The Manjo people, residing mainly in the Kafa, Sheka, Bench, and Dawro Zones of the Southwest region of Ethiopia, have long faced deep-rooted cultural and social exclusion.
This marginalization—driven by historical beliefs labeling the Manjo as 'impure'—has resulted in:
- Social isolation (limited interaction with other communities).
- Denial of rights such as public employment or political participation.
- Limited access to education and public services.
- Economic exclusion, as produce grown by Manjo farmers is often rejected in local markets.
These barriers have perpetuated generational poverty. MPEO’s mission is to break this cycle through education, collaboration, and advocacy.