Today, The Ethiopian Herald guest’s column has come up with one of the influential women world over. She is stands out for the great achievement she made possible in transforming Washington DC in multifaceted form. She is the honorable Muriel Bowser, the mayor of Washington DC. Bowser’s administration has made a magnificent history in creating and making accessible affordable housing options across the District.
On November 6, 2018, Muriel Bowser became the first woman ever to be re-elected as the Mayor of Washington, DC and the first mayor to earn a second term in 16 years.
During her first term, Mayor Bowser took bold steps in expanding employment opportunities, building a health care system that meets the needs of residents in every corner of DC, downsizing homelessness and investing in programs and policies that set more families up for success. Today, Washington, DC is a diverse and inclusive city, a leader in tech and innovation, and a place where residents and entrepreneurs of all backgrounds can meet and thrive.
She was first sworn in on January 2, 2015. Prior to her time as Mayor, Bowser served as the Ward 4 Councilmember on the Council of the District of Columbia first elected in a special election in 2007, and re-elected in 2008 and 2012. As a Councilmember, Bowser served as the Chairwoman of the Committee on Economic Development. She earned a Bachelor of Arts degree in History from Chatham University and a Master’s degree in Public Policy from American University. She entered public service as an Advisory Neighborhood Commissioner in the Riggs Park neighborhood in Washington, DC.
Herald: How did you get Addis Ababa? Addis is a sister city with Washington. How do you see that? In what ways Addis could benefit from their sisterly bond?
Mayor Bowser: I challenged my team to put our talent, creativity and intelligence behind this agreement to ensure we are honoring our commitment to the residents of Addis Ababa. The ties that we make across oceans and continents will strengthen our communities in both Washington, DC and Addis Ababa.
Herald: Could you tell us the objective of your visit?
Mayor Bowser: The purpose of this visit is to strengthen diplomatic, trade and economic relations between Washington, DC and Addis Ababa.
We renewed our Sister City agreement as well as developed relationships with government and business leaders in industries such as transportation, education, health care and education.
Herald: DC is the city with large number of Ethiopian outside Ethiopia, how do you see that?
Mayor Bowser: We are honored to be home to more than 30,000 Ethiopians. They play an important role in the vibrancy of Washington, DC. They are encouraged by Dr. Abiy’s message to give back.
Herald: How could Addis tackle the challenge of unemployment?
Mayor Bowser: Mayor Takele Uma Banti has a vision for how to make Addis shine and I applaud his efforts to ensure all residents to take part in this progress. During our meeting, we discussed strategies such as public private partnerships and investing in our communities as strategies for creating job opportunities for our residents.
Herald: How do you see the impact of Nobel Peace Prize Our PM Dr.Abiy won on Ethiopia’s Transformation Process?
Mayor Bowser: I was honored to have met the Prime Minister and we are inspired by his vision. The issues he is taking on are not easy but could have a significant impact on the generations of Ethiopians to come. I know that the Ethiopians who call Washington, DC home are excited about Dr. Abiy’s message of giving back.
The Ethiopian Herald Sunday Edition 17 Novebmer 2019
BY AMBO MEKASA
