Gezana-BBT, established amidst the onset of the devastating war in November 2020, bore witness to the widespread conflict engulfing the Tigray Region. The war involved Federal Ethiopian forces, armed Amhara ethnic paramilitary forces, and the Eritrean government. Over two years of conflict resulted in thousands of civilian casualties, widespread rape, and displacement of tens of thousands to Sudan as refugees. The region faced extensive destruction, including burned crops, looted hospitals and schools, and the targeting of educated professionals, leaving a devastating impact on communities.

The repercussions of the war extend far beyond Tigray, impacting neighboring regions such as Amhara and Afar, where deep-rooted animosity may linger for years. Urgent efforts for reconciliation are imperative, calling for a long-term initiative to promote healing among all affected communities.

Founded in the wake of a ceasefire agreement, Gezana-BBT responds to the critical needs arising from the two-year conflict, which ravaged Tigray from 2020 to 2022. With healthcare, education, economic, and social systems in disarray, the foundation aims to provide comprehensive support to rebuild and empower communities for a brighter future.

The foundation’s vision of a peaceful and prosperous Tigray begins with building better individuals, families, institutions, and the region as a whole. Its mission focuses on empowering victims through humanitarian aid, capacity building, and consultancy services to enhance service delivery in both public and private sectors.

Through a holistic approach termed BBT-HOME, Gezana-BBT endeavors to provide life-saving aid, training programs, and consulting services, aiming to create a more resilient infrastructure, institutions, and society, ensuring every individual affected has the foundation to rebuild a peaceful and prosperous future.