Addis Ababa October 7/2024 (ENA)The Intergovernmental Authority on Development (IGAD) Executive Secretary, Workneh Gebeyehu, extended congratulations to Taye Atske-Selassie on his inauguration as the President of the Federal Democratic Republic of Ethiopia. Taye Atske-Selassie, formerly the Minister of Foreign Affairs, has been appointed as president of Ethiopia following Sahle-Work Zewde's end of tenure as president of Ethiopia since 2018. The Executive Secretary acknowledged the contributions of Sahle-Work Zewde in advancing Ethiopia’s interests and fostering regional cooperation, according to a press release it issued today. IGAD also expressed appreciation for her service and dedication to the Federal Democratic Republic of Ethiopia and the wider region. As Taye has undertaken the responsibilities of the presidency, IGAD reaffirmed its commitment to maintaining and enhancing cooperation with Ethiopia on matters of mutual interest, particularly in the areas of regional integration, peace, and development. IGAD looks forward to continued partnership and constructive engagement with the leadership of the Federal Democratic Republic of Ethiopia, it was indicated.      

Addis Ababa October 6/2024 (ENA) -Kenyans, who are attending the Irreechaa Festival in Bishoftu town of Ethiopia have expressed that the event serves as a unifying factor for the Oromo community and other nations across the country. Irreechaa is a traditional Oromo thanksgiving celebrated every year at the bank of a river to mark the end of the rainy season and the beginning of the harvesting season. The celebration of Hora Finfinne, part of the Irreechaa festival, held on Saturday in Addis Ababa colorfully. Similarly, today, the event is celebrated in the town of Bishoftu, Oromia region. The day began with ceremonial gatherings at Hora Arsedi Lake, where attendees engaged in the age-old ritual of blessing the water. Elders led prayers and songs, thanking Waaqaa (God) for the blessings of the past year and seeking continued prosperity and peace for the community. The atmosphere in Bishoftu was imbued with a sense of unity and spiritual connection, as families and friends came together to preserve their traditions. Huge number of people has participated at this colorful event drawn from all corners of Ethiopia including foreign tourists. Zainabu Hussein, a Kenyan attendee, remarked that Irrecha is a unique festival open to all. She expressed admiration for the warmth of the people she encountered along the road from Kenya to Addis Ababa. The festival is distinctive, with participants making extensive preparations to attend, she said.   Yusus Omar Bocha, another Kenyan, noted that the event brings together people from all walks of life to celebrate its vibrant festivities. He emphasized that Irreechaa is not exclusively an Oromo festival, as many Africans, Asians, and individuals from various nationalities also partake. Omar highlighted that gatherings like this one enhance relations between Ethiopia and Kenya, as both countries share many commonalities. Another participant echoed this sentiment, emphasizing the festival’s role in bringing people together in love, hope, and joy.   He was particularly struck by the beauty of the traditional white clothing worn by the people, which showcase their rich heritage. "It is amazing to see millions come together to honor their traditions, strengthening community bonds and promoting unity," he said. According to attendees, the annually celebrated festival fosters cultural pride and solidarity among the Oromo people and other in Ethiopia. Many expressed pride in their heritage and emphasized the importance of passing it down to future generations.

