Mendefera — Efforts are being stepped up in Mendefera sub-zone to enable disabled persons and needy families become self-supporting and productive through extending different types of assistance, according to Mr. Tesfagabir Gebreslassie, branch head of the Ministry of Labor and Human Welfare in the sub-zone.

He indicated that about 3 million Nakfa interest-free loan has been extended over the past two years to 125 war-disabled nationals directed to agricultural activities, dairy farming and business ventures. Mr. Tesfagabir further pointed out that the branch office has extended school materials and paid tuition fees to more than 200 needy students and street children.

Moreover, the branch office, in collaboration with the government's garage, offered training to 10 children who have already secured job opportunity in mechanics, electricity and metal works.