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A joint delegation from NORAD, the Norwegian Embassy, the Development Fund of Norway and EWNRA traveled to Southwest Ethiopia to evaluate the progress of the REDD+ PFM project.
Upon arrival at EWNRA’s coordination office in Metu town, Illuababur Zone, the team received a briefing on the project’s overall status, which is funded by NORAD through DF.
Opening the session, Ato Sisay Kasahun, DF country program Coordinator for Ethiopia, welcomed the participants and initiated the discussions. Ato Afework Hailu, Executive Director of EWNRA, then provided an overview of the organization’s evolution since its establishment, highlighting Metu as a key location in its history. He emphasized the significant achievements made in forest-based community activities through partnerships with DF and the Norwegian government.
Ato Ahmid Said, EWNRA’s Forest Program Coordinator, presented a detailed report on the project’s progress in Southwest Ethiopia since its inception in 2013. He outlined the project’s contributions to environmental conservation and improved livelihoods, while also discussing its impacts, challenges, and key lessons learned.
The visitors engaged actively, raising questions and sharing feedback, which EWNRA representatives addressed. Many expressed their satisfaction with the insights gained about the three phases of the REDD+ PFM project.
The REDD+ PFM project has been fully funded by NORAD through the Development Fund of Norway across three consecutive phases.