Action for the Needy in Ethiopia (ANE) marked a significant milestone by launching formal partnerships with the Global Institute for Water, Environment and Health (GIWEH) and Human Bridge. The high-level event at Capital Hotel, Addis Ababa convened government leaders, development partners, and civil society actors under the theme: “Forging Ahead with Stronger Partnerships – Empowering Communities in Need.”
Two major Memoranda of Understanding were signed:
✅ ANE ane GIWEH (Geneva): Joint collaboration in water resource management, environmental sustainability, and public health systems.
✅ ANE and Human Bridge (Sweden): Cooperation in medical relief, logistics, and capacity development to strengthen health infrastructure and emergency response.
Opening Statement by H.E. Ambassador Asfaw Dingamo
The State Minister of Water and Energy, Chairperson of ANE's Board, H.E. Ambassador Asfaw Dingamo opened the event by emphasizing the national relevance of integrated water, health, and environmental interventions. He expressed his appreciation for GIWEH and Human Bridge for choosing ANE as a trusted local partner
He also stressed the urgency of ensuring access to clean water and sanitation in rural Ethiopia, expressing optimism that the new partnerships will lead to measurable improvements in under served communities.
Strategic Outlook by Mr. Salihu Sultan
Mr. Salihu Sultan, Managing Director of ANE, delivered a compelling welcome address, highlighting ANE’s continued growth and the pivotal role of strategic partnerships
He specifically acknowledged Human Bridge International Office’s recent donation of medical equipment valued at over 40 million Birr to the significantly under-resourced Negele Hospital in Borena. Furthermore, he commended Human Bridge’s additional commitment to donate medical equipment worth approximately 80 million Birr to support Negele Hospital and surrounding health institutions in the area.
Mr. Salihu also emphasized the need for more structured approaches to harness Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) as a driver of sustainable development.
Statement by Dr. Nidal Salim, Director of GIWEH - Geneva
Speaking from Geneva Virtually, Dr. Nidal Salim, Founder and Director of the Global Institute for Water, Environment and Health (GIWEH), presented his institution’s mission and thematic focus areas. He highlighted GIWEH’s global footprint and strategic alignment with ANE’s priorities.
He emphasized that GIWEH and ANE share a common strategic vision for addressing the root causes of vulnerability in East Africa and beyond. Dr. Salim also stressed the indispensable need for strategic partnerships to tackle complex development challenges.
Statement by Mr. Robert Bergman CEO Of Human Bridge International - Sweden
Speaking from Sweden Virtually, Mr. Robert Bergman CEO Of Human Bridge International, echoed a strong commitment to deepening humanitarian collaboration: This MoU affirms more than institutional alignment—it affirms our shared commitment to delivering impact where it is most needed.”
Robert Bergman expressed deep appreciation for ANE’s leadership, recognizing its trusted local presence and results-oriented approach.
Closing Remarks by Ato Samson Biratu, Director General of ACSO
Ato Samson Biratu, Director General of the Authority for Civil Society Organizations (ACSO), delivered the closing statement. He praised ANE for its innovation, agility, and strong track record in community-based programming, reaffirming ACSO’s support for civil society engagement in national development.
Looking Ahead
With reinforced partnerships and a bold regional vision, ANE is poised to scale its mission of reaching the most vulnerable populations. The event reaffirmed that shared vision, genuine collaboration, and local ownership are the keys to achieving lasting impact across Ethiopia and the greater Horn of Africa..
