The annual Diplomatic Charity Bazaar organized by the Diplomatic Spouses Group Ethiopia (DSGE) returns this year to Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, after a two-year break and organizers are promising an event not to be missed.
Around 40 embassies have confirmed participation and will be selling traditional products and traditional food from their home countries. In addition, the Bazaar will feature local food vendors, a large Green Village focusing on vendors producing sustainably in Ethiopia and the Makush Art Gallery will be participating and promoting local art. There is something for children too. There will be a large Kids Corner with bouncy castle, soccer club, arts & crafts and children come in for free.
At least 14 NGOs have also confirmed participation at this year’s Bazaar. The Diplomatic Spouses Group Ethiopia has for many years been organizing the Diplomatic Charity Bazaar which is the largest of its kind in Addis. Covid and security concerns forced the organizers to pause the event.
The Bazaar organized by volunteer members of the DSGE channels profits from the event to charitable projects through the sub-group “Project Matrix” of the DSGE. Grants are awarded to local NGOs that support the most vulnerable groups including orphans, the disabled, elderly and women living on the streets.
“We are very happy and relieved to be back with the Bazaar this year as we want and need to continue with this important charity work which changes lives, brings dignity and makes a long-lasting impact to the lives of more than 5,000 people per year” says Pekka Holopainen, one of the organizers.
“We are now raising more funds to finance this very important charity work. Every birr net raised goes to charity.” The bazaar will take place on 10 December 2022 from 10 am to 4 pm at the ECA compound in Addis Ababa. Tickets are sold at Hilton, Hyatt, Food Boutique, ICS and can also be purchased through the CBE Birr App.
The first Bazaar was arranged more than two decades ago, and in the past seven years it has raised and distributed over 25 million Birr. The last Bazaar in 2019 raised over 6 million Birr.