The Women’s Association of Tigray (WAT) has a rich and enduring history rooted in the struggle for gender equality and societal empowerment. Its origins trace back to 1969 E.C., when it was initially established as the Women’s Committee within the Tigray People’s Liberation Front (TPLF). Over time, this Committee evolved into the Association of Women Fighters in 1976 E.C., reflecting the growing leadership and organizational capacity of women in the region.

Parallel to this, women’s groups at the Wereda and Tabia levels were formed with the objectives of promoting gender equality, addressing women’s issues, and elevating their societal status. During the armed struggle led by the TPLF movement, women’s participation was remarkable—accounting for nearly 30% of the TPLF army were women fighters. This active involvement played a crucial role in shaping the movement’s success.

To advocate for women’s rights further, the TPLF facilitated the establishment of the Women Fighters Association of Tigray (WFAT). Comprising women combatants who served in the TPLF army, WFAT served as a platform for women to collectively fight against discrimination and socio-economic marginalization. Women waged a dual-front struggle: while fighting alongside their male counterparts to overthrow the oppressive Derg regime, they also challenged societal norms rooted in tradition and cultural practices that hindered their equality.

Their efforts were instrumental in the downfall of the Derg, paving the way for greater women’s participation and empowerment in post-regime Ethiopia.

Following the fall of the military dictatorship and the formation of a new government in 1991, Tigray women organized under a renewed structure called the Women’s Association of Tigray (WAT). The organization’s mission is to eradicate poverty and advance gender equality. WAT quickly expanded its influence, establishing branches at the regional, Zonal, Wereda, and Tabia levels, enabling it to address local issues more effectively.

Tigray women have historically played a vital role in building democracy, fostering peace, and promoting economic development. Notably, during the 2002 Ethiopian national elections, women’s voter turnout surpassed that of men, highlighting their active political engagement and the association’s success in mobilizing women for civic participation.

Before the recent conflict, WAT reported having approximately 768,761 members and an additional 28,533 associates, demonstrating a significant grassroots presence across Tigray.

However, the outbreak of conflict in November 2020 significantly intensified the challenges faced by WAT. The war has led to widespread gender-based violence (GBV), with reports highlighting severe and organized attacks against women and girls-some subjected to brutal violence such as gang-rape and sexual assault involving foreign objects.

In response, WAT, in partnership with various organizations, is working tirelessly to support survivors and vulnerable women and girls. The association provides essential services including medical care, psychosocial support, safety assessments, risk mitigation, safe spaces, and case management. Its efforts aim to create an environment where victims can seek healthcare and justice without fear of stigma or reprisal.

The Women’s Association of Tigray remains committed to its founding principles-empowering women, fighting for their rights, and rebuilding resilience in the face of adversity.