Addis Ababa:Ethiopia's Medemer philosophy is actively enhancing women's participation in political leadership and national development, according to Culture and Tourism Minister Selamawit Kassa. This approach brings women's capabilities into key decision-making and economic activities.
According to Ethiopian News Agency, the Minister discussed the principles of Medemer at a panel during the African Political Parties Summit in Addis Ababa. She highlighted its emphasis on collective participation, cooperation, and the contributions of all citizens toward shared national development goals.
Selamawit Kassa emphasized that women's empowerment encompasses more than gender equality, extending to justice, national productivity, and democratic governance. She explained that Medemer, articulated by Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed, is built on synergy and collective progress, integrating the potential of all citizens to achieve national objectives.
The Minister noted the importance of empowering women without displacing men's opportunities, advocating for the combination of both genders' capabilities to advance national development. She also pointed out the historical lack of women's representation in decision-making despite their significant societal contributions.
Highlighting Ethiopia’s progress post-reform, she mentioned women's increased representation in parliament, the federal cabinet, and government leadership, from local to federal levels. This participation in the Prosperity Party reflects their readiness for political leadership when given opportunities.
The Minister concluded by calling for women's empowerment to be linked with economic transformation. She stressed the need for women to be seen as productive economic actors, advocating for education and technology access as foundational for future women leaders. She reaffirmed that women's political participation should be integral to the development process, aligning with Africa’s future ambitions.
