Shelter & Infrastructure
Improving housing conditions and community infrastructure for better living standards and safety.
Program Overview
HEAL Ethiopia's Shelter & Infrastructure program aims to improve living conditions and safety for vulnerable families and communities through sustainable housing solutions and community infrastructure development.
Safe, adequate housing is fundamental to health, dignity, and overall wellbeing. Yet many families in Ethiopia live in inadequate conditions, with limited access to clean water, sanitation, and essential services. Additionally, community infrastructure such as roads, schools, and health facilities are often lacking or in poor condition.
Our integrated approach addresses both immediate housing needs and long-term infrastructure development, working with communities to implement sustainable solutions that improve quality of life and resilience.
Key Interventions
Our comprehensive approach addresses housing and infrastructure needs at multiple levels.
Housing Improvements
- Construction and renovation of homes for vulnerable families
- Improved cooking facilities and indoor air quality
- Household water and sanitation facilities
- Energy-efficient housing solutions
Community Infrastructure
- Construction and rehabilitation of schools and health facilities
- Community roads and bridges
- Community centers and gathering spaces
- Market facilities and economic infrastructure
Skills Development
- Training in construction skills and techniques
- Entrepreneurship in construction-related businesses
- Maintenance and repair skills
- Sustainable building practices
Disaster Risk Reduction
- Disaster-resistant housing and infrastructure
- Community-based disaster risk management
- Early warning systems and preparedness
- Climate adaptation for infrastructure
Case Study: Rebuilding Dalo Community
After severe flooding damaged homes and community infrastructure in the Dalo community of SNNPR, HEAL Ethiopia partnered with local authorities and community members to implement a comprehensive rebuilding program.
The project included the construction of 50 flood-resistant homes, rehabilitation of the community school and health post, installation of a flood early warning system, and training for 30 community members in disaster-resistant construction techniques.
As a result, all affected families now have safe, secure housing, and the community is better prepared for future flooding events. The trained construction workers have formed a cooperative that provides services to neighboring communities, generating income and spreading improved building practices.
This project demonstrates the effectiveness of our integrated approach, which combines immediate housing needs with long-term capacity building and risk reduction.
