Ethiopia
A populous country of great diversity
Ethiopia, located in the Horn of Africa, is the most populated landlocked country in the world and full of diversity. Fertile jungles in the west give way to the world’s hottest settlement in the north — with over 80 languages spoken throughout the country.
Home to more than 30 volcanoes, countless hot springs and the largest continuous mountain range in Africa, visitors have no shortage of things to see.
The vast multilingual, multi-ethnic society of Ethiopia makes it a melting pot of cultures, with its capital city of Addis Adaba considered the political capital of Africa. Musical styles are as diverse as the 80 ethnic groups that make up the country, and long distance running is the sport of choice — with many Olympic athletes coming out the country.
Multiple droughts and famines through the years led to a long civil conflict in the 20th century, and Ethiopia remains one of Africa’s poorest states. Agriculture is the main form of economic activity, which is especially dependent on rainfall.
Your participation with Missions Door helps to start new churches, beginning at the capital city of Addis Ababa. It also provides holistic care and support to many orphaned and abandoned children in Ethiopia through the “Pennies for the Needy” program, started by Missions Door missionary Workneh Tesfaye, who works with Ethiopian communities in the Boston Area.
Cultural Snapshot
One of Africa’s leading coffee producers, most Ethiopians are farmers or herders.
Faith Fact
Home to the Ethiopian Orthodox Tewahedo Church — one of the oldest Christian churches in the world.
Country Profile
Population: 100 million, 43.94% ages 0–14
Major Religions: 43.5% Eastern Orthodox, 33.9% Muslim, 18.5% Protestant
Languages: Oromo, Amharic, Somali
Literacy: 40%
Poverty: 30%