 sewage and wastewater treatment plants, and other infrastructure networks for the 15 programme sites, on completing the building work.
- Cost-efficient design technology has been established as the standard for all the building work undertaken as part of the programme.
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Support for the African Court on Human and Peoples’ Rights
Project description
Title: Supporting capacity building at the African Court on Human and Peoples’ Rights Commissioned by: German Federal Ministry for Economic Cooperation and Development (BMZ) Country: Member states of the African Union Lead executing agency: African Court on Human and Peoples’ Rights Overall term: 2007 to 2013
Context
The African Court on Human and Peoples’ Rights (AfCHPR) has had its seat in Arusha, Tanzania, since September 2007. Its mandate is to monitor respect for human rights on the African continent in line with the African Charter on Human and Peoples’ Rights and other human rights instruments. Of the eleven judges, only the President is employed full time at the Court’s headquarters. All the other judges work there part-time and attend the Ordinary Sessions every three months. Up to now, 26 African states have recognised the jurisdiction of the Court, and five of these – Mali, Malawi, Tanzania, Burkina Faso and Ghana – have also recognised petitions submitted by individuals.
In 2008, the Court passed its provisional Rules of Court. In 2010, the African Commission on Human and Peoples’ Rights and the African Court on Human and Peoples’ Rights harmonised their rules of procedure. Since the beginning of 2011 more and more cases have been brought before the Court. The African Commission on Human and Peoples’ Rights has also presented its first case. It is directed against Libya and concerns the violent suppression of peaceful protests. Owing to the severity of the human rights violations and the urgency of the matter, in March 2011 the Court issued an order for provisional measures against the Libyan Government. The Court is expected to issue decisions in this case and other pending cases.
Despite the increasing number of cases, the Court is still not being used sufficiently by the African population and by non-governmental organisations (NGOs). The main reasons for this are lack of knowledge about how to bring a case before the Court, and limited access to the Court for individuals and NGOs. The Member States have not issued an additional declaration regarding the admissibility of individual petitions.
Objective
Human rights have better court protection at the pan-African level.
Approach
The project initially promoted the administrative and organisational establishment of the Court so that it could operate efficiently. For example, electronic communication systems were set up for the judges and other staff, along with a website, a Court Library and training programmes for judges and the Court staff. These measures played a key role in enabling the Court to function.
The ongoing phase of the project focuses on support for the activities of the Court and extending the categories of those entitled to file a petition. Outreach activities help to publicise the work of the Court both among experts in the field and among the public. To this end, the project helps the Court to foster contacts with other courts, human rights institutions and relevant NGOs. Beyond this networking, special emphasis must be given to the Court’s relationship with the African Commission on Human and Peoples’ Rights. These two bodies should have complementary mandates for protecting human rights in Africa.
If human rights are to be strengthened and harmonised in Africa in the long term, it is important that more African states recognise the Court’s expertise in general, and its mandate for accepting individual petitions in particular. The project’s activities support the achievement of these objectives.
Results achieved so far
The Court is operational. With support from outreach activities, the Court can fulfil its jurisdictional mandate. The number of cases being brought before the Court is rising. Oral proceedings have already been conducted, and the first judgements have been delivered.
Further information
- African Court on Human and Peoples’ Rights www.african-court.org
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Support to the African Union Border Programme
Project description
Title: Support to the African Union Border Programme Commissioned by: German Federal Foreign Office (AA) Country: Africa-wide Lead executing agency: African Union (AU), responsible ministries for border issues, national border commissions Overall term: 2008 to 2015
Context
The long colonial history of most African nations left a legacy of numerous disputed national boundaries after their independence. Only about a quarter of sub-Saharan borders are clearly delimited and demarcated. The AU sees these ill-defined borders as potential sources of conflict, especially when mineral resources are discovered in the border regions. They therefore pose a threat to peace and security.
The AU launched the African Union Border Programme (AUBP) to minimise these risks. The programme has four components: delimitation and demarcation, cross-border cooperation, institution building and capacity development, and resource mobilisation. On behalf of the German Federal Foreign Office, GIZ is supporting the AU programme through its Border Management in Africa project, which is intended to help establish supra-regional border management and secure peace in the region.
Objective
Conflicts between African states are avoided and regional convergence is taking place on the continent as a result of effective and sustainable border management.
Approach
The Border Management in Africa project is steered from Addis Ababa. It’s activities correspond to three of the components of the AUBP.
