Southern Ethiopia: To truly support women health, add livelihood

Poverty blocks many opportunities, especially affecting these women's health and their access to vital resources

I’ve always thought that every health program supported by non-profits should have a livelihood component woven into it. Whether it’s a sexual and reproductive health project in Uganda or a maternal health program in Ethiopia, providing economic activity for women can change everything.

 Poverty lies at the heart of so many health challenges in the rural communities I visit. Take the example of a girl whose family can’t afford sanitary towels. Often, she’s forced into risky activities to meet her basic needs. Or think about a mother in Southern Ethiopia, cradling her sick baby in their small hut, delaying a visit to the clinic until it’s almost too late because she simply can’t afford it.

 After working for a week in the arid Afar Region, we made our way to Wolaita in Southern Ethiopia—a place called Kebele that welcomes you with its stunning landscapes. Rolling hills, rocky terrains, and winding roads create a breathtaking backdrop, but they also reflect the challenges faced by the community.

 It’s here, amidst these dramatic landscapes, that we meet the Bayewede Kebele Women’s Group—a joyous group of 22 women dancing and singing. Their energy, contagious. They’ve formed a savings group to empower themselves financially, and the pride they take in their achievements is as vibrant as their Ahmaric songs.

 And the impact? It’s more profound than you might think, or at least than I thought.

 In places like Southern Ethiopia, economic empowerment directly influences health outcomes. Women like Anita* who I spoke to who can now earn their own income from shop, are far better positioned to afford healthcare for themselves and their children. This means healthier pregnancies, safer births, and children who receive the nutrition and care they need to thrive.

That landscape!

 Those rocky hills and winding roads? They’re more than just a physical challenge—they symbolize the obstacles these women of rural Ethiopia face and overcome together. The savings group not only strengthens financial stability but also enhances the overall well-being of their families. It’s an example of how community-driven efforts can have a ripple effect across the entire village.

 Empowering women through financial independence is a game changer, not just for them but for their families and the wider community. Women who control their own resources prioritize healthcare, education, and nutrition.

 And that benefits everyone.

 Supporting women groups like Bayewede Kebele and mums like Anita is essential. They help women break free from economic barriers, ensuring the health needs of mothers and children are met. When women are empowered, they create stronger, healthier, and more resilient communities.

 So yes, health projects are a lifeline in many rural communities. But to truly give women the freedom to stand up for themselves and their families, there must be a financial component to these project. Because when these women thrive, so does the entire community.