Author name: NEWA

NEWA joined EU Delegation for 16 Days of Activism Against GBV From December 12-13, 2024, the Network of Ethiopian Women’s Associations (NEWA) joined the European Union Delegation in Ethiopia to participate in the 16 Days of Activism Against Gender-Based Violence (GBV) event. This impactful gathering united leaders, activists, and organizations in a strong stance against GBV, aiming to amplify efforts toward prevention, recovery, and empowerment. Held over two days at the Capital Hotel, the event featured a poignant photo exhibition that highlighted the resilience of GBV survivors, inspiring attendees to continue the fight for a safer and more equitable world. Additionally, NEWA seized the invaluable opportunity to network with various organizations across Ethiopia, gaining insights from their efforts to achieve gender equality and combat gender inequalities.

The technical committee conducted a review session for the inception report of the research titled “Measuring and Valuing Unpaid Care and Domestic Work (UCDW) in Ethiopia.” The Network of Ethiopian Women’s Associations (NEWA), funded by the International Development Research Center (IDRC), is executing a project titled “Coupling Unpaid Care Domestic Work with Local Development Agenda for Improved Care Systems in Ethiopia.” This initiative aims to strengthen Ethiopia’s care economy by assessing and valuing unpaid care and domestic work (UCDW) and conducting implementation research on the country’s gender mainstreaming guidelines. To enhance Ethiopia’s care economy, the project has commenced two studies: An implementation study on gender mainstreaming policy from UCDW and intersectionality perspectives in selected pro-poor government sectors. Measuring and valuing unpaid care and domestic work (UCDW). For the effective execution of the project and research, NEWA has established coordination and management structures. The Technical Committee, comprising representatives from INGOs, CSOs, and selected pro-poor government ministries (MoE, MoH, MoWE, and MoLS), serves as a management and coordination framework for the technical aspects of the project carried out by NEWA and MoWSA. On December 13, 2024, the Technical Committee is convening at the MADO hotel to review and evaluate the inception report developed by the consultants for the study Measuring and Valuing Unpaid Care and Domestic Work (UCDW) for Improved Care Economy in Ethiopia. The session will primarily focus on the methodological aspects of the research, and the Technical Committee has approved the developed technique, providing valuable comments and insights.  

NEWA participated in the 2024 Civil Society Organization Week NEWA participated in the 2024 Civil Society Organization Week, held at Gihon Hotel from December 6–8, alongside 85 remarkable CSOs and esteemed ministers. This exhibition served as a platform to exchange valuable experiences, learn from innovative approaches in addressing societal challenges, and showcase our commitment to advancing women’s rights and gender equality. By engaging with diverse organizations, we deepened our insights into collaborative strategies and enhanced our advocacy efforts. We’re honored to have been recognized with a Certificate of Appreciation for our dedication to these critical issues. Together, let’s continue to build a stronger, inclusive Ethiopia.  

Solidarity Meeting Between Sudanese Women’s Shuttle Diplomacy and Ethiopian Women Peace Actors On December 7, 2024, at the Mado Hotel in Addis Ababa, NEWA hosted a pivotal solidarity meeting between Sudanese Women’s Shuttle Diplomacy and Ethiopian women peace actors. The discussions addressed critical issues such as the worsening humanitarian crisis in Sudan, the devastating impact of conflict on civilians particularly women, children and youth and the urgent need to combat gender-based violence, early marriages, and other forms of exploitation.The dialogue emphasized the shared struggles and resilience of women in Sudan and Ethiopia, reinforcing the need for collaboration in peace building and the protection of civilian rights. The meeting provided a platform for participants to share their personal experiences, raise important questions, and explore solutions to the challenges faced by women in conflict zones. Through these exchanges, attendees reaffirmed their commitment to advocating for change and amplifying the voices of women in peace and conflict resolution processes. The consultative meeting concluded with a focus on three main areas of collaboration and advocacy:1. Advocacy for Influencing the African Union and High PanelParticipants discussed strategies for influencing key regional bodies, such as the African Union (AU), and its High Panel to advocate for an end to violence in Sudan. They also focused on amplifying women’s voices in various platforms for peace building, ensuring that women’s perspectives are integral to peace processes and conflict resolution efforts.2. Advocating for Ceasefire and Peace in SudanThe group explored ways to advocate for a lasting ceasefire in Sudan, following the most recent but unsuccessful attempt at ceasefire talks in August 2024. The ongoing conflict continues to inflict immense suffering on the Sudanese population, particularly women and children. The meeting emphasized the importance of continued diplomatic pressure and women’s involvement in peace negotiations to push for sustainable peace.3. Influencing International Actors and Strengthening CollaborationThe discussion turned to how women peace actors from both countries could unite to influence international actors and policymakers. This includes expanding their collaboration to advocate for more robust peace initiatives and greater recognition of women’s roles in conflict prevention and post-conflict recovery. The group committed to broadening their scope for prevention and ensuring that women’s voices remain central in post-conflict peace building efforts.The meeting was attended by 25 representatives from civil society organizations (CSOs), all of whom contributed valuable insights and perspectives to the discussions.The meeting concluded with a strong commitment to continue working together to advocate for peace, security, and women’s rights in Sudan and Ethiopia. The participants emphasized the importance of ongoing collaboration and collective action to influence both regional and international peace processes and to ensure that women’s contributions to peace building are fully recognized and supported.

