Background

Gorgora is a small town by the north shore of Lake Tana, located in the Northern Part of Ethiopia, Amhara region. It is about 41 miles south of Gondar. Founded in medieval times, Gorgora was once considered a vibrant agricultural town surrounded by ancient churches and monasteries. Overlooking by a chain of hills on one side and untapped farmlands on the other, the town is dominated by the majestic Lake Tana; the scenery is attractive for birdwatchers and nature admirers. On a peninsula about six miles west of Gorgora stands the “Old Gorgora” and the ruined palace constructed by Emperor Susyneyos between 1625 and 1630 with Portuguese assistance.

Gorgora has a population of about 5,200, of whom 2,496 are men and 2,704 are women. More than fifty percent of the population is under the age of 15 who lack adequate healthcare and basic educational facilities.

A major cause of poverty in the town is lack of access to productive assets and financial resources. Inadequate healthcare, lack of infrastructure, and access to social services are major setbacks to the well-being of the people. Small business development in the area of agriculture, manufacturing, and fishery is nonexistent.

Partial Aerial View of Gorgora