- Delimitation and Demarcation The project is currently supporting ten African partner countries (Mozambique, Malawi, Zambia, Tanzania, Comoros, Mali, Burkina Faso, Senegal, Sudan and South Sudan) in delimiting and demarcating their borders.
- Cross-border cooperation The project supports the partner countries in promoting and extending cross-border cooperation. It has also cooperated with the Trading for Peace Programme of COMESA, which is intended to simplify international trade agreements as a way of strengthening cross-border relations. The project has also initiated a network of border experts involving the AU as well as ECOWAS and its member states.
- Institution-building and capacity development, in particular at the AU level While focusing on its strategic alignment, the project is supporting the AU to help ensure the feasibility of its programme. This includes providing funding to pay for staff, office space, materials and equipment. The project also contributes to the legitimacy of the AUBP by conducting bilateral awareness and education measures at the national level.
Results achieved so far
The border between Mali and Burkina Faso has been fully delimited and demarcated, and 610 km of boundary have been delimited and demarcated on the borders between Zambia, Malawi, Mozambique and Tanzania. The border between Mozambique and Tanzania, and those between Malawi and Zambia and Zambia and Mozambique will be completed by 2011. In addition, the maritime boundary between the Comoros, Tanzania and Mozambique will be fully delimited by the end of 2011.
The project succeeded in ending a protracted border dispute between two villages in Mali and Burkina Faso, using a participatory method of conflict resolution. This method has now been extended to ten additional border communities. Economic and cultural cooperation among border villages has increased, thanks in part to the construction of grain elevators for their joint use. A health centre is also currently under construction in the border region, which will be administered by the two countries together.
As a result of the ongoing technical and conceptual advice from GIZ, the AUBP is now better able to implement the programme on its own. Work to develop an AU intranet site on country-specific border issues for Africa-wide access began in 2010 and is due to be completed in 2011. Thanks to these developments, the member states now view the AU as a key actor in border management. As Germany is currently the AUBP’s only partner, its involvement is highly visible, both here and within the international donor community.
Contact
Project description
Title: Strengthening the capacity of the AU Commission in the field of good governance Commissioned by: German Federal Ministry for Economic Cooperation and Development (BMZ) Country: Commission of the African Union (located in Ethiopia) Lead executing agency: Commission of the African Union Overall term: 2006 to 2017
Context
The AU Commission (AUC) plays an important role in achieving Africa’s governance objectives, including the promotion of human rights. Particularly important in this respect are the Departments of Political Affairs (DPA) and Social Affairs (DSA). In the AUC Strategic Plan (2009 – 2012), activities that support good governance among the AU Member States are titled ‘shared values’, which shows how importantly a common approach in this area is viewed.
The DPA, as lead department, and the DSA play a coordinating role. Their wide-ranging tasks include establishing common standards of governance. They do this using legal instruments, such as the African Charter on Democracy, Elections and Governance. The departments are responsible for drafting instruments such as this, and securing their adoption and ratification by Member States. They are also tasked with promoting governance processes in specific areas, such as elections and the fight against corruption. However, due to the limited human resources available in the departments, it is a challenge for them to fulfil their broad mandate.
Objective
The capacity of the Departments of Political Affairs and Social Affairs to raise standards of democracy, elections and human rights in the AU member states has increased.
Approach
With advisory services and organisational development, the programme is helping to strengthen the DPA and DSA institutionally. It also promotes processes-oriented strategic planning and budgeting activities. The programme’s activities are mainly concentrated in the following areas:
- Implementation of AUC institutional reform processes, e.g. the introduction of impact-oriented budget planning and execution
- Creation of a development platform to ensure the coherence of policies, as part of the African Governance Architecture
- Ratification, proliferation and implementation of the African Charter on Democracy, Elections and Governance
- Support for capacity building at the Electoral Unit of the AUC to help improve electoral processes in Africa, including reforms of national electoral management bodies
- Anticorruption measures, especially to support implementation of the AU Convention on Preventing and Combating Corruption, and to strengthen the AU Anti-Corruption Advisory Board
- Setting standards for the elimination of harmful traditional practices, including female genital mutilation, as an aspect of the AUC’s work to promote women’s rights in a multi-faceted human rights agenda.
The programme promotes capacity development at the DPA and DSA, in particular through the work of experts seconded from AU member states to the AUC, and it supports the International Conference on the Elimination of Harmful Traditional Practices. This includes the provision of financing, materials and equipment, and assistance with the integration of the Commission into international networks. The programme helps the Commission to cooperate more closely at different levels with relevant stakeholders, such as other AU bodies, regional economic communities, member states and civil society actors. It also provides support for a long-term planning, implementation and monitoring process. Cooperation will be encouraged to take the form of structured working relationships. Due to the scarce resources at the departments, these relationships will have to be used strategically to achieve the AUC’s good governance goals.
