ECHO First Anniversary

ECHO Celebrates First Anniversary, Looks Ahead to a New Year of Service and Partnership.

Silver Spring, Maryland — August 29, 2026 — Empowering Civil Society and Humanitarian Outreach (ECHO) celebrated its first anniversary on August 29, bringing together supporters, partners, volunteers, and community members in person and virtually to reflect on its first-year journey and look ahead to the year ahead.

Held under the theme “One Year of Service. One Year of Partnership. A Continued Commitment to Humanity and Civil Society,” the anniversary was both a celebration and an opportunity to reflect on ECHO’s progress, challenges, and continued commitment to the communities it serves.

The program opened with welcoming remarks from Mr. Henok Melesse, who reflected on ECHO’s journey since its establishment. He spoke about the progress made during the first year, while also recognizing the challenges of building a new organization and responding to complex humanitarian and social needs. He thanked ECHO’s supporters, partners, volunteers, and community members whose encouragement and contributions have helped the organization move forward.

Ms. Konjit Birhan presented “ECHO at One: Our First-Year Journey and ECHO’s Priorities & 2026 Areas of Focus.” Her presentation highlighted ECHO’s experiences and work during its first year and outlined the organization’s priorities as it enters its second year.

A major part of the anniversary program was a discussion on “The Role of Civil Society and the Ethiopian Diaspora in Times of Conflict.”

Mr. Adane Tadesse discussed the role of the Ethiopian diaspora during times of conflict. He highlighted how Ethiopians abroad can use their skills, resources, networks, and voices to support affected communities and make a constructive contribution during difficult times.

Mr. Henok Melesse discussed the role of civil society in times of conflict, drawing attention to the importance of civil society and community-based organizations in supporting humanitarian efforts, strengthening community resilience, bringing people together, and helping communities navigate conflict and uncertainty.

The presentations were followed by an engaging discussion with participants attending both in person and online. Participants raised questions and shared perspectives on Ethiopia’s current situation, the experiences and limitations of civil society and the diaspora during conflict, lessons that can be drawn from the past, and what these actors can do in the current situation.

The anniversary also provided an opportunity for ECHO to recognize the individuals, supporters, and partners who stood with the organization during its first year. Their support, encouragement, advice, and contributions have been an important part of ECHO’s journey.

As ECHO begins its second year, the organization remains committed to strengthening civil society, responding to humanitarian needs, promoting peaceful solutions, building partnerships, and standing with vulnerable communities.

One year has passed, but ECHO’s journey is only beginning.

One Year of Service. One Year of Partnership. A Continued Commitment to Humanity and Civil Society.