Initiative Africa (IA), in collaboration with Ethiopia Chamber of Commerce and Sectoral Association (ECCSA) and Ethiopia’s National Rehabilitation Commission (NRC), organized a consultative workshop on the role of the private sector in Ethiopia’s National Rehabilitation Program.
The event was officially opened by an opening remark from Ambassador Teshome Toga, Ethiopia’s National Rehabilitation Commission Commissioner, and a keynote speech was delivered by Åsa Andersson, Head of Bilateral Development Cooperation Embassy of Sweden, Addis Ababa. The workshop focused on how the private sector can play a significant role in supporting the mission of the Commission for Disarmament, Demobilization, and Reintegration (DDR) in Ethiopia. Among the audience, Private sector representatives from MOENCO, MOHA GBT Engineering, Jupiter International Hotel, Z.T. General, Wanaza Furnishing, WT&T Construction, Hilltech Engineering were actively present on this event.
Initiative Africa, as a leading non-profit organization dedicated to promoting peace, good governance and private sector development believes that the private sector can play a significant role in supporting the mission of the Commission for Disarmament, Demobilization, and Reintegration (DDR) in Ethiopia. While the overall DDR program aims to facilitate peacebuilding and post-conflict recovery, Initiative Africa’s involvement will be limited to the reintegration phase, which focuses on helping former combatants reintegrate into society.
It is realized that there are registered damages and loses in different sectors therefore recognizing the unique capabilities and resources of the private sector, Initiative Africa (IA) explores how their involvement can enhance the effectiveness and sustainability of the reintegration process. By leveraging their expertise, resources, and networks, the private sector can significantly enhance the prospects for sustainable peace and socio-economic development in post-conflict communities.
Some of the areas of engagement IA believes the private sector can play a pivotal role in are Job Creation and Skills Development, Small and Medium Enterprises (SME) Support, Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) Initiatives and Public-Private Partnerships (PPP) as well as Advocacy and Awareness.
By actively involving the private sector in the reintegration phase of Ethiopia’s DDR program, the Commission can tap into their unique capabilities, resources, and networks. This engagement will not only accelerate the process of reintegrating ex-combatants but also contribute to sustainable peace and socio-economic development.
The workshop was a valuable opportunity for the private sector, government officials, and civil society organizations to come together and discuss how they can work together to make a difference in the lives of former combatants and their families. Initiative Africa is committed to supporting the private sector in its efforts to play a key role in Ethiopia’s National Rehabilitation Program.