Snapshots and Singing as Ethiopian Citizens Observe Annual Thanksgiving
A multitude of brightly clothed Ethiopians assembled in central Addis Ababa for the traditional thanksgiving festival over the past days.
The festival is celebrated by the Oromo, the biggest community, and occurs at the end of the nation's primary wet season.
Annually, participants come together around holy water bodies to show appreciation to their higher powers for the greenery that the precipitation have brought.
"I've attended the festival for the last nine years," stated 25-year-old Moata Abdulmajid.
"In my view, the celebration represents my identity, it demonstrates the honor and importance of my community."
Gentlemen, women, the elderly and the young all take part, ornamented in attention-grabbing clothes and jewellery.
They chant, dance, tell tales and place newly gathered green plants and floral arrangements in liquid - symbolizing existence, rebirth and optimism.
Global Attendance
The celebration not only draws people from across Ethiopia, visitors fly in from around the world.
"I came a year ago - it was so good, so spectacular, I brought my offspring with me this year," mentioned an international guest, originating from Northern Ireland.
"It's incredible. Everyone welcomes you, all attendees shows warmth and offers greetings."
Event Program
The initial day of the festival occurred on Saturday in the capital. On Sunday, celebrants journeyed to Bishoftu, a settlement just outside the urban center.
Although this celebration has its origins in native spiritual practices, it is now practiced by the bulk of the Oromo people, regardless of their faith.
Contemporary Changes
In the recent years, the number of participants joining the celebration has grown significantly. This is in part thanks to the growth of digital platforms, where many young people document their outfits, dancing and vocal performances during the celebration.
Historical Background
In the previous years, the festival was functioned as a platform for political demonstrations - the Oromo community have consistently raised issues about political and economic marginalisation.
Nonetheless, the recent event proceeded harmoniously, with an priority on joy, solidarity and heritage appreciation.
