Global Team for Local Initiatives Helping People Help Themselves

Since 2008 GTLI has worked with the Hamar
tribe of Ethiopia. This ancient tribe, affected by
drought and disease, is gaining the skills they need
for continued survival.

Clean Water GTLI constructs water schemes - and trains and motivates the Hamar to maintain and protect them - so they have clean water long-term.

Hygiene and sanitation GTLI is helping the Hamar adopt healthier behaviors that will prevent disease. These "pioneer" families have committed to using pit latrines rather than open defecation. A big change - and a big step toward health.

Education The Hamar do not speak, read or write the national language, nor do they do math. GTLI teaches Functional Adult Literacy so they can negotiate for themselves, trade and run small businesses.

Income Generating Activities GTLI is helping the Hamar create small businesses so they can earn money to buy food. Here, the Minogelti Women's Coop celebrates the opening of their Rural Trading Center. The center will generate income and bring food and critical supplies to their community.

Sponsor a Child Tribal custom forces the Hamar to abandon and kill "mingi" children, who are believed to bring bad luck to the community. GTLI intervenes, cares for these children, and works to eradicate this Harmful Traditional Practice.