International Women's Day in Ethiopia

International Women's Day in Ethiopia "Running for every woman, every right": Celebrating empowerment and legacy at the 22nd Women First Race in Ethiopia In Ethiopia, International Women's Day is celebrated on March 8th, like in many other countries around the world. It is a day to honor the achievements of women, raise awareness of gender equality, and fight for women's rights. However, Ethiopia also has its own cultural and traditional celebrations that highlight the role of women in society. Over 16,000 participants, including around 150 female athletes, including more than 30 women who were recognized for their achievements, took part in the race, which this year's theme was "Running for every woman, every right." The race took place in the Bole district of Ethiopia's capital, Addis Ababa, and honored the country's legendary female athletes who have inspired generations. Bole District is an administrative district in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia's capital. With an area of ​​122.08 km² and a population of 328,900 (as of 2011), it is located in the southeastern suburbs. The area includes, among other things, Bole International Airport (Ethiopia's main airport) and the Bole Lemi Industrial Park. The district is home to numerous residential complexes and commercial areas. It is also a center for international diplomacy with over 120 embassies. Bole is one of Addis Ababa's original ten subcities, later joined by Lemi-Kura. Administratively, it belongs to the Chartered City of Addis Ababa, which, despite its location in Oromia, is administered independently. When thousands of runners take to the streets, they aren't just running toward a finish line; they are running toward a future where every woman and girl has the rights, opportunities, and dignity they deserve. Ethiopia also has its own cultural celebrations honoring women, such as "Meskel" (the Finding of the True Cross), in which women often play a central role. The Meskel festival in Ethiopia commemorates the legend of the finding of the cross of Jesus by Saint Helena, mother of Emperor Constantine, in the 4th century AD. The celebration takes place annually on September 27 (Gregorian calendar) and was recognized as an intangible cultural heritage by UNESCO in 2013. Ethiopia's two-time Olympic champion Meseret Defar, the ambassador of the event, officially opened the race. All those who cross the finish line in under 35 minutes will receive a certificate signed by the athlete. The event concluded with a call to continue promoting spaces for dialogue and action that contribute to building a fairer and more inclusive society.

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