Mekelle/Tel Aviv/Nairobi/Pretoria/London
Wedding Celebration Sparks Debate Amid Humanitarian Efforts in Tigray
Written By Chekole Alemu
The wedding of H.E. Lae’ak Tesfay’s son, held at ሓወልቲ ሰማእታት (Martyrs’ Hall), has become a topic of extensive discussion on social media, dividing opinions between celebration and critique. The ceremony, marking the wedding of Lae’ak Tesfay’s son, the founder and CEO of Daaro Academy and its sister companies, has sparked mixed reactions due to its high cost amidst the ongoing humanitarian crisis in Tigray.
Lae’ak Tesfay, a prominent intellectual and educator, is widely recognized for his contributions to Tigray’s education sector. His institutions, including Daaro Academy, have been instrumental in advancing educational opportunities in the region. However, the wedding’s lavish nature, with reported costs running into millions of Birr, has raised questions on social media. Critics argue that such a significant amount should have been directed towards supporting the displaced populations in the region, many of whom are living in dire conditions in overcrowded shelters and struggling with the effects of war, famine, and displacement.
In response to this criticism, the organizers of the event pointed out that, while the wedding celebration involved considerable expenditure, it was not disconnected from the ongoing humanitarian efforts. Two weeks before the wedding, a contribution of 4.3 million Birr was provided to displaced persons in the Hitsats shelters, with Daaro Academy and the wedding organizers, including Lae’ak Tesfay’s son, Bruk Lae’ak, and his wife Tsiyon Hailu, contributing a total of 2 million Birr to this initiative.
Ato Amaniel Assefa, Vice President of the Tigray Interim Administration, commended the contributions made by Daaro Academy, describing it as an exemplary initiative for other educational institutions to follow. He emphasized the severe educational deprivation faced by displaced children, many of whom are unable to access schooling due to poverty and the precarious conditions they face. He highlighted that such humanitarian efforts should be lauded as part of the responsibility educational institutions bear in society.
Ato Daniel Kidu, the spokesperson for Daaro Academy, echoed this sentiment, underscoring that the institution’s commitment to assisting displaced persons is a long-term responsibility, not a temporary gesture. He further explained that the aid was based on a clear understanding of the dire circumstances faced by the displaced individuals and communities.
Despite the apparent success of the humanitarian contributions, some members of the public have questioned the appropriateness of the lavish celebration in the context of the ongoing crisis. The argument is that while generosity is to be applauded, there is a need to balance celebration with the urgent needs of the community. This has led to an ongoing debate about the role of wealth and philanthropy in times of crisis, and the broader implications of corporate social responsibility (CSR) in the region.
Daaro Academy’s contributions extend beyond just financial aid. The institution is deeply committed to the broader principles of education and social responsibility, which are reflected in its core values. The academy emphasizes the need for competent teachers, technology-integrated learning, and a holistic approach to education that fosters the development of conscious citizens who are aware of their community’s challenges.
The celebration, while criticized by some, was framed by its organizers as part of a broader, ongoing effort to balance personal achievements with social responsibility. The question raised in the debate, however, is whether such extravagant celebrations are justified when many are in need, and whether there are more effective ways of demonstrating social responsibility.
The Role of Wealth and Education in Social Responsibility
The case of Lae’ak Tesfay’s son’s wedding celebration raises important questions about the relationship between wealth, education, and social responsibility. On one hand, the wealth generated by successful entrepreneurs and educators can be used for philanthropic purposes, as exemplified by the aid provided to displaced persons. On the other hand, such displays of wealth especially in the context of a humanitarian crisis can be viewed as tone-deaf or even wasteful.
Advocates of the celebration argue that success should be celebrated, as it is the result of hard work and perseverance. Furthermore, they contend that individuals who have achieved success through their own efforts have the right to rejoice and share their achievements in the way they see fit. The key, however, is ensuring that such celebrations are not divorced from the community’s pressing needs.
Critics, on the other hand, question whether such extravagant displays of wealth should take precedence when many Tigrayans remain displaced and impoverished. They argue that the real measure of success should not only be personal achievement but also the ability to give back to the community and help those who are most in need.
Conclusion: A Balanced Perspective on Success and Responsibility
In conclusion, the wedding celebration of Lae’ak Tesfay’s son has sparked important discussions about the role of wealth, success, and social responsibility in times of crisis. While the lavish celebration has drawn criticism, it is essential to recognize that those who achieve success in business have the right to rejoice and spend on personal milestones, such as weddings or vacations, as they see fit. Success is the result of hard work, dedication, and resilience, and individuals who have earned their wealth should be allowed to celebrate it in the way they choose.
Furthermore, it is crucial to acknowledge that individuals like Lae’ak Tesfay, through their businesses and philanthropic contributions, also play an essential role in supporting and uplifting their communities. The contributions made by Daaro Academy and the wedding organizers to displaced persons are proof that success does not exist in a vacuum but is often accompanied by social responsibility. These efforts are not temporary gestures but reflect a deeper commitment to addressing the community’s needs.
Ultimately, the conversation should not solely focus on whether the celebration itself is justified, but also on the broader principle that personal joy and social responsibility can coexist. The ability to celebrate one’s success, while also contributing to the well-being of others, reflects the true essence of being a responsible member of society. In this context, success is not just about wealth accumulation but about the positive impact one can have on their community and the world at large.
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