A Landmark Achievement
Kasma Spearheads Historic Coalition to Unify Survivor-Led Organizations in Ethiopia
ካስማ በኢትዮጵያ ታሪክ ለመጀመሪያ ጊዜ በባለታሪኮች የሚመሩ ድርጅቶችን ያሰባሰበ ጥምረት መስረታን አስታወቀ
Date: December 20, 2024
In a landmark event for Ethiopia’s anti-trafficking movement, Kasma Charity Organization has successfully led the formation of the Ethiopian Survivor-Led Organizations Coalition (ESLOC). This transformative initiative brings together six survivor-led organizations to create a unified platform for advocacy, mutual support, and systemic change.
ADDIS ABABA – In a milestone achievement for human rights advocacy in Ethiopia, Kasma Charity Organization today announced the official launch of the Ethiopian Survivor-Led Organizations Coalition (ESLOC). The coalition, which unites six organizations founded and led by survivors of human trafficking, was formally established during a ceremony that also commemorated International Migrants Day.
ESLOC serves as a unified platform to enhance the collective voice of survivors, advocate for their rights at national and international levels, and foster a stronger, more collaborative survivor-centered movement. As Ethiopia’s first survivor-led organization, Kasma spearheaded this initiative to ensure that the lived experiences of survivors are central to the development of all future anti-trafficking policies and programs.
“For too long, decisions about us have been made without us,” said Yenenesh Tilahun, Founder and Executive Director of Kasma. “ESLOC changes that. We are no longer individual voices speaking from the margins; we are a unified force at the center of the conversation. This coalition is a testament to our belief that those who have experienced the problem are the true experts in crafting the solution.”
The successful launch of ESLOC marks a new era of collaboration and empowerment, reflecting Kasma’s ongoing commitment to building a resilient and self-sustaining future for all survivors in Ethiopia.
Ethiopia Marks Historic First National Celebration of International Migrants Day
"Respect Migrants, Shape Their Future Together."
Addis Ababa — In a significant milestone for migration governance, Ethiopia has celebrated International Migrants Day at the national level for the first time. While marked globally for the 25th time under the theme "My Great Story, Culture and Development," Ethiopia observed the day under the national motto: "Respect Migrants, Shape Their Future Together." Government Commitment to Migration Governance The event was graced by the Guest of Honor, H.E. Temesgen Tiruneh, Deputy Prime Minister of the FDRE. In his remarks, the Deputy Prime Minister announced that the government is implementing a "multi-pronged approach" to dismantle human trafficking networks and end the suffering caused by irregular migration. He emphasized that Ethiopia will strengthen its international role in protecting the rights and safety of migrants. Central to the government's citizen-centric policy is the priority of dignified repatriation and the rehabilitation of citizens facing hardships abroad. "We view migrants not as sources of problems, but as forces of innovation, success, and change who strengthen national economies and enhance socio-cultural ties," H.E. Temesgen stated, reaffirming Ethiopia's leading role in implementing the Global Compact for Migration. Strategic Initiatives and New Narrative H.E. Dr. Ergoge Tesfaye, Minister of Women and Social Affairs, highlighted the immense value of safe and dignified migration for national development and cultural exchange. She noted the Ministry's strong collaboration with the International Organization for Migration (IOM) to protect migrant rights and curb irregular migration. Dr. Ergoge also highlighted that Ethiopia has joined the African movement "Let's Tell Our Own Truths about Migration," launched in 2025. She linked migration management to the country's "Green Legacy" initiative, noting its role in preventing climate-induced migration by creating local employment opportunities. The Minister further recalled the launch of the "National Migration Communication Strategy," designed to raise awareness about irregular migration, particularly in rural areas, and to promote legal employment alternatives. Looking ahead, the Ministry indicated it will strengthen the "MPRR" (Migrant Protection, Return, and Reintegration) program to ensure returnees are economically and psychologically self-sufficient. Recognizing Champions of Migration During the event, State Minister of the Social Sector, H.E. Huria Ali, provided a briefing on Ethiopia's overall migration management process. A highlight of the celebration was the awarding of the "Champions of Migration" prize. This award recognized individuals and institutions that have registered high success in migration management, returnee support, and diaspora engagement. The award aims to scale up positive experiences into institutional practices and set examples for others. The event was attended by high-ranking government officials, representatives of international organizations, and NGOs working on migration. Acknowledgments were extended to the IOM, the European Union, and other partners for their technical and financial support in making the celebration a success.
"Respect Migrants, Shape Their Future Together."
Ethiopia Marks Historic First National Celebration of International Migrants Day
From Lost Dreams to Lasting Hope": Kasma Founder Featured in The Ethiopian Herald
"From lost dreams to lasting hope."
ADDIS ABABA – In a powerful testament to resilience and the impact of survivor-led leadership, Kasma Charity Organization's Founder and Executive Director, Yenenesh Tilahun, was prominently featured in the March 8th Special Edition of The Ethiopian Herald. The extensive two-page article, beautifully written by Elizabeth Mengistu and titled "From lost dreams to lasting hope," chronicles Yenenesh's deeply personal journey. It details the harsh realities she faced during her years of irregular migration across the Middle East and North Africa, her battles with severe illness, and her eventual return to Ethiopia. More importantly, the feature highlights how Yenenesh transformed her pain into a powerful movement. Recognizing that other returnees were suffering in silence, she founded Kasma Charity Organization alongside 14 other survivors. The Ethiopian Herald recognized Kasma's monumental impact, highlighting key milestones including: Empowering over 320 victims of human trafficking through holistic psychosocial and vocational training. Achieving a remarkable 94% success rate in helping participants secure employment and reintegrate into society, backed by partners like The Freedom Fund. Initiating and leading the Ethiopian Survivor-Led Organizations Coalition (ESLOC). Yenenesh’s appointment as the East Africa Representative to the Executive Team of the African Survivor Coalition (ASC). "Our organization encourages people to work and thrive at home, rather than viewing migration as the only option," Yenenesh is quoted in the article. "Since migration is a right, we urge those considering it to choose legal paths, make informed decisions, and equip themselves with the required training." We extend our deepest gratitude to The Ethiopian Herald and journalist Elizabeth Mengistu for telling this story with such dignity and depth. This feature is not just Yenenesh's story; it is the story of every survivor who has walked through Kasma's doors and chosen to rebuild their life. Read the full article in the images below.
