Tesfaye's story
The understanding of donkey welfare in Ethiopia is very different to when Tesfaye Megra Bedada began his career at The Donkey Sanctuary 20 years ago. One thing has remained a constant, though, his commitment to improving the lives of these hardworking animals. Tesfaye understands that their welfare is not just an animal issue, it is a community and development issue.
“Donkeys are humble, resilient, and intelligent creatures,” Tesfaye explains. “They are often unappreciated despite their immense contributions to the livelihoods of farmers in Ethiopia.”
Growing up with donkeys
Tesfaye’s bond with animals began in childhood, growing up in rural Ethiopia where donkeys were a part of everyday life. For Tesfaye, “their calm nature and the way they endure hardship make them both inspiring and deserving of compassion.”
After finishing high school in 1999, he followed his passion into veterinary school at Addis Ababa University’s Faculty of Veterinary Medicine. Whilst still a student, he presented a senior seminar on the work-related challenges faced by donkeys.
At the time, the concept of animal welfare was still in its infancy in the country - introduced only a few years earlier by organisations including The Donkey Sanctuary. That seminar was a turning point, opening Tesfaye’s eyes to the urgent need for dedicated welfare work.
A journey with The Donkey Sanctuary
Graduating in July 2004, Tesfaye soon joined The Donkey Sanctuary’s Ethiopia team as a mobile Team Leader, and what began as a post-graduate job quickly became a lifelong mission.
Over the years he has held a variety of roles contributing significantly to programme design, partner collaboration and technical support. In July 2025 Tesfaye was appointed the Donkey and Mule Welfare Lead for Ethiopia.
Take a look at what a typical day at the clinic looks like for Tesfaye:
Beyond the clinic, Tesfaye works with partners to design and deliver welfare programmes. He also provides technical support to influence policy and combat the donkey skin trade as well as helping to shape the overall country strategy.
“What I enjoy most about my role is the meaningful impact it offers,” Tesfaye explains. “Spending time with donkeys, seeing the transformation in their lives, and contributing to a cause that aligns with my values and training - this is what keeps me going. The role brings variety, purpose and the privilege of applying decades of learning to make a difference.”
No two days ever look the same for Tesfaye. Out in the community, it is not unusual for him to come across donkeys whose health is a concern.
Tesfaye is always ready to step in and provide veterinary care and support, embodying our commitment to make the world a better place for donkeys. One such incident happened just a few months ago out on the road:
Over two decades of change
In rural Ethiopia where donkeys are the backbone of farming and transport, Tesfaye’s work improves not only donkey welfare, but also the livelihoods of the families and communities who rely on them.
His mission to ensure donkeys are not seen as purely beasts of burden, but as valued partners deserving of compassion, respect and care remains as strong as ever.
Share this page
Tags
- Blog