A historic decision was made after Ethiopian lawmakers unanimously elected Sahle-Work Zewde as the new president. As president, Sahle-Work Zewde will be spokesperson for the country, but does not have much power, reflecting that this is not entirely a success, but still a big accomplishment. Despite not being Ethiopia's top-ranking official, Sahle-Work is the only current female African president. Many recognize that Ethiopia's culture has been led by men, and that Sahle-Work is an example to follow. Women's rights in Ethiopia have long been ignored, as is the case in many other African countries. Abiy Ahmed, the Prime MInister and leader of Ethiopia, praises the decision and says that it "not only sets the standard for the future, but also normalizes women as decision-makers in public life". Though it may seem minute since Sahle-Work has no real power, in Ethiopia where women are continually oppressed, this is a huge step towards a better future for women. In addition to Sahle-Work's election, Ethiopia has also approved a gender-balanced cabinet, which is more than the US can boast.
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In many african countries, female officials are usually impossible dream. How do you think this will further affect the political climate in Africa?
I think that Sahle-Work's leadership will set a standard for the future. Although she isn't the first of Africa's female presidents, she shows that women aren't going anywhere when it comes to politicals. I also think the gender balanced cabinet will help lift ideas of sexism by showing that women make important decisions.
How do you think these decisions will affect future generations' mindsets?
I think seeing more women in government will help Ethiopian girls pursue a life in government beyond oppression where they can make a difference.
Replies
Great job Eden!
I think that it great because Africa is now catching up to the rest of world. This know gives some of the little girls a role model to look up to because know this give them something to work for
I think that after this more women in Africa contries will push forwarnd and try to get a job as an offical and will work harder. I think that for the future generations to come the contires will have better water and education groups and maybe some good-ish jobs
I think that the future political enviroment in Africa will change. This is because they just elected a female president. This will, I bet, change the look for womans to have more rights and to show men what woman are capable of and what they can do.
I think that it will possibly change the future but on the other hand if she doesn't do a good jo it could set women back a few years other there. I feel like that it will help girls over there they are not as fortunate as we are so maybe a strong role model will help.
I think that this will show that women are climbing the rope of success in the political world. This will help balance the gender difference in politics and get both sides to come together and decided what is best for everyone. I think that young girls seeing women be confident and having a large role in our world today will empower them to do the same.
I think this election will be good for Africa, Sahle-Work winning the election is probably encouraging to other women in the country and it will hav a big impact on the next years she is in office. These decisions I think will encoarage young girls and women to make an impact on their country.
I agree it may set a standard for the future. I'm not sure if other African countries will follow in Ethipia's lead. In most African countries women stay at home with the children or are teachers. I think it will help to make women equal in the future.
Maybe it will be kind of an inspiration for other countries in Africa when everything works out good with her in that political position. If many problems would occur then the others could say that this is the reason why you shouldn't give such a job to a woman and make the situation worse.
I think especially women will have hope because of that and maybe try to get more independent on their own and fight more for their rights and equality because they think they are closer to better conditions and treatment with a woman in such a high political position.
I hope that it will be an inspiration to other girls because women are very oppressed in africa, sexual violence and genital mutilation of women is widespread there, as well as other harmful practices against girls. Activism and representation is very needed.
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