Tilahun Belachew Bahru

I was born and raised in a rural area of Ethiopia, where I spent my childhood exploring the surrounding mountains. One such mountain, known as Agamsa Guba, loomed large over our small village. While I don't know the origin of the name 'Agamsa,' the term 'Guba' in our local dialect refers to an elevated area, often used for grazing livestock and gathering firewood.
At approximately 250 meters tall, this mountain was my playground. As a young shepherd, I spent countless hours tending to our family's goats and sheep. It was here that I honed my skills in climbing, descending, and navigating the rugged terrain.
I recall the arduous task of collecting firewood, a one-hour trek carrying a heavy load of approximately 10 kilograms. The sight of my mother cooking over an open fire fueled by this wood was a stark reminder of the challenges faced by many in rural communities. I dream of a day when I can provide her with a home equipped with electricity, enabling her to cook and bake Injera using modern appliances.