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FC partnering with FAO delivered practical and theoretical vermicompost and Conventional compost production Training. Facilitator for Change (FC), in partnership with the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO), successfully delivered a comprehensive training supported by experiences exchange, and practical attachment on vermicompost, Vermiwash and conventional compost production and utilization for sustainable agriculture for four days (March 24-27, 2026) in Jimma Town. The initiative brought together Model farmers, agricultural experts and private producers from Ethiopia and Rwanda, creating a unique platform for cross-country experience and knowledge exchange. In the way forward, FC will continue following-up the trainees to provide technical and job support to ensure successful adoption of effective composting practices among participants. The organization remains committed to scaling up such initiatives in collaboration with FAO and other partners. Photos from Compost Preparation, Experience Sharing, and Practical Training Practical training of compost Wet material preparation Demonestration Dry Material preparation

FC Management Team Holds Biannual Strategic Meeting in Hawassa ? Hawassa, Ethiopia | June 4–6, 2025 Facilitator for Change (FC) successfully conducted its biannual Management Team Meeting from June 4 to 6, 2025, in Hawassa, bringing together both the Core Management Team—comprising senior leadership based at the Head Office—and the Full Management Team, including project managers from all regional coordination offices. This high-level, three-day strategic meeting provided a platform for in-depth reflection, learning, and planning. It was convened at a critical juncture, as the organization approaches the final year of its 2021–2025 Strategic Plan. The gathering aimed to assess the organization’s progress, identify gaps, and set a clear direction for the future, particularly the formulation of FC’s next five-year strategy (2026–2030). Key Objectives and Focus Areas The overarching goal of the meeting was to evaluate organizational performance and set actionable directions based on findings and insights. The team engaged in a comprehensive review of: ? Program and Project Performance Project managers and technical staff presented achievements, challenges, and lessons learned from across FC’s operational areas in the Oromia and Amhara regions. Discussions focused on the effectiveness of interventions, results achieved against planned outcomes, and innovations that emerged from the field. ? Strategic Plan Review With the current strategic plan nearing completion, the team assessed what has worked well and what requires improvement. This included an early consultation on the priorities and thematic focuses for the next five-year Strategic Plan (2026–2030). ? Partnerships and SLOT Analysis Given the shifting donor landscape and increased competition for funding, the meeting included an in-depth SLOT (Strengths, Limitations, Opportunities, and Threats) analysis of FC’s partnerships. The discussion explored how to retain long-term partners, meet their expectations, and explore new collaborations to expand FC’s impact and resource base. ? Financial Management and Compliance A critical area of focus was the review of financial management practices. The team addressed concerns raised by some donor partners regarding compliance and reporting standards. Concrete action points were proposed to strengthen internal controls, enhance donor confidence, and ensure financial sustainability. ? Audit Findings and Institutional Learning The team examined recurring issues highlighted in audit reports and the lack of follow-through on management letters. There was consensus on the need for improved communication between departments and the adoption of corrective measures to address audit recommendations systematically.   Looking Ahead The meeting concluded with a set of clear “Way Forward” recommendations, including steps to: Launch the development process for the 2026–2030 Strategic Plan; Strengthen financial systems and M&E practices; Revise internal policies for HR, audit follow-up, and donor compliance; Deepen rights-based programming and advocacy; Explore innovative funding mechanisms, including income-generating initiatives and social enterprise models, to support sustainable development. Reaffirming FC’s Commitment This biannual meeting reaffirmed FC’s commitment to its vision of building prosperous and resilient communities. By aligning its operations with national development priorities and the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), FC continues to advance child well-being, women’s empowerment, sustainable livelihoods, and environmental stewardship in Ethiopia. Through open dialogue, collaboration, and strategic foresight, the FC Management Team is ensuring that the organization remains adaptive, impactful, and future-ready.

Facilitator for Change (FC), in partnership with the International Organization for Migration (IOM), is implementing a Community-Based Reintegration for Migrants Returning from Sudan project to support returnees in rebuilding their lives and livelihoods. The initiative is being carried out in the Jimma Zone of Kersa and Manna Woredas, with a focus on sustainable income-generating activities (IGAs). Boosting Local Entrepreneurship through Retail and Services The project has helped returnees establish small businesses such as retail shops and stationery services. With the provision of essential startup materials and business support, participants are launching and managing their own enterprises. Returnees have expressed enthusiasm and a strong interest in expanding their businesses, showing increased confidence in their future.   Advancing Youth Employment in Hair Dressing and Mobile Services To promote self-employment among youth, the project supports hairdressing and mobile accessory service providers. Equipment and materials are distributed, and workspaces are prepared to ensure organized and customer-friendly environments. These businesses not only serve local demand but also create new employment opportunities in the community. Promoting Food Service Ventures The initiative also backs restaurant and cafeteria startups by supplying kitchen materials and facilitating the acquisition of initial food inputs. These food service IGAs contribute to both income generation and improved access to meals within the community, particularly in growing urban and semi-urban areas. Sheep Fattening Initiatives As part of the reintegration support, groups engaged in sheep fattening were equipped with livestock (sheep) and startup support. Each group received 25 sheep, purchased with guidance from agricultural experts, along with a two-month living allowance. Beneficiaries also received orientation on managing their income-generating activities effectively. To further strengthen the sustainability of these businesses, FC facilitated the construction of two dedicated sheep fattening shades. Mana Woreda administration provided the land and site plans, enabling proper shelter for the livestock. The new shades offer a safe and organized environment that promotes the healthy growth of the animals. Orientation sessions were conducted to equip the groups with best practices in animal care and fattening techniques.

Facilitator for Change is proud to share remarkable success stories from our 2024 project implementation under “Awi Srasri – Building Better Future for Children.” This initiative is aimed at improving the lives of vulnerable children and their families through community-driven interventions in education, livelihoods, and child protection. These stories highlight the powerful impact of collective efforts in transforming the lives of children and caregivers in Awi Zone, Amhara Region. From boosting school attendance through direct support to restoring hope for struggling families with income-generating activities, each case is a testament to the resilience of our communities and the commitment of our partners. ? Highlights from the Stories: Improved school participation among vulnerable children through comprehensive support from the project. Empowered caregivers who have launched small businesses with startup grants and training. Community-based protection mechanisms that are making a real difference in child safety and well-being. Read the Full Stories Here   FC – Awi Srasri – Success case stories These success stories are a snapshot of the positive changes made possible through strong collaboration between local government offices, community structures, and our dedicated project team. Stay connected with us for more updates on how we’re building a better future for children