How Islamic Relief is creating equality and empowering women in Ethiopia

In Ethiopia, many women face poverty and limited resources due to a lack of educational and job opportunities. Through our work, Islamic Relief is making a significant impact in the country by providing opportunities for women to challenge traditional gender roles and strive for equality.

Amina is a 48-year-old woman from Ewa Woreda, in the Afar region of Ethiopia, who struggled with poverty and limited resources.

With the help of Islamic Relief, Amina’s life has been transformed, and she has become an inspiring example of how providing women with opportunities can help create equity and equality.

Creating a positive ripple effect

Islamic Relief endeavours to empower women, with Amina one of 25 women selected and trained on how to work together as a group to generate a living. She established an association and cooperative institution for trading coffee and tea at the centre of Ewa Woreda, with the help of Islamic Relief.

Despite the challenges posed by civil unrest and conflict in the region, Amina refused to give up on her dream of running a successful business. With the support and guidance of Islamic Relief, she was able to rebuild her business and even make it stronger than before.

Amina’s determination to succeed was fuelled by her desire to create a better future for herself and her community. She saw her business not just as a source of income, but also as a way to empower other women in her community. By working with local women and creating a support network of fellow female entrepreneur, Amina was able to create a ripple effect of positive change.

As Amina’s business grew, so did her commitment to promoting women’s empowerment and equality in her community. She became a vocal advocate for women’s rights, challenging harmful traditional practices and norms that held women back. Through her work, she inspired other women to follow in her footsteps and pursue their own dreams of entrepreneurship and self-sufficiency.

Today, Amina is a respected leader in her community. Her success serves as a powerful example of what is possible when women are given the support and resources they need to succeed. Amina’s story is a testament to the resilience and determination of women in the face of adversity, and a reminder that with hard work and perseverance, anything is possible.

Empowering women in Ethiopia

Around the world, men tend to have greater access to resources and opportunities than women, and organisations like Islamic Relief aim to level the playing field. By providing opportunities for women to learn and generate their own income, Islamic Relief is helping to break down barriers to equality in Ethiopia and beyond.

Islamic Relief’s mission in Ethiopia needs continued support to ensure that women like Amina can achieve their dreams and aspirations. Every little bit of support counts when it comes to breaking the cycle of poverty and gender inequality.

Please donate now to help us sustain our crucial efforts to shift the narrative around women’s empowerment and empower marginalised women to take control of their lives.