Addis Ababa October 6/2024 (ENA) -Participants of the Irreechaa festival in Bishoftu have expressed a strong desire for the event to be recognized by UNESCO as one of the best world heritages, highlighting its unique cultural features and significance. The annual Irreechaa festival is underway in Bishoftu town of Oromia region decorated by huge participants from across Ethiopia. It is to be recalled that the Geda system, a traditional socio-political structure of the Oromo people, was inscribed by UNESCO as an Intangible Cultural Heritage. This recognition highlights the system's importance in promoting community values, leadership, and cultural identity. The Geda system emphasizes democratic practices, generational leadership transitions, and the preservation of Oromo culture, making it a vital part of Ethiopia’s rich heritage. Ewnetu Workneh from Diredawa emphasized the unity, peace, and cooperation celebrated during Irreechaa, noting that such values should be documented as a tangible heritage. Firew Ejigu, also from Dire Dawa, shared his admiration for the traditional clothing worn by the Oromo people, hoping that this cultural expression will attract tourists and benefit local designers.   The festival not only showcases beauty and tradition but also serves as a vital platform for youth engagement and community identity. Irreechaa plays an essential role in the Geda system, reinforcing social and economic ties while promoting cultural continuity for future generations. As participants call for its recognition, they emphasize the need to preserve this vibrant heritage, ensuring its relevance for the youth and communities of Oromia.  

Addis Ababa October 6/2024 (ENA) The annual Irrecha festival at Hora Arsedi Lake in Bishoftu, Oromia, has officially commenced, with the presence of Abbaa Gadaas and Haadha Siinqee. As the sun rises, Abba Gadaas and Haadha siinqee blessed water at Hora Asredi as part of a significant ritual that symbolizes purification and gratitude to Waaqaa (God) for the blessing of past year. During the occasion, Abba Gadaas and Haadha Siinqee extended their message of peace, reconciliation, and unity among the Oromo community and beyond. Currently thousands of participants are gathering at Hora Arsedi Lake to celebrate the occasion, singing traditional songs and sharing their hopes and good wishes for the future.   This year's Irrecha holds special significance, emphasizing themes of cultural renaissance, unity, and resilience within the Oromo community. The Irrecha festival in Bishoftu has once again proven to be a powerful expression of cultural identity and community spirit, leaving attendees with cherished memories and a renewed sense of belonging.

Addis Ababa October 5/2024 (ENA)- Guests from all parts of Oromia and other nations and nationalities are arriving in Bishoftu city to celebrate the Irreecha festival, which will be held at Hora Arsedi tomorrow. The Irreecha festival at Hora Finfine in Addis Ababa was colorfully held and concluded early this morning. And Bishoftu is busy in welcoming and hosting the guests coming from different parts of Oromia region and other parts of the country for Irreecha Festival.   Alemayehu Aseffa, Mayor of Bishoftu city told the Ethiopian News Agency that the city administration in collaboration with various partners has made extensive preparations to ensure that vibrant Irreecha festival will be held in the city. The eve of Irreecha at Hora Arsedi is underway, featuring by lively music, dancing, and communal feasting among other festivities. Various service providers in the city, including restaurants, coffee shops, and traditional clothing store are busy providing their services. Irreecha is held in peace, love and unity, conveying messages to the Oromo people across all age groups to forge unity and cultural identity. It typically takes place every year in late September or early October, coinciding with the end of the rainy season and the start of spring. The unique characteristics of the Irreecha festival gives gratitude to Waaqaa (God) for the blessings of the past year. Participants wear traditional Oromo clothing, adorned with beautiful patterns and colors that reflect their cultural heritage are chanting their joys in various ways. It's time for the Oromo people to come together, celebrate their identity, and honor their traditions.  

