Ethiopia Updates June 2026

1. From Training to Multiplication: Church Leaders Commissioned in Southern Ethiopia

Following the successful completion of the Leadership Development and Disciple-Making Movement training in Wolayita-Sodo, we are delighted to report another significant milestone from ArbaMinch City in Southern Ethiopia.

Last week, a second cohort of church leaders successfully completed the same training program after an intensive journey of one and a half years. More than 30 key pastors and senior church leaders representing over 13 denominations and churches participated in the training.

This initiative was launched through the visionary leadership and commitment of Dr. Okongo, whose passion for developing Christ-centered leaders has helped make this ministry possible. Throughout the training, we worked closely with local leaders, including Pastor Wondemagegn (Wondeye), our Regional Coordinator, and Pastor Mengistu, Chairman of the Southern Ethiopia Region Evangelical Churches Council. Together with other church leaders, they have faithfully supported and strengthened this ministry over the years.

During the graduation ceremony, both leaders expressed their gratitude to God and shared reflections on the impact of the training. Pastor Mengistu noted that the training is unique because it focuses on ministry and leadership through the lens of the life and ministry of Jesus Christ. He emphasized that participants were challenged to study how Jesus initiated a disciple-making movement, developed leaders, and transformed nations through a simple yet powerful model of multiplication.

He further shared that the training helped church leaders critically evaluate their ministries and leadership practices, asking an important question: “Are we leading and serving in the way of Jesus?” This reflection has inspired many participants to realign their ministries with Christ’s example and priorities.

We are deeply grateful to God for Dr. Okongo and for our valued partnership with J-Life Africa in advancing Disciple-Making Movements. Their collaboration, networking support, and training materials have greatly enriched this program and contributed to its effectiveness.

The training concluded with the presentation of certificates of completion and a special commissioning service. We prayed for the graduates and sent them out with a renewed commitment to obey Christ’s command to “go and make disciples of all nations.”

To God be the glory for all that He has done and for the lives that continue to be transformed through this ministry.

2. Restoring Hope: Empowering Ethiopia’s Youth to Live with Purpose

Across Ethiopia, many young people are facing immense challenges. Economic hardship, social pressures, and ongoing political instability have left countless youth feeling discouraged, uncertain about their future, and vulnerable to various forms of addiction and destructive lifestyles. In such a challenging environment, investing in the next generation has never been more important.

At Unite 4 Africa, we believe that young people are not only the leaders of tomorrow but also valuable instruments in God’s Kingdom today. Equipping them with biblical truth, practical life skills, and spiritual encouragement is a vital part of our mission. We are committed to helping them navigate life’s difficulties and discover the purpose God has for their lives.

One of our dedicated young leaders, Kale-Ab (“Kalu”) Alemu, carries a deep passion for reaching and mentoring youth. Through his ministry, he travels across Ethiopia, encouraging young people to find hope, purpose, and identity in Christ.

Last month, Kalu traveled to Wonji-Showa, one of the key hubs of our ministry and community development work. There, he conducted a youth training event attended by more than 50 young people from the surrounding area. The training focused on Jesus’ teachings about living a purposeful life that honors and glorifies God. Through biblical instruction, personal testimonies, and interactive discussions, participants were challenged to see themselves through God’s eyes and embrace His calling for their lives.

The impact was profound.

Wonji-Showa has struggled with a high rate of suicide among young people and teenage pregnancies as well, reflecting the deep hopelessness that many experiences. During the training, several participants openly shared their personal struggles and burdens. As the Gospel was proclaimed and prayer was offered, many responded with genuine repentance and renewed faith. Some testified that they were being set free from thoughts of hopelessness and self-destruction, choosing instead to embrace the hope and future found in Christ.

Throughout the gathering, the presence of God was evident in powerful ways. Many young people were deeply moved by the Holy Spirit. Tears of brokenness were transformed into tears of joy as hearts were healed, renewed, and encouraged. What began as a training event became a life-changing encounter with God’s love and grace.

We thank God for Kalu’s faithful ministry and for the privilege of investing in Ethiopia’s youth. We are continually reminded that when young people encounter Jesus, lives are transformed, hope is restored, and communities can be changed.

Thank you for standing with us through your prayers, encouragement, and support. Your partnership is helping bring hope to a generation that desperately needs it, and together we are witnessing God raise up young men and women who will impact Ethiopia and beyond for His glory.

PRAISE ITEMS – Praise God For

• Praise God for the successful completion of the Arbaminch training cohort.
• Thank God for the 30+ church leaders from 13 denominations who completed the program.
• Praise God for the unity and collaboration among churches across the region.
• Thank God for faithful partners, trainers, and local leaders who supported the ministry.
• The opportunity to reach and invest in young people who are facing significant economic, social, and personal challenges.
• Kalu’s passion, commitment, and willingness to travel and serve youth across Ethiopia.
• The successful youth training in Wonji-Shoshowa, where more than 50 young people participated and engaged wholeheartedly.
• The powerful work of the Holy Spirit during the training, bringing conviction, healing, hope, and spiritual renewal.
• Young people who responded to the Gospel, repented, and made commitments to follow Jesus more closely.
• Testimonies of freedom from hopelessness, destructive thinking, and other personal struggles.
• The joy, encouragement, and renewed sense of purpose experienced by many participants.

PRAYER ITEMS

• Pray that the graduates will faithfully implement disciple-making principles in their churches and communities.
• Pray for multiplication as these leaders’ train and mentor others.
• Pray for continued coaching, follow-up, and spiritual growth among participants.
• Pray for God’s provision and guidance as we expand leadership development and disciple-making efforts in Ethiopia and beyond.
• Pray for lasting transformation in the lives of the young people who attended the training, that they would continue to grow in their relationship with Christ.
• Pray for those who struggled with suicidal thoughts, depression, hopelessness, and addictions, that they would experience ongoing healing, support, and freedom through the power of God.
• Pray for protection and spiritual strength for the youth as they face daily pressures and challenges in their communities.
• Pray for the development of strong discipleship relationships and follow-up opportunities to help participants continue their spiritual journey.
• Pray for Kalu and other young leaders as they mentor, train, and encourage the next generation across Ethiopia.
• Pray for additional opportunities and resources to expand youth ministry efforts into more communities that desperately need hope and biblical guidance.
• Pray for a generation of young Ethiopians who will become faithful disciples, godly leaders, and agents of transformation in their families, churches, and communities.

Rev. Samson W.M

Unite 4 Africa & Ethiopia Director