In a society where girls are often discouraged from pursuing education and reaching leadership positions, it is crucial to question the reasons behind this disparity. Instead of being promoted academically or professionally, girls are often expected to prioritize their family duties until they get married and then assume the role of leading their own families. Such expectations imposed by family, society, religion, and culture have had a profound impact on many individuals and created barriers to reaching their full potential.
However, there are those who are striving to change this narrative. One such inspiring figure is Zainab Haji Aden, whom The Ethiopian Press Agency (EPA) has approached her to share her experience. She is currently serving as Deputy Head of Somali State Investment and Industry Bureau.
Born and raised in Jigjiga, Zainab attributes her success to the support and encouragement she received from her parents, who placed great importance on education. She acknowledges that her studies and hard work have propelled her from humble beginnings to her current position. She is also grateful for the privilege of having a family that fosters a culture of learning and achievement.
According to her, the perception that girls are meant solely for marriage and not for education or positions of responsibility is a social construct rather than a divine decree. She believes that such thinking has caused immense harm and that only a few individuals have managed to overcome societal barriers and achieve success through their own efforts. However, she recognizes that there is a positive shift occurring, with more attention being given to girls’ education and an increasing number of women assuming professional and leadership roles in various fields, including education.
Zeineb’s educational journey took her to different schools in Jigjiga for her primary and secondary education. She pursued a BA degree in the field of management through distance education at Haramaya University and later obtained a master’s degree in Agricultural Economics. During her undergraduate studies, she volunteered at State’s Youth and Sports Bureau, where she contributed to various awareness-raising activities for the youth. This experience paved the way for her to join the workforce, eventually leading to her appointment as the Acting Head of Women and Children Department and later as Director of Women and Children’s Bureau.
As the only female cabinet member in the State, she served as both a role model and a trailblazer. While she takes pride in being a source of inspiration to others, she also expresses a sense of loneliness due to the lack of female counterparts in the cabinet. However, she notes that progress has been made, with the number of female cabinet members increasing to four, and the representation of women in deputy leadership roles across various institutions in the State exceeding 15.
“This progress is a result of Prime Minister Abiy Ahimed’s (PhD) commitment to gender equality and his efforts to empower women. Under his leadership, initiatives have been implemented to promote women’s participation in decision-making processes and leadership roles. Premier’s inclusive policies and support have created an environment that encourages and facilitates the advancement of women in various sectors”.
She values the positive impact of these measures and believes that they have played a significant role in increasing the representation of women in key positions. She further expressed her gratitude for the opportunities provided and the ongoing commitment to gender equality in the country.
According to her, even though many-sided efforts are being made to empower women; much more actions remain to be done. She emphasized that women possess the talent and capability to excel in leadership positions. While the constitution grants women their rights, she believes that there is a discrepancies between rights on paper and the implementation of policies in practice.
Zainab emphasizes that a girl’s leadership role begins at home, where women play a crucial role in nurturing morally upright citizens who contribute positively to the country. She believes that the management of a household is an essential responsibility that equips women with valuable skills and experiences applicable to the professional world.
Drawing from her personal experience, she proves that it is possible to balance family responsibilities, marriage, and work. As a mother and a professional, she fulfills her duties diligently, ensuring that her work and family life are harmoniously intertwined. She carries out her work with dedication, demonstrating careful resource management and a meticulous approach to problem-solving.
She once had the opportunity to visit The Netherlands, where she witnessed women occupying various positions of leadership. She admired the level of development in the country, where women actively participated in construction work, often traditionally considered as men’s job. This experience reinforced her belief that Ethiopian women possess great strength and potential. She equally admits that there is still gap in having support from their counterparts, men’s. Despite this, Zainab remains committed to empowering women and stand always by the side of them and to offer the needed guidance and support to produce female leaders.
As to her, the advent of technology, particularly the accessibility of mobile phones in rural areas, has played a significant role in raising awareness and empowering women. Women in rural communities of the State are now engaging in various activities to improve their lives, inspired by the lifestyle and opportunities they observe in urban areas. Nevertheless, she emphasizes that there is still work to be done in reaching those who are isolated from information and have limited opportunities for change.
When faced with challenges, she adopts a thoughtful approach, avoiding hasty decisions. She believes in seeking wisdom and exercising patience, drawing parallels between her leadership style and motherhood. Just as a mother endeavors to guide and nurture her children, Zainab sees her employees as a part of her work family, actively working to resolve issues and create a harmonious environment.
Desperation has no place in her mindset. She firmly believes that with determination, resilience, and a supportive environment, women can overcome any obstacles they face. She encourages women to pursue education, develop their skills, and actively seek opportunities for growth and advancement.
Her story is just one example of the many women around the world who can break the glass ceiling and leading change. This story also serves as a reminder that gender should never be a limitation to one’s aspirations and achievements. Empowering women is not only a matter of justice and equality but also a catalyst for societal progress and development.
To create a more inclusive and equitable society, it is essential to challenge traditional norms and stereotypes that hinder women’s progress. This requires a concerted effort from families, communities, religious and educational institutions, governments, as well as stakeholders and development partners to promote gender equality, provide equal opportunities, and foster an environment that supports women’s aspirations.
Through investing in girls’ education, providing mentorship and support networks, and implementing policies that promote gender parity in leadership positions, we can create a future where women have an equal voice and influence in shaping society. It is through the collective effort of individuals like Zainab and the commitment of society at large that we can break down barriers, create opportunities, and empower women to lead change in every sphere of life.
BY HIZKEL HAILU
THE ETHIOPIAN HERALD THURSDAY 29 FEBRUARY 2024
