Ethio telecom has donated ETB 2 million to support the humanitarian mission of the Ethiopian Red Cross Society (ERCS).
“Within just four years and eight months, the Society has raised more than ETB 50 million through the resource mobilization mechanisms facilitated by Ethio telecom.” Mr. Ahmed Yimam
The donation was handed over yesterday during a ceremony attended by Mr. Ahmed Yimam, Deputy Secretary General for the Private and Public Partnership of ERCS. Speaking at the ceremony, Mr. Ahmed highlighted the significant support Ethio telecom has provided over the years, both as an institution and through its employees, to help the Ethiopian Red Cross Society fulfill its humanitarian mission.
Mr. Ahmed noted that the partnership between ERCS and Ethio telecom dates back nearly 16 years. A key component of this longstanding partnership has been the provision of the toll-free 907 ambulance service line, enabling members of the public to easily access ambulance services whenever and wherever they are needed.
Ethio telecom has also previously supported the ERCS Addis Ababa Branch with an ambulance, while its employees have been contributing to the Branch through monthly salary deductions.
Mr. Ahmed particularly acknowledged Ethio telecom’s provision, free of charge, of the 9400 toll-free donation collection line and the 0907 Telebirr account, which have significantly supported ERCS in mobilizing resources from the public. Through these platforms, ERCS has raised more than ETB 50 million over a period of four years and eight months. The funds mobilized have enabled the Society to provide food and non-food assistance to more than 100,000 people in need.
He expressed his appreciation for the ETB 2 million contribution made, noting that it demonstrates Ethio telecom’s longstanding spirit of partnership with ERCS. He also called for continued and strengthened support and cooperation between the two institutions.
On his part, Mr. Solomon Abera, Customer Experience and Quality Process Chief Officer at Ethio telecom, said the company recognizes the Ethiopian Red Cross Society for its humanitarian role, particularly its efforts to reach and support people affected by crises and disasters. He noted that Ethio telecom has therefore continued to support ERCS both at the institutional level and through its employees.
“Today’s support is not something we consider sufficient. Our partnership and collaboration with the Ethiopian Red Cross Society will continue and will be further strengthened,” Mr. Solomon affirmed.
According to Mr. Solomon, Ethio telecom undertakes a wide range of humanitarian and community support initiatives beyond its regular business operations. In particular, under its “Be Good” initiative, launched in connection with the Ethiopian New Year, the company is providing support to more than 50 institutions and groups across the country that have been identified as being in need of assistance. More than ETB 75 million has been allocated for these support initiatives today.
Mr. Solomon further affirmed that Ethio telecom will work to establish a stronger, more organized and sustainable partnership with ERCS, taking into consideration the Society’s extensive nationwide reach and humanitarian response structure.
The latest contribution further demonstrates the longstanding partnership between Ethio telecom and ERCS and their shared commitment to supporting people and communities in need across Ethiopia.
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