(Addis Ababa, March 10, 2026, Ministry of Agriculture)
Leaders and staff of the Ministry of Agriculture celebrated this year’s International Women’s Day (March 8) under the theme “Investing in Women is the Foundation for Ethiopia’s Prosperity!”. The day was marked globally for the 115th time and in Ethiopia for the 50th time through various events.
During the opening remark, State Minister of the Ministry of Agriculture, Dr. Sofia Kassa, stated that policies, strategies, and guidelines in the agricultural sector have been designed to ensure the participation and benefit of women and youth.
She emphasized that equal participation and benefits for women are not only a matter of basic human rights but also a key factor in increasing production and productivity. She further called on development partners, non-governmental organizations, and research institutions to integrate women’s issues into their plans and give them due attention.
On her part, Mrs. Genet Abdela, Executive of Women and Social Affairs Inclusion at the Ministry of Agriculture, explained that the executive is working in collaboration with stakeholders to ensure gender equality and social inclusion, including the benefit of women, children, youth, persons with disabilities, the elderly, and other vulnerable groups.
Mrs. Hikma Keyredin, the State Minister of Women and Social Affairs, noted that women’s participation and benefits in the agricultural sector are steadily increasing. She added that continuous support and monitoring are being provided to institutions to strengthen women’s engagement and inclusion.
The celebration was marked by a panel discussion, as well as an exhibition and bazaar showcasing agricultural products produced by women farmers. In addition, a newly constructed and well-furnished childcare center within the Ministry compound was officially inaugurated and opened.
Reporter: Yohannes Demeke
Photographers: Getachew and Matiyos