German Sparkassenstiftung East African in Ethiopia

We started our operations in Addis Ababa in 2024.

A portrait of Ethiopia

Ethiopia is known for its rich history, diverse landscapes, and vibrant culture. It is the most populous landlocked country in the world, with over 120 million inhabitants representing a variety of ethnic groups and languages. The nation boasts stunning natural diversity, ranging from the scorching Danakil Depression, one of the hottest places on Earth, to the lush highlands and the Simien Mountains, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Often referred to as the cradle of humanity, Ethiopia is home to some of the oldest human fossils ever discovered, including "Lucy," a famous 3.2-million-year-old hominid. It is also the only African country never colonized, which has allowed it to preserve its rich cultural heritage, including the ancient rock-hewn churches of Lalibela and the traditions of its coffee ceremonies.

At the same time, Ethiopia faces significant challenges, including a pronounced gender gap in education, economic opportunities, and political representation. The country also struggles with economic and social vulnerabilities such as recurring droughts, food insecurity, and the impacts of climate change. Internal conflicts and political instability have at times hindered its development. Despite these obstacles, Ethiopia remains a country of immense potential, with a growing economy, rich cultural assets, and a resilient population working toward a more prosperous future.

Our vision and activities

German Sparkassenstiftung Eastern Africa (DSIK) started its operations in Ethiopia in 2024, as part of the regional project "Sustainable Transformation of the Financial Sector in Eastern Africa through Institutional Strengthening of the Microfinance Sector and Socio-Ecological Transformation of the Economy, with a Focus on Rural Development."

The overall goal of the project is the comprehensive strengthening of the microfinance sector, particularly through the professionalization and digitalization of service offerings to provide sustainable access to demand-driven financial services for micro, small, and medium-sized enterprises (MSMEs) and small-scale agricultural businesses. The project emphasizes the inclusion of women and vulnerable populations with a focus on ecological sustainability.