IYD 2026 in Action: Youth Leading Change in Hawassa!

The International Youth Day 2026 celebrations are in full swing, and young people across Hawassa are showing exactly what “Different Contexts, Common Aspirations” looks like on the ground.
Dilla, Ethiopia – As Ethiopia prepares for the upcoming 7th General Election scheduled for June 1, 2026, the Youth and Cultural Development Foundation (YCDF) successfully implemented a two-day training course in Dilla for 50 selected student educators and Youth Coalition members (22 female).The training, delivered through campus-based outreach and youth networks, equipped participants with essential skills in voter mobilization, voter registration guidance, non-partisan civic engagement, and prevention of invalid votes. Participants actively engaged in group presentations and interactive discussions, gaining practical knowledge and insights to support informed electoral participation.
In order to provide voter education for the 7th General Election to be held at the national level, and pursuant to the authorization granted by the National Election Board of Ethiopia (NEBE), as well as in accordance with Proclamation No. 1162/2011 on Voter Registration and Electoral Code of Conduct, and Voter Education Licensing and Code of Conduct Directive No. 4/2012, and based on the Board’s decision to adjust the schedule, the voter registration period for the 7th National General Election has been extended until April 14, 2018 (Ethiopian Calendar).
We are excited to share the wonderful results from our recent General Assembly Meeting (GAM), which proved to be both vibrant and highly productive. The atmosphere was filled with energy, reflection, and a strong sense of shared purpose as members of the YCDF community came together to review progress, celebrate achievements, and chart the path forward.

MSI Ethiopia reproductive choices and the Youth and Cultural Development Foundation (YCDF) have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to collaborate on strengthening youth sexual and reproductive health (SRH) services and advancing youth development initiatives across the country. The agreement is designed to empower young people, enhance their meaningful engagement, and promote inclusive participation, including youth with disabilities