January 2025

Capacity Building Training: For Benishangul-Gumuz Regional State Government Bureau on PSEA Guideline and SGBV Report Mechanisms Following the successful training in Adama, a similar capacity-building workshop on Protection from Sexual Exploitation and Abuse (PSEA) and Gender-Based Violence (GBV) Reporting Mechanisms was held in Addis Ababa at Harmony Hotel on January 24 and 25 for officials from the Benishangul-Gumuz Regional State Government Bureau. The training, conducted by NEWA in collaboration with the Spanish Corporation, addressed similar critical topics. It concluded successfully, with participants offering valuable insights into regional initiatives, challenges, and strategies aimed at creating safer and more equitable communities. Engaging discussions and interactive activities contributed to making the event both impactful and productive.

Capacity Building Training: For Oromia Regional State Government Bureau on PSEA Guideline and SGBV Report Mechanism On January 22 and 23, A capacity building training on “Protection from Sexual Exploitation, Abuse (PSEA) and Gender-Based Violence (GBV) Reporting Mechanisms” was held in Canopy Hotel, Adama for officials from the Oromia Regional State Government Bureau. The training covered the basics of Gender, GBV, PSEA (Protection from Sexual Exploitation and Abuse), and explored the causes of power abuse, inequalities, and gender inequalities. It covered the definitions and Standards of Conduct, the Four Pillars of Community Engagement, Prevention, Response, Management and Coordination, Response, Survivor-Centered Approaches, and Developing Action Plans for community engagement, prevention, and victim assistance. Objectives of the Training:-To increase understanding of sexual abuse and exploitation and its consequences-To advance understanding of the PSEA Principles and standards of conduct.-To increase coordination and effective reporting and referral mechanism among government sectors for GBV Prevention and response including SEA Participants actively shared insights on regional efforts, challenges, and opportunities, fostering collaboration and a shared commitment to safer, more equitable communities. The discussions and activities made the training a truly impactful and fruitful event.

NEWA and Partners Visit Newly Inaugurated Women’s Rehabilitation Center in Addis Ababa Addis Ababa, Ethiopia — On January 21, 2025, the Networks of Ethiopian Women’s Associaions (NEWA), along with its esteemed members and partners, visited the recently inaugurated “Lenegewa Women’s Rehabilitation and Skill Development Center” in Addis Ababa. This center, inaugurated by Her Excellency Mayor Adanech Abebe, is dedicated to uplifting vulnerable women through comprehensive rehabilitation and skill development programs. During the visit, Hirpasa Chala, Chairperson of the Lenegewa Women’s Rehabilitation and Skill Development Center, warmly welcomed NEWA and its members, expressing sincere gratitude for their unwavering support and shared vision. With the presence of NEWA’s Executive Director, Mrs. Saba G/Medhin, the visit highlighted a collective commitment to empowering women and emphasized the importance of future collaborations. Both parties underscored the significance of strengthening their efforts to drive impactful actions and create a brighter future for women across Ethiopia. This visit marks a significant milestone in the journey towards empowering women and fostering meaningful change. Together, NEWA and its partners are dedicated to making a lasting difference in the lives of women, providing them with opportunities for growth, development, and empowerment.

Validation Workshop on the Girls’ Manifesto with Girls Representatives, Key Stakeholders, and Partners! Addis Ababa, Ethiopia — On January 04, 2025, the Networks of Ethiopian Women’s Association (NEWA), in collaboration with the ECN project funded by Malala Fund, hosted an inclusive Validation Workshop at Sapphire Addis. The event brought together girls’ representatives, key stakeholders, and partners from various regions and city administrations across Ethiopia. The workshop aimed to validate the urgent demands and needs of Ethiopian girls, raise awareness of these issues, and present a revised manifesto to policymakers. By articulating these pressing issues, the event sought to ensure that the manifesto reflects the realities of young girls and calls for actions that drive meaningful and impactful change. Building on previous consultative sessions where girls from diverse backgrounds shared their experiences, the workshop identified crucial areas of focus, including: Access to Safe and Quality Education Safety, Security, and Protection in Schools Rights to Information and Protection Elimination of Barriers to Enrollment and Retention The workshop served as a platform to continue elevating these demands and sharing lived experiences, enriching the dialogue, and ensuring that the manifesto truly represents the voices of Ethiopian girls. By revising and articulating the manifesto, the event highlighted the importance of listening to girls’ priorities and aspirations. This significant step aims to amplify the voices of young girls, address their challenges, and drive policy reforms tailored to their needs and dreams, shaping a brighter future for Ethiopian girls’ education across the nation. Together, we are building a roadmap for a more equitable and inclusive future for girls focused on Quality Education!