IOM Ethiopia Partners with Netsanet Business Group to Empower Women Entrepreneurs Post-Conflict

In a landmark announcement, IOM Ethiopia and the locally founded Netsanet Business Group unveiled a joint initiative aimed at revitalizing women-led enterprises in the Amhara region. The partnership, formalized on 12 March 2026, will provide training, micro‑financing, and market access support to over 300 women entrepreneurs who lost their livelihoods during the recent Tigray conflict. The program will operate out of Bahir Dar and surrounding towns, with a phased rollout planned for the next eighteen months.

Netsanet Business Group, established in 2014, had grown into a network of more than 500 women producers of textiles, dairy, and agricultural products before the conflict disrupted supply chains and destroyed infrastructure. IOM’s experience in post‑conflict reconstruction, particularly in facilitating economic recovery and gender inclusion, positions it as a strategic partner. The collaboration builds on IOM’s previous work in the region, where it has helped secure safe passage for goods and provided livelihood training to displaced populations.

Experts in gender‑focused development note that the partnership addresses a critical gap in Ethiopia’s recovery strategy. By combining Netsanet’s grassroots reach with IOM’s technical expertise, the initiative is expected to accelerate the restoration of local markets and reduce dependency on aid. Local government officials have welcomed the effort, citing the potential to boost regional GDP and create sustainable employment. Community leaders in Bahir Dar have expressed optimism, emphasizing the importance of empowering women to rebuild their communities.

The economic ripple effects of the program could extend beyond the immediate beneficiaries. Strengthening women’s enterprises will likely enhance the region’s supply chain resilience, increase agricultural output, and open new avenues for export, especially in the textile sector where Ethiopian products are gaining international recognition. Moreover, the initiative aligns with Ethiopia’s Vision 2025, which prioritizes inclusive growth and the empowerment of marginalized groups.

Looking ahead, the partnership will undergo a rigorous monitoring and evaluation phase to assess impact and scalability. Stakeholders will track key indicators such as income growth, employment rates, and market penetration. Observers should watch for the program’s expansion into other regions, the integration of digital platforms for sales, and the potential for public‑private partnerships that could further amplify the initiative’s reach.