Ethiopia’s Minister Calls for Investment in Education and Technology to Empower Rural Women

ADDIS ABABA: Investing in education, technology, and the development of inclusive systems is critical for empowering rural women, according to Ethiopia's Minister of Women and Social Affairs, Ergogie Tesfaye. The statement was made during the commemoration of the International Day of Rural Women at the African Union headquarters, focusing on enhancing the role of women in rural areas through education and access to technology.According to Ethiopian News Agency, the event highlighted the significant role that rural women play in the agri-food sector, which is a major component of rural economies across Africa. Minister Tesfaye emphasized that women are not only a substantial part of the agricultural workforce but also crucial to household food security and broader agricultural and rural development. However, challenges such as limited access to education, resources, and modern technology hinder their potential.During her speech, the minister outlined three key areas for empowering rural women: education, t echnology, and the development of inclusive systems. She stressed the importance of investments from governments, the private sector, and international partners in infrastructure like internet access and mobile networks to ensure that rural communities are integrated into the digital age. Such measures would enable women to leverage modern technology for marketing, finance, and agricultural innovation.Josefa Sacko, Commissioner for Agriculture, Rural Development, Blue economy and Sustainable Environment at the African Union, also addressed the gathering. She reiterated the pivotal role of rural women in sustaining the agricultural system in Africa and endorsed education as a powerful tool for empowerment.The International Day of Rural Women, established by the United Nations General Assembly in 2007, is observed annually on October 15. It acknowledges the vital contributions of rural women, including indigenous women, to agricultural and rural development, food security, and the eradication of rural pover ty. The event, organized by the African Union Commission and its partners, aims to showcase best practices of empowerment interventions and promote the development of inclusive and sustainable agri-food systems in Africa.