But these women sought to do things differently—collectively.

Spurred on by the ongoing pandemic and rising political unrest in the country, the group began to mobilize horizontally, connecting with Oromo women from across the global diaspora, and building grassroots networks of fundraising. A strong sister committee was formed on the frontlines in Gadab Hasaasa, ensuring the most vulnerable folks were at the centre of our efforts.

The result was a supply and distribution of food unprecedented in the region. With the tremendous support of community elders and youth volunteers, rows upon rows of food hampers—1000 in all—were placed for pickup in the large field adjacent to the local flour factory. Within a week of the start of Ramadan, 1000 vulnerables received hampers containing 25 kilograms of flour, one kilogram each of dates, sugar, and coffee beans, and two litres of cooking oil.

And so began the group’s first community project! Envisioning a future in Gadab Hasaasa where everyone has dignified access to food, the group transitioned into a registered 501(c)(3) non-profit charity in the summer of 2021, and now organizes as the Gadab Hasaasa Women’s Relief Association.

In addition to its now annual Emergency Food Hampers program, GHWRA (which is entirely led by women and run by volunteers) is currently working through several food access and security projects in the region, including an urban farming project, a livestock distribution program, and a women’s microfinance grant initiative.