At Canadian Foodgrains Bank, we are proud to be a membership of 15 Canadian church-based organizations and to support the work of their locally based partners. In recognition of the progress being made toward improved food security through gender equality initiatives (especially for women and girls who are disproportionately impacted by hunger), several local partners participating in the Nature+ program marked International Women’s Day in their own unique ways. Keep reading below to learn how partners in Ethiopia, Kenya, and Mozambique highlighted this year’s IWD theme: Accelerate Action for Gender Equality!
ADRA Kenya
In Kitui County, ADRA Kenya (partner of ADRA Canada) hosted a series of events to celebrate International Women’s Day. A key highlight was a seminar held in partnership with Kanyangi Health Center, dedicated to educating and empowering women and girls, including mothers.
Through learning, discussion, and community engagement, the seminar provided a space for young women to gain the knowledge and confidence to advocate for their rights. By equipping them with the tools to raise their voices, this initiative is helping to shape a future where women and girls are empowered to be leaders in their communities and drive lasting change.
A young mother attending the seminar held in partnership with Kanyangi Health Center which focused on empowerment and rights for women and girls. (Photo: ADRA Kenya)
Food for the Hungry (FH) Ethiopia
In Wayu Tuka, Ethiopia, Food for the Hungry (FH) Ethiopia, local partner of Mennonite Central Committee (MCC) Canada, hosted an impactful International Women’s Day celebration, bringing together community leaders, religious figures, local administrators, educators, and women from all walks of life. The event focused on raising awareness and fostering meaningful discussions on critical issues affecting women today including cervical cancer awareness, panel discussions, and educational sessions. Creating a space for dialogue and learning, the event reinforced the power of education and advocacy in advancing women’s health, rights, and equality.
A group photo with participants and panelists after the celebration. (Photo: FH Ethiopia)
Fadhili Trust and Utooni Development Organization (UDO)
In Kibwezi West Sub-County, Kenya, Fadhili Trust, local partner of Tearfund Canada, and Utooni Development Organization (UDO), local partner of MCC Canada marked International Women’s Day with an event dedicated to this year’s theme: Accelerate Action for Gender Equality.
The gathering brought together community members and local government officials, who expressed their appreciation for the ongoing efforts to advance gender equality in the region. A special recognition was given to Fadhili Trust’s gender champion, Mr. Benard Mutha, for his commitment to promoting women’s inclusion in community forums.
By celebrating these efforts and champions of change, the event reinforced the importance of collective action in building a more inclusive and equitable future.
The Kyeni Kya Ngumbe group on Ending Violence who Fadhili Trust has trained in Village Savings and Loans Associations (VSLAs) and Climate Smart Agriculture. (Photo: Fadhili Trust)
ADRA Mozambique
In the Sussundenga district, ADRA Mozambique, the local partner of our member ADRA Canada, organized a peaceful march attended by gender champions, local leaders, community members, and government officials. The event aimed to promote women’s participation in governance and raise awareness about the importance of including women in decision-making processes that impact sustainable livelihoods and conservation.
By amplifying women’s voices and advocating for their leadership, initiatives like this help pave the way for a more inclusive and sustainable future.
Gender champions, local leaders, community members, and government officials attending the peaceful march. (Photo: ADRA Mozambique)
Migbare Senay Children and Family Support Organization (MSCFSO)
In the Anjeb landscape in Ethiopia, Migbare Senay Children and Family Support Organization (MSCFSO), local partner of MCC Canada, organized a series of events for International Women’s Day, designed to empower and uplift young women and girls. Through discussions, poetry readings, and a candle-lighting ceremony, participants came together to highlight the role of gender equality in decision-making and leadership.
By fostering dialogue and engagement, this event reinforced the importance of amplifying women’s voices, especially in shaping sustainable solutions that will impact both current and future generations.
Participants gathered for the discussion, poem reading and awareness raising event. (Photo: MSCFSO)
Terepeza Development Association (TDA)
In Wolaita Sodo, Ethiopia, Terepeza Development Association (TDA), local partner of Tearfund Canada, hosted a dynamic International Women’s Day celebration, bringing together community representatives, district-level stakeholders, media, and many more. Through powerful presentations, dramas, dialogues, and inspiring poetry, the event highlighted the importance of gender equality and the vital role of women in sustainable development. By uniting voices and perspectives, it served as a powerful reminder that true progress begins with inclusion and empowerment for all.
Bread slicing at the International Women’s Day event. (Photo: TDA)
National Council of Churches of Kenya (NCCK)
In Athi Ward and Kitui Central, Kenya, National Council of Churches of Kenya (NCCK), the local partner of the United Church of Canada, held a vibrant International Women’s Day celebration emphasizing the importance of gender equality and women’s empowerment. The event featured a lively procession, cultural performances, inspiring speakers, and powerful calls to advance women’s rights and leadership. This celebration united stakeholders, local leaders, and community members to recognize and uplift the contributions of women.
Kitui Governor Julius Malombe (first row, 4th from right) and county officials join women in a celebratory dance during the International Women’s Day event at Miambani Primary School (Photo: NCCK)
Across multiple countries, these International Women’s Day celebrations showcased the power of collective action in advancing gender equality. From marches and seminars to important discussions, each event played a vital role in empowering women and advocating for a more inclusive future.
Explore our photo gallery below to see more of these inspiring moments in action!
