Sakko is a remote village surrounded by mountains and forest. The people belong to Oromo, one of the major tribes of Ethiopia. They are largely subsistence farmers with small holdings, and lack basic amenities. More than 95 per cent of the people depend on the services of the Sakko and Karo mission which are managed by the sisters. SHM came to Ethiopia at the invitation of late Bishop Leonardus Dobbelaar, Vicar Apostolic of Nekemte.

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The work of the sisters is to organise the work from bottom up. They manage two schools, Sakko (grades 1-6) and Karo (grades 1-8), as well as four kindergartens in four villages. The children are supported with all school materials and food is provided for malnourished children. The sisters also provide health and pastoral care, manage an assistance program for the elderly, facilitate village electrification and clean water access, and engage the villagers in developmental and empowerment activities. The sisters have helped to construct 734 houses for settlers in Lagalomi Kebele (a very remote lowland area).  

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Since there has been growing unrest and political tensions especially in the Sakko and Karro area, the sisters moved to Dembi Dollo in July 2021 from where they manage the activities of both Sakko and Karo.

POSTAL ADDRESS

Society of Helpers of Mary, Sakko Catholic Mission, Dembidollo, P.O. Box 15, West Wellega, Ethiopia, Africa