An e‑voucher solution has been launched to modernize livelihood support for Internally Displaced Persons (IDPs) and host communities across the Afar, Amhara, and Tigray regions through secure, efficient, and transparent digital assistance.

The launch event brought together representatives from the Embassy of Japan, the Ethiopian Disaster Risk Management Commission (EDRMC), development partners, regional government bureaus, and IDP communities.

Funded by the Government of Japan through the Japan Supplementary Budget, the project focuses on strengthening early recovery, empowering vulnerable households, and enhancing community resilience through innovative digital solutions.

Speaking at the event, Mr. Samuel Doe, UNDP Resident Representative, noted: “This initiative comes at a critical moment, as communities rebuild their lives after conflict and displacement. As families return and mobility increases, needs are evolving rapidly. In this context, the ability to deliver assistance efficiently, transparently, and accountably is indispensable. The scale of recovery required is immense, and it calls for a shift in how we support people and institutions in fragile settings.”

The e‑voucher solution aligns with Ethiopia’s national recovery priorities, supporting service delivery in fragile settings while contributing to durable solutions, long‑term peacebuilding, and sustainable recovery.

Ms. Satsuki Fukai, First Secretary of the Economic Cooperation Division at the Embassy of Japan, emphasized: “Japan is proud to support this electronic voucher initiative, which facilitates recovery and promotes sustainable solutions in Northern Ethiopia. Through our supplementary budget, we are contributing US$ 1 million and partnering with NEC Corporation to bring innovative digital solutions to this effort.”

She added that the initiative brings together Japanese technology and international cooperation to enhance transparent, efficient, and accountable assistance for IDPs and host communities.

In the initial phase, 675 beneficiaries, 72 percent of whom are women, will receive support through a total of 10,000 e‑vouchers. Each beneficiary is allocated $ 500, with livelihood recovery packages tailored to their needs. The initiative also complements ongoing programmes and contributes to scaling up livelihood recovery interventions.

Approximately 50 service providers have been identified across the three regions in collaboration with local authorities. They will receive training and be equipped with the necessary devices to deliver the digital solution effectively. 

Mr. Getachew, Infrastructure, Service Sector and Recovery Lead Executive at EDRMC, stated: “This initiative aligns with national priorities, particularly in strengthening accountability, coordination, beneficiary targeting, and efficient delivery of assistance to vulnerable populations.”

He further highlighted that the e‑voucher system complements ongoing government efforts in displacement management, durable solutions, and recovery support by introducing digital and traceable systems that enhance data management, monitoring, and service delivery.

The initiative reflects a strong commitment to the Humanitarian–Development–Peace Nexus, demonstrating how digital innovation can support integrated and sustainable recovery efforts.

A steering committee meeting held on 13 May 2026 further underscored the importance of coordination and alignment with national and partner-led initiatives. Participants emphasized the need for complementarity across programmes, including joint efforts with UN agencies such as IOM, UNHCR, and UN‑Habitat.

Members also highlighted the importance of a government-led Durable Solutions agenda, anchored in the Humanitarian–Development–Peace Nexus, with clear institutional ownership and a long-term vision.

The meeting further emphasized the value of integrating protection, national ID systems, and mental health and psychosocial support into broader resilience and development programming.

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