Mela’eke Selam Lealem, a dedicated priest deeply invested in the well-being of his community, resides In the Awi Zone, Banja Woreda, Bassa Kebele.

The EOTC DICAC team, met Mela’eke Selam during the training of  trainers’ session in the "Better Dairy  for  All" project, representing the Banja Woreda Church, eager to explore new experiences for improvement.

In earlier years, Mela’eke struggled to provide adequate milk for  his children, largely due to a  lack  of  understanding  of  its  nutritional  benefits.  However, the training  session  was a  turning  point  for  him.  Upon learning  about the vital role of  milk plays in child development and the impact of  its absence, concern him.  Determined to change the course of  his children’s lives, he made a quick decision

Upon returning from the training, Mela’eke Selam invested in  a  milk  cow, significantly  enhancing  his  family’s  nutrition  and ensuring  his  children's health  from the  adverse  effects  of   malnutrition.  This  project  not  only fostered their health but also brought joy and a sense of accomplishment to his household.

Inspired by his newfound knowledge, Mela’eke Selam saw an opportunity to extend his impact beyond his family. He intended to purchase additional milk cows and plan to renting out milk to neighbors. He aimed to boost both his income and the community’s health.

Mela’eke is now not just a participant in the "Better Dairy for All" project, he is a proactive champion, aspiring to continue expanding his dairy production and inspire those around him. His ambition is clear— he plans to acquire another cow in the near future, turning his vision into reality and realizing his dream of a healthier community.