SIHA Network calls for broader change and greater collaboration to advance gender equality in Ethiopia

Addis Ababa, March 12, 2025 (FMC) – The Strategic Initiative for Women in the Horn of Africa (SIHA) Network marked International Women’s Day in Addis Ababa, bringing together key stakeholders to highlight the progress of the women’s movement and call for more action from decision-makers.

Under the theme “From Movement to Momentum,” the event emphasized that while significant progress has been made, further improvements require changes in the way society and systems operate, with more involvement from those in power.

The event featured a panel discussion, experience-sharing sessions, and a Q&A forum attended by Nechte Felate, Director of Women, Children, and Youth Affairs at the FDRE House of Peoples’ Representatives, Zemdena Abebe, SIHA Ethiopia Country Coordinator, and other representatives from women’s rights organizations and activists across Ethiopia.

Speaking to the media, Zemdena Abebe discussed the role of civil society in challenging patriarchal structures in Ethiopia. She emphasized that the country’s deeply entrenched power dynamics hold back both women’s rights and overall progress, calling for a more inclusive approach to advocacy.

“We cannot single out one sector like education,” the SIHA Country Coordinator stated. “Patriarchy affects all aspects of society—politics, economics, and social structures. Our work focuses on breaking down these barriers rather than addressing isolated issues.”

She explained that SIHA works to shift societal views on gender by producing research and materials to make complex issues more understandable for wider audiences. Beyond formal education, SIHA also supports vocational training that challenges gender stereotypes, such as programs to train women in male-dominated fields like mechanics.

SIHA operates as a regional network across Ethiopia and other Horn of Africa countries, with over 22 grassroots network members in Ethiopia alone. The organization provides structural and financial support to local initiatives, ensuring that women-led movements drive change on the ground.

“We don’t believe in advancing gender equality as a single institution,” Zemdena said. “Collaboration is key. Our network members, including self-help groups, digital activists, and legal aid providers, each contribute to the movement in their own way.”

SIHA has long supported the Ethiopian Women Lawyers Association, enhancing their capacity to provide free legal services to marginalized communities while strengthening advocacy efforts.

SIHA Network has also played a crucial role in integrating gender perspectives into Ethiopia’s national dialogue process. As part of the steering committee for TIMRAN, a local non-partisan civil society organization, SIHA worked to ensure adequate representation of women in decision-making roles through National Dialogue process.

“When national issues are discussed, women’s voices are often sidelined,” Zemdena explained. “SIHA has worked to ensure women commissioners are nominated and advocates for an approach that represents marginalized groups.”

In addition to its advocacy efforts, SIHA has published policy recommendations to ensure the national dialogue process is inclusive and free from political influence. Zemdena emphasized that recognizing women’s voices and leadership in nation-building is not just a feminist issue, but a critical element for the country’s progress.

As SIHA continues its advocacy work, it remains committed to fostering collaboration, challenging entrenched social norms, and ensuring gender equality remains central in Ethiopia’s national and regional discussions.

The International Women’s Day event served not only to recognize past achievements but also to call for greater accountability and action from policymakers and institutions to drive lasting change.