COWASH IV Hosts Workshop on Gender-Responsive WASH Implementation
2 September 2026
COWASH IV convened key stakeholders at the Sapphire Addis Hotel on September 1, 2026, to review findings from its two assessments and map out practical steps for strengthening gender-responsive water, sanitation and hygiene (WASH) implementation across Ethiopia. A total of fifty participants, including representatives from the Ministry of Finance, Ministry of Health, Embassy of Finland, United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA), development partners and regional stakeholders attended the workshop.
The workshop aimed to review findings and recommendations from the two assessments carried out to identify steps to strengthen inclusive and gender-responsive WASH programming. The assessments: Menstrual Hygiene Management (MHM) impact assessment and Women’s Leadership in Water, Sanitation and Hygiene (WASH) Committee Governance assessment, were conducted from January 2025 to May 2026 across Central Ethiopia, Oromia, Sidama and South Ethiopia Regions. Firewoyni Solomon, COWASH IV Gender and Disability Inclusion Specialist, presented the findings and recommendations, sparking active discussion sessions focused on MHM service quality, sustainable supply chains, meeting design adjustments and institutional accountability.
Participants commended the multi-sectoral approach of the event. Mickal Mamo, Founder of Adey Reusable Menstrual Pads, described the initiative as “an eye-opener”, noting that bringing key sector players together lays a solid groundwork for collective action and tangible change. Brihan Woldegebriel, Gender and Disability Inclusion Specialist at the COWASH IV Tigray Regional Team, emphasized that COWASH IV is contributing to strengthening gender-responsive WASH initiatives nationwide by convening diverse stakeholders and conducting critical assessments.
Assessment Findings
The Menstrual Hygiene Management (MHM) Impact Assessment was conducted in the Gorche, Wondogenet, Fofa, Lemo, and Gumay Woredas, involving 56 schoolgirls through focus group discussions. While the evaluation confirmed that MHM facilities provide critical privacy, dignity and confidence, it also identified ongoing gaps in reliable water supplies, consistent soap and pad provisions, safe disposal mechanisms and accessibility for girls with disabilities.
Simultaneously, the Women Leadership in WASHCO Governance Assessment engaged 53 women across eight Woredas using qualitative focus groups and key informant interviews to evaluate the shift from numeric representation to substantive decision-making power. Data showed that COWASH IV expanded female participation, with 55 percent of WASHCOs meeting or exceeding the 50 percent women-membership target and 48 percent holding leadership roles as of Ethiopian Fiscal year 2017. However, the assessment highlighted that structural barriers, including unpaid care burdens and male-dominated decision-making, continue to limit true influence.
The workshop highlighted both progress and persistent challenges, reinforcing the importance of collective action. The workshop underscored COWASH IV’s commitment to advancing gender-responsive WASH services and building inclusive systems that empower women and girls across Ethiopia.