Prayer Calendar Archive

By Sphiwe Nxumalo-Ngwenya, Africa regional coordinator

Ethiopia's Tigray, Somali and Afar regions are home to resilient women facing immense hardships from conflicts, unyielding cultural traditions and harsh climates.

Women in Tigray grapple with postwar trauma, sexual violence, massive displacement and dwindling leadership roles. Somali region women endure severe time deficits with endless treks for water and fuel, clan violence, child marriage, and economic exclusion compounded by reoccurring droughts. Afar women confront similar arid struggles: scarcity of resources, threats from interclan conflicts, diminished decision-making and exclusion from peace processes.

Yet TWR Women of Hope shines Christ's light through its impactful programs reaching these remote sisters via radio broadcasts tailored to their realities. Episodes typically start with relatable, everyday scenarios – a Tigrayan mother shielding her children from war's hatred and violence; a Somali nomad battling thirst under the scorching sun; or an Afar wife navigating family tensions after drought losses. These stories draw women by mirroring their pain. Then they gently point to Jesus Christ as the ultimate source of hope and healing, drawing from Scriptures like John 16:33: "In this world, you will have trouble. Take heart! I have overcome the world!"

Our TWR Women of Hope teams conduct occasional visits to these difficult-to-reach areas. Their purpose is to foster personal relationships through live discussions, prayer gatherings and friend-to-friend encouragement. They also distribute solar-powered audio devices which secure private listening – tucked discreetly under shawls – free from society’s detection or family scrutiny.

One transformed listener shared: "We lived for a long time with other religions that kept us far from the knowledge of the true God. God sent his Son, Jesus Christ, to die on the cross of Calvary to give us eternal life. We are incredibly happy to be children of Jesus Christ. Our children are an important part of sharing this great gospel. They are a generation whom God will bless and use.”

As women in Ethiopia interact with our TWR Women of Hope programs and team members, not only are cycles of despair breaking, but they also are experiencing spiritual renewal and finding true hope.