WISE’s 20th year anniversary

Organization for Women in Self Employment (WISE)

Organization for Women in Self Employment (WISE) is an Ethiopian residents’ charity registered with the Ministry of Justice in August, 1997. It commenced its full programme operation in January, 1998. WISE is dedicated to the development of women and girls in their efforts to become empowered, build resilient families, and emerge active players and beneficiaries in the development of Ethiopia.

WISE celebrated its 20th anniversary ceremony from September 15 – 21, 2017 with the motto of ‘Empowering women for enhanced family and community resilience!’. The Organization’s 20 years of dedicated services to the women and girls of Ethiopia was celebrated brightly with its target members, staff and fellow guests. Different activities took place during the celebration, including exhibitions, a bazaar, panel discussions, testimonies, and entertainment. Various kinds of competitions among target members, boards and staff have made the closing ceremony vibrant. Certificates of appreciation and gifts have been awarded to target members and staff who were with the organization for over 10 years.

Over the past 20 years, the Organization has been able to directly reach over 36 thousand women by supporting the establishment of 83 saving and credit cooperatives and providing enterprise development services.  Through its strategic partnership and learning strategy, WISE has trained over 26 thousand women and men throughout the country.  And to promote replication of good practices and lessons learned, it has provided Training of Trainers to approximately 800 staff members of like-minded organizations.

As a result of these initiatives, WISE has helped make significant progress toward reducing urban poverty and empowering women in Ethiopia.

Specifically, the Organization has helped women create jobs; run successful businesses; enjoy financial inclusion and independence; educate their children to university level; become involved in social and economic issues; and, overall, improve their quality of life.

The focus of WISE for the coming years will be on female youth. It will keep on assisting the target women and girls in their effort to be engaged in both formal and self-employment. The training programs will also be upgraded in order to meet the development needs of women.

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