@UNICEF_Ethiopia – Ethiopian Business Review

Heineken Ethiopia, in partnership with Addis Meter Taxi, the Addis Ababa Traffic Management Agency, and the Addis Ababa Traffic Police, has deployed 50 taxis across the city tagged with a powerful public safety message: “When You Drink, You Don’t Drive.”

The initiative, which spans six months, is expected to reach over two million residents daily, targeting behavioral change at scale. The campaign comes at a time when traffic-related fatalities and alcohol-induced accidents remain a pressing public concern in Ethiopia’s rapidly growing urban centers.

“As a company, we take our responsibility seriously to ensure this message is not only heard but remembered,” said Bart De Keninck, Managing Director of Heineken Ethiopia. “Driving under the influence isn’t just dangerous, it’s deadly. When someone is drunk, they can’t think clearly, and the consequences can be irreversible.”

The initiative extends beyond the city’s streets. In a parallel campaign targeting youth, Heineken has launched an awareness program across 11 Ethiopian universities, educating students under the theme “No for Drinking.” The program emphasizes that alcohol consumption is not appropriate for those under 21, aiming to foster early awareness and responsible behavior.

“This isn’t about promoting our brand, our name isn’t even visible on the taxis,” explained Fekadu Beshah, External Relations and Sustainability Manager at Heineken. “It’s about standing up and taking responsibility as a corporate citizen.”

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Ethiopia has managed to satisfy 76 percent of its national water demand during the current fiscal year, benefiting more than 17 million citizens. The update was delivered by Eng. Habtamu Etefa, Minister of Water and Energy, during the 32nd regular session of the 6th House of People’s Representatives, where he addressed questions from lawmakers on the country’s progress toward full drinking water coverage.

In a wide-ranging discussion, Eng. Habtamu acknowledged persistent gaps in water supply across several cities and rural areas, including delays in drilling, the spread of invasive weeds, and challenges posed by polluted water bodies. Nonetheless, he emphasized that Ethiopia is on a clear path toward universal access to drinking water by 2030, citing steady year-on-year progress and a more integrated approach to water basin management.

The Minister explained that the country’s water development strategy now relies heavily on accurate data mapping of surface and groundwater resources. He also noted that, beyond federal allocations, achieving the 2030 target requires stronger collaboration and support from regional governments.

Addressing environmental concerns, Eng. Habtamu highlighted that the recently approved Water Body Demarcation, Development and Care Proclamation is expected to significantly reduce the impact of pollution and invasive species on Ethiopia’s freshwater ecosystems. He added that sustainable water management depends on the coordinated efforts of all stakeholders, including communities living near water sources.

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A new report by ActionAid has revealed the devastating impact of austerity-driven budget cuts on health and education systems across six African countries, including Ethiopia. The study, titled “The Human Cost of Public Sector Cuts in Africa,” highlights a significant decline in public investment and the consequences it brings for both workers and communities.

Surveying more than 600 healthcare workers, teachers, and community members in Ethiopia, Ghana, Kenya, Liberia, Malawi, and Nigeria, the report found stark indicators of crisis. Teachers’ salaries have dropped by up to 50% over the past five years, and 97% of healthcare workers reported that their income no longer covers basic needs such as food and rent.

In Ethiopia, the situation has grown particularly severe. There is a dire shortage of affordable medical supplies, with residents forced to seek care at high-cost private clinics. “Five years ago, we could buy antimalarial drugs for 50 birr. Now it costs over 500 birr in private centers,” said Marym, a resident of Muyakela Kebele.

The education sector is also under immense pressure. Across the surveyed countries, 87% of teachers reported a lack of basic teaching materials, often having to cover these costs out of their own pockets. “With over 200 students and no resources, delivering quality education is nearly impossible,” said Maluwa, a primary school teacher from Malawi.

ActionAid attributes these widespread challenges to austerity policies promoted by the International Monetary Fund (IMF). The organization argues that IMF-driven fiscal frameworks encourage governments to prioritize debt repayments over essential public spending. For instance, in 2024, Nigeria allocated just 4% of national revenue to health, while over 20% was directed to servicing foreign debt.

“The IMF’s push for austerity is forcing countries to sacrifice essential services,” said Andrew Mamedu, ActionAid Nigeria’s Country Director. “Governments must prioritize people, not debt.”

In response, ActionAid is calling for increased investment in public services through fair and progressive taxation, and a shift away from harmful economic policies that deepen inequality and weaken public institutions.

Heineken Rolls Out Awareness Taxis in Addis to Promote Sober Driving

Ethiopia Satisfies 76% of National Water Demand, Eyes 100% by 2030

Ethiopia Among Six African Nations Hit Hard by IMF-Driven Budget Cuts