In today’s interconnected world, the Ethiopian Diaspora community plays a crucial role in shaping the future of their homeland. As they spread across the globe, they bring with them diverse perspectives, experiences, and resources that can significantly impact nation-building efforts and foster constructive national dialogue.
Mainly, as Ethiopia is a country rich in ethnic, linguistic, cultural and religious diversity, the Diaspora community can bring diverse perspectives and solution which can contribute meaningfully to navigate challenges related to reconciliation and peace-building.
For the reason Ethiopian Diasporas possess a unique blend of cultural heritage and global experiences that can serve as a valuable asset in advancing the development of their homeland by leveraging their skills, knowledge, and connections, they can contribute to various sectors such as education, healthcare, infrastructure, and technology, thereby accelerating progress and fostering sustainable growth. By actively participating in nation-building initiatives, Ethiopian Diasporas can help shape a brighter future for their country and create opportunities for future generations to thrive. They can play a vital role in promoting understanding, tolerance, and healing. By supporting initiatives that aim to bridge divides, foster dialogue, and promote reconciliation, Ethiopian diasporas can contribute to building a more peaceful and cohesive society that values diversity and unity.
Thus, it is essential for Ethiopian Diasporas to actively engage in supporting their country’s development and promoting open, inclusive conversations that benefit all citizens and solve challenges that the country is facing.
Gezahegn Wordofa (MD) was born and raised in the rural part of Ethiopia in Welenchiti Town, Oromia State. Currently, he is living in Canada, where he actively participates in supporting ongoing nation building efforts through coordinating the Ethiopian Diasporas community in various ways. He provides various scholarships and other opportunities to Ethiopian youths in the homeland. Moreover, he is known for his successive contributions not only at home; but also abroad through promoting strong societal cohesion and enhancing their active participation in various national affairs.
During his stay with The Ethiopian Herald, Gezahegn said that he has paid sacrifice to reach his current position. His life journey could be a great lesson for other Ethiopian Diasporas who dream to leave a better legacy in life that is worth better recognition.
He constructed various infrastructural facilities that provide free health and education services to the community in the homeland.
Recently, he organized a traditional rbitration event at Dukem Town to facilitate traditional conflict resolution mechanisms in his hometown with the participation of every member of the community.
According to him, the Ethiopian Diaspora community across the world should unite to build Ethiopia and improve the lives of the people through participating in various constructive initiatives.
“No doubt, the Ethiopian Diaspora community has a great potential to brighten the future of our country if united together. Thus, we have to come to our country and contribute our part through actively working with the community at the grassroots level. Cultivating peace and creating a better future for the young people at home should be the priority of the Ethiopian Diaspora community living all over the world,” he said.
As to him, the Diaspora community abroad should promote peace rather than disseminating fake news regarding the ongoing conflict in some parts of the country. No one profits from the wars fought between brothers except causing greater human, economic and social costs on a certain country, and weakening its whole systems. Thus, everyone at home and abroad should give priority to transmit messages of peace and togetherness.
One of the residents of the Town and co-organizer of the traditional arbitration event, Worku Robi said that the residents of the area held successive peace conferences so as to cultivate peace, nurture the culture of togetherness, and head to sustainable socio-economic development.
“To realize this, the contribution of our children residing overseas is unlimited. For instance, Gezahegn plays an indispensable role in integrating the community where he was born and raised; by engaging in the construction of infrastructure facilities at our doorsteps. In addition, he voluntarily supports the community to solve disagreements through the traditional arbitration system thoroughly by providing financial assistance to host the peace conference,” he said.
According to him, the Ethiopian Diaspora community should second Gezahegn’s efforts in improving the lives of Ethiopians in the homeland through availing better opportunities to the youths and the society in general.
On his part, resident of Dukem Town and Leader of Bishoftu, Dukem Town Aba Geda System, Ayu Ketema Wordofa said that elders of the community are actively working with the society to ensure peace through solving problems with thorough discussions.
As to him, leaders of the community advise residents of the area to work closely and cooperate in facilitating discussions and organizing local arbitration platforms.
More importantly, several members of the Ethiopian Diaspora community are showing a greater partnership with the community in their homeland to implement forefathers’ strong way of community-based conflict resolution mechanisms.
“Peace cannot be realized through guns; but peaceful dialogue. The society should also actively participate in reconciliation and national dialogue. Idirs are also playing a fundamental role in resolving problems at the grassroots level,” he added.
Accordingly, every Ethiopian at home and abroad should preach peace and inherit a better Ethiopia to the future generations.
In sum, engaging the Ethiopian Diaspora community in various national affairs helps to have their say in nation-building. It is also essential for fostering understanding, unity, and progress in Ethiopia. In this respect, the Ethiopian Diaspora community can contribute to meaningful conversations by supporting initiatives that promote inclusivity, diversity, and respect for differing viewpoints. By organizing events, forums, and initiatives that bring together individuals from diverse backgrounds, Ethiopian Diasporas can create spaces for constructive dialogue and collaboration, leading to innovative solutions for pressing challenges facing the country.
BY TEWODROS KASSA
The Ethiopian herald May 17/2024
