A groundbreaking two-day workshop titled “Equality in Action” recently took place in Addis Ababa, uniting HR managers, trade union representatives, and farm leaders from Ethiopia’s horticulture sector. Organized by the Confederation of Norwegian Enterprise (NHO) in partnership with the Ethiopian Horticulture Producer Exporters Association (EHPEA), the event aimed to advance gender equality and equity within horticultural workplaces.

The training provided participants with practical knowledge and tools for implementing gender-responsive policies at the farm level. Key topics included gender equality and equity, policy frameworks, women’s empowerment, and the prevention of gender-based and digital violence in the workplace.

Attendees participated in interactive sessions that delved into the structural barriers to gender inclusion and developed strategies to empower women in decision-making roles throughout the horticulture value chain. The workshop also emphasized the role of digitization in fostering safer and more inclusive work environments, including the use of digital tools for gender-sensitive reporting and monitoring.

A significant outcome of the training was a renewed commitment from farm HR managers and trade union leaders to integrate gender policies into their organizational practices. Through case studies and group discussions, participants explored successful models of gender mainstreaming and the vital importance of collaboration between farms, unions, and development partners.

Despite women making up 80% of the workforce in Ethiopia’s horticulture sector, leadership roles are still largely held by men. This disparity highlights the urgent need to restructure management systems and actively empower women into leadership positions, especially within HR departments and trade union bodies.

The workshop concluded with a strong call to action for all stakeholders to champion gender equality as a key driver of productivity, sustainability, and social justice in Ethiopia’s horticulture sector.