Learning workshop on gender equality and social inclusion
Plan International & Max Foundation Champion GESI in WASH & FNS
4 January 2024Plan International Ethiopia and Max Foundation hosted the Healthy Village Gender Equality and Social Inclusion National Ethiopia Learning Workshop. Read key takeaways for a brighter, more inclusive future.
On December 26th, Plan International Ethiopia and Max Foundation hosted a crucial workshop at the Elilly Hotel: the Healthy Village Gender Equality and Social Inclusion National Ethiopia Learning Workshop. This event brought together key stakeholders like government officials, development partners, researchers, and community representatives to share best practices on promoting gender equality and social inclusion (GESI) within Water, Sanitation and Hygiene (WASH) and Food and Nutrition Security (FNS) sectors.
Opening the dialogue on GESI
The workshop kicked off with Fitsum Teshome, Director of Programmes at Plan International Ethiopia, highlighting the critical role of GESI in achieving sustainable development goals. Minyamer Yitayih, CEO of the Gender and Social Mainstreaming Ministry of Women and Social Affairs, then delivered a keynote address, emphasising the Ethiopian government’s commitment to ensuring equal participation and benefit from development activities for all citizens, especially marginalised groups.
Diving into the Healthy Village approach
Participants delved into the Healthy Village programme, a collaboration between Plan International and Max Foundation tackling child stunting through an integrated water, sanitation and hygiene, food and nutrition security, and maternal and adolescent health approach. Presentations by programme experts illuminated the programme’s design, implementation strategies, and achievements in GESI mainstreaming.
Panel discussion: diverse perspectives on GESI in WASH & FNS
A lively panel discussion featuring experts from Concern Worldwide, Bahirdar University, Plan International, and ZOA Ethiopia offered diverse perspectives on gender equality and social inclusion approaches in water, sanitation and hygiene and food and nutrition security. The panel explored challenges, promising practices, and future directions for ensuring equitable access to essential services for all.
Knowledge exchange and collaborative action
The workshop facilitated a vibrant exchange of knowledge and experiences, inspiring participants to adopt innovative gender equality and social inclusion approaches in their own work. The event’s success stemmed from its focus on collaborative action, with participants recognising the importance of partnerships and multi-stakeholder engagement in advancing gender equality and social inclusion within the Water, Sanitation, and Hygiene and Food and Nutrition Security sectors.
A step towards an inclusive Ethiopia
The Healthy Village Gender Equality and Social Inclusion National Ethiopia Learning Workshop marks a significant step towards achieving a more inclusive and equitable Ethiopia. By fostering dialogue and collaboration among diverse stakeholders, the event has paved the way for continued collaboration and the implementation of effective gender equality and social inclusion strategies that empower all individuals and communities to thrive.
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