In October 2025, Fair & Sustainable Consulting, represented by our colleagues [@Oscar Geerts] and [@Wolde Zewdie], joined partners to reflect on key achievements from the project “Stability and Socio-Economic Development for Vulnerable and Marginalised Communities in the Tigray Region of Ethiopia.” This important initiative, funded by the European Commission and led by Trócaire/CST Ethiopia, is set to conclude by the end of 2025. Since its launch, the project has supported households in rebuilding their livelihoods in a region deeply affected by conflict.
Applying the Market Systems Development (MSD) Approach in a Post-War Setting
Together with our consortium partners—CST Ethiopia – Mekelle office, Adigrat Diocesan Catholic Secretariat (ADCS), Relief Society of Tigray (REST), and VIS—Fair & Sustainable Consulting played a key role in introducing and supporting the Market Systems Development (MSD) approach.
During the recent reflection session, consortium members shared valuable lessons learned from applying MSD in highly marginalised and fragile settings. The team mapped out a future vision for two key intervention areas: TVET (Technical and Vocational Education and Training) centres and the poultry value chain in the Tigray region.
Encouragingly, we observed tangible behaviour changes within local market systems—clear indicators of successful uptake of the MSD-supported solutions. These shifts are already transforming livelihoods. Many target beneficiaries are now showing a strong entrepreneurial drive and are keen to expand their businesses in an increasingly supportive and enabling environment.
Growing Stakeholder Appreciation for MSD
One of the most significant outcomes of the project has been the enthusiastic reception of the MSD approach by local stakeholders. Key sector actors in Tigray expressed clear appreciation for this method, citing stronger local ownership of programme activities and a sustainable impact for conflict-affected households.
Both consortium members and regional stakeholders have voiced their interest in continuing to use the MSD approach in future programming—a positive sign for long-term, locally led development.
A Learning Experience for All
For F&S, the technical support to applying the MSD approach has been equally insightful as it was for the consortium members applying the approach. The post-war context made it hard for everyone to picture how successes could be achieved with this new project approach. The hands-on attitude and can-do mentality showed that the MSD approach is as agile as Tigray community members are resilient.
We’re proud to contribute to this journey and look forward to continuing our collaboration in strengthening local market systems and building sustainable livelihoods.
Want to learn more or get involved?
Please contact:
