The USAID has launched a new partnership with private social enterprise TEKI Paper Bags PLC to employ more than 200 dead women in Ethiopia.
Ambassador Tracey Jacobson, Charge D’Affaires of the United States Embassy, Addis Ababa and USAID/Ethiopia Mission Director, Sean Jones came together to launch the partnership.
The partnership is expected to see TEKI Paper Bags PLC use the $550,000 US government grant to create employment opportunities for youths with disabilities. The company is also currently fighting against pollution caused by the use of plastic bags.
Ms. Jacobson, Sean Jones and Director for Bilateral Cooperation at the Ministry of Finance, Kobeb Misrak expressed their elation at the partnership as the beneficiaries spoke about the impact of their new employments.
With the support of the USAID, more than 200 women living with disabilities will work in the areas of production and distribution of recycled paper bags. The beneficiaries will collaborate with Addis Ababa Environmental Protection Commission, the city administration and the private sector.
The move is also to improve awareness, skills and the opinion of the entire country on how to relate with people with disabilities.
The partnership also explains the USAID and Ethiopia’s work on helping people lead healthier and prosperous lives.
In 2021, USAID donated more than $1bn to Ethiopians as they worked to improve the citizens’ wellbeing and promote the relationship between the United States and Ethiopia.