The Capuchin friars in Ethiopia were established in the early 1900s by Italian missionaries. Many Ethiopian friars speak Italian! Wars and corrupt governments during the past 30 years have made it difficult for Ethiopians. There are a wide variety of social services in place because of the efforts of the Capuchin friars. A majority of Ethiopians are Christians, but most are Orthodox Christians. Roman Catholics are hardly rare, but they are definitely in the minority. The SMA has supported the Ethiopian friars in their desire to become self-reliant and even more present among the poor of Ethiopia.
