The Gorodola region of Southern Ethiopia is home to a tradition called Hirpha Debere where community members transfer part of their livestock wealth to those less fortunate as a support mechanism in times of hardship. In the spirit of paying it forward, those who received help eventually get the opportunity to help others. It’s an ancient practice that, by and large, has helped many in this region overcome poverty and support their families.IIRR Day 1 Dad_141

In recent years, however, the practice has waned, and those who were looking for support are unable to attain it. To combat this, IIRR has joined forces with local NGO, Dubaf. Through IIRR’s Economic and Social Empowerment of Youth (ESEY) program, Dubaf purchased 70 young female goats and distributed them to 35 disadvantage girls in seven pastoral associations. Each girl was given two goats, and as part of the arrangement the girls’ parents added one additional female goat to the mix. Each of the goats gave birth at least once and the girls were able to give a goat to another young girl.

One participant, 16-year-old Rehima, was relegated to chores at home while her brothers attended school. She was invited to participate in IIRR’s ESEY program and received 2 female goats. By selling goats, she was able to open a small shop that now earns extra money for her family. Her shop was so successful that she gave a goat to her sister, who then was able to give a goat to another girl. She was also able to return to school using the money raised from selling her goats.

When a girl is given a goat to manage, it provides more than food for her family. It helps fund school and its associated costs, while also drastically reducing the rate of dropping out of school to marry and have children. It teachers her the skills she will need to run a business or become a leader in her community. The ownership of goats also helps girls build a future where they will own property and improve their economic standing, and most importantly, help foster positive community perceptions about the role and value of girls.

Goats and girls, it’s a winning combination.