Describe the main features of the measure/initiative:
Ethiopian National Circus Association (ENCA) is a consortium of five regional and two cities administrations circus association. 53 circus groups and organizations are members of the national consortium. The association believes circus should be for all, as it is a tool to covey different social issues of the community.
Using theatre for development (TfD) as a model for social transformation, the Ethiopian National Circus Association (consortium) addressed social issues, especially challenges facing women and girls. As components of the TfD, circus, theatre and music were used to convey different messages for communities over five regions and two city administrations.
The initiative focused on women’s right to education and equal participation in their communities. In addition, the performance raised awareness on social justice, environmental protection, and health promotion on HIV, sexually transmitted diseases, and self-hygiene. The initiative has also promoted inclusion by participating and involving children and women with disabilities in circus, music, and theatre performances. Thus, the initiative has been imperative in realizing the change necessary for the holistic advancement of the Ethiopian policy on disability and women’s rights.
What are the results achieved so far through the implementation of the measure/initiative?:
The initiative, using theatre for development as a model for social transformation, has given opportunities for direct participation of communities in which they reflected their thoughts and believes after each performance. ENCA has organized awareness events to over 1,100,000 audiences (68% women) within five regional states, including Amhara, Tigray, Oromia, Benshangul, and the Southern Nations, Nationalities, and people’s region as well as two city administrations, Addis Abeba and Diredawa. The focus of the event was on women’s and children’s rights, the importance of education, social justice, and HIV AIDS.
The initiative also shows inclusiveness by participating persons with disabilities in circus, music, and theatres performances. Shows were performed in open markets, public squares, higher educational institutions, and different show venues.