Ethiopia › Ethiopian Sustainable Tourism Alliance (ESTA)
The Ethiopia Sustainable Tourism Alliance (ESTA) was a USAID-funded project that ran from October 2008 to August 2013, aiming to link biodiversity conservation with economic growth. We, as part of the FHI 360 consortium, focused on promoting alternative livelihoods by supporting over 200 artisans in the Central and Southern Rift Valleys through product development, capacity-building, and market linkages. These artisans created a range of products, including textiles, wood, basketry, and other home décor and fashion items.
Key Achievements:
Conducted 2 Local Market Readiness Programs for 11 artisan groups, covering topics like team building, product development, and marketing.
Provided technical workshops in areas such as dyeing, sewing, handloom, horn, calabash, and financial management, benefiting 229 artisans (48% women).
Developed 11 business plans for artisan groups, with 9 groups becoming legally recognized.
Arranged 4 international product development consultancies, leading to 300 new products and participation in 10 major local fairs.
Facilitated over 15 market linkages, generating more than $122,000 in sales, an increase of over 80%.
Donor: USAID (Sub through FHI 360)
Start Date: June 2008
End Date: June 2013
Number of Beneficiaries: 229 Artisans
Training Hours: 17,972
Number of Businesses Supported: 11
