Author name: NEWA

NEWA, in collaboration with Spanish Development Cooperation, successfully conducted a training on financial management for WROs NEWA, in collaboration with Spanish Development Cooperation, successfully conducted a two-day training on financial management for WROs from April 4–5, 2025, at Mado Hotel, Addis Ababa. The primary goal of this training was to enhance the financial management capabilities of WROs, thereby ensuring accurate, timely, and compliant financial reporting. Participants were equipped with essential tools and knowledge to promote transparency, sustainability, and effective resource management in advancing gender equality. The training commenced with welcoming remarks from Mrs. Yididya Abebe, Program Coordinator at NEWA, who underscored the critical role of sound financial management in fostering organizational accountability and long-term impact. A total of 27 participants attended the training, including 23 women and 4 men, with 12 representatives from regional WROs. The sessions addressed a range of important topics, including  fundamental financial management for NGOs, financial management tools, grant management, internal controls, the IPSAS framework and compliance, challenges in implementing IPSAS, common cost allocation methods, risks of noncompliance and mitigation strategies, as well as Peachtree Demo.   The training was designed to be engaging and participatory, , incorporating group activities, experience sharing, and practical exercises. Additionally, NEWA established a networking platform to facilitate ongoing collaboration and the exchange of experiences and resources among participants and trainers. At the conclusion of the training, participants provided feedback through Mentimeter, which indicated a successful and impactful session. Ms. Mahider Mekuannent, GBV Officer at NEWA, commended participants for their dedication and active engagement. She emphasized the importance of continued learning to strengthen financial systems and encouraged participants to disseminate the knowledge gained with colleagues who were unable to attend and to translate it into practical application. Through this initiative, NEWA continues to strengthen the financial systems of Women’s Rights Organizations, , thereby contributing meaningfully to the fight against Gender-Based Violence (GBV) and the promotion of gender equality.

Measuring and Valuing the Contribution of Unpaid Care and Domestic Work (UCDW) in National Economy (GDP) for an Improved Care Economy in Ethiopia’ A project titled “Coupling Unpaid Care Domestic Work with Local Development Agenda for Improved Care Systems in Ethiopia” is being implemented by the Network of Ethiopian Women’s Associations (NEWA) with financial support from the International Development Research Center (IDRC). As part of its efforts to enhance Ethiopia’s care economy, the project has initiated two studies: measuring and valuing the Contribution unpaid care and domestic work (UCDW) in national economy (GDP) and conducting implementation research on the national gender mainstreaming guidelines. The research titled “Measuring and Valuing the Contribution of Unpaid Care and Domestic Work (UCDW) to the National Economy (GDP) for an Improved Care Economy in Ethiopia” focuses on estimating the monetary value of unpaid work using two widely accepted methods: the replacement cost method and the opportunity cost method. These methods are used based on detailed data from the Ethiopian Time Use Survey (TUS, 2013) to categorize specific unpaid activities—referred to as extended System of National Accounts (SNA) activities—and wage information derived from the 2022 Ethiopian Employment and Unemployment Survey (EUES). The replacement cost method, calculates the cost of hiring someone to perform these unpaid tasks, reflecting their economic value in market terms. Based on this method, the estimated annual wage value of unpaid domestic work, care, and community services in Ethiopia amounts to ETB 1,039.23 billion, representing 16.8% of the 2022 GDP. The opportunity cost method, on the other hand emphasizes the economic trade-offs faced by individuals, who disproportionately shoulder unpaid work responsibilities. Based on this method, the estimated annual wage value of unpaid domestic work, care, and community services at ETB 1,394.88 billion, representing 22.6% of the 2022 GDP. These findings challenge conventional economic frameworks that exclude unpaid labor from GDP measurements, perpetuating its invisibility in national policy discourse. They underscore the critical economic and social value of UCDW, highlighting its foundational role in sustaining households and broader economic systems. Recognizing UCDW as a legitimate economic activity presents Ethiopia with an opportunity to address long-standing gaps in social protection, labor policy, and economic planning. On April 4, 2025, at Harmony Hotel in Addis Ababa, a validation workshop for the research was held, attended by state minister delegates from MoWSA, representatives of other implementing ministries, CSOs, and invited government and international non-governmental organizations.

