https://wdfsg.org/ 4-Nov-22 


## **Trustees Annual report 2021-2** 

In common with other small international charities, WDEF has encountered significant difficulties opening a bank account. However, in April 2022, we were finally successful in our application to the Charities Aid Foundation (CAF) Bank. This has had a positive impact on our fundraising. 

## Governance 

The impact of Covid and the series of lockdowns has left financial institutions reluctant to take on new business. In order to address this, all the Trustees agreed that we would reduce their number from 12 to 5, who can concentrate on growing the organisation. This was agreed and actioned in January 2022.  This is to be ratified at the next AGM. 

## Communications 

Newsletters have been produced and circulated, giving updates, along with details of how to donate and support events. The website was updated with photos and videos of all events and fundraising activities. 

Website has been up-dated regularly by the Secretary and all policies were rationalised and linked to the website. Donate buttons have been added to allow one-off and regular donations. 

## Progress on the School in Oromia 

We have worked with Hundee Barumsa Warqinaa Dachaasaa (WADA) that is based in Oromia. Hirpa Abu (Secretary of WADA) and Muluneh Oli (WDEF) kept us abreast of developments in Ethiopia. The news was unsettling, with administrative changes, offices being closed and high inflation. Hirpa sent a detailed report in January outlining key issues relating to the project. There is a concern around the size of the build; the local authority requires a specific area of land for the size of the school. The existing plot means the design of the school is insufficient for a one-storey build. Trustees did not think a two-storey building was appropriate for an elementary school. This would have cost implication as more materials would be needed to build the school. 

A possible solution to the build of the school arose with the offer of an alternative site. This is being looked into by WADA but sounds hopeful as it would mean a single storey school could be built as planned. 

In September, WADA sent a report and plan that they submitted to Oromia Attorney Office for the renewal of their licence. A financial breakdown of costings was also shared. These are much greater than anticipated at the start of the project. 

## Finance 

We finally succeeded in opening a bank account. Our application to CAF bank was successful and functioning properly. 

We agreed that the accounting year for WDEF would be from April to March as per traditional financial year. The Treasurer met with the Chair to produce an opening statement of account for the full members meeting on 7[th] May. 

It was agreed that the Treasurer would produce quarterly reports outlining the financial position – these are to be included in the general quarterly reports. Monthly bank charges were costing £8.00, however these have now been reduced to £5.00. CAF Donate, an on-line system which facilitates regular payments and Direct Debits, is now functioning and includes a PayPal option. 

There are a number of supporters who give monthly donations and standing order forms are available for interested donors. 



## Developments 

The Officers agreed that we should approach Steve Sinnott Foundation (SSF) who already work in Africa and specifically in Ethiopia with the aim of exploring any support options that could help us meet our shared goals.  It was agreed with Ann Beaty (CEO) that we would look at ways of partnership working in the future. 

The Secretary and Treasurer researched potential funders for the project. The majority of funders tend to support the delivery of education for specific purposes such as girls’ education rather than the actual building of the school. 

## Fundraising 

Activities such as the Dinner Cub ran over the year. The Third memorial Event was held in July – a Picnic in Finsbury Park London – this raised £710.00 and was a great success with approximately 40 people attending. 

Nicky Lopez & Chris Lopez prepared for the Three Peaks Challenge as the focus of fundraising in the Spring. He also continues with Fundraising through Fitness sessions. In October he held a very successful DJ night that was well attended and enjoyed by all. 



## **WORKNEH DECHASA EDUCATION FOUNDATION** 

INCOME AND EXPENDITURE REPORT FINANCIAL YEAR 1st January 2022 TO 31st December 2022 

Charities Aid Foundation Bank account opened 19/4/2022 

|ASSETS AT YEAR END<br>31/12/2021||£0.00|
|---|---|---|
|INCOME|||
||Donations|£5846.55|
||Bank interest|£3.86|
|EXPENDITURE|||
||Bank fees|-£49.00|
|ASSETS AT YEAR END<br>31/12/2022||£5801.41|