Teamwork is essential to the success of our mission – our recent shipment to Ethiopia is a great example of how with the right support and motivation seemingly insurmountable challenges can be overcome.

We are delighted that 68 boxes of books, collected and packed by Willy Oo and the law students at the University of Cambridge Law Society Pro Bono Committee, have finally been processed and delivered to the team at Mattu University. We are hugely grateful to Mulugeta Woldetsadik, Librarian/Information Professional at Hawassa University for all his assistance and support in Ethiopia to work with Mattu University to ensure the success of this shipment. Mulugeta is a fantastic partner who shares our mission to build exemplary libraries.

We are also very grateful to Habtamu Wondimu Amessa at Mattu University for his perseverance in the face of all the challenges. It gives us enormous satisfaction to see these valuable books at last in their new home, ready on the shelves to support legal education and research. The words of Habtamu underline the impact that these books will have.

‘Your support in enriching our academic resources has made a significant impact on our institution and its community of learners. Your donation will undoubtedly enhance the learning experience of our students and faculty, fostering a deeper understanding of legal principles and practices. These books are more than resources; they are tools of empowerment, enabling the next generation of legal professionals to build their knowledge and excel in their fields. We deeply appreciate your thoughtful gesture and your commitment to promoting access to quality legal education. Your efforts not only strengthen our library but also inspire us to strive for excellence in nurturing a learning environment that fosters growth and innovation. Once again, thank you for your invaluable support. We are truly fortunate to have benefactors like you, whose generosity continues to make a difference.’  

Habtamu Wondimu Amessa, International Relations Team Leader at Mattu University

‘This shipment had been in limbo for some time due to a range of complex issues that the ILBF had little control over. But with the support of Mulugeta and Habtamu as well the efforts of the shipper and agent, the shipment finally reached its destination. It would not have been possible without determination, problem solving and a strong shared mission on the part of the ILBF and our partners in Ethiopia.’

Katrina Crossley, CEO of ILBF

Left to right: Assistant Professor John Tesfaye Firisa, Vice President of Administration and Development at Mattu University and Habtamu Wondimu Amessa, International Relations Team Leader at Mattu University