The Weeknd has announced he’ll be donating $1 million to Ethiopian relief efforts. Sharing the news via Instagram, he encouraged fans to donate to the cause as well.
“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 Weeknd, actual name Abel Tesfaye.
“I will be donating $1 million to provide 2 million meals through the United Nations World Food Program and encourage those who can to please give as well.”
He’s referring to the ongoing conflict in Tigray, Ethiopia. As explained by the World Food Program USA, the conflict emerged last November, during the region’s peak harvest period.
They say the conflict has led to, “lost employment and incomes, disrupted markets, a rise in food prices, and limited access to cash and fuel.”
“The U.N. World Food Programme is aiming to support 1.4 million of these vulnerable people,” writes the organisation.
Tesfaye was born in Toronto, Canada to his parents who are both Ethiopian immigrants. He’s been vocal about Ethiopian issues in the past.
The Weeknd reissued his debut mixtape, House of Ballons last month in celebration of its 10th Anniversary.
