Abstract
The Ethiopian-Djibouti Females at Makerspaces (EtD-FaM) project, co-funded by the European Commission, aims to establish a network of thematic makerspaces across five Ethiopian universities and the University of Djibouti. These makerspaces are designed to empower female students, lecturers, and researchers by bridging the gap between theoretical education and practical skills development. Each makerspace is tailored to the specific needs of its host institution, focusing on areas such as civil engineering, business, agriculture, veterinary medicine, and digital media. Equipped with advanced tools like 3D printers and digital fabrication technologies, these spaces foster creativity, innovation, and hands-on learning. Despite their potential, Ethiopian and Djiboutian makerspaces face significant challenges, including limited infrastructure, resource constraints, cultural resistance to women in technical fields, and financial limitations. Gender-specific barriers further hinder female participation, necessitating safe, inclusive environments and leadership opportunities. The project addresses these challenges through international partnerships, training-of-trainers programs, and sustainable funding models. By promoting gender equality and leveraging best practices from European makerspaces, EtD-FaM seeks to create a dynamic network that drives economic growth, innovation, and community engagement. This initiative highlights the transformative potential of makerspaces in empowering women and fostering sustainable development in resource-constrained regions.