Results achieved so far
The second African Governance Report, which was produced by the United Nations Economic Commission for Africa in cooperation with the DPA, was an early achievement for the programme. Since then, some core processes of the AUC in the field of governance have been initiated. These include the elaboration of the African Governance Architecture and the promotion of the African Charter on Democracy, Elections and Governance. This was followed by the development of cooperation with key stakeholders, such as Africa’s regional economic communities and representatives of the member states.
A strategic plan was recently adopted by the AU Anti-Corruption Advisory Board. A Human Rights Strategy has been drafted, and ‘Shared Values’ has been designated as the theme for Africa in 2012, following the AU Summit in January 2011.
As a topic that exists at the interface between governance and peace and security, gender-based violence has now been introduced as an area of cooperation with the Department of Social Affairs.
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Urban Governance and Decentralisation Programme
Programme description
Title: Urban Governance and Decentralisation Programme – UGDP Commissioned by: German Federal Ministry for Economic Cooperation and Development (BMZ) Country: Ethiopia Lead executing agency: Ministry of Urban Development and Construction (MUDC) Overall term: 2005 to 2014
Context
Economic and political problems due to high population density, inadequate infrastructure, unemployment: Ethiopian cities are growing rapidly and with them the challenges that the relatively young local governments face. Some basic public services are not available because of a lack of sufficiently qualified personnel, revenues and practical experience as well as institutionalised planning and administrative processes. Ethiopia is, however, forging ahead with a comprehensive decentralisation programme, devolving more responsibilities to the cities.
Despite these challenges, urbanisation offers enormous opportunities. Well managed, cities can play a significant role in reducing poverty, stimulating economic growth and ensuring good governance.
Objective
Cities and urban centres are adhering to the principles of good governance and provide better public services.
Approach
The Urban Governance and Decentralisation Programme (UGDP) supports the Ethiopian Government in implementing an extensive decentralisation process. It contributes to citizen-oriented decision-making, setting up efficient local administrative and planning processes and finally to the improvement of public services and the reduction of urban poverty. The programme is being jointly implemented by the Ethiopian Ministry of Urban Development and Construction, eight regions and twelve partner cities.
GIZ, KfW Entwicklungsbank and the Centre for International Migration and Development (CIM) run the programme on behalf of the German Federal Ministry for Economic Cooperation and Development (BMZ). The programme works closely with the German consulting firm GOPA Consultants in the field of financial management. A co-financing arrangement has been made with the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation (BMGF), which primarily focuses on pro-poor urban development.
Until mid-2010, UGDP supported a number of pilot municipalities in the four main regions. Currently, the lessons learned during the pilot project are being applied to cities in eight regions, including four remote and less developed regions.
The programme comprises the following components:
- Improvement of urban planning and provision of public services
- Improvement of urban financial management
- Expansion of municipal knowledge management
- Pro-poor urban development
Results achieved so far
- Cities have strengthened their administrative autonomy.
- Civic participation in matters of spatial and financial planning as well as prioritising investments has been institutionalised.
- Citizens’ satisfaction with municipal service delivery has increased by 20% since 2007.
- The eight supported municipalities have reported a revenue increase of more than 25% compared to 2009.
- 92,000 jobs have already been created as a result of new infrastructure projects. Approximately one-third of these have been filled by women.
- The Ethiopian Cities Association was founded. It provides a platform for the 23 member municipalities to share experiences and learn from one another.
- In cooperation with the Ethiopian University of Applied Sciences for Public Administration, the urban planning and administrative processes that GIZ helped to launch are now being implemented nationwide.
- Municipal governments were established in the new project regions, which laid the foundation for civic-oriented decision-making.
- All partner cities have had access to grants from KfW Entwicklungsbank and the World Bank to fund investments in infrastructure.
