Avi was born in Ethiopia, where he made a living as did most Jews, growing wheat. He immigrated to Israel with his family from Gondar Province in Ethiopia in 1984, in a difficult journey through Sudan, where Avi and his family stayed for eight months. His family then left Sudan for Acre, where they made their first home. From Acre his family then moved to Tiberius, and finally set up their permanent residence in Afula, where they have lived for the last ten years. Avi and his wife have six children: Dotan, Zohar, Lior, Iris, Natalie and Oshrat.
Avi's ties to KKL-JNF were first formed 31 years ago, when he began doing forestry work in the Lower Galilee, and played many roles: Guide, supervisor of contractors, observer in the Tiberias Observation Tower, etc. Over the last fifteen years, Avi has worked in the parking lot maintenance unit.
Throughout the years, Avi has excelled in his work, and became known for his diligence and dedication. In 2007 he was even chosen as an outstanding employee.
Avi retired in 2017, and since then he continues to work for KKL-JNF as a volunteer twice a week. He informs the foresters in the forests around Afula of every hazard in the forest, and acts as "the eyes of the region." The foresters note that they enjoy their rare acquaintance with Avi and the irreplaceable concern he demonstrates for the forest.
Avi explains with a smile that his favorite place is Mount Saul in the Gilboa, from which a breathtaking view can be seen that gives one who sees it a heavenly feeling. He adds that "I believe that trees give man life, and so it is important to me to continue to connect to the forest and the trees."
Avi Kasahun (fourth on the left) and his family. Photograph courtesy of the family.
During his few free hours, Avi grows unique trees in the garden next to his home. One of the most interesting ones is a buckthorn tree, called in Ethiopian culture a "gesho." The leaves of the tree are ground up and made into tej, and Avi set up a home Ethiopian beer distillery for the enjoyment of his family and community.
KKL-JNF got lucky that even after his retirement, Avi continues to contribute to its activities for the benefit of people and the environment in Israel.