In rural Ethiopia, building a sustainable livelihood is never easy. Most villagers depend on farming or livestock, but even this fragile source of income is not guaranteed. Crop failures, animal deaths, or lack of opportunities often push families into cycles of instability. Many villagers are forced to work for others or take whatever income they can find, sacrificing their dreams for mere survival.
Abdu Seid, a father of two living in Ancharo 08, Kalu Woreda, Amhara Region, is all too familiar with this struggle. For years, he relied on ribi—a traditional system where one cares for livestock owned by others and shares the profits. While ribi kept his family afloat, it was never stable. When animals died or owners withdrew their livestock, Abdu was left vulnerable, with no steady income and growing worries about his family’s future. “I always wondered how I could build a permanent asset for my family,” Abdu recalls, “but I couldn’t find a way.”
A Turning Point for Abdu: The LCD Project
Living with uncertainty and worry had become Abdu’s daily routine until a turning point appeared at his door. That turning point came with the Livelihood Creation and Diversification (LCD) Project, implemented by Kelem Ethiopia. When the kebele administration convened a community meeting to introduce the project, villagers, including Abdu, learned about its goals: such as- provision of livestock, technical training, and ongoing expert support to help families build sustainable livelihoods.
And hence, the first round of goats was distributed to selected beneficiaries. Soon after, Abdu was chosen as a second-round beneficiary, following Aminat Yimer. As per the project’s design, Aminat transferred three goat dams to Abdu under a signed legal agreement.
Turning Goats into a Lasting Asset
Guided by agricultural experts and his own determination, Abdu succeeded in the proper care of the goats and, through time, transformed his assets from goats to a calf, to which he gave the calf adequate care and nutrition.
The results were remarkable. Within a short time, the calf matured and was sold for 30,000 ETB in the local market. With this income, Abdu purchased a cow, a long-term asset he had always dreamed of.
The cow was initially weak and skinny, but with proper feeding and veterinary care, it regained health. Today, it is pregnant, symbolizing a new chapter for Abdu’s family.
Hope and Gratitude
With a smile of relief, Abdu shares his plans: “With the support of Kelem Ethiopia, I am finally on my way to owning a permanent asset. When the cow gives birth, I will sell the calf and buy more goats. If I earn extra, I will stop the “rbi” sharing work, expand this breeding, and focus fully on supporting my family.”
For Abdu’s family, hope is no longer a distant dream. His sons are eagerly awaiting the cow’s calf, not only for the fresh milk it will provide, but also for the butter to sell, the manure to use as natural compost, and the brighter future it represents.
Strong Institutional Support
Behind Abdu’s success lies strong support from the local agricultural office. Jemal Seid, head of the Ancharo Kebele Agriculture Office, explains: “This project has been extremely helpful for our farmers.
We closely monitor the process, register animal births and deaths, and provide vaccinations and technical support. Abdu is one of our exemplary farmers, who is a true symbol of change and hope.
A Role Model for the Community
Abdu’s journey from uncertainty to stability shows how strategic community-based support can transform lives. He is now seen as a role model in his community, inspiring others who are eager to follow in his footsteps.
“It would be wonderful if the LCD project could expand and reach more families like mine,” Abdu says, his voice filled with hope.
This is no longer just the story of one man; it is the story of how small opportunities, when combined with determination and support, can change members of communities.
With the generous support of our partners, #Bundesministerium für wirtschaftliche Zusammenarbeit und Entwicklung (BMZ), #TERRA TECH Förderprojekte e.V., and #Aktion Deutschland Hilft , Kelem Ethiopia has empowered 742 low-income farmers to embark on a new journey of hope. Through our LCD project, we are providing ewes and does (mother sheep and goats) to these farmers, which helps them to build and diversify sustainable sources of income and create brighter futures for their families.
Author – Mohamadnur Gashaw
Editor – Hassina Ousman
