Mendefera, 03 October 2025 – Ms. Senait Afwerki, head of the National Union of Eritrean Women branch in the Southern Region, delivered a seminar to female members of the Central Command of the Eritrean Defense Forces in Ala, under the theme “Role of Eritrean Women Before and After Independence.”
In her presentation, Ms. Senait gave a detailed account of women’s movements worldwide and noted that while the UN formally recognized International Women’s Day in 1979, Eritrean women had already been fighting alongside their compatriots for national independence.
She further emphasized the EPLF’s programs during the armed struggle, which created opportunities for women’s participation in all sectors, and highlighted the establishment of the women’s association in 1979 as a landmark in women’s empowerment.
Ms. Senait called on the participants to strengthen their capacity through vocational training and personal initiative. She also urged them to play a leading role in eradicating harmful practices, including FGM and underage marriage, which negatively impact the health and well-being of women.
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