Andenet Meredaja Edir (AME) General Assembly Meeting Summary
Comprehensive report from our General Assembly Meeting held on Saturday, September 13th, with approximately 300 members in attendance, covering financial updates, strategic initiatives, and organizational developments.
Meeting Highlights and Strategic Decisions
To the Esteemed Members of the Andenet Meredaja Edir (AME), This letter provides a comprehensive summary of the discussions and decisions from our General Assembly Meeting held on Saturday, September 13th, at 2:00 PM. where approximately 300 members attended.
Meeting Summary
The meeting commenced with an opening speech by Behailu Mekbib, who apologized for the recent hiatus in meetings. He cited the challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic, a reduced number of board members, and an overwhelming workload as contributing factors. The assembly then observed a moment of silence in honor of our departed members. Following this, Chairman Dereje Tamirat addressed the assembly.
Reports and Financial Audits
Behailu Mekbib delivered the Annual Work Report, and Ermias Getachew presented the Annual Financial Report. We are pleased to report that the financial statements for the fiscal years 2023 to 2025 E.C. were professionally audited by a Certified Public Accountant (CPA). Key financial topics discussed included:
Payment System Transition
The successful implementation of our electronic payment system in 2022 has significantly enhanced the efficiency and speed of our payment collection process, thanks to the full cooperation of our members.
Strategic Investments
In 2024, the board made a strategic move to improve the organization's financial standing. By transferring $600,000 from a regular savings account into a low-risk investment, we achieved a 4.5% return in just nine months.
Benefit Adjustments
Based on member feedback and a thorough financial evaluation, we have increased member benefit payments by 60% over the past two years. The benefit amount has risen from $13,000.00 to $22,000.00 in three phases, effective July 1, 2024, 2025, and 2026 respectively.
The General Assembly has formally approved the three-year financial report presented by Ermias Getachew.
Strategic Initiatives and Future Plans
The meeting concluded with a discussion of the organization's bylaws and future plans. We have identified several key initiatives for the coming year, which were also reinforced by member requests. We propose creating an organizational chart and assigning individuals to lead these agendas within the next one to two weeks.
  • Burial Plot Promotion: Launch a renewed campaign to promote the purchase of burial plots among members.
  • Mortuary Partnership: Research potential partnerships with mortuaries to expand service options and strengthen community support.
  • Estate Planning: Facilitate educational sessions on wills, trusts, and estate planning to better prepare members and their families.
  • Investment Strategy: Conduct expert research to identify high-return investment opportunities and income-generating properties.
  • Bylaws Review: Undertake a comprehensive review of the bylaws and propose necessary amendments.
  • Citizenship Policy: Establish clear policy guidelines regarding proof of Ethiopian citizenship for eligibility and benefits.
  • Return to Ethiopia Policy: Review our policy addressing members who relocate to Ethiopia, specifically regarding the potential modification of benefits.
  • Membership Registration and Benefits: Review and update policies on registration fees and consider implementing a staggered benefit structure.
  • Scholarship Fund: Discuss the possibility of creating a scholarship program to support young students in the community as they pursue higher education.
  • Next Meeting Location: Consider holding the next General Assembly in San Jose to strengthen relations with local members and recruit new members in the South Bay.
  • Membership Expansion: Revisit opportunities for community members in Sacramento and Fresno to strengthen our reach and inclusivity.
Board Member Approval
A critical item on the agenda was the approval of new board members. To address the urgent need for a larger board, the following qualified and willing individuals were presented for assembly approval:
  • Dr. Fessha Taye
  • Tsedale Melaku
  • Selome Haileleoul
  • Nunish Habtegiorgis
  • Genet Asrat
  • Meskerem Bekele
  • Yilma Hailemichael
  • Messele Kebede
The General Assembly has formally approved the presented slate of potential board members.
On behalf of the AME Board, we extend our sincere gratitude to everyone who attended and participated. Your commitment is vital to the continued success and strength of our association.