In a bid to expand its reach, the Ethiopian Human Rights Commission (EHRC) opened six new branch offices in different parts of the country.

Upon the approval of a proposal presented to the House of Peoples’ Representatives, the EHRC opened the first of its six branches in Hawassa, Bahr Dar, Mekelle, Jimma, Gambella and Jijiga towns.



According to Berhanu Abadi, communication information directorate director at EHRC, the locations were selected based on a survey conducted in all the nine regions as well as in Dire Dawa city council.


“Hiring of qualified personnel is finalized in many of the new branches and works have commenced as of this month,” Berhanu told WIC in an exclusive interview.


The director said the commission also plans to further expand its reach by opening another seven new branch offices starting from the next budget year.


In line with its quest to expand its reach, the commission has also signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with law schools of 16 state run universities, six national civil societies and women’s associations of three regional states - Amhara, Tigray and SNNP.


“Through these institutions the commission will place itself in a closer proximity with citizens, especially the disadvantaged,” Berhanu said.


Established five years ago, EHRC focused its activities during the formative stage on creating awareness of citizens on issues of human rights and democracy.


The director said that the commission is finalizing a new five year strategic plan.


Source: http://www.waltainfo.com/