As in other African countries, the engagement of faith-based organizations (FBOs) in the development sector in Ethiopia is tremendous and manifold. FBOs are, however, still insufficiently integrated in the development discourse and often operate under the radar of international and multilateral donors. This can be to a large extent reasoned by the fact that very little empirical research has hitherto been undertaken to assess the impact of FBO activities in Ethiopia.Upon this background, this study contributes to the debate among practitioners and researchers on the actual and potential contribution of FBOs to development in Ethiopia. This is exemplified by the work of the Ethiopian Kale Heywet Church (EKHC) in rural areas of southern Ethiopia in the thematic fields of schooling, ecological balance and food security. Cross-sectional and case study designs form the principal approaches used in the study; both quantitative and qualitative methods were used.

Dr. Aklilu Dalelo is an Associate Professor of Geography and Environmental Education at Graduate School of Education, Addis Ababa University, Ethiopia. He is a geographer by training with a particular interest in environmental and sustainability education.