Arba Minch University (AMU) School of Law, in collaboration with the Gerda Henkel Foundation and Oxford Brookes University, officially handed over 100 houses equipped with solar-powered lighting systems to conflict-displaced families in Gelabo Kebele, Konso Zone, South Ethiopia Regional State, on October 10, 2026. The project was coordinated by AMU School of Law in collaboration with the Centre for Development and Emergency Practice (CENDEP) at Oxford Brookes University, with financial support from the Germany-based Gerda Henkel Foundation. Click here to see more photos.
AMU President Dr. Eng. Abdella Kemal emphasized that a house is more than a physical structure; it provides shelter, privacy, and safety while serving as the foundation for family and community life. He noted that when people are displaced by conflict, violence, or natural disasters, they lose their home which means losing more than a physical shelter undermines their security and dignity. Referring to international human rights law, he underscored everyone's right to an adequate standard of living, including adequate housing. The President also highlighted the University's broader contributions beyond teaching and research, including the provision of clean drinking water, renewable energy development, environmental protection and conservation, agricultural development, the expansion of education and technology, and free legal services to the community.
Speaking on the event, Dr. Teklu Wegayehu, AMU Vice President for Research and Cooperation, highlighted the vulnerability of refugees, asylum-seekers, internally displaced persons (IDPs), and migrants to human rights violations, including violations of their right to adequate housing. He noted that discrimination, racism, and xenophobia can further undermine their access to sustainable and adequate living conditions. He explained that the project brought together partners from Germany, the United Kingdom, and Ethiopia represents a unique milestone in the University's history by integrating house construction with solar power installation in a single initiative. He added that the project demonstrates how partnerships between academic institutions and international organizations can deliver sustainable solutions to community challenges. Dr. Teklu expressed his gratitude to the project coordinators, donor organizations, AMU senior leadership, School of Law, implementing bodies, and all stakeholders who contributed to its successful completion.
Mr. Martin Kobler, a board member of the Gerda Henkel Foundation and former German Ambassador, expressed his appreciation for the project's progress and achievements. He noted that implementing a large-scale, high-quality initiative in remote and hard-to-reach areas was a significant accomplishment. He thanked all individuals and organizations involved and affirmed the Foundation's continued commitment to supporting research-based development projects. He also urged parents in the area to prioritize their children's education and upbringing.
Mr. Gelebo Goltomo, Konso Zone Administrator, described the housing project as an initiative that goes beyond conventional construction. He said it had helped restore the dignity of conflict-displaced people, renew their hopes, and strengthen the bond between AMU and the people of Konso.
Mr. Abraham Kinfe, Dean of the School of Law, outlined the project's implementation phases and major activities completed to date. He also highlighted the School's provision of free legal services in Konso Zone and other areas, expressing pride in the historic initiative coordinated by the School.
Dr. Yalisho Girma, Director of the Renewable Energy Technology Research Center, explained that the solar energy component comprises three clusters of solar panels installed at different locations. Each cluster generates 1,000 watts, bringing the project's total power-generation capacity to 3,000 watts. He noted that the system was designed to provide electricity to the 100 newly constructed houses.
At the end of the ceremony, certificates of recognition and appreciation were presented to partner organizations, donors, university leaders, professionals, and other stakeholders in acknowledgment of their contributions to the project's successful implementation and achievements.
The beneficiary families expressed their joy and satisfaction at receiving permanent homes equipped with solar-powered lighting, extending their gratitude to AMU and its partner organizations. AMU officials, project team members, School of Law staff, Konso Zone officials, and invited guests attended the ceremony.
Arba Minch University
Spring of Wisdom!
For more Information Follow us on:-
Website - https://www.amu.edu.et/
Telegram - https://t.me/arbaminch_university
Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/ArbaMinchUniversityccd/
YouTube - https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCOO_nclhMo8M3r74OyPBlVA
Public and International Relations Executive
.