Addis Ababa October 5/2024 (ENA)-The Irreecha festival is a place where tourists can explore a vibrant culture and have a truly unique experience, festival attendees told ENA. The visitors also expressed their excitement with the stunning and richness of the Irreecha’s ritual practices depicted in the event. The Irreecha festival was celebrated today in a vibrant and beautiful manner at Hora Finfine in Addis Ababa, drawing hundreds of thousands of participants, including Aba Gadas and Hadha Sinqes. This magnificent event reflects the values of unity and brotherhood, bringing together a diverse crowd to honor the tradition of Irreecha. In addition to the celebrations, the festival showcased stunning fashion shows that portray the beauty and diversity of Oromo people attire and captivate many tourists. Visitors had the chance to immerse themselves in the richness of Oromo fashion, featuring everything from colorful garments to intricately designed accessories.   Martin Days is a tourist from Germany who participated in the Irreecha festival for the first time. Days is extremely enthralled by Irreecha’s cultural and ritual values which the atmosphere was filled with joy and a sense of community as everyone came together to celebrate this important occasion. “As a tourist here on holiday, I’m completely mesmerized by the vibrant culture and the immense crowd celebrating at the Irreecha festival,” he elaborated. He recalled that I have never witnessed anything like this before—especially the impressive all-night festivities that started yesterday. Although Days has traveled to many other countries, the marvelous experience of Irreecha celebration is truly unique for him. This Germany’s tourist recommended that his friends visit Ethiopia to see Addis Ababa and explore its other cultural beauties and tourism sites. Another tourist from Japan, Yuhi Miyauchi is overwhelmed by the celebration of Irreecha   Miyauchi, who is also his first time to see such crown people at the Meskel square expressed joy over the festival. “I am very impressed with a lot of people with traditional dress and dancing, and people are very friendly, so I take so many photos with the Ethiopian friends, and very much enjoy the atmosphere.” Witnessing such a large crowd at Meskel Square is a memorable experience for me, he said, adding each group showcases different traditional dances, and they are all wonderfully captivating. “This is such a fantastic experience. I would like to recommend my Japanese friends to come to work here to see this festival.”

Addis Ababa October 5/2024 (ENA)- Irreecha, Thanksgiving Festival of the Oromo People, has been celebrated in Addis Ababa colorfully and peacefully in various rituals and festive events. As the festival has magnificent values in reflecting unity and brotherhoods, a great multitude of people have gathered and observed Irreecha celebration.   The major Irreecha ritual practices include excuse, reconciliation, peace-making, loving supplication, thanksgiving unity, brotherhood, and the likes. The festival is also being held in attendance of Aba Gadas, Hada Sinqes, guests, religious and thousands of people drawn from various parts of the Oromia region as well as the country. Irreecha, which is part of the UNESCO inscribed intangible world heritage of the Gada system, has been becoming an important ritual festival that attracts visitors.   This, in turn, has increased the number of incoming tourists, it was learned. As various ritual practices are performed in celebrating Irreecha, it has been becoming a cultural nationalism not only for the people of Oromo but also the nations and nationalities of the country as well as the diasporas.  

Addis Ababa October 4/2024 (ENA)The first diplomatic mission from the United States arrived in Addis Ababa on December 22, 1903. The delegation was led by Envoy Robert P. Skinner. A musical presentation to celebrate the 120 years of Ethiopia-US diplomatic relations was held today at the premises of Yared School of Music Addis Ababa University (AAU). Foreign Affairs State Minister, Ambassador Mesganu Arga, US Ambassador to Ethiopia, Ervin Massinga, Addis Ababa University, Samuel Kifle, AAU Interim President and ambassadors residing in the capital graciously attended the musical presentation.  

