Heineken Ethiopia has announced a new 33 million birr initiative aimed at improving the livelihoods of vulnerable households in Kilinto and Koye Feche through animal fattening and food processing activities. The project, implemented in partnership with Mahibere Hiwot for Social Development (MSD), will directly benefit 75 households-30 in Kilinto and 45 in Koye Feche-by promoting sustainable income generation and small-scale agribusiness.

The beneficiaries will engage in various activities including animal fattening, dairy farming, cattle rearing, poultry farming, and food processing-sectors critical to local food security and economic resilience. The project provides livestock, feed, veterinary services, and technical training to equip participants with the skills needed to build sustainable businesses.

Speaking at the launch ceremony, Bart de Keninck, Managing Director of Heineken Ethiopia, emphasized the transformative potential of livestock farming for rural and peri-urban communities. “This project will significantly improve the living conditions of these households,” he said, pledging continued support through technical training, market linkages, and sustainable management practices to ensure long-term success.

Special attention has been given to empowering women, female-headed households, and people with disabilities, identified through a collaborative selection process involving Heineken, MSD, community members, and local government officials.

The initiative also aims to strengthen social cohesion and nurture local entrepreneurship. By fostering economic empowerment at the grassroots level, Heineken Ethiopia demonstrates its commitment to sustainable and inclusive community development, aligning with its global “Brewing a Better World” sustainability agenda.

Key stakeholders present at the handover included MSD Founder and Executive Director Tilaye Gizachew, Heineken Ethiopia’s Sustainability and Government Affairs Manager Fekadu Bashah, and Kenean Gezahige, CEO of Akaki Kality Woreda 09.