Young women’s economic potential in Ethiopia

Young women, including those living with disabilities, are already contributing to the growth of economies and societies across all regions. However, they are often overlooked or undervalued. Their economic potential is hindered by a range of overlapping structural barriers.

In this paper, we present key insights gathered from young women interviewed during several GESI-responsive Rapid Market Assessment studies conducted across nine clusters in Ethiopia. During our conversations with them, they discussed their experiences and the potential of their peers to engage in productive work and participate in income-generating activities. By listening to them and documenting their insights, our team uncovered 13 prevalent, often recurring myths that continue to impede young women’s growth and ability to thrive, both in Ethiopia and in many parts of the world.

This initiative was funded by the Mastercard Foundation as part of RAYEE II programme implementation.

Ami Reza, Global Theme Lead Gender and Social Inclusion, with the SNV Team in Ethiopia.

Learn more about the RAYEE programme.