Society A Mission of Compassion for Ethiopia’s Forgotten:
By Contributor
February 8, 2025
How One Man’s Vision Transformed Thousands of Lives
In a country where the elderly and mentally disabled are often left without support, one man’s vision has transformed thousands of lives. What began as a modest initiative in a small home in Kotebe has grown into one of Ethiopia’s most impactful humanitarian efforts.
Mekedonia, Home for the Elderly and Mentally Disabled, founded by Biniam Belete, has evolved from a single-person mission to a lifeline for thousands.
When Biniam first opened his doors, his initiative accommodated just 40 individuals in his parents’ home. Today, Mekedonia operates on a 33,000-square-meter compound near Ayat Square, commonly known as Ayat Tsebel, providing care for more than 8,000 elderly and mentally disabled individuals—many of them bedridden. Regardless of background, religion, or ethnicity, every resident is offered shelter, three daily meals, healthcare, sanitation, and, perhaps most crucially, a sense of belonging.
Mekedonia has become a focal point for both organized philanthropy and personal acts of kindness. It is not uncommon to see visitors arriving in droves—some to sponsor meals for special occasions, others to volunteer their time or make donations.
“My sister, always says, ‘Once someone takes up a genuinely noble initiative, others are more than willing to commit,’” Biniam noted.
For him, the mission is deeply personal. “Everyone—especially those whom society considers to be good for nothing—is our priority. It is through them that God performs great deeds,” he says. This belief is reflected in Mekedonia’s guiding principle: It is enough just to be human to help fellow humans.
Frequent visitors to Mekedonia often remark on the commitment of its staff and volunteers. From receptionists handling calls to caregivers assisting residents, every member of the team operates with a sense of shared purpose. Behind the scenes, the kitchen staff, medical personnel, and administrators work tirelessly to keep the facility running.
Biniam himself is indistinguishable from those he serves, dressing and living as they do, embodying the very ethos of humility and service. The organization’s name, Mekedonia, is a biblical reference to the generosity of the poor—an apt metaphor for the spirit of the place.
In July 2023, Addis Ababa University awarded Biniam an honorary degree in recognition of his work. In his acceptance speech, he downplayed his achievements with characteristic humility:
“I am not even worthy to qualify as a beggar—for even that requires good health to go out and ask. I, myself, am in need of help. I am unfit for anything. In fact, I am a burden to my country.”
His words, filled with self-effacement and quiet conviction, moved many graduates to tears.
Months later, in December 2024, Ethiopian President Taye Atskeselassie (Amb.), visited Mekedonia. Addressing Biniam, he reflected on the sheer scale of the work being done.
“What would be the fate of all these citizens had it not been for your intervention?” the President asked, as he stood before more than 1,000 elderly residents gathered for lunch. Acknowledging Mekedonia’s expansion from 40 residents to over 8,000, he expressed confidence in its ambitious goal of reaching 20,000 beneficiaries in the coming years.
Among the thousands of residents at Mekedonia, one figure stands out—not for frailty, but for his infectious energy and warmth. Mekonnen Leta (Maj.), a former military officer, welcomes visitors with open arms and heartfelt blessings.
“I served in the military for seven years,” he recalls. “Then, life took an unexpected turn, and I found myself unable to care for myself. I cannot thank God enough for leading me to Biniam and his wife. Here, we come from all walks of life—military, academia, government, business—but illness or age has brought us to this place. And yet, we live here with gratitude and joy.”
Mekonnen’s story is far from unique. Many at Mekedonia once held positions of responsibility—heads of families, businesses, and organizations. Now, they find solace in the community that has embraced them.
Another resident, Worknesh Tesfaye from Metehara, has lived at Mekedonia for four years. An accident left her unable to work or afford rent, forcing her to seek help. “I called Mekedonia myself, and they accepted me,” she says. “I cannot be grateful enough to God for connecting me with Biniam and Elleni. Here, I receive regular medical checkups at Abet Hospital, meals, sanitation, and all the care I need.”
Mekedonia also nurtures the spiritual well-being of its residents, with prayer corners for different denominations. Worknesh, who attends Christian prayers, offers a plea: “I pray that God grants Biniam and his family a long life and good health. I ask all Ethiopians to support him in fulfilling his vision—especially now, as we work to complete the new 15-story building.”
A Call for Support: The 15-Story Vision
A major fundraising initiative is set to take place on February 8, 2025, via the Seifu on EBS YouTube channel. The goal: to raise funds for the completion of a new 15-story facility, estimated to cost five billion birr. At a press conference on February 4, Biniam made a heartfelt appeal to Ethiopians worldwide: “This is an opportunity to take part in something truly meaningful and spiritually rewarding.”
Henok Haile (Deacon), Mekedonia’s brand ambassador, emphasized the sanctity of the cause. “This place is like a church—one you enter without needing to cross yourself,” he said. “This is not just another fundraising event. February holds deep significance for Ethiopians, especially with the anniversary of the Adwa Victory. Just as our ancestors stood together, regardless of differences, to defeat colonial powers, this is a moment for unity—a chance to share in the blessing of supporting those in need.”
For an outsider, the scale of Mekedonia’s ambitions might seem daunting. With no regular funding, the organization operates on a staggering daily budget of two million birr. The five-billion-birr project, plans for 240 branches across Ethiopia, and a target of 20,000 residents—including up to ten new admissions daily—defy conventional financial logic. Yet, Biniam remains unfazed.
Biniam often draws inspiration from the early Orthodox Church fathers, frequently quoting Saint John Chrysostom and Saint Basil the Great. Their teachings on humility and selflessness resonate deeply with his mission.
“If I thought this was my work, I would have been overwhelmed long ago,” he says. “But it is in God’s hands. He who helped us start will surely help us finish.”
Though he carries the weight of thousands, Biniam sees himself differently. While others call him a national treasure, he insists: “I am the burden of the country.”
For now, the work continues—quietly, humbly, and with a singular focus on dignity and care.
Contriubted Selamawit Kidane