Ethiopia -- Habitat for Humanity Int'l 1 The Housing Need This
shack made of scrap metal and wood in Addis Ababa, is typical of
the housing need in Ethiopia. Habitat for Humanity Ethiopia
houses in Debre Berhan affiliate. Ethiopia is probably best
known for its regular bouts of drought and famine and conflict
with neighboring Eritrea. Political turmoil and internal
fighting have added to the lethal combination of factors that
caused millions to starve to death during the 1970’s and ‘80’s.
Even now, Ethiopia is one of the ten poorest nations in the
world. Over half of the population is illiterate. In spite of
its arid climate, the economy relies heavily on agriculture and
the country is one of Africa’s leading coffee producers.
However, many Ethiopians still depend on food aid. Almost 85% of
the houses in Ethiopia are made of mud and stick or thatch
walls, which collapse easily. Homes are often cramped, with dirt
floors, leaking roofs and no windows or doors, leaving their
occupants vulnerable to adverse weath