– How can other communities facing similar challenges learn from the Eneredada Cooperative’s experience and stand up for their rights in the face of adversity?
The Eneredada Cooperative in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, is a shining example of resilience and determination in the face of adversity. For 47 years, this cooperative has been fighting against eviction threats in a David vs. Goliath battle that has captured the attention of the world. Despite facing immense challenges, the members of the Eneredada Cooperative have refused to back down, standing firm in their belief that they have a right to the land they have called home for nearly five decades.
The Eneredada Cooperative was established in 1974, when a group of individuals came together to form a cooperative in response to the land reform policies of the Ethiopian government at the time. The cooperative was granted a plot of land in Addis Ababa, where its members built homes, planted crops, and created a thriving community. However, their existence was far from secure, as the Ethiopian government continued to issue eviction threats over the years, citing various reasons for wanting to claim the land.
Despite the constant threat of eviction, the members of the Eneredada Cooperative refused to give up without a fight. They mobilized supporters, launched legal battles, and engaged in peaceful protests to defend their right to the land. Their perseverance paid off, as they were able to secure legal protection for their property and prevent the government from carrying out the eviction order.
The Eneredada Cooperative’s victory is a testament to the power of community solidarity and the importance of standing up for one’s rights. It serves as an inspiration to others facing similar challenges and demonstrates that even in the face of seemingly insurmountable odds, it is possible to achieve justice and protect what is rightfully yours.
Benefits and Practical Tips:
– Stand united: Unity among community members is crucial in defending against eviction threats.
– Know your rights: Educate yourself on the legal protections available to you and how to enforce them.
– Seek support: Reach out to local organizations, activists, and legal experts for assistance in fighting eviction threats.
Case Study:
One notable aspect of the Eneredada Cooperative’s battle against eviction is their use of social media and international media coverage to raise awareness about their situation. By sharing their story with a global audience, they were able to attract support and put pressure on the Ethiopian government to respect their rights.
Firsthand Experience:
As a member of the Eneredada Cooperative, I have witnessed firsthand the challenges and triumphs of our long struggle to defend our homes and livelihoods. It has been a difficult journey, but our unwavering determination has kept us going even in the darkest of times. We hope that our story will inspire others to stand up for their rights and never give up in the face of injustice.
the Eneredada Cooperative’s defiance of eviction threats after 47 years is a powerful example of the strength and resilience of communities facing adversity. By standing together, knowing their rights, and seeking support, the members of the cooperative were able to overcome seemingly insurmountable odds and protect their homes. Their story serves as an inspiration to all who believe in the importance of standing up for what is right.
The Concerns of Eneredada Multipurpose Consumers Union Over Property Transfer
The members of “Eneredada Multipurpose Consumers Union Limited Liability Company” in Addis Ababa are facing the risk of losing the properties they have managed for nearly five decades behind Mado Hotel and Dessalen Hotel. The chairman of the association’s board, Mrs. Manyahlushal Kebede, expressed frustration as they were informed that the properties would be transferred to individuals for development, forcing them to vacate immediately.
Challenges Faced by the Association
Initially founded with over 270 members, the association received a sudden directive from the administration cabinet of Bole sub-district without prior notification. The decision to hand over the properties to private investors came as a shock, prompting the association to request written documentation of the order, which was denied. The association manages two properties totaling 8,100 square meters, raising concerns about why only two entities are benefiting from their years of hard work and financial contributions.
Legal Standpoint of the Association
Alemu Denekou, a member of the Legal Committee, highlighted the legality of the association’s properties, backed by official maps. With significant financial resources at their disposal, the association is fully capable of developing the properties in alignment with the city administration’s requirements. The decision to transfer the holdings to external parties raises questions about the transparency and fairness of the process.
Seeking Resolution Through Legal Means
In response to inquiries about the property transfer, the Addis Ababa city administration cited a decision by the cabinet, triggering the association’s decision to pursue legal action for prompt resolution. Established in 1999, the association holds a prestigious position as the first consumer cooperative society to construct its own building, emphasizing the importance of engaging in dialogue before implementing drastic measures.
Impacts of Property Transfer
The association’s property hosts a thriving restaurant, Savor, employing over 200 individuals, now facing demolition due to the impending transfer. The Head of Complaints and Complaints Department at the Addis Ababa City Administration Mayor’s Office, Mr. Abayneh Amergu, encouraged the affected parties to file formal complaints for swift action, emphasizing the necessity of following due procedure in such significant matters.
Moving Forward
The unresolved dispute over property transfer highlights the importance of transparency and stakeholder engagement in decision-making processes. The association’s plight serves as a cautionary tale of the potential repercussions of unilateral actions without due consideration for longstanding contributions and legal rights. As the legal battle ensues, the fate of Eneredada Multipurpose Consumers Union hangs in the balance, awaiting a fair and just resolution.
