In brief
In a heartwarming story from rural Ethiopia, 12‑year‑old Markos Abaye takes his ill chicken to a human hospital, believing it could help. A nurse records the scene, and the video quickly gathers 770,000 TikTok views, highlighting the boy’s compassion. The chicken is later treated by a vet, and Markos claims it will hatch eggs he saved. The viral clip even prompts a local poultry company to donate chickens and training, turning a small act of kindness into a nationwide conversation about animal care.
Markos Abaye, a 12‑year‑old from a rural Ethiopian community, grew up surrounded by animals and developed a deep affection for birds.
When his beloved chicken fell ill and did not respond to any home remedies, he hastily decided to bring the bird to the nearest hospital in Denbecha, believing it could help.
A nurse named Umer Chane watched the young boy hold the chicken, noting both the boy’s concern and the confusion as the hospital’s staff explained that it was a human medical facility, not a veterinary one.
Despite this, Markos was encouraged by his uncle to seek professional help, leading to the hen receiving veterinary treatment and recovery.
The encounter was recorded by Nurse Chane and posted to TikTok, where the video has amassed 770,000 views and inspired a strong online response of admiration for Markos’s compassion.
After the viral spread, a local poultry company pledged to donate 100 chickens to Markos and provide training in poultry farming, turning a single child’s goodwill act into a wider community initiative.
Markos’s story also highlights the broader context of conflict in the Amhara region, where he moved to safety amid clashes involving the Ethiopian army and local militias.
Throughout, he has shown unwavering care for his feathered companion and even helps neighbors’ birds, underscoring the cultural value placed on animal welfare in his community.
