BY LEULSEGED WORKU
Several Ethiopians, owing to various reasons, such as economic, political or other related matters, have left their country and are residing in different parts of the world. However, the love, attachments and dedications of all Ethiopian Diasporas to their country is beyond words. This is witnessed several times. Despite their ideological differences and all the challenges in host countries, they are always committed on Ethiopia`s matters.
This affection and commitment has been manifesting itself in their active political, economic and social participations. The role of the Diaspora communities who always are alert to protect the interest of the country is a good example in this regard. What is more, those individuals who send money in a legal way to support their family and invest their capital in Ethiopia witness how Ethiopian Diaspora communities are committed to their country.
The last four years are periods where the Diaspora community has shown unreserved effort towards the peace and stability of the country. From standing as one to elevate the reputation of Ethiopia and protect its sovereignty and dignity in international arenas is a good proof for the claim.
What is more, the last four years have also seen an increasing number of the Diaspora communities returning back to Ethiopia, which can be taken as a historic visit to homeland. The commitment of the Ethiopian Diaspora has also revealed itself within the past two years where the nation was caught with internal and external challenges by playing an active role representing Ethiopia.
Not only that, but the participation of the Diaspora community in investment and trade, transfer of technology, building up educational and health institutions and other areas are few among the others that should be valued and receive recognition.
Taking the incalculable contributions of the Diaspora community in the overall activities of Ethiopia, the Government has arranged the first Ethiopian Diaspora Organization Recognition Program; and today, the recognition program is being marked here in Addis Ababa.
As indicated by the Ethiopian Diaspora Service, Ethiopian Diaspora organizations have received recommendations on the event for their contributions to the national calls that have been made on various occasions.
Ethiopian Diaspora Service Director-General, Mohammed Edris, said that the recognition program aims at encouraging and expressing gratitude to the Diaspora community for their contribution in various activities, including public diplomacy, image building and resource mobilization.
The Diaspora organizations are contributing significantly towards safeguarding the national interest as well as the economic and social development of the country. The Director General also pointed out that the Diasporas have been contributing tens of millions USD for the construction of the Grand Ethiopian Renaissance Dam during the past years.
Diaspora Service Communication Director, Wondwossen Girma, on his part told the EPA that like other countries, the Diasporas are one alternative to stimulating economic progress. In this regard, Ethiopian Diasporas are playing significant role in backing the economic progress of the nation. There were no times where they refrained from supporting their country in the form of knowledge, skill, technology transfer and finance.
Mentioning that they are exerting unreserved efforts in areas of tourism and commerce which have key role for our economy he said: “The Diasporas have an active role in Ethiopia`s day to day activities. They are active in several charitable activities and remittance. They are always ready for national calls and backing projects.”
Wondwossen also said, within the past two decades, the second ten years Diaspora Policy Document that enhances the participation of the diaspora community is prepared. Using this, several activities are being carried out. What is more, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs is working aggressively in the area giving more focus to the Diaspora; especially in the past four years, the Diaspora Communities have gotten more attention. This is especially true after the political reformation where the Prime Minister discussed the Ethiopian Diasporas living in America, Europe, Middle East and Africa. Due to the discussion conducted with the community, Diasporas` attachment with the motherland has become strong; and their support has improved.
The Ethiopian Herald January 26/2023
