Africa's Finest

Violence against women and girls is one of the most widespread and persistent human rights violations.

It is rooted in patriarchal systems and harmful social and cultural norms. These inequalities limit their safety, autonomy and access to justice.

• 1 in 3 women globally have experienced physical or sexual violence in their lifetime.
• 60% of all female homicides are committed by intimate partners or other family members.
• Nearly 1 in 4 adolescent girls (aged 15-19) who have been in a relationship have experienced violence from an intimate partner.

Many survivors are forced to leave their homes to escape violence, often without safety, financial resources or a support system.

But these women are not just survivors.

They are leaders, providers, and community builders.

Supporting initiatives that provide safety and resources helps women rebuild their lives and shape their own futures.

AWSAD (Association for Women's Sanctuary and Development) runs shelters for women and girl survivors of violence in Addis Ababa, Adama, Hawassa and Dessie.

They work to advance women’s social and economic development and provide psycho-social support services for women and girl survivors and their children through the provision of temporary shelter and other services such as counseling, legal follow-up, and skill training.

In addition, AWSAD builds the capacity of Police, Prosecutors, Women's Affairs Officers, Community members, local leaders & schools on creating a safe environment for women and girls.

awsadethiopia.org.et
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