We sit down with Dr. Kamal Kar, the visionary behind the Community-Led Total Sanitation (CLTS) approach, in collaboration with Vita. With over two decades of experience transforming sanitation practices in more than 73 countries, Dr. Kar shares his insights into how community-led initiatives drive significant change in public health, environmental conservation, and sustainable development. We discuss the shortcomings of traditional, top-down aid models and explore how empowering local communities to lead their development creates lasting impact. Dr. Kar also introduces his latest book, Institutional Triggering, which examines how organisations like Vita can support and scale community-driven approaches. Visit: https://vitaimpact.org/

Podcast guest: Yenenesh Girma, Vita's Human Resources Officer. Note: This podcast contains an in-person translation from Amharic to English by Risko Assefa, Vita's Community-led Learning Project Leader. In this episode, recorded in Arba Minch, Ethiopia, we explore the inspiring journey of Yenenesh Girma. Over 18 years with Vita, Yenenesh advanced from Community Facilitator to Human Resources Officer, reflecting her growth and Vita's dedication to female leadership. She advocates for women's active participation and economic independence. This episode highlights the vital role of community collaboration and Yenenesh's vision for a future where women are central to decision-making in Ethiopia. Visit: https://vitaimpact.org/

In this podcast episode recorded in Arba Minch, Ethiopia, the spotlight is on Jerry Oloba, the Human Resource Management Leader at Gamo Bara Secondary School. Jerry is leading a movement to empower women and girls through education in the Gamo region, where traditional gender roles limit women's opportunities. Her mission is deeply personal, driven by her belief in education as a tool to break the cycle of poverty and inequality. The episode also explores Vita's initiatives, such as improved cookstoves, which help reduce women's daily burdens, giving them more time for education. Visit: https://vitaimpact.org/

In this podcast episode recorded in Arba Minch, Ethiopia, we explore the inspiring journey of Tihut Tsehay, Public Relations Officer at the Gamo Development Association. A passionate advocate for cultural preservation and community empowerment in the Gamo Zone, Tihut's Sociology and Social Anthropology background from Arba Minch University has equipped her to tackle social challenges in her community. Her career began at the Gamo Zone Culture and Tourism Department, promoting the region's unique heritage. Today, she focuses on creating educational and economic opportunities, especially for women, while running a business that preserves and promotes traditional Gamo clothing. Tihut's efforts are significantly impacting her community through her dedication to education and empowerment. Visit: https://vitaimpact.org/

In this podcast episode recorded in Arba Minch, Ethiopia, Sintayehu Abebe, Arba Minch University's Academic and Clinical Director, discusses the importance of community-focused initiatives, particularly in maternal and public health. She shares her journey from midwife to Assistant Professor and her current role, emphasising the connection between community well-being and healthcare quality. Sintayehu highlights ongoing challenges in maternal health and her deep commitment to improving healthcare accessibility and quality. Her personal experiences as a mother further drive her passion for these issues. The episode shows the need for continued efforts to strengthen communities across Ethiopia. Visit: https://vitaimpact.org/

In this podcast episode, recorded in Arba Minch, Ethiopia, Tseganesh Anbesie, an English Language Lecturer and PhD candidate at Arba Minch University, discusses the transformative impact of gender empowerment in Ethiopia. She highlights the significant challenges Ethiopian women face. Tseganesh's work addresses these issues. The episode also explores Vita's initiatives, which offer practical solutions such as improving traditional cooking methods. Through Tseganesh's insights and Vita's efforts, the podcast illustrates how empowering women can lead to broader societal transformation, uplifting entire communities. Visit: https://vitaimpact.org/

In this podcast episode, recorded in Arba Minch, Ethiopia, Dr. Mekdes Ourge, an Assistant Professor and Researcher at Arba Minch University, explores the transformative impact of the Moringa tree on women's empowerment and community health in Ethiopia. She discusses the tree's significant nutritional and economic benefits, particularly for women, pregnant women, and new mothers. Dr. Mekdes emphasises Moringa as a vital, affordable resource in a region facing food security challenges. Her research aims to integrate women into the Moringa value chain, enhancing their visibility and empowerment within the community. The episode highlights Moringa's potential to improve health and economic opportunities for future generations in Ethiopia. Visit: https://vitaimpact.org/

This podcast episode, recorded in Arba Minch, Ethiopia, features in-person translation by Risko Assefa, Vita's Community-led Learning Project Leader. It explores the transformative impact of Vita's initiatives in the Gamo Zone, focusing on women's empowerment through improved cooking technologies. The discussion highlights insights from Miserak Tanga, a Gender Expert in the South Ethiopia Government's Mine and Energy Department, and Mekedes Dawit, a Gender Expert in the Women and Children Affairs Department. They share how these technologies empower women economically and socially by reducing harmful smoke exposure, creating income opportunities, and enhancing their household and community decision-making roles. The episode also emphasises the potential for expanding this successful model across Ethiopia. Visit: https://vitaimpact.org/

This podcast episode, recorded in Arba Minch, Ethiopia, highlights the transformative work of Dr. Teklu Wegayehu Zara, Arba Minch University’s Director of Community Engagement. Collaborating with Vita, Dr. Teklu has led efforts to electrify local health centres and schools, significantly enhancing education and healthcare. The episode also explores environmental restoration projects around Lake Abaya and Lake Chamo, initiatives empowering women through improved cooking technologies, and introducing innovative solutions to local challenges. The partnership between Vita and the university serves as a model of sustainable development, blending local knowledge with external support to drive long-term progress in the region. Visit: https://vitaimpact.org/

This podcast episode, recorded in Arba Minch, Ethiopia, showcases Vita's impactful work. With insights from Mesaye Tesafye, Vita's Admin and Finance Coordinator, the episode delves into the significant transformations seen in the region through initiatives like efficient cooking stoves and community-led projects. Mesaye expresses his pride in being part of an organisation committed to transparency, accountability, and making a tangible difference in people's lives. The episode shows the importance of local leadership in driving sustainable change and highlights Vita's ongoing efforts to expand its positive impact across Africa. Visit: https://vitaimpact.org/