Gender-responsive public procurement has been promoted in the proclamation and procurement Directive that Women will benefit from special condition. H. E. Mrs. Meseret Meskele

A discussion forum on gender-responsive public procurement was held on November 27, 2025, at the Adama Executive Hotel. The discussion centered on an assessment report presented by Hiwot Bahru, a consultant at the UN Women Ethiopia office, focusing on the status and gaps of gender-responsive procurement in the country.

The discussion was officially opened by H. E.  Mrs. Meseret Meskele, Director General of the Federal Public Procurement and Property Authority, who emphasized the government’s commitment in promoting inclusive and equitable procurement practices.

Participants were selected from key institutions including the Federal Public Procurement and Property Authority, Federal Public Procurement Service, the Ministry of Finance, the Ministry of Women and Social Affairs, cooperatives, professional associations, and other stakeholders.

Findings from the assessment highlighted the need for stronger measures to enhance women’s participation in public procurement. The report also stressed the importance of improving access to public information and creating an enabling environment for women-led enterprises.