Endemic to Ethiopia/Eritrea. In Ethiopia it is usually known as "White-throated Seedeater". It is only found in the Central-Northern part of the country, and on a normal 2-3 weeks birding tour of Ethiopia, Jemma Valley usually offers the best chance to see this species.
It can be found throughout Jemma Valley, but is most common on the northern side of the valley and a place known as "Awar Wuha" is the best spot. GPS coordinates for Awar Wuha is: 09° 58'32.90 N - 38° 53'30.60 E