ADDIS ABABA – President Taye Atske-Selassie commended the Mekedonia Humanitarian Association for its dedicated efforts and called on Ethiopians worldwide to support its future initiatives, helping to make its charitable work more accessible.
Yesterday, during his visit to Mekedoniaand the building under construction on its compound, the President expressed his appreciation for the association’s ongoing contributions.
During the occasion, President Taye emphasized the importance of supporting the association as much as possible. He noted that the good work being carried out at Mekedonia is a source of strength and inspiration, and urged everyone to contribute in order to make the center’s charitable efforts more accessible to those in need.
He called on all Ethiopians who are capable, virtuous, sincere, compassionate, and committed to supporting their fellow citizens to donate generously to the national rescue programs initiated by the association.
“What I witnessed today was not despair, but human strength,” President Taye said. “I realized that it is possible to rise above despair itself. This is the essence of preparing oneself for virtue and giving to others. Beyond goodness, what lies ahead is knowledge-because knowledge is the key to helping others overcome their struggles.”
The President also expressed his gratitude to Biniam Belete, the founder and CEO of the Mekedonia Humanitarian Association, for his dedication and kindness. He praised the association for its life-saving efforts and reaffirmed his government’s commitment to supporting Mekedonia.
He highlighted the need for additional funding to complete the building under construction at the association’s site, which is projected to cost 4.3 billion Birr. To help achieve this goal, a live fundraising event will take place on February 8 during the Seifu on EBS show, broadcasted on YouTube.
“February 8 is a pivotal day for Mekedonia,” the President said. “It marks the first day when the association seeks intellectual, financial, and material support for its large-scale projects.” He urged everyone to contribute, not only through financial donations but also with ideas and a sense of national solidarity, in order to help implement these compassionate initiatives.
The Mekedonia Humanitarian Association is working to expand its network to 240 branches across the country. According to Biniam, the association currently spends approximately two million Birr daily on various expenses, including employee salaries.
Biniam also called on religious leaders to help mobilize their communities in support of the association and to encourage participation in the upcoming live fundraising event.
Currently, Mekedonia supports over 8,000 elderly, mentally ill, and disabled individuals across 44 cities, with plans to expand this number to 20,000 in the near future.
BY ESSEYE MENGISTE
THE ETHIOPIAN HERALD SATURDAY 28 DECEMBER 2024
