Ethiopia Marks International Women’s Day with Focus on Women’s Participation

Addis Ababa: Ethiopia celebrated International Women’s Day (IWD) under the theme ‘Rapid and Sustainable Comprehensive Change through Women’s Participation’ in many parts of the country. The main celebration took place in Koye Feche Sub-city, Sheger City, where Ergoge Tesfaye, Minister of Women and Social Affairs, along with government leaders and key stakeholders, gathered for the event.

According to Ethiopian News Agency, the event was also marked in Gambella city, attended by regional government officials and Meskerem Abebe, Vice President of the Prosperity Party’s Women’s Wing. In her remarks, Meskerem emphasized the crucial roles women play in leadership, diplomacy, conflict resolution, and peacebuilding. She acknowledged recent strides in advancing women’s rights, addressing sexual violence, and promoting greater participation of women in the economy, society, and leadership roles.

Ariat Ujulu, Head of the Gambella Regional State Women and Social Affairs Bureau, expressed the region’s progress in empowering women. Ariat noted that while harmful traditional practices previously hindered women’s potential, recent efforts have focused on protecting them from violence and increasing their participation in development. She credited the current leadership for strengthening women’s involvement in decision-making and development, citing successful initiatives in areas like Lemat Trust, voluntary service, and peacebuilding.

International Women’s Day is also being celebrated in Mekelle city, Tigray region, at a regional level, with the participation of federal, regional, and local leaders and stakeholders. This year, International Women’s Day is being celebrated for the 114th time globally and the 49th time nationally with various programs.