Koelim Center: Creativity, Community, and Culture for Families in Addis Abeba

Imagine a day where your child learns to weave, you sip organic coffee while watching a chef toss pizza dough, and everyone leaves with a handmade treasure. That’s the magic waiting at the Koelim Center—a creative and community hub in the heart of Addis Abeba, dedicated to sparking young imaginations and supporting brighter futures for local youth.

What is the Koelim Center?

Koelim Center is the social enterprise of the Gudina Tumsa Foundation (GTF), an organization dedicated to supporting marginalized communities in Ethiopia. At Koelim, every visit and purchase directly supports GTF’s charitable initiatives, making a real difference in the lives of those they serve. The center specializes in pottery, weaving, garment making, and bamboo crafts, offering hands-on training for youth and connecting them to wider markets.

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Meet the Makers: Creativity in Action

Step into Koelim’s vibrant crafts center and discover a living classroom buzzing with inspiration. Here, children and families can watch young trainees develop their skills in pottery, weaving, garment making, bamboo crafts, and more. Guided tours are available Monday to Friday (8:00 AM–3:00 PM), offering a behind-the-scenes look at how creativity and craftsmanship are shaping sustainable futures. It’s a chance for kids to see real artisans at work, ask questions, and even try their own hand at traditional crafts like injera making, coffee roasting, and canvas painting.

Hands-On Activities Include:

• Pottery & Weaving
• Garment Design & Sewing (imagine your child sewing their first pouch or scarf!)
• Bamboo Art & Skinning (eco-friendly fun, from simple toys to intricate crafts)
• Injera Making (learn to bake Ethiopia’s beloved bread from scratch)
• Coffee Roasting
• Canvas Painting

Friendly instructors are always on hand to guide little artists and makers of all experience levels, ensuring no one feels left behind.

Crafts Center Hours:

• Small groups (2–10): Tuesday, Friday, and Saturday, 10:00 AM–6:00 PM
• Large groups (10+): Any day by booking
  • Planning a group visit? Get inspired by this delightful Vlog for a preview of the hands-on experiences and vibrant atmosphere that await your group at Koelim!

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Outdoor Adventures

Koelim’s creativity bursts outdoors, too! Let the kids loose in a dedicated playground and kids’ corner or join a game—very soon, you can spike a volleyball together on the newly built court. Whether indoors or out, Koelim offers plenty of ways for kids to get active, make friends, and burn off some energy between creative sessions.

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From Oven to Table: Family Flavors Await

After all that creating and playing, follow your nose to Koelim’s delightful café. Here, it’s not just about eating—it’s about the experience! Watch as chefs prepare your brick-oven pizza, a plate of sizzling tibs, or specialty herbal teas right before your eyes (“from oven to table” at its best). The menu effortlessly blends Ethiopian classics with Italian favorites, so everyone goes home happy—and full!

Café hours: Monday to Sunday, 8:00 AM–8:00 PM

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Souvenirs with a Story

Don’t leave without stopping by the souvenir shop, where each handmade product tells a story. The shop connects Koelim’s talented trainees to the wider market, offering authentic, handcrafted products that make meaningful keepsakes. Open Monday to Saturday (10:00 AM–7:00 PM) and Sunday (2:00 PM–7:00 PM), it’s a wonderful place to pick up a piece of Ethiopian heritage and support local artisans.

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Event Spotlight: Something New Every Visit

Koelim Center isn’t just a place to visit—it’s a hub of community events and cultural celebrations. Throughout the year, families can look forward to lively happenings like Jazz & Art Nights, Sports Days, Farmers Markets, and more. These events are perfect opportunities to mingle, create, and celebrate together. Keep an eye on Koelim’s Instagram or website for the latest updates and event calendars.

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Why Families Love Koelim

• Safe & Supportive: Staff are experienced in working with children and families and make everyone feel welcome.
• Community Impact: Every admission, meal, or souvenir purchase supports the Gudina Tumsa Foundation’s social initiatives and training for marginalized youth.
• Unforgettable Memories: From hands-on crafts to delicious meals and vibrant events, there truly is something for every member of the family.

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Plan Your Visit

Whether you call Addis home or are just passing through, Koelim Center welcomes your family for a day—or even just an afternoon—of curiosity, connection, and creativity. Small groups can drop in on set days, and larger groups are welcome anytime by booking. The café and shop are open daily, so you can always find a warm welcome.

Ready to step inside? Visit their website for more inspiration or check their latest events and hours on Instagram.

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Tip: Don’t forget your camera—Koelim is full of colorful, joyful moments you’ll want to remember. If you visit, share your favorite creations or stories in the comments below!