The Weeknd has always been a prominent name in the industry whether it’s a major album or a phenomenal performance; but this time the singer is switching gears and lending a helping hand to his people.
The Weeknd, born Abel Makkonen Tesfaye, is the child of two Ethiopian parents who immigrated to Canada.
The conflict in Ethiopia began in November after the Tigray People’s Liberation Front (TPLF) captured military bases in the northern Ethiopian region, prompting Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed to order a military offensive to oust the group, according to the BBC.
Thousands of civilians have been killed and tens of thousands displaced since the uproar has begun.
On Sunday, he announced on Instagram that he partnered with the World Food Program US to donate $1 million to hunger relief in the East African country, where there is unrest between the government in Addis Ababa and the Tigray region.
“My heart breaks for my people of Ethiopia as innocent civilians ranging from small children to the elderly are being senselessly murdered and entire villages are being displaced out of fear and destruction,” wrote the Toronto-born son of two Ethiopian immigrants. “I will be donating $1 million to provide 2 million meals through the United Nations World Food Programme and encourage those who can to please give as well.”
Specifically, Abel’s money will provide the equivalent of 2 million meals for citizens there who have been caught in the middle of the feuding factions, many of whom are running out of resources, like food.
With The Weeknd’s efforts during this time, we can also lend a helping hand by sending in a donation to help with hunger relief in Ethiopia on the U.N. World Food Program’s website.