Adoption of Ethiopian children halted, then resumed

Adoption of Ethiopian children halted, then resumed

POSTED: 18 JUNE, 2009

Topics in this story: abandoned children , addis ababa , bethany christian services , ethiopiaEthiopia (MNN) ? In a city where the number of abandoned children has recently increased tremendously, Ethiopian Courts are no longer accepting cases involving abandoned children from orphanages in Addis Ababa, according to Bethany Christian Services.

This decision affected three orphanages in Addis Ababa: Kebebe Tsehay Orphanage, Ketchene Orphanage and Kolfe Youth Center.

The courts observed a great increase in children being brought for adoption from the Addis Ababa orphanages. Because the number of abandoned children has increased so dramatically in past months, Ethiopian authorities suspect immoral practices in some of the cases.

The Ethiopian First Instance Court and the Ministry of Women’s Affairs (MOWA) did not accept these cases until several questions were answered about the suspicious cases.

Though the investigation continues, almost a month later, on May 23, the courts began again to accept abandoned children cases from Addis Ababa.

Bethany is committed to helping children through adoption and orphan care. Their mission is to “manifest the love and compassion of Jesus Christ by protecting and enhancing the lives of children and families through quality social services.”

Pray that Ethiopian authorities will be able to determine if some of these cases included unethical practices. Pray also that the courts will continue to accept cases, allowing children to be adopted into loving and Christ-centered homes.

To keep updated about Ethiopia, go to adoption.state.gov. If you have specific questions concerning adoptions in Ethiopia, contact a social worker.

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