Prevent GBV&Female Genital Mutilation in Ethiopia

Dear Donors and Supporters,

I would like to take this opportunity to provide an update on the progress of our project aimed at preventing Gender-Based Violence (GBV) and Female Genital Mutilation (FGM) in Ethiopia. Although we have not raised funds during this reporting period, your continued support has enabled us to keep pushing forward, making significant strides toward our shared goal of creating a safer and more equitable environment for women and girls in Ethiopia.

Despite financial challenges, we have continued to provide essential services to survivors of GBV and FGM. This includes medical and health care, trauma care, referral services, counseling, and psychosocial support. These services are crucial in assisting vulnerable women and rape victims in their recovery, helping them regain a sense of dignity and empowerment.

As part of our advocacy efforts, we have been conducting awareness campaigns to promote gender equality and prevent violence against women. These activities have been supported by our global partners, leveraging MHO’s strategic position in Ethiopia and the reputation of our founder to amplify the message. Our founder’s involvement in events, particularly the recent book inauguration, allowed us to reach a broader audience, including community leaders and media outlets. These platforms were essential in furthering our advocacy for gender equality.

We have made significant progress in engaging local communities, raising awareness about the harmful impacts of GBV and FGM. Through community outreach, we have been able to educate people on the importance of protecting women and girls from violence and ensuring their rights to live free from harm. This has resulted in increased support and cooperation from local leaders and communities in our efforts.

We are incredibly grateful for the continued support through GlobalGiving. Your commitment has enabled us to maintain momentum in this important work, ensuring that the most vulnerable women and girls receive the care and attention they need.

Challenges and Future Directions:

While we have made progress, we are mindful of the ongoing challenges we face, including funding shortages and the need for continued advocacy. Above all, the recent freeze on U.S. foreign aid has caused significant uncertainty within the MHO's areas of engagement, disrupting MHO operations, livelihoods, and long-term planning

However, we remain determined and focused on our mission. We will continue to build on the momentum of the recent advocacy events and leverage the platforms available to us to amplify our message.

In the coming months, we will focus on:

• Expanding our partnerships with global and local organizations.
• Increasing community involvement and support through additional awareness campaigns.
• Continuing to provide crucial services to survivors of GBV and FGM.
• Engaging with more media outlets to further promote gender equality and raise awareness on the prevention of violence against women.

With hearts full of gratitude, we extend our sincerest thanks to each and every one of you for your unwavering support. Your commitment is transforming lives, particularly for the most vulnerable women and girls in Ethiopia. Together, we are making a lasting impact, and we are hopeful that, with your continued support, we will achieve even greater strides toward our shared goals of gender equality and the prevention of violence against women.

Thank you once again for your generosity and dedication to our cause.

Sincerely,

MHO Team
MHO Ethiopia