Emmanuel Development Association (EDA) is an indigenous Ethiopian charity development organization. It was established in 1996 by Tessema Bekele, the founder and Executive Director of EDA. Inspired by the dreams he had since his early childhood, Mr. Tessema ventured to establish an organization aimed at creating opportunities for the holistic development of orphans and vulnerable children in difficult circumstances. He started the charity with an initial investment of ETB 10,000, which he funded from his own pocket. It was after this that some donors, inspired by his vision, decided to extend their support, which helped in scaling up projects and project intervention areas.

EDA started its development endeavors by addressing the education needs of 500 children through an Alternative Basic Education (ABE) program in the Akaki-Kality sub-city of Addis Ababa. EDA is currently registered as an “Ethiopian residents charity organization" by the Ethiopian Government Charities and Societies Agency, under the proclamation No. 621/2009 with a registration number of 0196.

EDA operates a number of project sites in the capital city of Addis Ababa, as well as the Amhara, Afar and Oromia regions. It works with and for vulnerable communities to enhance their social and economic wellbeing through strategic multi-stakeholder development programs. Since 1996, EDA has been diligently implementing and promoting programs for improving the situation of marginalized children in its target areas.

Vision

They envision a bright future and protection for Ethiopian children.

Mission

They are committed to improving the lives of vulnerable children, youth, and women through integrated and community based development programs.