Download
- Making Good Governance Tangible: The Cobblestone Sector of Ethiopia
- GIZ 2012 giz2012-making-good-governance-tangible-en.pdf, 1.90 MB (English)
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Sustainable development of the protected area system of Ethiopia (SDPASE)
Project description
Title: Sustainable development of the protected area system of Ethiopia (SDPASE) Commissioned by: Ethiopian Wildlife Conservation Authority (EWCA) Financier: Global Environment Facility (GEF) through the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), Ethiopian Government – in kind contribution, and various national and international institutions as co-financiers Country: Ethiopia Lead executing agency: Ethiopian Wildlife Conservation Authority (EWCA) Overall term: 2008 to 2016
Context
Ethiopia has more than 30 national parks, wildlife reserves, controlled hunting areas and wildlife sanctuaries. Over 6,000 species of plant exist here, many of which have still not been described by science. The country is a famous destination for bird watchers, as it is home to more than 860 bird species, 30 of which are endemic, with two endemic genera. There are also 279 species of mammal, of which 35 are endemic, with six endemic genera. The country is also home to important populations of elephants and lions. On paper at least, Ethiopia’s protected areas cover an impressive 14% of the country.
In the past, the biodiversity of many of the protected areas has declined. They are accessible to people who use the land heavily for grazing livestock, and settlements have been established in some. The lack of protection has allowed the environmental degradation to occur, and with it the basis for many species’ existence has been eroded. The negative effects this has on sustainable development have not yet been properly understood by many Ethiopians.
Objective
Ethiopia’s biodiversity, ecosystems and ecological processes are safeguarded effectively from human-induced pressures and adequately represented in a sustainable Protected Area System that contributes significantly to economic development at both local and national levels.
Approach
The Government of Ethiopia has included environmental issues in the Federal Constitution, and has formed new policies and passed new legislation. It established the Ethiopian Wildlife Conservation Authority (EWCA) as a part of the Ministry of Culture and Tourism. The EWCA then selected GIZ International Services to be its implementing partner for each of the project’s two four-year phases.
The project aims to protect the environment, which plays a crucial role in local people’s livelihoods, by supporting the provision of environmental services at community and national levels. To meet global challenges, such as climate change and biodiversity loss, it is helping Ethiopia to fulfill its constitutional and international commitments. It is also developing the capacity of stakeholders in the Protected Area System, an activity which contributes much to the achievement of the country’s poverty reduction strategy as well as the Millennium Development Goals.
The project is mainstreaming the Protected Area System in the overall development context of Ethiopia, and it is helping to improve conditions for policy, regulation and governance in the sector. Activities include the creation of financial sustainability plans, capacity building and institutional support for the planning and management of protected areas, and the development of new management concepts and partnerships for protected areas.
Results achieved so far
- The demarcation of the EWCA’s protected areas has been renewed, with support provided by the project for the gazetting process.
- An overview map has been developed, and a GIS system established for the EWCA.
- With advice and support from the project, a number of wildlife management activities have been implemented, such as aerial surveys and the control of problem animals.
- By the end of 2012, around 900 scouts had been trained using a curriculum developed by the project. This includes special training manuals covering basic wildlife management, protected area management, wildlife tracking, weapons handling etc. As a result, the protected areas are now being managed more effectively and more sustainably.
- Field equipment has been procured, including base-to-vehicle radio communications systems, and rangers’ uniforms have been distributed to both federal and regional authorities. The uniform gives scouts added authority, while the new equipment enables them to guard the parks properly against illegal activities.
- Studies have been carried out on important topics, such as the economic value of the Protected Area System, gaps in the cataloguing of the country’s biodiversity, the carbon value of the areas involved, the marketing of Ethiopia’s parks, and the legal framework for wildlife management.
- The project has provided advice to the EWCA and the regional wildlife authorities on a variety of issues, such as commercial hunting and management planning.
Further information
- Ethiopian Wildlife Conservation Authority A parastatal organisation under the Ministry of Culture and Tourism, EWCA also works closely with other national and international wildlife conservation bodies, in particular the wildlife authorities of the regional states. http://www.ewca.gov.et
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Labour market-oriented education
Project description
Title: Capacity building in the education sector Commissioned by: German Federal Ministry for Economic Cooperation and Development (BMZ) Country: Ethiopia Partner: Ministry of Education Overall term: 2012 to 2014
Context
Based on per-capita income, Ethiopia is one of the poorest countries in the world. The national development strategy – the Growth and Transformation Plan (GTP) – has set ambitious goals for economic development, investments in social and economic infrastructure, and poverty reduction. As one of the prerequisites for ‘catch-up development’, massive investment is being channelled into the education sector to build domestic capacities, resources and abilities, particularly as regards promoting training systems with a technical orientation, to produce skilled workers for the growing economy.
