Ethiopia—Strengthening Host and Refugee Populations (SHARPE)

Through the innovative application of the “Markets for Resilience” approach, the Strengthening Host and Refugee Populations in Ethiopia program (SHARPE) is focused on enhancing the economies of target populations across three key regions in Ethiopia: Dollo Ado, Gambella, and Jijiga.

SHARPE drives increased self-reliance among refugees and creates economic opportunities for host communities by piloting and scaling impactful interventions. This approach is rooted in a deep understanding of the economic challenges faced by refugee and host communities. It involves close collaboration with key stakeholders—businesses, government agencies, and service providers—to make markets work better for these populations.

Additionally, SHARPE serves as a vital learning platform for both the international and Ethiopian development communities, offering insights into systemic approaches within humanitarian contexts. By the program’s conclusion, SHARPE expects to benefit 125,000 people in the target populations, helping them realize increases in incomes and employment or expand access to assets through private sector-driven changes.

The SHARPE program has entered its final year, shifting from developing new business deals to concentrating on research and evidence-based results. Read the team’s report on market systems development monitoring, evaluation, and learning in fragile and conflict-affected situations here: SHARPE monitoring, evaluation, and learning.pdf

Sample Activities

Business Development and Support:

• Facilitate the creation and growth of refugee and host-owned micro-businesses, including poultry farming, goat trading, and small-scale retail operations, by providing financial support, training, and market linkages.

Capacity Building:

• Support specialized training and technical assistance to refugees and host communities, helping them acquire skills in areas such as poultry farming, livestock management, and financial literacy, which are crucial for sustaining their businesses.

Market Access and Integration:

• Integrate refugees into local and regional markets by connecting them with established businesses, improving access to essential resources such as animal feed, seeds, and veterinary supplies, and promoting inclusive market practices.

Financial Inclusion:

• Partner with financial institutions to expand access to digital financial services and business loans for refugees, enabling them to secure the capital needed to start and grow their enterprises.

Select Results

• Facilitated 199 business partnerships, resulting in 9,691 business linkages.
• £1,773,557 invested by partners in SHARPE-supported initiatives.
• Reached 229,700 refugees and host community members through SHARPE interventions.
• Contributed to £9,423,519 in increased income and £34,520,420 in additional sales from supported business models.
• 147,207 households and businesses have reported improved business performance due to SHARPE’s support.
• 8,508 market actors have changed their practices to support refugee inclusion and economic integration better.