Ethiopia continues to work through its past issues and is offering one of the fastest growing adoption program in existence. The past year has shown some difficulties because of the rapid growth. Ethiopia has called upon the help of various governmental agencies to make certain their program is functioning correctly. There is a great interest on the part of prospective adoptive parents for this area. I am not certain if the reason is the incredible need that has been highly published through the media or the fact that many of the well-known actors and actresses have gone this route? The reason does not matter as much as the fact that so many children are getting the chance to realize their dream of a forever family.
There are things that go into adopting a child from another country. Language is a large issue because of the fact that over 70 languages are spoken in the country of Ethiopia. Many of the school children are taught English as a second language in school but most of the children that are up for adoption cannot attend school because of the severity of their condition. When a child is brought into your home without a working knowledge of the same language that you speak, time and patience is required. This is not easy for many people. It can be frustrating and difficult to maneuver.
Another issue that can cause problems is personal health and hygiene. When a child is brought from a country that struggles to put food in front of all of its people, their health is compromised. This can take years to make right- if it is possible to rectify. Lack of proper nutrition for extended periods of time can cause long-term or non- correctable ailments. Consider all aspects of a child’s bio when you are selecting. It is said that for every issue or concern that is listed in their personal history, one is hidden waiting to surface at a later date. These are just a few of the problems that intercountry adopted children can face. Another major issue for children adopted out of country is the prevalence of dental issues. This can be costly to rectify.
The children in Ethiopia are worth all of the work and understanding that comes with intercountry adoption. They are said to be beautiful children who adjust to the change well. Ethiopia is open for adoption. They are not Hague Convention certified and do not hold to its statutes.
~Angie
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