HelpAge Ethiopia has officially launched as an independent national organisation, marking a significant moment after 30 years of operating as HelpAge International’s country office.
The transition reflects a deliberate move toward nationally led leadership on ageing in Ethiopia, grounded in local priorities, local expertise and sustained relationships with Older People’s Associations across the country.
Tewodros Belachew, Executive Director of HelpAge Ethiopia, underscored the importance of this moment: “Becoming an independent national organisation allows us to shape our direction based on the realities older people face every day in Ethiopia. We will continue to work closely with our partners, including HelpAge International, but with a stronger, locally led voice that ensures older people’s needs and rights are at the heart of national action. This is not just an institutional change — it is an opportunity to drive lasting improvements in the lives of older people.”
A launch that reflects Ethiopia’s leadership and vision on ageing
The launch ceremony in Addis Ababa brought together more than 130 participants, including government representatives, UN agencies, civil society organisations, international NGOs, development partners, media and members of Older People’s Associations. Their presence demonstrated broad support for a model that places national leadership at the centre of efforts to advance the rights and well-being of older people.
Government representatives highlighted Ethiopia’s growing commitment to leadership on ageing. The State Minister for Social Affairs, H.E. Huriya Ali, recognised HelpAge International’s three decades of work and commended the transition as a meaningful example of shifting power, resources and decision-making to national organisations.
A panel discussion on localisation – featuring contributors from Pledge for Change, Charter for Change and the national CSO forum – explored how civil society in Ethiopia is driving efforts to strengthen nationally led development. Speakers emphasised that local organisations, rooted in community priorities, are better positioned to respond to the diverse needs and aspirations of older people.
Strengthening a locally led movement for older people
As a national NGO, HelpAge Ethiopia will play a central role in shaping the ageing agenda in collaboration with older people and their associations, government entities, civil society, academic institutions and the private sector. The organisation aims to deepen partnerships that improve older people’s well-being and strengthen their ability to participate in decisions affecting their lives.
As part of the HelpAge global network, HelpAge Ethiopia will also contribute to regional and global advocacy, ensuring learning from Ethiopia strengthens wider collective action on ageing and locally led development.
HelpAge International’s evolving role
The establishment of HelpAge Ethiopia is a major milestone in HelpAge International’s broader localisation journey. Over recent years, HelpAge has been evolving its global model to strengthen national organisations, centre local leadership and build a movement that is both locally grounded and globally connected.
HelpAge International CEO Cherian Mathews reflected on this transition: “HelpAge Ethiopia is a powerful example of what localisation looks like in practice. By shifting leadership, resources and responsibility to national organisations, we are strengthening the global movement for ageing and ensuring older people’s rights are championed by those who understand the context best. This is a proud and defining moment in our journey.”
HelpAge International will continue to work alongside HelpAge Ethiopia as a partner and convenor, offering technical support, facilitating connections within the Global Network and amplifying learning and innovation emerging from Ethiopia.
A strong foundation for the future
The launch concluded with a shared commitment from partners to support HelpAge Ethiopia as it enters this new phase. With national leadership at its core, strong local partnerships and deep ties to Older People’s Associations across the country, HelpAge Ethiopia is well positioned to shape a more inclusive and effective approach to ageing, rooted in Ethiopia, connected globally and driven by older people themselves.