The Center for Empowerment Ethiopia, in collaboration with the National Election Board of Ethiopia and United Nations Development Programme, conducted a two-day Community and Stakeholders Dialogue on Ethiopia’s 7th General Election from May 21–25, 2026, in Sawula. The program brought together 100 participants from four woredas of Goffa Zone, including community representatives, women and youth groups, persons with disabilities, civil society organizations, elders, and local stakeholders.

The dialogue aimed to strengthen civic participation, voter awareness, and peaceful democratic engagement while promoting the inclusion of women, youth, and persons with disabilities in the electoral process. Discussions emphasized that voting is both a constitutional right and a civic responsibility. Participants were encouraged to engage peacefully, respect electoral laws, and promote democratic values within their communities.

Facilitators provided practical voter education on election-day requirements, voting procedures, and the proper use of the two ballot papers for the House of Peoples’ Representatives and Regional Council elections. Mock demonstrations helped participants understand how to cast valid votes and avoid common mistakes.

Group discussions identified key election-related challenges, including misinformation, fear of conflict, accessibility barriers for persons with disabilities, and limited participation of women and youth in decision-making. Participants proposed community-based awareness campaigns, peacebuilding activities, and stronger stakeholder collaboration to address these issues.

The dialogue successfully enhanced public awareness, promoted inclusive participation, strengthened peaceful electoral engagement, and reinforced cooperation among communities, civil society organizations, and election stakeholders ahead of Ethiopia’s 7th General Election.