Girma Haile Mariam addressing the audience |
Sunday
10th February saw Ethiopians and friends of Ethiopia gather at York Gardens
Library and Community Centre in Wandsworth to discuss about the formation of
The London Chapter of EDTF and how they can help those who need help.
Wandsworth is the home of St. Mary of Debre Tsion, the biggest Ethiopian
Orthodox church in Europe which often attracts many Ethiopian related functions
and events.
The event brought together Ethiopians and friends of Ethiopia of all political persuasion and
none for a great cause. In fact the leaders of the event were composed of the
two factions of Debre Tsion London Church, which has been divided for the
past 7 years. Hence the EDTF effect in London is not only about raising money
for the EDTF but also bringing folks together for a common good. Girma Haile
Mariam, one of the organisers of the event said: “EDTF is not about politics,
religion, etc. It is all about what we can and should together to help our fellow
citizens who have no access to clean water, access to many things important in our lives. Trust me, Our
contribution will make a difference”
EDTF council members, Prof Lemma W. Senbet and Dr. Aklilu Bisrat as
well as NuNu Wako, the convener for EDTF Volunteer Task Force joined the event via
Skype. Their insightful contributions and availability to answer questions boosted the confidence of all the attendees of the event. Following the event, a mum and senior citizen, who didn't want to be named said “Because of EDTF
I was able to meet with someone I haven’t met for over 10 years as I lost
contact with them. EDTF has reunited me with my good old friend.”
The EDTF London chapter is the first of many to be formed across the United Kingdom. Ethiopia
and UK have strong relationship and work together on a number of bilateral and
international issues. Harriett Baldwin, Foreign Office and DFID Minister for
Africa was in the horn of African country in October following which she said:
“The UK and Ethiopia are working together to tackle shared challenges and to
make the most of the opportunities East Africa offers, on everything from
development and education, to creating jobs and attracting investment. We will
continue to support the ambitions of our partners, like Ethiopia, to build a
stronger, more prosperous and more peaceful region.”