Kassahun Kebede said Fig Tree story bore fruit

 

Kassahun Kebede, an associate professor of sociology at Eastern Washington University, knows that local journalism has the power to connect communities and generations.

In its November issue, The Fig Tree covered his Libraries for Ethiopia initiative.

At first embarrassed and stressed by the attention, Kassahun said the story made him happy and hopeful because it raised awareness of and support for the "noble cause of spreading the joy of reading."

"Growing up in rural Ethiopia, I didn't own a book until I graduated from college. This experience fueled my passion for literacy, motivating me to establish Libraries for Ethiopia, a nonprofit to improve literacy there," he added. "My vision is simple yet profound: to provide children in my village and beyond the chance to travel to many places, meet many people and understand the world through reading."

He felt stress as he wondered if he could deliver on the goal.

"The Fig Tree's article served as a catalyst. It connected my vision with the Spokane community and beyond. It highlighted the stark realities of literacy in Ethiopia," he said, explaining that there are no bookstores or libraries in rural Ethiopia, the adult literacy rate there is half the rate in the U.S., and there are only 149 public libraries in all of Ethiopia.

"These facts helped readers understand the urgent need for libraries in Ethiopia and inspired action," Kassahun noted, pointing to the article's impact.

It inspired St Stephen's Episcopal Church, to support the project at a Valentine's Day "Share the Love" event.

"My childhood story of borrowing my teacher's only textbook resonated with The Fig Tree readers, illustrating the transformative power of books," he said.

Another response came from Spokane's former mayor, Sheri Barnard, who sent him a message and donation.

"This support from community leaders amplified the project's visibility and credibility. I thank The Fig Tree and Marijke Fakasiieiki for writing my story," Kassahun said.

"The generational impact of this story will be significant and lasting," he added, telling of encouraging students to pursue their dreams when he shared his story at a local middle school.

"My advice to them to give a kid a book, not an iPad, left a lasting impression on students," he said, sure some of them would grow up to inspire others.

Although it took two years, his initiative has made tangible progress, he said, "thanks to the increased awareness and support generated by The Fig Tree's article. A library is being renovated in my hometown, Sendafa-Beke, bringing my vision of providing access to books and knowledge a step closer to reality."

As the article covered the urgent need for literacy resources in Ethiopia and encouraged the community to act, Kassahun said, "it exemplified the power of sharing personal stories and showed how local journalism can connect communities across continents, fostering positive change and empowering future generations through the gift of literacy."

He noted there is a reason why, in African folklore, the Sycamore Fig is called the queen of Africa's trees.  "It has deep roots that draw underground water closer to the surface, creating life-giving streams. What a fitting name for this newspaper." he said.

The 2025 Benefit videos are available on Youtube through the links on this Benefit 2025 page.