The level and distribution of poverty in Ethiopia is extensive. According to the results obtained from the 1995/96 and the 1999/2000 Household Income, Consumption and Expenditure Survey and Welfare Monitoring Survey of the Central Statistical Authority (CSA), about 44 percent of the total populations (45 percent in rural areas and 37 percent in urban areas) are found to be below poverty line. The country together with development partners, as a result, has put poverty reduction strategies high on the agenda and working firmly on the implementation program since the beginning of this decade. With firm dedication to reduce poverty, the government has prepared its poverty reduction program entitled “Sustainable Development and Poverty Reduction Program” in 2002. The strategy has been implemented over the past three years.