The Annual Conference of Tigray Development Association in North America successfully concluded

Las Vegas, NV; 7 August 2010 – The Annual Conference of Tigray Development Association in North America, (TDA/NA), has successfully concluded its one day session by passing a resolution of the conference. The conference was attended by members and supporters of TDA/NA drawn from all over the USA and Canada. It also enjoyed the presence and participation of Ambassador Tewolde Gebru, CEO of TDA International and guest of honor from Tigray, Ethiopia.

The conference was conducted in Las Vegas, NV, on August 3, 2010. As per the program released for events of the day, different functions took place: TDA/NA annual performance report by TDA/NA Board Chairman; TDA/NA Chapters annual performance report by TDA/NA Chapters’ representatives; panel discussions on different topics by TDA/NA Board Members and a member; and a presentation on Tigray Development Association International activities and accomplishments in Tigray by Ambassador Tewolde Gebru. A platform for discussions was duly opened in which questions and answers, different opinions and views, and comments and recommendations were served.

On August 4, 2010, in the afternoon, Ambassador Tewolde Gebru addressed a public meeting. In his speech, he explained the role of TDA Int’l and its accomplishments in broadening the space of education for all children in Tigray. He stated that among all other things, today, focus was given to improved quality of education. And therefore, he called upon all fellow Tigreans in North America to join hands, as usual, in the efforts for ensuring the quality of education in Tigray. The spirit created in the session of discussion was so positive and motivating.

Besides all the above activities, other important social functions also took place. On the same day, Thursday evening, Tigray Festival was colorfully celebrated. Over one thousand people, Tigreans and other Ethiopian friends were present in the festival. Tigrigna poem which captured many ears was presented; Tigrigna and Amharic music songs and cultural dances were played until late night and certificates of recognition were awarded to people who played significant roles in organizing the conferences of UTNA and TDA/NA, Tigray Festival and other social events in Las Vegas, NV.

Lastly, on August 5, 2010, in the afternoon, soccer matches were played and a picnic was on. Ganta Hayelom of San Diego; Ganta Ider of Minisota and Ganta Las Vegas of Nevada contested for the Tigray Festival 2010-Cup. Ganta Hayelom won the tournament by defeating finalist Ganta Ider and snatched the Tigray Festival 2010-Cup of the year while Ganta Ganta Ider and Ganta Las Vegas became second and third respectively to receive medals. Though the weather was unfriendly, Tigrean families of all walks of life were undaunted to participate in the picnic and the turn out participants was remarkable. Hundreds of people joined and enjoyed the picnic.