AMN Plus-November 5, 2026
Ethiopia has emerged as a model for Africa and the world in promoting women’s participation in political leadership and national decision-making, Minister of Women and Social Affairs Shewit Shanka said.
Speaking at the opening of the African Women Political Leadership Forum in Addis Ababa, Minister Shewit emphasized that women should not merely be beneficiaries of national and continental development but also plays a leading role in driving transformative change.
She highlighted Ethiopia’s achievements in advancing women’s political representation, noting that women account for 50 percent of the federal cabinet and more than 40 percent of the House of Peoples’ Representatives.
Elaborating on the Medemer philosophy, the minister said it is founded on harnessing the collective potential of all citizens and fostering shared contributions. She underscored the importance of strong institutional and political party commitments to ensuring women’s equal participation in economic, political and social development.
Shewit also called for greater representation of women in political party leadership, candidate selection processes and decision-making structures, stressing the need to ensure their equal participation at all levels.
“Africa’s greatest strategic asset is its people, their creativity, resilience and commitment,” Minister Shewit said, emphasizing the importance of building inclusive systems that enable women to fully participate in shaping the continent’s future.
The forum is focusing on empowering African women in political leadership, strengthening inclusive governance and promoting institutional reforms aimed at advancing gender equality across the continent.
By Birhanu Workneh
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