Addis Ababa October 4/2024 (ENA)Ethiopia is a good example for African countries relating to extending appreciation to one another's culture, show love to one another's cultures, and honor one another paving the way for a United Africa, Naledi Roos, a visitor from London. The Irreecha festival which is celebrated by the Oromo people in Ethiopia every year, is a vibrant and culturally rich event that attracts Oromo origin of Ethiopian diaspora from around the world and tourists. Marking the end of the rainy season, Irreecha is a time of gratitude, renewal, and community celebration. Visitors can experience the colorful traditional music, dance, and attire, and what have you against the striking stunning landscapes of Ethiopia, often near lakes. The festival manifests unity and cultural heritage, drawing a large crowd of people together in a spirit of love, chanting, joy and festivity. Tourists will also have the opportunity to explore cultural beauty, attire, chanting and rich heritages of Ethiopia. Hence, the Irreecha festival offers an unorgettable experience for those seeking to explore Ethiopia's Oromo rich traditions. Naledi Roos who came from London to celebrate Irreecha said “Today, I arrived in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, all the way from Londonto visit Addis Ababa and participate at the beautiful Irreecha festival.” This is my first visit to Ethiopia, and I feel deeply honored to be part of this experience, she stated. She added that from the moment I set foot in this beautiful city, I have been overwhelmed with joy and awe. “Since I stepped in, I have just been amazed, in awe, wonderful, seeing everybody in their traditional clothes, hearing the wonderful songs and understanding some of the histories of the meaning behind the festival, how important it is to the people, how much hope and joy it brings to the people,”she elaborated. Noting the warmth and kindness of the Ethiopian people is amazing, she said that they are incredibly humble and welcoming, making me feel right at home.   Roos participated today at the 6th Irreechaa Peace Forum held under the theme: “Irreechaa: for Our Culture Renaissance,” at the Adwa Victory Memorial. "Being here at the festival today, I have learned much. I have seen so many amazing things. Just the unity, the togetherness of the people, is so important.” “I think Ethiopia is a good example for the rest of African countries on how to appreciate one another, love one another's cultures, and honor one another, moving forward as United Africa,” she said. Moreover, Roos added that Ethiopia manifests the beauty of unity in diversity. Therefore, she stated that it’s crucial for people from other African countries to see how Ethiopians relate to one another within their tribes, to relate to other African countries and peoples. “Ethiopians are very welcoming, very loving and every African should come and experience such beautiful and wonderful energy,” she said. The celebrations of Irreechaa will take place tomorrow at Hora Finfine in Addis Ababa, followed by Hora Arsedi in Bishoftu on Sunday.      

Addis Ababa October 4/2024 (ENA) On the eve of the Irreecha festivities, Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed urged Oromo people and all Ethiopians to embrace the celebration’s spirit of reconciliation, forgiveness and unity. The Prime Minister conveyed a message of hope for Irreecha celebrants, which the festival has magnificent values in reflecting unity and brotherhoods. In his statement addressed to the Oromo people and all Ethiopian people, the Prime Minister said Irreecha is the spring of transition that we leave behind and move to the new with hope. Abiy noted that: "Lush grass symbolizes honor, love, and good wishes. Spring signifies a transition, as we let go of the past and embrace new hope with a clear conscience. This reflects the core values of the Oromo people." The Premier added that Irrecha teaches unity that no one who will be left behind. "The tradition value that our ancestors have bequeathed doesn’t encourage discrimination. All people are equal and humanity doesn’t have meaning except human beings," he said. Furthermore, the Premier elaborated the historical significance of the Gada system, instrumental to promote wisdom, peace and equality. Finally, Prime Minister Abiy expressed hope for a brighter future. He also urged the Ethiopian public to learn from the lessons of the past and to work collaboratively toward a united and prosperous nation.  

Addis Ababa October 4/2024 (ENA) Oromia Regional President Shimelis Abdisa underscored that Irreecha, a supplication and thanksgiving Festival of the Oromo people, symbolizes unity and serves a testament to peace. The Irreecha celebration is one of the public holidays celebrated in Ethiopia and is a thanksgiving festival observed at the river bank in the season of Spring and at the mountain in the season of Autumn. As part of the holiday to be celebrated tomorrow in Addis Ababa, the 6th Irreechaa Peace Forum held under the theme: “Irreecha: for Our Culture Renaissance,” at the Adwa Victory Memorial today. During the event, Shimelis explained that Irreecha is a festival where people thank and express gratitude to the Creator and come together as one. Given the festival Irreecha is a symbolic representation of unity, reconciliation, peace, prosperity and brotherhood, the president stated that occasion also strengthens the bonds among the people. Shimelis further extended his gratitude to the residents of Addis Ababa their hospitality and to host guests from various parts of Oromia region and the country as well as foreigners who come to attend Irreecha festival. On her part, Mayor of Addis Ababa City Administration Adanech Abiebie said Ireecha is a festival of thanksgiving, peace, forgiveness, solidarity and brotherhood as well as cultural values. The festival is strengthening the bond of brotherhood and sisterhood among all the nations and nationalities in the country, she said, adding Irrecha is becoming an important ritual festival that attracts visitors. The festival that is going to be celebrated tomorrow, Mayor Adanech hoped that the current corridor development in Addis Ababa will make this year's Ireecha festival special and colorful. As Various ritual practices are performed in celebrating Irreecha, it has been becoming a cultural nationalism not only for the people of Oromo but also the nations and nationalities of the country as well as the diasporas. This, in turn, has increased the number of incoming tourists and incomes generated from tourism, it was learned.

