“From Struggle to Stability: Sahile’s Journey to Success”

At just 29 years old, Ato Sahile Shifera was struggling. Without land of his own, he had no access to loans from formal institutions, and could not provide for his family. In search of work, he migrated to Dukem and joined the cobblestone chipping trade. But the job brought him no fulfillment, and he returned home with a heavy heart, still searching for a better path forward.
That’s when ORDA Ethiopia’s CARD II Project entered his community—and his life began to change.

Through the introduction of Village Economic and Social Associations (VESA), Sahile and his wife became members of Dabash VESA in 2010 E.C. Their discipline in saving grew strong: together they managed to save 13,600 Birr. This was their first step out of poverty.
Through the project, Sahile also secured a 23,000 Birr loan from RUSACCO. With confidence and the training provided by the project, he launched a shoat fattening business. Alongside financial support, he received skills training on livestock fattening methods, biogas system installation, and agro-inputs. His wife also gained valuable knowledge through nutrition and gender equality training, empowering the entire household.

  
Their effort paid off. Sahile’s business earned a profit of 70,170 Birr. His livestock holdings grew from one cow to five cattle and twenty sheep. The family furnished their home, rented farmland, and started growing vegetables in their backyard—ensuring nutritious food all year round.
The installation of a biogas system brought even greater change. It provided clean energy for cooking, lighting, and fertilizer, while improving family health and reducing pressure on local forests. Gender roles at home became more equal, with both husband and wife sharing responsibilities.
Most importantly, Sahile no longer felt the need to migrate. He had built a stable and hopeful future at home.
Looking forward, he dreams of buying land and building a home in Molale town within two years. Reflecting on his journey, he says with a full heart:
“I am truly grateful to ORDA Ethiopia’s CARD II Project. It has changed my life more than I ever imagined. I was once ready to leave my home out of desperation—but now, I have created a better life for my family right here.”
Sahile’s story shows what’s possible when determination meets opportunity. His journey is a shining example of how ORDA Ethiopia’s efforts are helping transform lives—one household at a time.