The conflict in Ethiopia has left a trail of devastation, leading to the loss of lives, widespread displacement and significant damage to infrastructure, services and the economy. In 2021, Ethiopia reported 5.1 million internally displaced people in 12 months, exacerbating the already prevalent poverty in the region. As of 2021, 18.4% of the population (22,076 people) were classified as vulnerable to poverty. This situation has prompted a collaborative effort by organizations such as the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) to support recovery, rehabilitation and reconstruction in the affected regions. A key component of this effort is economic recovery, and a crowdfunding campaign known as Rebuild HER Business is pivotal in rebuilding women-run businesses in Ethiopia, thereby addressing poverty at its core.

Rebuild HER Business Campaign

The Rebuild HER Business campaign is an initiative that UNDP Ethiopia has led to support women entrepreneurs in conflict-affected regions. The Great Ethiopian Run (GER), known for promoting the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and fundraising for local causes, partnered with the campaign to launch it. The campaign’s impact goes beyond financial assistance. The GER’s annual 10-kilometer race in November is linked with the Running for Cause charity initiative, providing a unique opportunity to rally support for women entrepreneurs who have been adversely affected by the conflict and are at risk of falling into poverty.

The campaign’s objective is to raise $500,000, which will be used to provide a $500 capital fund to 1,000 women in the northern regions of Ethiopia. This capital fund will be a lifeline for these women struggling in the aftermath of the conflict. All funds raised through the Rebuild HER Business campaign are for women as a capital fund, with the operational costs covered by UNDP and their partners. The campaign directly combats poverty among women in the region by providing essential financial support.

The Significance of Supporting Women Entrepreneurs

Women in Ethiopia play a crucial role in their communities, particularly in rural areas where 80% of the population resides. Women provide the majority of the agricultural labor in these communities. They are responsible for providing most of the agricultural labor and managing small businesses that contribute to the local economy. However, women in Ethiopia often face more basic economic constraints than men, such as limited access to credit and restricted market access, making them more vulnerable to poverty.

According to a report by the World Bank, vulnerable employment is a significant issue in Ethiopia, with 89.2% of women in vulnerable employment as of 2021. Vulnerable employment is characterized by informal work arrangements, a lack of social protection and vulnerability to economic shocks, making individuals more likely to fall into poverty. The participation of women in the labor force is essential for economic development and poverty alleviation, demonstrating the need for this support.

Empowering Women for Sustainable Development

The Rebuild HER Business campaign goes beyond mere financial assistance; it empowers women who are providers for their families and vital community builders. The economic fabric of these recovering communities relies heavily on the success of women-run businesses, which, in turn, positively impacts poverty in the region, contributing to the fight against economic hardships. Moreover, empowering women, especially those severely disadvantaged and in hard-to-reach places, is a critical component of the 2030 Agenda for sustainable development, with poverty alleviation at its core. 

Achieving inclusive economies, justice and a sustainable environment hinges on women’s active involvement and empowerment. The Rebuild HER Business campaign aligns perfectly with these goals, as it seeks to provide women entrepreneurs with the resources and support they need to overcome the economic challenges they face, helping reduce those vulnerable to poverty. 

Conclusion

The Rebuild HER Business campaign is significant in Ethiopia by supporting women-run businesses. It helps these women rebuild their businesses and communities. This campaign showcases the power of working together, the importance of empowering women and the difference crowdfunding can make in promoting long-term development.

– Marnie Woodford-Venables
Photo: Flickr