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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) ❓

Get answers to common questions about the Tigray Knowledge Base, its content, and how to use it effectively.


📚 About the Knowledge Base

How is this different from Wikipedia?

While Wikipedia provides general information, the Tigray Knowledge Base offers:

  • Deeper Coverage: Specialized, comprehensive content focused exclusively on Tigray
  • Academic Rigor: All content is verified with academic sources and citations
  • War Documentation: Extensive primary source documentation of recent conflicts
  • Interactive Data: Live charts, maps, and downloadable datasets
  • Tigrinya Content: Bilingual support for diaspora communities
  • Curated Resources: Professional curation by researchers and subject matter experts

Think of us as the academic reference library while Wikipedia is the general encyclopedia.

Can I cite this in academic papers?

Yes, absolutely! The Tigray Knowledge Base is a credible academic resource. Here's how to cite:

MLA Format:

"Article Title." Tigray Knowledge Base, Ternafit NGO, Year. URL.

APA Format:

Ternafit NGO. (Year). Article title. Tigray Knowledge Base. URL

Chicago Format:

Ternafit NGO. "Article Title." Tigray Knowledge Base. Accessed Date. URL.

Full Citation Guide →

How is information verified?

Our verification process includes:

  1. Primary Sources: UN reports, WHO data, academic research
  2. Cross-Referencing: Multiple independent sources for all claims
  3. Expert Review: Content reviewed by subject matter experts
  4. Source Attribution: Every statistic and claim includes citations
  5. Update Protocol: Regular reviews and updates as new data emerges
  6. Transparency: Methodology documented for all data collection

View Our Methodology →

Who funds this project?

The Tigray Knowledge Base is funded through:

  • Individual Donations: 68% of funding
  • Institutional Grants: 22% of funding
  • Corporate Sponsorships: 10% of funding

We maintain complete independence from any government or political organization.

View Financial Transparency →

Is this website free to use?

Yes, completely free! We believe knowledge should be accessible to everyone. There are no:

  • ❌ Subscription fees
  • ❌ Paywalls
  • ❌ Login requirements (except for contributors)
  • ❌ Download limits
  • ❌ Regional restrictions

We're supported entirely by donations from users like you.

Support Our Mission →


🔍 Using the Knowledge Base

How do I search for specific information?

Multiple search options:

  1. Built-in Search: Use the search bar in the top navigation (🔍)
  2. Tag Browsing: Browse content by tags on the Tags page
  3. Site Map: Navigate the complete structure on the Site Map
  4. Category Pages: Use main navigation menu for broad topics

Search Tips: - Use specific terms (e.g., "Mekelle population 2020") - Try multiple spellings (e.g., "Tigray" vs. "Tigrai") - Use quotes for exact phrases ("Pretoria Agreement")

Can I download data and charts?

Yes! All data is downloadable:

  • Charts: Click export button on interactive charts
  • Datasets: Visit the Downloads page
  • Reports: PDF versions available for major sections
  • Maps: GeoJSON and shapefiles available

Formats: CSV, JSON, PDF, PNG, SVG, GeoJSON

Visit Downloads Center →

Is there a mobile app?

Currently, we don't have a dedicated mobile app, but our website is:

  • Fully Responsive: Optimized for all screen sizes
  • Touch-Friendly: All interactive elements work on mobile
  • Fast Loading: Optimized for mobile data connections
  • Offline Capable: Progressive Web App (PWA) features

You can add the website to your home screen for an app-like experience.

Can I translate content to other languages?

Yes! We welcome translation contributions:

  • Currently Available: English, Tigrinya (partial)
  • Needed: Amharic, Arabic, French, Spanish

Contribute Translations →

How often is content updated?

Update Schedule:

  • Daily: News updates and current affairs
  • Weekly: Statistical data from live feeds
  • Monthly: Major content additions and revisions
  • Quarterly: Comprehensive reviews and audits

Last major update: October 29, 2025

Subscribe to Updates →


🤝 Contributing

How can I contribute content?

