USAID announced a project to rehabilitate Egna LeEgna and Tamira libraries and youth centers as well as train young people in conflict resolution and peer mediation. USAID will fix the ceilings, improve the windows and doors, repair walls, and paint. The libraries and youth spaces will be provided with books, desks and tables, and computers. The Science Cafe library will receive similar resources. USAID Mission Director Scott Hocklander attended the inauguration ceremony at Egna LeEgna library alongside Shashemane local officials and partners.  

Shashemane’s public spaces, which attract diverse community members, play a crucial role in fostering social cohesion and promoting bonds across ethnic and religious divides. In the past, these three libraries have served as important community centers for the city’s residents, in particular during school exams when students gather to learn and study.  

USAID has partnered with the Egna Le Egna Youth Health and Development Organization for the library rehabilitation project. The project will support a series of events at these renovated libraries to create opportunities for people of different backgrounds to meet and connect. USAID will also rehabilitate two youth centers with the Biftu Birra Humanitarian Organization. At the centers, youth will be trained in conflict resolution and peer mediation. Additionally, USAID, with the Biftu Birra Health & Development Association, will organize sports tournaments, art shows, and dialogue sessions.  (Press Release)