CVT Contributors: Mohammed Ibrahim Yimer, Girmalew Teklu, Medhanye Alem, Abdene Gebo and Maki Katoh

CVT Ethiopia marked a milestone with the vibrant launch of its new programs in Debre Birhan and Mekelle. By holding events in their respective locations – on Dec. 6, 2024 in Debre Birhan and on Dec. 13, 2024 in Mekelle – CVT Ethiopia brought together key stakeholders and community leaders.

In addition to several INGOs, the Education Bureaus, and varied UN agency representatives, others came to represent the:

• Agency for Civil Society Organizations (ACSO).
• Ethiopian Public Health Institute (EPHI).
• Regional Health Bureaus (RHB).
• Bureau of Women Affairs (BoWA).
• Bureau of Labor and Social Affairs (BoLSA).

The events were enriched with opening remarks from Maki Katoh, CVT Ethiopia’s country director, and speeches from distinguished guests.

Highlights included an overview of CVT Ethiopia’s achievements and strategic plans, a presentation on trauma-informed physiotherapy and stretching exercises.

Participants also engaged in several other program activities during the the events, including:

• Panel discussions.
• Symbolic cake-cutting ceremonies.
• A gallery walk showcasing powerful photos of staff dedication.
• Self-care practices.
• Inspiring client success stories.

Maki Katoh’s reflections on progress and partnerships

In her opening remarks, Maki provided an inspiring overview of CVT’s journey since its founding. She highlighted the organization’s start in Ethiopia in 2012 and the steady progress made in addressing mental health needs in the country.

Reflecting on her early experiences upon arriving in Ethiopia, Maki noted the limited attention given to mental health at the time. She commended the Ethiopian government for its growing support of mental health initiative. Maki also acknowledged the increased awareness and acceptance of mental health care within communities.

Maki also extended her gratitude to the government for its unwavering support. She also thanked UNHCR for generously providing office space in Debre Birhan, which has been instrumental in enabling CVT’s work in the region.

Commitment to healing

During the launch event, Tesfaye Asebot, UNHCR and OIC protection associate in Debre Birhan, acknowledged CVT’s essential role in addressing the critical gap in MHPSS (mental health and psychosocial support) services for trauma-affected IDPs. He emphasized how CVT’s involvement brings renewed hope, complementing the informal psychosocial support previously offered by religious leaders.

Worknesh Mengiste from the Ethiopian Public Health Institute (EPHI) highlighted the collaboration between CVT and the EPHI-led MHPSS Technical Working Group. She underscored CVT’s capacity to bridge significant service gaps and to meet pressing mental health needs in affected communities.

Siraj Abdulshukur from the Agency for Civil Society Organizations (ACSO) stressed the importance of CVT’s services in promoting peace-building and reinforcing local humanitarian efforts. He noted that such initiatives are vital for fostering a resilient and hopeful future for the country.

Speaking at the event, Dr. Amanuel Haile, head of the Tigray Region Health Bureau, reflected on the devastating impact of the war in Tigray.

“The war in Tigray has caused unimaginable human suffering. While physical ailments like malaria are easily identified and treated, the psychological wounds often remain unaddressed,”

We are grateful that CVT has expanded its services to Mekelle, as the region desperately needs MHPSS expertise.”

“The bureau remains committed to supporting CVT in any way possible, including advocating for donor funding to ensure the continuity of these critical services,” he said.

Amanuel also called on CVT clinicians to uphold professional ethics and provide quality care. This moment underscored the importance of their work in rebuilding lives of many survivors.

The Role of civil society

Representing ACSO, Deputy Directors Fasikaw Molla and Mesfin Muluneh joined Director General Samson Biratu to share that over 5000 organizations operate in Ethiopia, and CVT stands out for its focus on mental health and psychosocial support. Fasikaw stressed the urgent need for coordinated efforts to address the long-term psychological impacts of the region’s challenges.

Unfortunately, the needs for other kinds of services, particularly for underserved IDP populations in the Debre Birhan region, has been debated, and the continuity of services from other NGOs is in question.

However, Anteneh Gebreegziabher, the representative for the Debre Birhan Mayor’s Office, commented that no single organization can meet all the needs of beneficiaries. Anteneh stated that we need to work together to advocate for more support to come.

A representative of the Women’s Association in Mekelle also stressed the importance of collaboration, saying:

…it is the responsibility of all of us to heal these survivors.”

Engaging discussions

Panelists – including CVT’s clinical program director, operations director, area managers and government representatives – engaged in meaningful dialogue on critical topics, including:

• Coordination between CVT and government bodies.
• Sustainability and exit strategies.
• Community feedback mechanisms.
• Agreements with regional authorities.

Closing remarks

At the events’ ending, Maki, Mohammed Ibrahim and Girmalew Teklu area managers for Amhara and Tigray, respectively, thanked the attendees for their valuable contributions and critical questions. The closing reinforced CVT’s commitment to collaboration and impactful service delivery.

The launch events marked not just the beginning of expanded services, but a renewed commitment to healing and resilience in Tigray and Amhara.

Together with its partners, CVT Ethiopia continues to light the path toward recovery for communities affected by conflict and trauma.