Ethiopia’s macroeconomic reforms open doors for enhanced social protection financing

Addis Ababa, September 30, 2024 (FBC) – Representatives from the World Bank have indicated that Ethiopia’s ongoing macroeconomic reforms have created significant opportunities to bolster financing for social protection initiatives.

During a meeting with officials from the Ministry of Women and Social Affairs, discussions centered on social protection policy reforms, the current social protection conference, and strategies for enhancing both urban and rural safety net programs through collaborative efforts.

Minister Ergoge Tesfaye (PhD) expressed gratitude for the World Bank’s support in advancing social protection initiatives, while also highlighting existing challenges in effectively reaching all sectors of the community and ensuring effective coordination among stakeholders.

She noted that the ministry is engaged in various efforts, ranging from improving social protection registration processes to refining policies, underscoring the crucial role of cooperation with the World Bank.

The World Bank representatives emphasized that Ethiopia’s macroeconomic reforms not only foster development in social protection but also pave the way for coordinated initiatives across various sectors. The ministry confirmed the World Bank’s commitment to supporting forthcoming efforts in the area.