Ethiopia E-FACE project brief

The Ethiopians Fighting Against Child Exploitation (E-FACE) project, funded by the U.S. Department of Labor and implemented by World Vision from 2011 to 2015, aimed to combat child labor in Ethiopia’s weaving sector while strengthening family livelihoods. In partnership with Mennonite Economic Development Associates and the Mission for Community Development Program, E-FACE focused on four objectives: increasing incomes for families in spinning and weaving, reducing the incidence of exploitative child labor, diversifying household income to reduce vulnerability, and establishing a “child safe” product certification standard. The project supported both youth of legal working age and their employers through training, incentives, and improved workplace standards. More than 2,000 youth participated in life skills and workplace safety training, while 1,523 employers received Occupational Safety and Health training and were assessed for compliance with improved labor practices. Many employers qualified for incentives that enhanced their businesses and market access. In addition, 80 business-owner savings groups were formed to improve financial literacy. Through collaboration with government and private sector partners, the project helped introduce a “child safe” certification label and supported policy updates to promote child welfare. E-FACE’s integrated approach contributed to safer working environments and more resilient, child labor-free communities.