Addis Ababa, December 10, 2024 – A meeting organized by the Ethiopian Women Development Organization (EWDO) in collaboration with Engineer Health Ethiopia and the Ministry of Women and Social Affairs has concluded, marking the end of the 16-day activism campaign against gender-based violence (GBV). The event aimed to galvanize stakeholders to join forces in combating the pervasive issue.
During her opening remarks at the meeting, Meskerem Demissie, Director of the Rights-Based Project at Engender Health Ethiopia, emphasized her organization’s commitment to gender equality and the protection of women and girls from violence. She also expressed a pledge to continue supporting organizations and individuals dedicated to this important cause.
In her keynote speech, Hulgegarsh Tezez, Founder and Director of EWDO, emphasized the crucial role of civic societies, religious leaders, schools, and influential figures in bringing citizens together to tackle gender issues and protect women and girls from violence.
Keynote speakers included Alemitu Abebe, Chairwomen of the Women’s Caucus of the House of People’s Representatives, and Ashenefech Abebe, Vice President of the Federal First Instance Court. They both called for a coordinated effort to end GBV.
Hilena Lakew, Head of the Human Rights and Gender Issues Department at the Ministry of Health, highlighted the importance of community awareness-raising activities to engage everyone in finding solutions to eradicate gender-based violence.
The forum attracted a diverse audience comprising religious leaders, youth representatives, civil society leaders, legal experts, community leaders, police officers, teachers, students, and other stakeholders. The collective call is clear: only through joint efforts can we overcome the scourge of GBV and create a safer, more equitable society for all.