Gurmuu Development Association

The Gurmuu Development Association convened its 20th General Assembly for 2025 on March 29, 2026, at Elily International Hotel in Addis Ababa, bringing together the organization’s founding members and stakeholders. The assembly opened with a traditional blessing from elders, setting a respectful and inspiring tone. The Association’s Director, Mr. Ababeyehu Jabessa, presented the 2025 Annual Progressive Report, followed by the auditors’ financial report. Both documents were thoroughly discussed under the guidance of the Board Committee, ensuring a participatory and constructive dialogue. Members who had consistently supported the Association were honored with certificates of recognition, highlighting their role in strengthening institutional capacity. Elections were also held to fill vacant committee positions, reinforcing the Board’s functionality and inclusiveness. The event was marked by lively exchanges, with participants raising critical issues on how Gurmuu can better address pressing social and economic challenges within communities. The assembly concluded successfully, reaffirming the Association’s enduring commitment to driving positive change. As it began with elders’ blessings, it fittingly closed with the same tradition, symbolizing continuity and unity.

Gurmuu has successfully completed training for 66 new staff members, including child protection officers, coordinators, social workers, and community facilitators, from January 22 to 27, 2026. This training is part of the child protection project funded by FCDO through UNICEF, which is currently being implemented across eight woredas in the West Wollega, Kellem Wollega, East Wollega, and North Showa Zones of Oromia.
The training focused on the fundamentals of Child Protection, Case Management, and Mental Health and Psychosocial Support (MHPSS). It was delivered in two sessions aimed at strengthening staff capacity. The objective was to equip participants with the skills necessary to effectively support vulnerable children in their communities and ensure the successful implementation of project activities as planned. The sessions were facilitated internally by Gurmuu’s team of child protection experts, practitioners, and experienced social workers, making the training both interactive and practical.

Gurmuu is implementing socio-emotional learning (SEL) sessions for children affected by conflict to promote healing, resilience, and social well-being. These sessions help children build confidence, manage their emotions, and strengthen positive social interactions. Our sincere thanks to UNICEF Ethiopia/ECW for their continued support.