NEWA Empowers Young Girls Through Resource Mobilization Training The Network of Ethiopian Women’s Association (NEWA), through She-Leads Project, successfully conducted a two-day training on Resource Mobilization, Proposal Writing, and Reporting for members of the Ethiopian Young Women Volunteers (EYWV) on March 28–29, 2025. Held at Azzeman Hotel, the training aimed to equip young girls with critical skills to advocate effectively and drive impactful change. Day 1 focused on foundational knowledge, offering an introduction to resource mobilization and strategic approaches. Participants learned the art of crafting compelling proposals and collaborated in groups to draft their ideas, receiving live feedback from trainers. Day 2 brought practical applications into the spotlight, allowing the participants to enhance their skills further. The training wrapped up with a session of reflections and a post-test, signaling not merely the conclusion of an event, but the beginning of a transformative journey. Empowered and equipped, the young girl advocates are now ready to mobilize resources and ignite meaningful change in their communities!

Empowering Young Women: NEWA Hosted Intergenerational Dialogue in Dire Dawa In honor of International Women’s Day (March 8), the Network for Ethiopian Women’s Associations (NEWA), in partnership with the Dire Dawa Women’s Association, proudly hosted an intergenerational dialogue focused on women’s empowerment and youth leadership. The event was organized under the She Leads Projects initiative and brought together a vibrant mix of women leaders, role models, university students, and over 100 girls and young women. The dialogue served as a platform for open discussion on the challenges women face in society and how girls can rise to leadership positions. A panel discussion featuring representatives from the Dire Dawa Women’s Association and other stakeholders highlighted the power of collaboration and solidarity in driving positive change and amplifying women’s voices. Participants included students from Dire Dawa Boarding School, members of the Dire Dawa University Gender Club, representatives from the Ethiopian Young Women Voice (EYWV), BoWCSA, and local women’s organizations. The event offered rich opportunities for experience-sharing, with members of EYWV delivering powerful personal stories that inspired collective action. A key highlight of the event was the formation of a new Girls and Young Women (GYW) group, “የበረሃዋ ንግስት” (The Queen of the Desert), dedicated to supporting and empowering young women across the community. This group stands as a testament to the event’s commitment to youth engagement and long-term impact. Media representatives were also present, helping to amplify the voices and stories shared, reaching a broader audience beyond the event. NEWA extends heartfelt gratitude to all participants, contributors, and partners who helped make this event a success. Together, we continue to champion gender equality, inspire future leaders, and strengthen the role of women in building a better society.

NEWA Hosted Advocacy Training on Unpaid Care and Domestic Work in Ethiopia From March 11 to 14, the Network of Ethiopian Women Associations (NEWA) hosted a training on evidence-based policy advocacy focused on Unpaid Care and Domestic Work (UCDW) in Adama and Addis Ababa. The training gathered women’s associations, women-led organizations, and women’s rights groups from the Amhara and Oromia regions. Participants learned how to use research and data to advocate for policy changes that promote gender equality and women’s empowerment. The sessions focused on equipping women’s organizations with practical tools to influence local and national policies. The training marked a key step in empowering women’s organizations to drive meaningful change in their communities.

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!

Successful Completion of the 2-Day Training on Social Media Messaging & Content Creation! NEWA, in collaboration with CST Ethiopia, successfully concluded the 2-day training program held on December 30-31, 2024, at Sapphire Addis Hotel, Addis Ababa. This event brought together Communication Officers and social media Officers from various women-led and rights-based organizations, all with the shared goal of strengthening their capacity to navigate the digital landscape effectively and amplify their advocacy efforts. By focusing on Cyber Security for Social Media Platforms and Content Creation for Advocacy and Organizational Visibility today, Participants gained essential skills to strengthen their online safety measures and develop compelling content that effectively communicates their advocacy goals. Together, we are laying the foundation for a brighter future—one message, one story, and one voice at a time.