Yetarik Adera was founded in 2022 in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, with a governing board of twelve members. The organization was established as a historical institution dedicated to recognizing, preserving, and sharing the legacy of Ethiopia’s modernization era (1930–1974).
Our mission is to acknowledge and document the contributions and dedicated service of government officials and individuals in the civil sector who served Ethiopia during this transformative period. By focusing on this era, Yetarik Adera seeks to honor the work of our forefathers and foremothers whose leadership and commitment helped shape modern Ethiopia and laid the foundation for future generations.
To fulfill this mission, the Board of Yetarik Adera has identified four strategic pillars that guide the work of the organization. The realization of these goals depends on the partnership, encouragement, and support of individuals and institutions who value the preservation of Ethiopia’s historical legacy.
We respectfully request your support in the following initiatives:
1. Building the Historical Archive Center
Yetarik Adera is working to establish a comprehensive digital and physical archive center dedicated to collecting, preserving, and organizing materials from Ethiopia’s modernization era.
We seek to identify and collaborate with individuals and institutions who may be willing to donate historically significant materials, including:
- Documents: Official records, personal letters, books, diaries, and notebooks
- Multimedia: Historical films, photographs, and audio recordings
- Artifacts: Objects reflecting the social, cultural, and administrative life of the period
These materials will help create a lasting repository for scholars, students, and future generations.
2. Develop a Research Library
Another key initiative is the creation of a world-class research library dedicated to the study of Ethiopia’s modernization era.
We welcome contributions such as:
- Historical Books: Scholarly works and publications relevant to the period
- Photographic Records: Images documenting milestones in Ethiopia’s modernization
- Film Archives: Documentaries, newsreels, and other visual records from the era
This library will serve as an essential resource for researchers, students, historians, and the general public.
3. Promoting Public Education and Historical Awareness
Yetarik Adera is committed to ensuring that the history of this important era is accurately preserved and shared with the public.
Our outreach efforts include:
- Public Lectures and Discussions: Engaging scholars, authors, and influential figures through lectures, book signings, and panel discussions
- Educational Advocacy: Supporting the inclusion of this historical period within academic curricula
- Community Programs: Organizing public events that inspire greater appreciation and understanding of Ethiopia’s history
Through these programs, we aim to foster an informed and historically aware generation.
4. Preserving the Martyrs Cemetery
Yetarik Adera is also committed to maintaining and preserving the Martyrs Cemetery as a sacred national monument and place of remembrance.
Support is needed for:
- Physical Maintenance: Ensuring the respectful upkeep of the grounds and monuments
- Operational Sustainability: Assisting with the ongoing expenses required to keep the site open and accessible to the public
This effort honors the legacy of Imperial Ethiopian government officials who perished during the Derg regime, as well as the many individuals who faithfully served in the administration of Emperor Haile Selassie I.
Through these initiatives, Yetarik Adera seeks to preserve the memory, service, and contributions of a generation that played a pivotal role in Ethiopia’s development.
We would be honored to have your partnership in this important work. Your support—whether through financial contributions, historical materials, or collaborative engagement—will play a vital role in ensuring that Ethiopia’s history is preserved with dignity and accuracy.
Thank you for considering our request and for your commitment to preserving Ethiopia’s historical legacy.
With sincere appreciation,
Seble Nebiyeloul
Yetarik Adera Chair