EMWA In Collaboration with NEWA conducted a half-day workshop On December 06, 2024, EMWA In Collaboration with NEWA conducted a half-day workshop as part of the 16 Days of Activism Against Gender-Based Violence; The event at the Inter luxury Hotel, Addis Ababa highlighted “The 16 days of Activism Against GBV – The Role of Media in GBV Reporting in Media Coverage” Key Highlights: A presentation on the responsibilities of media in GBV reporting—emphasizing sensitivity and accuracy. Engaging discussions and reflections on how media can challenge harmful norms, amplify survivors’ voices, and promote accountability.The session underscored the importance of responsible journalism as a catalyst for societal change, offering valuable insights into how the media can help end the silence and stigma surrounding GBV.Together, we reaffirmed our commitment to creating a world free from violence.

Official Launch of the 16 Days of Activism Against Gender-Based Violence NEWA, in collaboration with the GBV Campaign Ethiopia and UN Women, officially launched the 16 Days of Activism Against Gender-Based Violence at the Radisson Blu Hotel.The event brought together key stakeholders, advocates, and experts to amplify voices and strengthen the collective fight against GBV in Ethiopia. Welcoming Remarks Ms. Saba G/Medihn, Executive Director of NEWA, emphasized:”This event marks the beginning of our 16 Days of Activism Against Gender-Based Violence. Together, we amplify our voices and strengthen efforts to combat GBV across Ethiopia. Through collective advocacy, we aim to drive meaningful change and empower women nationwide. We must focus on prevention, revise existing strategies, and rethink our messaging as women continue to face GBV—even publicly. Together, we must accelerate and strengthen our efforts.” Opening Remarks Ms. Yelfigne Abegaz,, UN Women National Program Coordinator, highlighted:”GBV affects women and girls of all ages. Data shows that 1 in 3 women experiences GBV in her lifetime, with 23% of women aged 15-49 suffering physical harm. Alarmingly, only 10% of cases are reported. This underscores the urgent need for stronger policies, effective implementation, and continuous advocacy. Together, we must work tirelessly to achieve a future free from GBV.” Workshop Presentations Beijing+30: A Focus on Ending Violence Against WomenPresented by Ms. Bezawit Bekele, UN Women Program Specialist, this session explored the Beijing+30 framework, commemorating 30 years since the Beijing Declaration and Platform for Action (1995). The session focused on advancing women’s human rights, eliminating violence, addressing poverty, improving education and healthcare access, and fostering women’s leadership. It also discussed gaps and opportunities for strengthening advocacy against GBV. Women’s Human Rights in Ethiopia: General Context and Conflict SettingMs. Rabel Desalegn provided an overview of progress made in establishing one-stop centers and promoting economic stability for survivors. Challenges such as traditional justice issues, human trafficking, and gaps in government accountability were also highlighted, along with recommendations for prevention, rehabilitation, and systemic change. Launch of the Anti-GBV Campaign Ethiopia Strategic and Action Plan As a significant milestone, the Anti-GBV Campaign Group Strategic and Action Plan was officially launched. In her presentation, Mrs. Hibret stressed the importance of collaboration among civil society, government, and international partners to create a lasting impact. The plan focuses on survivor-centered approaches and community-based solutions to empower women and girls while driving actions and conversations to end GBV. Oath CeremonyThe event concluded with a Renewal of Oath Ceremony, led by representatives from Sara Justice, Mujujugo Loka, and the Anti-GBV Campaign Ethiopia. These leaders guided all participants in reaffirming their dedication to ending violence against women and girls in Ethiopia.

NEWA provided a capacity building training to Addis Ababa women Political party leaders and members The Network of Ethiopian Women’s Associations (NEWA) in collaboration with Demo Finland and Addis Ababa Political Parties Joint Council Women’s Wing has been facilitated two days capacity-building training; from 14-15 November 2024 on Social Norms and Political Culture. The number of participants is 49 (all female) drawn from 16 political parties. The training is conducting here in Addis Ababa at Harmony Hotel with the financial support of Political Parties of Finland for Democracy- Demo Finland. This training is one of the activities of our collaborative project called “Supporting Women Political Participation in Ethiopia”. Similar training provided for Benshangul Gumuz and Ormia Regional State women politicians on October 4-5th and 10-11th, 2024 respectively.The overall purpose of this training is to enhance women political party representatives understanding on Social Norms, and Political Culture so that they can discover similar challenges within the social and public sphere by themselves and contribute for the prevention and response of such challenges both at national and local level. While the specific objectives are:• Equip participants with in-depth knowledge of the social norms and political culture of Ethiopia.• Foster collaborative learning among participants to ensure a cohesive understanding on women political issues and make it as their common agenda.Some of the topics covered in this training are:• The basic concept of gender and politics• The global, regional, and national normative foundations of women’s political participation• Women and politics in Ethiopia• Social norms that hinder women political participation• Political cultures and women’s political participation, etc.