She is the Executive Director of Women Economic Empowerment Africa (WEEA). As a young Ethiopian who knows most of the challenges African women are passing through, she uses every opportunity to be the voice for voiceless women. Recently, The Ethiopian Herald had a chance to interview Mahlet Zeleke, to hear her reflections concerning women’s empowerment.
Excerpts:
Please tell us about yourself and how did the idea of creating Women Economic Empowerment Africa and advocating the right of African women, come to your mind?
I am Mahlet Zeleke, born in Modjo and raised in Jimma and Addis Ababa. I am Executive Director of Women Economic Empowerment Africa (WEEA). I am passionate woman who cares and advocate women’s economic rights. My upbringing shaped my perception towards humanity. This is especially true to stand for the right of women. All the paths I came thought have taught me the value of women economic empowerment.
The genesis of Women Economic Right Advocate Africa traces back to my early Pan-Africanist spirit, envisioning a community where women share equal opportunities with their male counterparts.
Fueled by a mission to empower women and girls through integrated economic interventions, the organization was born with the motto “Helping to improve African Women livelihood through economic empowerment, gives the Continent opportunity!” This vision materialized as I delved into studies on debt’s impact on African economic growth and became acutely aware of period poverty. The commitment to address these obstacles and advocate for the economic rights of African women laid the foundation for Women Economic Right Advocate Africa, a platform dedicated to fostering a world where women thrive through economic empowerment.
How do you define Ethiopian women, mothers and daughters?
Have you seen a bird feeding her babies? Birds feed their babies from their mouths, ensuring they eat before satisfying their own hunger. “The black Bird!” Ethiopian women, mothers and daughters embody the nurturing spirit of that black bird. They symbolize strength, resilience, and a vibrant cultural heritage. In my role as a Women and Youth human and economic rights advocate, I view Ethiopian women as integral pillars within their communities, making significant contributions to the nation’s social and economic fabric.
Mothers in Ethiopia hold a pivotal role, passing on values of perseverance and determination, gracefully navigating challenges, and positively impacting the broader community. They are like the black bird ensuring their offspring are nourished with not just sustenance but also with the essential qualities for life.Daughters inherit a legacy of tenacity, breaking barriers in education, entrepreneurship, and various fields, becoming embodiments of progress. As young women and future leaders, we contribute fresh perspectives, steering Ethiopia towards a more inclusive and equitable future.
Recognizing the multifaceted roles Ethiopian women play is crucial, not just within families but also as contributors to economic growth. Empowering women economically is not merely a matter of rights but a strategic investment in national development. By providing opportunities for education, entrepreneurship, and leadership, we unlock the full potential of Ethiopian women, fostering a society thriving on diversity and equality.
As a young woman advocating for these rights, I draw inspiration from the stories of Ethiopian women overcoming challenges, reflecting the collective spirit of a nation progressing towards gender equality and equity. What is more, as a participant of 2023 World Bank Youth Summit and UN High-Level Political Forum on Sustainable Development Goals youth delegate, I am pushing for women’s equal participation and tackling period poverty as a global issue.
How do you evaluate the progresses made so far to promote the social, economic and political rights of women in Ethiopia?
The progress made in promoting the social, economic, and political rights of women in Ethiopia is commendable, yet challenges persist, and let’s talk about poverty period– it is a screaming issue that needs urgent attention. Political engagement is a key to unlock almost all the challenges every woman face. Respecting our natural rights means access to education, healthcare, and resources.
What are the successes and the challenges you encountered while working on women?
The successes in advocating for women’s rights are evident in increased awareness and strides against issues like period poverty. Empowering youth women to be decision-makers is a win, but the uphill battle persists. Challenges loom large, demanding more than just rhetoric. The struggle to bridge the gender gap in politics and the economy remains real. It is frustrating to witness promises without tangible actions. The key lies in dismantling systemic barriers, implementing concrete policies, and fostering an environment where women truly thrive. It is a journey filled with both triumphs and exasperating roadblocks, emphasizing the pressing need for sustained, meaningful change.
Despite all the efforts made by the government or some international organizations, most Ethiopian women are still suffering from poverty, illegal migration, early marriage, rape, school dropouts and other challenges. What do you think is the problem? And what should be done to curb the challenges?
Like other African countries Ethiopian women are drowning in poverty, facing illegal migration, early marriage, rape, school dropouts and period poverty. These are not insurmountable issues, and the solutions are not rocket science or do not need a magic. Implement real, actionable policies! Tackle societal norms that perpetuate these horrors, invest in education, and empower women economically. Having sound policy is one step; but there must be a genuine commitment to execution.
Illegal migration can only be curbed by creating sustainable livelihoods at home. Efforts should focus on dismantling societal norms that perpetuate early marriages. Addressing rape requires stringent legal measures and a cultural shift that does not tolerate such heinous acts.
The battle against school dropouts necessitates targeted initiatives, ensuring girls have equal access to education and creating an environment that supports their academic journey. As a frustrated youth women’s rights advocate, the call is for tangible action, not just lip service. The roadmap to change involves implementing and enforcing policies that protect and empower women, leaving no room for the continuation of these distressing challenges.
And what should women themselves do to enjoy their rights on an equal footing with their counterparts?
As women, we need to stop waiting for invitations to the table; we must demand our seats in policy and decision-making spaces. Privileged women with access to resources and education should take the initiative to share opportunities with fellow women. Believing in the potential of every woman and ensuring equal opportunities empowers us to achieve anything we set our minds to. It is about actively shaping our narrative and collectively paving the way for a future where gender equality is not just a goal but a lived reality.
Economic empowerment is not a buzzword; it is a lifeline. Allocate resources to uplift women economically, providing opportunities and breaking the chains of poverty. It is time to move beyond discussions and witness real, impactful change on the ground.
BY LEULSEGED WORKU
The Ethiopian Herald October 5/2023
