The first Ethiopian woman on the Supreme Court, Meaza Ashenafi, has long been defending women's rights

Ethiopia's efforts to promote gender equality have received much needed attention recently. On 16 October, the country's prime minister, Abiy Ahmed, appointed women to half the posts in the government. Sahle-Work Zewde was elected the first woman president of the Federal Parliamentary Assembly last week. Meaza Ashenafi became Thursday the first woman Supreme Court Chief of Ethiopia.

according to Reuters, Ahmed stated that he had proposed Ashenafi "with the firm belief that she had the required capacity given her extensive international experience."

Chief of Staff of Ethiopia Fitsum Arega tweeted the news Thursday. "Abiy Ahmed named Meaza Ashenafi as the first woman president of the Federal Supreme Court," Arega said. "The march in Ethiopia towards gender parity in key leadership positions continues unabated Congratulations!"

Arega also tweeted about the professional experience that Ashenafi, who was previously a high court judge, had. "Meaza Ashenafi is one of the #EthiopiaThe most seasoned advocates and a prominent women's rights activist, "he said, adding that she" brings to the function a roadmap of relevant skills and experience. "

Ashenafi is one of the founders of the Ethiopian Women Lawyers Association. She has also worked as an advisor on gender and women's rights issues for the United Nations Economic Commission for Africa. Considered a symbol of women's empowerment in the country, Ashenafi fought against child marriage in rural areas of Ethiopia. His efforts were highlighted in the 2014 film DifretAngelina Jolie was an executive producer.

The entry of Ahmed into the Ethiopian government has brought about critical changes, including at the borders of gender, foreign relations and the rights of civilians. For example, the young prime minister paved the way for the return of Ethiopian exiles to the country if they so wish. In terms of foreign policy, Ahmed has sought to improve bilateral relations with neighboring Eritrea.

Ahmed was elected Prime Minister of the country in April and is only 42 years old. One of the important changes that he has brought is the aforementioned appointment of women ministers to the Ethiopian cabinet. In October, the Prime Minister declared that women were "less corrupt than men" and were more likely to work for durable and peaceful solutions.

Aisha Mohammed, Minister of Defense of the country, Muferiat Kamil, Minister of Peace, Fetlework Gebre-Egziabher, Minister of Trade and Industry, Dagmawit Moges, Minister of Transport, and others.

Alberto E. Rodriguez / Getty Images Entertainment / Getty Images

Given Ashenafi's extensive experience in addressing issues relating to women's autonomy, movement and legal representation, her position as the country's first woman president at the Supreme Court could create even stronger and more consistent laws on gender equality and security. After all, she should shed light on violence against women through her own professional expertise.

This may not only be a positive change for Ethiopian women but also for those in neighboring countries and beyond. Zewde being the spearhead of the nation as president, a cabinet made up of half women and now ashenafi, Ethiopia seems set to make gender equality quite possible.