Multiple ways to contribute:

  1. Direct Contributions: Submit via GitHub pull requests
  2. Email Submissions: Send to contributions@ternafit.org
  3. Community Forum: Discuss ideas on GitHub Discussions
  4. Translation: Help translate existing content
  5. Data Verification: Review and verify statistics

Full Contribution Guide →

Do I need technical skills to contribute?

No! We accept contributions at all skill levels:

  • No Tech Skills: Email us your research or corrections
  • Basic Skills: Edit Markdown files on GitHub
  • Advanced Skills: Contribute code, data visualizations, maps

Our team can help format your content if needed.

Will my contribution be credited?

Yes! All contributors are acknowledged:

  • Author Credit: Listed on contributed pages
  • Contributors Page: Listed on our Contributors page
  • GitHub Profile: Visible in repository commit history
  • Academic Citations: Citable contribution for your CV

You can also contribute anonymously if preferred.

What content is most needed?

High Priority Needs:

  • 🔴 Tigrinya translations
  • 🔴 War documentation (verified testimonies)
  • 🔴 Economic recovery data (post-war)
  • 🟡 Historical photographs and archives
  • 🟡 Cultural heritage documentation

View Content Priorities →


💰 Donations & Support

Is my donation tax-deductible?

It depends on your location:

  • 🇺🇸 USA: Yes, tax-deductible (501©(3) status)
  • 🇸🇪 Sweden: Yes, tax-deductible (Swedish NGO registration)
  • 🇬🇧 UK: Yes, through Gift Aid program
  • 🇪🇺 EU: Varies by country (contact us)
  • 🌍 Other: Check with your local tax authority

Tax receipts provided automatically for donations over $25.

Where does my money go?

2025 Budget Allocation:

  • 45% Research & Documentation
  • 25% Technology & Hosting
  • 15% Translation & Localization
  • 10% Community Outreach
  • 5% Administrative Costs

View Detailed Financial Report →

Can I donate anonymously?

Yes! You can choose to:

  • ✅ Donate without public recognition
  • ✅ Hide your name from donor lists
  • ✅ Receive tax receipts without public disclosure

Just check the "Anonymous Donation" box during checkout.

Do you accept cryptocurrency?

Yes! We accept:

  • ₿ Bitcoin (BTC)
  • Ξ Ethereum (ETH)
  • Other major cryptocurrencies

Crypto Donation Instructions →


🛡️ Privacy & Security

Do you collect personal data?

Minimal data collection:

We Collect: - Anonymous usage statistics (Google Analytics) - Newsletter email addresses (if you subscribe) - Donation information (for tax receipts)

We Don't Collect: - ❌ Personal browsing history - ❌ Location data - ❌ Device identifiers - ❌ Marketing data

Full Privacy Policy →

Is my donation information secure?

Yes, absolutely secure:

  • 🔒 SSL/TLS encryption for all transactions
  • 💳 PCI DSS compliant payment processing
  • 🛡️ No storage of card details on our servers
  • ✅ SOC 2 Type II certified partners

We use industry-standard security practices.

Can I delete my account/data?

Yes! You have full data control:

  • Request data deletion via email
  • Remove yourself from mailing lists
  • GDPR/CCPA compliant data handling

Data Deletion Request →


🌍 Regional & Language

Why is some content only in English?

We're actively working on translations! Current limitations:

  • Priority: English (100% complete)
  • In Progress: Tigrinya (35% complete)
  • Planned: Amharic, Arabic, French

Help Us Translate →

Can I access this from Ethiopia?

Yes, the website is accessible worldwide. If you experience access issues:

  1. Try using HTTPS: https://tigray.ternafit.org
  2. Use a VPN if necessary
  3. Download offline content from Downloads page

Report Access Issues →

Do you have content in Tigrinya?

Partially available:

  • ✅ Main homepage
  • ✅ About page
  • ✅ Key historical articles
  • 🚧 War documentation (in progress)
  • 🚧 Cultural sections (in progress)

View Tigrinya Content →


📞 Still Have Questions?

Can't find what you're looking for?


Related Pages: About | Contribute | Support | Contact | Site Map