Ethiopia Prosperity Initiative

Barakah Ethiopia is guided by the timeless teachings of Islam. Our mission is to uplift impoverished communities in Ethiopia, by instilling the values of compassion, dignity, and self-reliance.

Ethiopia, historically known as Abyssinia, holds a special place in Islamic history as the homeland of esteemed companions like Bilal ibn Rabah (may Allah be pleased with him), the esteemed Mu'adhin of the Prophet Muhammad ﷺ. This rich historical connection underscores the importance of our initiative in continuing the legacy of compassion and support for those in need."

Sustainable Sheep Rearing Programme

By providing sustainable livelihood opportunities such as sheep rearing, we empower individuals to break free from the cycle of poverty and dependency and provide valuable training that will be passed on to generations to come.

We will provide beneficiaries with healthy and suitable breeds of young sheep that are suitable for rearing, animal fodder, training, veterinary services and technical support which they can rear and sell for a profit. They will also receive guidance on how to manage their flock effectively and maximise their profits.

What will we provide?

• Provision of sheep: The beneficiaries will be provided with sheep to start their rearing activities. This includes the provision of healthy and suitable breeds of approximately 12 months of age;
• Animal fodder: Feed will be provided to supplement feeding during the fattening period;
• Training and technical support: We will provide the beneficiaries with training and technical support on various aspects of sheep fattening. This can include training on sheep husbandry, feeding, healthcare and management practices. They will also receive guidance on how to manage their flock effectively and maximise their profits;
• Veterinary service provisions will be provided to beneficiaries in collaboration with local government agricultural offices;
• Networking and peer support: We will provide networking support amongst the beneficiaries of the programme that will allow them to share experiences, knowledge and best practices; Peer support can be valuable in enhancing skills, problem-solving and ensuring an overall greater success for the programme;
• Marketing assistance to enable beneficiaries to achieve the best return of investment.

Why Sheep Rearing?

In Ethiopia, sheep rearing/fattening has proven to be a profitable activity and has relatively lower investment costs compared to that of other ventures, faster economic returns and reduced associated risks.

Through our programme, beneficiaries will be able to generate an increase of herd value and sell their animals for a profit after a cycle of 75-90 days. Beneficiaries will be supported to sell their animals at times of peak demand.

Through ongoing training and technical support, we will work with beneficiaries to develop long term value chains through ongoing stock replenishment and herd building, enabling them to generate a consistent and sustainable income insha-Allah.

Why Sustainable Livelihoods?

In Islam, seeking sustenance through lawful means is not just a necessity; it's a virtuous endeavour. The Prophet Muhammad ﷺ said,

“No food is better to man than that which he earns through his manual work…”

(Bukhari)

Through sustainable livelihoods, we uphold this noble principle, empowering individuals to earn a halal income with dignity and honour.

Sadaqah Jaariyah

This programme is a form of Sadaqah Jaariyah, providing ongoing charity with long-term sustainability and returns for the beneficiaries. By investing in sustainable livelihoods, donors are contributing to a legacy of positive impact that continues to benefit communities for years to come and continues to reap rewards for donors beyond their graves.

Impact

Abu Hurairah (may Allah be pleased with him) reported: The Messenger of Allah ﷺ said,

“Allah did not send any prophet but that he cared for sheep.” The companions asked, “And you as well?” The Prophet said, “Yes. I was a shepherd with a modest wage on behalf of the people of Mecca.”

(Ṣaḥīḥ al-Bukhārī 2262)

Our initiative has the potential to catalyse profound transformations in the lives of beneficiaries and their communities. By providing sustainable livelihood opportunities such as sheep rearing, we empower individuals to break free from the cycle of poverty and dependency and provide valuable training that will be passed on to generations to come.

Through entrepreneurial opportunities and economic empowerment, beneficiaries are equipped to run their own small businesses. This initiative not only enables them to generate income, supporting themselves and their families, but also ensures access to education and healthcare, allowing them to invest in a brighter future. Additionally, it fosters a sense of self-reliance and financial stability within the community.

Moreover, the ripple effects of our intervention extend beyond individual households. Strengthened by economic empowerment, communities witness enhanced social cohesion and collective progress. Local economies thrive as businesses flourish, creating employment opportunities and stimulating growth.

By addressing the root causes of poverty and empowering individuals to realise their potential, our initiative lays the groundwork for sustainable development and lasting change. Together, we're not just providing assistance; we're igniting a transformative journey towards prosperity and dignity for all. 

How You Can Help

Your generosity can change lives and earn you immense rewards in this world and the Hereafter. Join us in fulfilling the prophetic mandate of compassion and justice. Donate today and become a source of hope and empowerment for our brothers and sisters in Ethiopia.

Allah says in the Qur'an,

“And spend from what We have provided you before death approaches one of you and he says, 'My Lord, if only You would delay me for a brief term so I would give charity and be among the righteous.”

(Qur'an 63:10)