I’m in Ethiopia, scouting locations for a new one-hour public television special about hunger, and hope for the future. I’ve been here for almost a week now, and I’ve noticed some recurring themes.
One thing that keeps coming up is that traditional charity (in the form of handouts) can actually set back development. As they build their economies, the helping hand that developing countries want and need isn’t just money — it’s smart assistance. And fundamental to that is an investment in “human capital” — a healthy and educated populace that has reason to work hard, and reason for hope.
Another recurring observation I’ve had is that, at least in Ethiopia, children are fully employed…with the job of getting an education. Watch this little clip and take a look for yourself.
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You can find out more about my trip to Ethiopia at https://blog.ricksteves.com/blog/tag/ethiopia
