Author name: NEWA

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.

Congratulation! NEWA Officially Launched National Action Research Report on Determining the Status and Priorities of Ethiopian Women NEWA, in collaboration with the Ministry of Women and Social Affairs and Oxfam Ethiopia, with  the financial support from the European Union(EU), has proudly launched a groundbreaking national assessment report on Ethiopian Women’s Status and Priorities. This extensive 22-month research project involved interviews with over 36,000 Households  across all regions, zones and city administrations and 480 women were organized in 24 focus group discussions, providing a detailed and comprehensive understanding of the current state of Ethiopian women. During the the high-level event, Mrs. Saba also touched on the areas of peace and security, with a focus on the unique challenges women face in conflict settings and their role in peace building. Access to justice, another critical area, addresses the legal challenges women encounter, from reporting rights violations to navigating judicial processes. Mrs. Saba emphasized the report’s role in bridging the significant data gaps that have previously hindered comprehensive action on women’s issues. Mrs. Saba acknowledge EU for believing in NEWA and bringing NEWA in the forefront on this action research implementation this purely shows how EU provide attention to localization agenda. On top  Mr. Leopold Kortekaas, Program Director for Oxfam in Ethiopia, emphasizes the importance of conducting research that provides insights into the current status and priorities of women in Ethiopia. Such research not only highlights the challenges women face but also helps identify and prioritize areas where intervention is most needed. By examining the specific needs and aspirations of women, this type of research allows organizations and policymakers to craft targeted, impactful initiatives aimed at improving gender equality and supporting women’s rights in the country.  In another hand H.E. Dr. Ergoge Tesfaye, Minister, Ministry of Women and Social Affairs, was present at the event and delivered a keynote address, emphasizing the critical nature of this research in addressing data scarcity surrounding women’s issues. H.E noted that, while women represent more than half of the Ethiopian population, their concerns often lack adequate representation in policy-making. Dr. Ergoge highlighted the “power of data” and the potential impact of this assessment in guiding evidence-based policy-making and shaping government priorities to meet the urgent needs identified by the research. Dr. Ergoge affirmed that this comprehensive national assessment will enable the government to adopt policies that reflect the reality of women’s experiences and challenges, contributing to targeted, impactful interventions. More on this H.E. Mrs. Sofie From-Emmesberger Ambassador Designate of the European Union Delegations to Ethiopia also addressed that congratulation for our success and this is big research that can change different girls and women livelihood across the country. And this assessment support the effort of gender equality through showing or indicating the priorities of women and knowing their status. H.E also highlights the relevance of having such kind of huge data for policy maker, implementers and development partners.  The event concluded with the official release of this landmark report, a testament to collaborative efforts and a major step forward in understanding and addressing the challenges faced by Ethiopian women. This achievement marks a proud moment in the journey toward gender equality and empowerment in Ethiopia. In the dissemination and launching event, there were representatives of different Ministries, Regional government Bureaus, UN agencies, Embassies, International Organizations, NEWA’s members and CSOs. For more informationhttps://www.fanabc.com/english/a-study-report-on-determining-the-ethiopian-womens-status-priorities-unveiled/

EYWV has officially assigned members in Tigray region NEWA is happy to share that on September 23, Ethiopian Young Women Voice (EYWV), has officially assigned members in Tigray region. Despite the challenges of the post-conflict in recent years, we are proud to expand our reach to the region and bring together young women to participate in advocacy and leadership. For the first time, EYWV will now have members in all regions, it is a significant step forward in ensuring that the Girls and Young Women’s Voices in all regions of Ethiopia are heard and represented.   To support this effort, we have also formed a technical committee of dedicated individuals who will provide strategic guidance and help coordinate our initiatives in the region. We exchanged experiences from existing members and new group that help the new regional members  can think in different directions. We are thrilled to share this milestone with all She Leads members, and we look forward to the positive change on this expansion.   Ethiopian Young Women Voice (EYWV) would like to extend our heartfelt thanks to rise and shine.