To date, vocational training and higher education and research have not been sufficiently geared to practical instruction and quality. The underlying causes are a lack of qualified teachers and technical staff, limited financial resources along with a rapidly increasing number of students, and shortfalls in the management of the education institutions.
Objective
Graduates of engineering emerging from the higher education and vocational training systems have the qualifications required to enter the national labour market.
Approach
The programme functions at various levels within the education system, and helps improve the quality of training provided at universities and vocational training institutes. Advisory services are being provided to the Ministry of Education and its subordinate authorities. Support is also being given for capacity development to improve management of the reform institutions and to help develop the education system. The measure also provides assistance to the technology institutes and vocational training colleges to improve management functions, enhance teaching skills, and introduce practice-oriented curricula.
In order to match training opportunities with the demands of the labour market, support is being provided for integrating labour market data into educational planning and establishing technical and start-up centres at universities. Pilot initiatives aimed at promoting employment are being implemented in selected regions.
The programme comprises the following components:
- Higher education reform in engineering
- Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) Reform
By promoting practice-oriented training for students in technical disciplines and matching the Ethiopian TVET system to the needs of the labour market, the programme will help create long-term jobs and boost the country’s future prospects.
The programme continues the activities of the Engineering Capacity Building Program (ecbp), which ran from 2005 to 2012, and was also assisted by GIZ.
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Technical College Holeta
Project description
Title: Technical College Holeta Commissioned by: German Federal Foreign Office (AA) Country: Ethiopia Lead executing agency: Ministry of National Defence Overall term: 2010 to 2013
Context
One of the key goals of the Ethiopian Government’s development strategy is to increase the number of qualified skilled workers. This includes efforts to improve the quality of existing training facilities and to standardise the education and training they provide.
The Major General Mulugeta Buli Technical College in Holeta is part of this national reform process. The college, which is under the Ministry of National Defence, offers TVET programmes primarily in civilian occupations. Only about one third of the enrolled soldiers are trained in defence occupations. In 2010, the college opened its doors for civilians from the community. GIZ only provides assistance for the civilian training component of the college.
Objective
The Major General Mulugeta Buli Technical College in Holeta has become an institution that contributes increasingly to vocational training for civilians. Employment opportunities for its graduates have improved, and the number of qualified skilled workers has increased.
Approach
On behalf of the German Federal Foreign Office, GIZ provides support for building the organisational capacities of the college’s civilian component. It advises the college on further developing its training courses for civilians and helps adapt and implement curricula in the following training areas:
- Automotive engineering for passenger vehicles and trucks
- Automotive electricity and electronics
- General metal fabrication and assembly
- Mechanical engineering
- General electrical engineering
- Information technology
The national qualification framework and national occupational standards provide a basis.
Supplementary training activities are being organised for management and teaching staff, based on a need analysis. The expertise of all teachers for civilian occupations will be assessed by the regional Centre of Competence (CoC) in accordance with the national TVET regulations.
All activities are being implemented in line with national TVET reforms, together with the TVET components of the programme on labour-market-oriented training, which is also assisted by GIZ.
Results achieved so far
The capacities for civilian training have been strengthened. A dean for the civilian component was nominated by the Ethiopian partner and has now started work, with support from two coordinators. The new administration building was inaugurated in 2011.
A number of different training measures have been carried out:
- management and administrative staff members have received further training in school administration and managerial functions.
- 25 teachers from all departments have been trained to develop curricula and educational materials.
- 58 teachers took part in technical training in the fields of welding, electronics and IT.
- 40 teachers were trained as external examiners by the regional Centre of Competence (CoC).
Contact
Office address GIZ Office Ethiopia Kazanchis, Kirkos Sub City, Woreda 18 Addis Ababa Phone: 00251-11-5180200 Fax: 00251-11-5540764 Email: giz-aethiopien@giz.de
Postal Address P.O. Box 12631 Addis Ababa Ethiopia
Related Themes:
For several years GIZ has been sponsoring the Great Ethiopian Run, Africa’s largest road race.
Related Material:
- http://allanapotashblog.org/2013/05/10/germany-supports-ethiopias-agriculture-sector/
- http://www.dw.de/german-president-joachim-gauck-visits-ethiopia/a-16681255
- http://www.bmz.de/en/what_we_do/countries_regions/subsahara/aethiopien/index.html
- http://www.cimonline.de/en/worldwide/190.asp
- http://www.bfn.de/0310_steckbrief_aethiopien+M52087573ab0.html
- http://appablog.wordpress.com/2013/05/31/italy-ethiopia-pistelli-cooperation-funds-doubled/
