By: Yitbarek Tekalign
Yesterday, a dynamic Skill and Experience Sharing Workshop was held at the Bishoftu City Cultural Hall, as part of the Bishoftu Children and Women Empowerment Project (BiCWEP-II). Organized by the Gudina Tumsa Foundation (GTF), this event aimed to bolster the sustainability of the Women’s Economic Empowerment initiatives, serving as a crucial platform for beneficiaries to share insights on their journey toward economic independence.
The workshop gathered a diverse group of stakeholders, including representatives from the Bishoftu City Office of Children, Women, and Social Affairs, the GTF team, and over 50 women from Savings and Credit Groups established under the BiCWEP project. The event highlighted success stories of women who have benefited from GTF’s training, financial support, and mentorship programs.
Mr. Teklu Hailu, the Healthcare, Environment and WASH Program Officer at GTF, delivered an impactful opening speech, reflecting on the transformative influence of the BiCWEP initiative in Bishoftu. He emphasized GTF’s holistic development approach, aimed at not just economic empowerment but also shifting mindsets. “Our target is to instill confidence, enabling women to believe in their capabilities and take charge of their economic futures,” he stated. Mr. Teklu also reiterated GTF’s extensive experience in community development over the past three decades, noting significant improvements in the livelihoods and self-reliance of project beneficiaries.
According to Mr. Dejene Hirpo, the Coordinator of the Bishoftu Children and Women Empowerment Project, a highlight of the workshop was the emotional and inspiring experience-sharing session. Participants shared personal stories, reflecting on the challenges they faced before joining the BiCWEP project and the progress made since. Women recounted their entrepreneurial journeys, including ventures like livestock fattening and poultry farming, all facilitated by the skills and resources provided through the project.
Ms Aysha, one participant, described how she utilized the revolving fund to purchase livestock, leading to steady income growth. Another beneficiary, Bediriya, shared her transformation from financial hardship to running a thriving compost-making business, which now supports her family and contributes to environmental sustainability in the community. These testimonies were powerful endorsements of the project’s impact, demonstrating how access to financial resources and skill development can drive significant changes.
Representatives from the Bishoftu City Office of Children, Women, and Social Affairs praised GTF for its unique approach among local NGOs. They acknowledged the project’s success in addressing not only the immediate economic needs of women but also in fostering long-term sustainable growth. “The impact GTF has made is unparalleled,” remarked a representative from the office, citing the visible improvements in the beneficiaries’ living standards.
The workshop concluded with discussions on strategies to sustain these economic activities. GTF presented plans for continued support, including the creation of new Savings and Credit Groups, enhanced monitoring of loan repayments, and strengthened collaboration with local stakeholders to establish market linkages. The event left participants feeling motivated and better informed about the future steps needed to sustain their initiatives.
This workshop represents a significant step in GTF’s ongoing efforts to empower women both economically and socially. The focus on skill-sharing and collaborative learning reflects a broader strategy aimed at providing not just immediate financial relief but also fostering resilient, self-sustaining communities. The experience-sharing event is expected to spark further innovation and growth among beneficiaries as they continue to implement the lessons learned and share their successes with others.
The BiCWEP project continues to serve as a beacon of hope for vulnerable women in Bishoftu. With ongoing support and strategic partnerships, the project aims to expand its reach, helping more destitute women transform their lives.
