Family: The Unbreakable Force in Overcoming Adversity

In the shadows of Ethiopia’s Western Oromia conflict, according to Addis Standard thousands of lives have been lost, homes destroyed, and families torn apart. Since 2020, relentless violence in the East Wollega and Horo Guduru Wollega zones has displaced hundreds of thousands, deepening a humanitarian crisis that leaves the most vulnerable, children facing the harshest consequences. 

Abel's early struggles 

Amidst this turmoil, five-year-old Abel, born in Wollega town, faced his own battles from a tender age. At just eight months old, he underwent spinal cord surgery due to complications from birth. Despite the surgery, Abel was left unable to walk. His parents, a soldier and a local restaurant worker, devoted themselves to his care, using every resource possible to meet his medical needs. 

The impact of conflict on families 

The eruption of conflict in Abel's hometown turned their world upside down. "Our town became a war zone. We lost everything in days—our home, our jobs, our community," recalls Abel's mother. The family fled with nothing but the clothes on their backs, carrying Abel. Arriving in Addis Ababa, they found themselves without income, shelter, or a clear path to continue Abel's critical treatment. 

The Global Report on Children’s Care and Protection highlights conflict as a driver of child-family separation, often leading to children living on the streets. In Western Oromia, many families have been forced into such dire situations due to the ongoing violence and lack of humanitarian assistance.   

Family strength amidst adversity 

Despite the overwhelming challenges, Abel's family remained united and resilient. They received support through the Children in Street Situations (CiSS) Project, implemented by SOS Children’s Villages in Ethiopia with support from SOS Norway and Heimstaden. 

In collaboration with Tilahunen Charity Association, the family was enrolled in a day center offering hygiene facilities, hot meals, and parenting support, helping them navigate the turmoil together. 

Abel was also referred to Addis Guzo, an organization dedicated to assisting individuals with disabilities in Ethiopia. There, he received a wheelchair and essential physiotherapy, enabling him to sit upright for the first time. "Seeing him in a wheelchair, smiling gave us hope again," his mother shared, tears in her eyes. "After everything we lost, that moment was like light breaking through darkness." 

The role of families in overcoming crisis 

While the support played a crucial role, it was Abel's parents' unwavering love and determination that was the cornerstone of his recovery. Their strength and unity amidst challenging times underscore the critical importance of family in a child's resilience and well-being. 

The CiSS project, launched in 2022 and running through 2026, aims to reach 3,600 children in Addis Ababa's selected five sub-cities, focusing on family strengthening, education, life skills training, and community reintegration. By addressing the root causes that push children into unsafe environments, the project emphasizes the importance of keeping families together.   

A brighter future for Abel 

Today, Abel's future appears brighter. His father has secured new employment, and his mother continues to care for Abel and their newborn daughter, while rebuilding their life. Abel's journey serves as a testament to the resilience of families and the transformative power of support that prioritizes keeping children with their families. 

*To respect the person's privacy, their real name has not been used.