Youth unemployment is a growing problem in Ethiopia. Recent information from ILO statistics indicates that while unemployment in Ethiopia generally was at 5.4%, youth unemployment is at 7.6%. Crop and livestock production are the main forms of economic activity; however, productivity is limited due to farmland degradation, low soil fertility and lack of access to essential inputs and technologies. iDE works to overcome these factors by creating income generating activities that improve lives.

Our approach creates job opportunities for rural youth, whose knowledge and energy are untapped and who can serve as change agents if given the right opportunity. With funding from The Big Give, we will promote stories of youth becoming successful small business owners themselves through iDE’s work, ensuring this work is effective and sustainable, and the products and services they provide can be expanded. The aim of this effort is to draw more youth into becoming agricultural entrepreneurs.