Asfaha - An extraordinary, humble, and average person—yet larger than life!

You were born on this day to be a pillar of humanity, bringing hope, support, and relief to those in despair.

It is an understatement to say that your compassion and selfless dedication went above and beyond in serving the less privileged. Your unwavering commitment and resilience made this world a better place, finding joy in giving rather than receiving.

Asfaha stood strong in times of challenging burnout and obstacles due to lack of funding—enduring adversity and never giving up. Always quoting Martin Luther King:

"You only need a heart full of grace and a soul generated by love."

It was an honor to know you and learn from you that the art of giving is more gratifying than receiving. Though you are no longer here, we mark this day with your spirit, laughter, and legacy.

We miss you, my friend!

-Abi Kefle

My sincerest condolences,
Asfaha was a wonderful friend that I had the utmost respect and love for.I admired his dedication and love for helping others. He was indeed an inspiration. I truly miss my brother.🙏🏾❤️✝️

In Memory of Asfaha Hadera

We at ECDC are deeply saddened by the passing of Asfaha Hadera (March 15, 1949 – February 17, 2024), a visionary leader, fierce advocate, and dear friend. As the founder of the African Services Committee, Asfaha dedicated his life to uplifting refugees, immigrants, and underserved communities. He transformed Harlem into a hub of support for the African Diaspora and expanded life-saving healthcare programs in Ethiopia. The ASC served as ECDC’s New York affiliate for some years. 

His unwavering commitment to justice, public health, and community empowerment was more than a mission—it was his life's work. Having experienced the struggles of refugee life firsthand, he championed the rights of those in need with unmatched compassion, hard work, and dedication. His leadership not only shaped African Services Committee into the largest African health services organization in the U.S. but also led to groundbreaking programs that have provided HIV care, housing, and vital social services to thousands, evolving into African International Services (AIS).

We had the honor of working alongside Asfaha, witnessing firsthand his boundless generosity, determination, and the profound impact of his work. It was with great respect that we recognized him with a Certificate of Recognition, though no accolade could truly capture the depth of his contributions.
His legacy will continue through the lives he touched, the communities he strengthened, and the countless individuals who will carry his vision forward. Our deepest condolences go out to his family, his wife Kim Nichols, his daughter Ilfenseh Hadera, his colleagues, and all who mourn his loss.

Rest in power, Asfaha. Your light will never fade.
Tsehaye Teferra, Ph.D., President & CEO

I am deeply saddened by the passing of Ato Asfeha Hadera, with whom I had the privilege to discuss on issues closely in the past when I was appointed as lawyer to his good organization (African Services committee). He was a brilliant mind, an intellectual, and a kind-hearted individual who touched the lives of many Ethiopians particularly Tegaru.

His departure, is a loss felt deeply in Ethiopia, Africa,  and across the whole world but his legacy of promoting justice, human dignity, access the right to life equally even if …  and equity will continue to inspire employees of the mentioned organization and all of us. 

My deepest condolences to his family, friends, and employees of ASC during this tough time.

You will be dearly missed, Mr. Asfeha 
                 መንግስተ ሰማያት የዋርስዃ!!!

OBITUARY

Asfaha Hadera

March 15, 1949 – February 17, 2025

Riverside Memorial Chapel

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