The Harari Region is not only known for its rich cultural heritage but also for the resilience and compassion of its people. For generations, the Harari community has fostered a spirit of unity and mutual support, valuing the well-being of every individual. In this close-knit society, the plight of vulnerable groups, particularly women and children, has always been a top priority.
Recognizing the immense potential for positive change, the Harari Regional State Women and Children Bureau has taken remarkable strides in empowering women and children, working towards a future where no one is left behind.
Habiba Seid, a resident of Harar city was once trapped in a life of street begging. However, thanks to the golden opportunity provided by Harari Regional State Women and Children Bureau, she is now able to leave behind her street life and embark on a new path.
Habiba’s new found livelihood comes from running her own shop where she sells goods. As to her, this entrepreneurial venture not only allows her to support herself but also provides for her four children and their father. “The stability and independence I have gained through this opportunity have undoubtedly brought me immense joy and satisfaction”.
Having experienced firsthand the life-changing impact of the bureau’s program, Habiba now harbors an ambitious goal for the future. She aspires to extend the same kind of support and assistance to other street families in her village. Motivated by her own transformation, Habiba desires to become a catalyst for change in her community, enabling others to break free from the cycle of poverty and street life.
Habiba also said that the vision goes beyond personal success and encompasses a collective effort to uplift those around her. Through sharing her experience and knowledge, Habiba aims to empower and guide other street families, helping them access similar opportunities for a better life. Her desire to pay it forward reflects her gratitude towards the bureau and her commitment to making a positive impact in her community.
In a recent exclusive interview with The Ethiopian Herald, Meftuha Alyyi, Deputy Head of the Harari Regional State Women and Children Bureau shed light on the intensive efforts being made to support women and children in need. The bureau is actively involved in establishing associations, providing training programs, and raising awareness to bring about lasting change in their lives. With a focus on economic empowerment and social support, the bureau aims to uplift vulnerable individuals and create a more inclusive and prosperous society.
According to her, the Bureau is serving as a driving force in empowering women, recognizing their vital role in the region’s development, she noted. As to her, the bureau has implemented a range of initiatives aimed at providing women with the necessary tools and resources to break free from cycles of poverty and achieve economic independence.
Through comprehensive training programs that encompass business skills, savings methods, and self-building strategies, women are equipped with the knowledge and confidence to start their own businesses and contribute to the region’s economic growth.
“One of the key objectives of the Women and Children Bureau is to empower women economically. To achieve this, the bureau organizes training programs that equip women with essential business skills, savings methods, and self-building strategies. These trainings are aimed at empowering women to become financially independent and self-reliant”.
Additionally, she explained that her office has facilitated access to loans and workspaces for women who require additional support. As a testament to their commitment, she reviled the bureau has provided each of the 70 women among those who received business skill training with a 50,000 birr initial capital loan during the first half of the fiscal year. Consequently, approximately 150 women have successfully established their own businesses, contributing to their personal growth and the economic development of the region during the past six months.
Recognizing the importance of awareness and social support, she illustrated that her office utilizes various channels to disseminate information and create awareness among the wider community. The bureau actively employs regional FM radio programs to reach a broader audience and educate them about the rights, challenges, and opportunities for women and children. By fostering a supportive and informed society, the bureau aims to break down barriers and address social stigmas, ultimately leading to positive societal change, she added.
In addition to the efforts in empowering women, the Bureau is deeply committed to assisting street children and their families. “Collaborating with Tesfa Harari People Volunteer Organization, our office has provided a lifeline for 73 street children, enabling them to transition from the streets to a safe and nurturing environment.
Simultaneously, the bureau recognizes the importance of addressing the root causes of child homelessness by supporting the families of these children. By granting financial assistance to approximately 300 children’s families, amounting to 20,000 birr for each, the bureau aims to create sustainable solutions that help uplift the entire family unit”.
The Bureau has taken a holistic approach to community development by organizing those women into 10 different associations. These associations engage in various income-generating activities such as opening small shops, engaging in small trades, and livestock production, she added.
Through fostering entrepreneurship and providing opportunities for sustainable livelihoods, the deputy head accentuated that the bureau is not only uplifting individuals but also contributing to the overall economic growth of the region. These community organizations serve as a platform for women to support each other, share experiences, and collectively work towards eradicating poverty.
All in all the Harari Regional State Women and Children Bureau’s tireless efforts in empowering women and children have resulted in tangible change and improved livelihoods. Through comprehensive training programs, financial support, and community initiatives, the bureau has successfully provided women with the tools and opportunities needed to become economically independent.
With the unwavering commitment to empowering women and ensuring the well-being of children, Meftuha explained that her office has ushered in a wave of positive change in the Harari Region. Through providing training, financial support, and community initiatives, it is possible to unlocking the potential of countless individuals, paving the way for sustainable development and a brighter future.
Simultaneously, their efforts in rescuing street children and supporting their families have brought hope and stability to vulnerable individuals. Recognizing the transformative power of these initiatives, it is essential that stakeholders, including investors, NGOs, and the diaspora, join hands with the Bureau in their mission to eradicate poverty, create sustainable development, and build a brighter future for Harari Region and the entire country. As to her, together, it is possible to build a future that upholds the values of the Harari community – resilience, unity, and a deep commitment to the welfare of all.
BY HIZKEL HAILU
THE ETHIOPIAN HERALD FRIDAY 29 MARCH 2024
