Sydney (Agenzia Fides) - "The generosity we have witnessed in recent weeks has been a blessing. The donations will support our projects around the world and help families in need". This was stated by Father Brian Lucas, director of Catholic Mission, the national direction of the Pontifical Mission Societies (PMS) in Australia, which this year has paid particular attention to Ethiopia. The Catholic Mission focuses on development and assistance projects in this country which has been severely affected by a long-lasting drought and which has caused serious economic hardship to families already in precarious conditions. "The consequences of the drought have been devastating in rural areas, especially in Emdibir, where 70% of families are unable to put food on the table", explains Fr Lucas in a note sent to Fides. In collaboration with the Church of Ethiopia and by accompanying the local community of Emdibir in its needs, the Catholic mission strives to provide the community with an opportunity for agricultural development, useful for its subsistence. "By creating a goat farm in Emdibir, we have the possibility of providing food and creating employment opportunities, but above all we are helping the local community to be self-sufficient", explains Fr. Habtesilassie Antuan. He continues: "This project will provide families with nutritious milk that can be turned into basic necessities and sold to generate income. This milk will be used to help fight malnutrition, which is the cause of 50% of deaths of children in the region". (EG) (Agenzia Fides, 22/6/2022)