Mekelle፡ October 5,2024 (Tigray Herald)
Acknowledgment, Admiration, and Appreciation To His Excellency Atsbha Geberegziabher (PhD)Head of Tigray Tourism and Culture Bureau Tigray Region
Subject: Recognition of Your Exceptional Work and Support for the Tigray Handcraft Artisan Civic Association
Your Excellency,
It is with the deepest respect and heartfelt gratitude that I write to acknowledge your remarkable leadership as the Head of the Tigray Tourism and Culture Bureau. Your unwavering support for the Tigray Handcraft Artisan Civic Association has been both inspiring and invaluable, particularly during this critical period of post-genocide recovery for our region.
Your recognition of the artisan-handicraft community as a vital component of Tigray’s cultural heritage demonstrates your forward-thinking vision and dedication to preserving and uplifting our rich traditions. The association’s role in safeguarding and promoting ancient craftsmanship is essential, and your commitment to integrating it into Tigray’s broader recovery strategy will undoubtedly leave a lasting impact.
Your Impact on the Tigray Handcraft Artisan Civic Association
Under your leadership, the Bureau has made significant strides in elevating the association’s profile and providing a platform for artisans to thrive. Your tireless efforts to ensure that this association is viewed as an independent and viable civic organization in Tigray are deeply appreciated.
A notable example of your dedication was your active involvement in the federal Handcraft Artisan’s Jewelry and Goldsmith Making Exhibition in Adama, Oromia Region. This event was a significant milestone for the association, providing Tigrayan artisans with the opportunity to showcase their craftsmanship on a national stage. Your role in facilitating their participation has greatly enhanced their visibility, and your support has firmly positioned them as key players in Tigray’s cultural and economic recovery.
Furthermore, your invitation for representatives of the Tigray Handcraft Artisans to attend Ashenda Tigray 2024 as VIP guests was a powerful recognition of their contributions to our national heritage. The Ashenda festival is not only a celebration of our culture but also a symbol of resilience and unity in post-genocide Tigray. By including the artisans in this momentous event, you have reinforced the significance of their role in Tigray’s recovery and cultural renaissance.
The Path Forward
Your Excellency, your continued support for the Tigray Handcraft Artisan Civic Association is essential to their growth and sustainability. As we look to the future, particularly toward upcoming federal-level artisan competitions, your advocacy for Tigrayan artisans remains crucial. The association is eager to contribute to these platforms, and we are confident that, under your guidance, they will continue to reach new heights.
We also wish to bring to your attention the challenges the association faces. As a new, volunteer-driven organization, it is operating with limited resources, lacking basic office equipment and financial support. While we recognize the significant financial constraints facing the Tigray Interim Government, we humbly request that you consider extending any possible support to the association.
In particular, we hope the Tigray Tourism and Culture Bureau might be able to offer a modest financial contribution or facilitate partnerships with local and international NGOs to secure necessary equipment, training, and resources. Such support would empower the artisans to continue their work and contribute to the larger post-genocide recovery and healing strategy for Tigray, with a focus on reviving Aksum-Tigray’s ancient handcraft, jewelry, and goldsmith traditions.
A Sincere Expression of Gratitude
Your Excellency, I would like to extend my deepest appreciation to you and your colleagues at the Tigray Tourism and Culture Bureau for your guidance, mentorship, and unwavering commitment to this cause. Your vision for integrating traditional artisan crafts into Tigray’s recovery narrative has inspired many, and the tangible results of your efforts are already evident. The successes achieved by the Tigray Handcraft Artisan Civic Association would not have been possible without your leadership and support.
Your steadfast commitment has not only brought national recognition to these artisans but has also contributed to the broader cultural and economic revitalization of Tigray. We are truly grateful for the opportunities you have provided, and we look forward to continuing this journey of cultural renaissance and recovery under your leadership.
Looking Ahead
As we move forward, we remain hopeful that your support for the association will continue, particularly in securing funding, training, and awareness-raising opportunities. The artisans are eager to play an even greater role in Tigray’s recovery and to represent our region’s unique craftsmanship on both national and international stages.
In closing, I wish to reiterate my profound gratitude for your outstanding work and continued support. The future of Tigray’s ancient artisan traditions is brighter because of visionary leaders like you. On behalf of the entire Tigray Handcraft Artisan Civic Association, please accept our sincerest thanks and appreciation.
With the utmost respect and gratitude,
Yours sincerely,
Yerega Yacobe
On behalf of the
Tigray Handcraft Artisan Civic Association at the International Level.