Zakat Foundation of America in
Ethiopia
Response to Humanitarian Crisis
Ethiopia, the second-most populated country in Africa, is primarily dependent on agricultural, with the sector accounting for 40% of its GDP, 80% of its exports, and 75% of its labor force. Agriculture, water, tourism, and forestry are all impacted by climate change, which also increases vulnerability to natural disasters due to internal strife and inadequate infrastructure. In April 2023, internal conflict in neighboring Sudan led to 60,600 refugees escaping to Ethiopia and requiring assistance. Starting with seasonal giving in 2006, Zakat Foundation of America has targeted relief efforts through food assistance, water projects, vocational trainings, education support and emergency relief.
Our Impact in Ethiopia
Stories of Change
Empowering Families Through Food Security
Muse
Muse Ahmed Nur, a 45-year-old disabled man with nine children and three grandchildren, faced adversity after a paralyzing accident and droughts devastated his family's livelihood. Through our Livelihood program, they received a goat and a sheep, providing hope, milk, and income. This transformation enabled two children to attend school, reaching the second grade, and Muse is deeply grateful for the support.
Sofia
Sofia Ahmed, a mother of two in Addis Ababa, faced financial hardship and family challenges after her husband's passing. Struggling to make ends meet, she couldn't afford fresh meat for Eid. The annual Udhiya meat distribution by the Zakat Foundation brought immense joy, providing nutritious food and preserving Eid traditions. This lifeline eased financial strain, offering hope and heartfelt gratitude to the foundation and its supporters.
News from Ethiopia
4/14/25
Ethiopia 2021 Appeal
In a time of risk and danger for humanitarian organizations in the region, we are actively in the region to bring desperately needed food aid. Help us swiftly send aid to the hunger-stricken.
10/21/20
Climate Change Triggers Flood Disasters Across the World
Zakat Foundation’s aid workers stand in the forefront of flood relief. As you read this, they distribute hot meals, clothing, shelter, hygiene kits, bedding, and household supplies to the desperate in seven emergency flood zones.
Stories
Captured Moments: A Glimpse of Our Work
A group of Ethiopian women / مجموعة من النساء الإثيوبيات
A woman receives life sustaining food provisions / امرأة تتلقى المواد الغذائية
An Ethiopian family awaits provisions / عائلة إثيوبية تنتظر تلقي المساعدات
Beautiful Ethiopian child shines his smile / طفل اثيوبي جميل يبتسم
Provisions are distributed for Ramadan celebrations / توزيع المساعدات الرمضانية للاحتفال بشهر رمضان
Qurbani given out to excited beneficiaries / توزيع لحوم الأضاحي الطازجة
Sheep are an essential part of sustainable livelhoods / تربية المواشي جزء أساسي من سبل العيش في إثيوبيا
Udhiya provisions / انتظار الحصول على لحوم الأضاحي الطازجة
Help Ethiopia Now
Sadaqah Jariyah
When you give Sadaqah Jariyah, you are providing a lifeline that keeps on giving.
Give to Sadaqah JariyahSeasonal Islamic Giving
Additional opportunities to provide more aid throughout the world.
Give to Seasonal Islamic Giving
