Hello my Irobs and Irob friends across the globe,

Recent reports and evidences indicate that Irobs are speaking the same language. Most Irobs seem to have one end-goal in mind, and that is spearheading and playing a vital role to help improve the situation our people face today in Irob land. My purpose of writing this note is to encourage everyone of us to capitalize on this opportunity to, analyze where we stand today, clarify what our hoped goal is, develop measurable tactics to ensure our goals are met, and ensure we stay the course on track. In whatever we do, our walks should be step forward. I know you are already aware of what I am trying to say here, as many of you have been striving to make it happen and even continue to do so right at this moment. But knowing is not enough until it is interpreted into practice. In this past year, we have been praising the good news from our diaspora brothers and sisters. They are united more than ever and pushing us, the folks, back home, to do the same. Of course we know all their efforts were not cost free; the time, the knowhow, the monies spent, all these come with cost. However, its fruits are priceless. Helping ones own community, the needy, the disadvantaged, is selfless and satisfying gratitude that is worth all the hard work. It is a privilege to be in a position to help others.

Here in our homeland, we have started to follow our Diasporas leadership. Our efforts are inclusive and collaborative and we are stretching from north to south, from east to west, all over Ethiopia. The communication gabs we have had in prior years have been eliminated. The Diaspora brothers and sisters have motivated us and awaken a sleeping giant within us. Again, Thanks be to these selfless souls who make it happen and created this opportunity.

Here in Ethiopia, we are working on a very inclusive and participatory strategic plan; it is titled IDA’s - five years strategic plan. Professionals and technical committee members are preparing this strategic plan. Individuals working on this project were selected by IDA board and committee members, according to their professional background and commitment to IDA’s objectives. So far, the key points from first draft were selected and discussed in Mekele and Adigrat. We intend to head to Dawhan in the near future for further discussion of its core values with all stakeholders. I am proud to announce that the initial preparation is almost complete and follows the steps of the SWOT (Strength, Weakness, Opportunities and Threats) analysis and strategic plans.

For farther information or requisitions please don’t hesitate to communicate with us in any form of the communication media.