Better relations: An Ethiopian group builds a bright future

LIFE LESSONS

Saturday group in Ethiopia helps young girls build a bright future

Each Saturday morning, young women aged 11-18 gather in groups across Gambella town. Led by Awar Othow Odol, MU Coordinator and graduate of the local Anglican theological college, it focuses on preventing early marriage by teaching about puberty, menstruation and sex. Orphans or those in vulnerable circumstances are prioritised, to avoid them being forced into arranged early marriages.

Traditional culture teaches girls they should not leave their house if menstruating. And in Gambella, like the majority of Ethiopia, girls cannot attend school without underwear. So sanitary pads and underwear are provided.

Early marriage and pregnancy commonly results in obstructed labour and increased risk of death in childbirth. Early marriage also contributes to girls dropping out of school, especially if pregnant.

Awar was forced to marry at 17. ‘I use my life as an example. I didn’t get an education and dropped out of school when young, got married and got diseases,’ she said.

‘This group helps the girls learn and that is very important to me. If I got training like this I would have been different, my experience makes me volunteer with all my heart. I give Saturday to them so they have the best future and a good life, and avoid experiencing all that I did.’

These Saturday meetings are treasured times. The girls love learning new skills, gaining knowledge and making jewellery and handicrafts.

Nuch, aged 17, said: ‘I thank God for this opportunity to learn as I didn’t get it in school. I have learnt many things and I now know myself — who I am. Some of my friends are married, some with children and some have HIV. I want to give thanks to Awar — the training she has given me I didn’t even receive from my mum. I want it to continue and I want more for my life’.

“If I got training like this, I would have been different.