“I Have Regained My Sight and My Hope” – Ayikel Ahmed
I am a single mother from Jamma, South Wollo. For years, painful Trachomatous Trichiasis threatened my livelihood and my children’s future. Thanks to free surgery by ORDA Ethiopia, supported by CBM, I am healed, working again, and full of hope.
"My income has increased, and my social interactions and acceptance within the community have improved greatly."
“Light after Darkness” – Emahoy Tigete Getu
For years, Emahoy lived in pain and isolation due to trachoma and cataracts. Unable to work or care for her children, life felt like darkness. With support from ORDA Ethiopia and CBM International, she received free eye surgery. Today, she sees clearly again, has returned to her family and work, and embraces life with renewed hope and happiness.#CBMInternational
Raising Chickens, Raising Hope: How One Young Farmer Rebuilt His Life Through MaYEA
Abiyout Shumeye, a 30-year-old young man from G/Mariyam Kebele in Mandura Woreda, is one of the MaYEA Program participants, implemented by Bees for Development Ethiopia in partnership with the Mastercard Foundation and led by ORDA Ethiopia.
"MaYEA helped me see the opportunities around me. Today, I don't just raise chickens; I raise hopes for my family and my community," says Abyot.
Here is Abiyout Shumeye’s powerful story:
I worked in a government office for six years and hold a degree in Rural Development. My father raised me through farming. With that ambition, I entered the sesame farming sector and worked for a large sesame farm investor.
Read more: Raising Chickens, Raising Hope: How One Young Farmer Rebuilt His Life Through MaYEA
"More Than Honey: A Family's Journey to Resilience"
Medhin Tadese, a 30-year-old woman, has been married to her husband, Tekele Kiros, for 12 years. Tekele Kiros, a military veteran who lost his eyesight during service, and Medhin have been trying to support their family through irregular livelihoods. This is their testimony about what they gained after participating in the MaYEA Program, implemented by The Well in Action in the Shire Cluster, led by ORDA Ethiopia with support from the Mastercard Foundation.
Medhin Tadese smiles as she recalls the joy of earning a significant amount of income. Mai Suru Kebele, Ahferom Woreda, Tigray Region, April 30, 2026.
Read more: More Than Honey: A Family's Journey to Resilience