Addis Ababa October 4/2024 (ENA)- The 6th Irreechaa Peace Forum is underway in Addis Ababa under the theme ‘Irreechaa: for Our Culture Renaissance." The celebrations Irreechaa will take place tomorrow at Hora Finfine in Addis Ababa, followed by Hora Arsedi in Bishoftu on Sunday. The festival brings together people from different walks of life, reinforcing bonds through shared traditions and experiences. The 6th Irreechaa Peace Forum is organized as part of this year’s celebration of Irreechaa. Chief Administrator of Oromia Regional State Shimelis Abdisa, Mayor of Addis Ababa, Adanech Abiebie, other high level government officials, diplomats, religious fathers, Abbaa Gadaas, and Haadha Sinqee are attending the forum. Irreechaa, thanksgiving holiday, is a vibrant celebration of the Oromo people in Ethiopia, transcends its traditional roots to embody joy, love, and prosperity. This annual festival, marking the end of the rainy season and the beginning of a new year, serves as a powerful reminder of the connection between nature and community. Irreechaa is more than a cultural event; it’s a reunion of families and friends.  

Addis Ababa October 3/2024 (ENA)- A Presidential Seminar entitled "The Enduring Legacy of the U.S. Government’s Point Four Program in Ethiopia" hosted at Addis Ababa University today. United States Ambassador to Ethiopia, Ervin Massinga stated that the seminar hosted at the university is the first of the academic year to pay tribute to the program that improved billions of lives in the world including Ethiopia.   “The story that we're here to celebrate today is in many ways, one in which the Americans from Oklahoma State University and from around our country, working with equally committed Ethiopians, have built institutions that train and empower this nation's brilliant young minds to contribute to this arc of development here in Ethiopia and around the world,” Massinga said. Top US universities have been supporting Ethiopian universities to strengthen their educational leadership, management and governance, Massinga pointed out. “Allow me to assure you that the US government and US universities are your closest allies in this critical moment in Ethiopia's higher education system,” he added. Addis Ababa University President, Samuel Kifle said the significant seminar is important not only to reflect on the past but also explore new initiatives for the future. “Today we gathered not only to reflect on our past but also to explore new initiatives,” he added.   “As we celebrate the 120th anniversary of the diplomatic ties between US and Ethiopia, we are reminded of the transformative role that education and financial corporations can play in advancing societal progress.” The Point Four Program initiated by the US government in the 1940s “exemplifies the spirit of collaboration, aiming to improve agricultural practices, enhance education and foster economic development,” he added. Guests from the Ministry of Education, the Ministry of Agriculture, Addis Ababa University, other universities in the country, and alumnus of the Point Four Program, including Plant Scientist Professor Gebisa Ejeta participated in the seminar. During the seminar, Professor Gebisa presented about the contribution and impact of the Point Four Program in Ethiopia. The program has contributed support to Ethiopian institutions' capacity building especially in the agriculture and education sectors, it was indicated. Ethio-US diplomatic relations were commenced in 1903. The two countries are celebrating the 120th anniversary of their diplomatic ties.

Addis Ababa October 3/2024 (ENA)- Ethiopian Federal Advocates Association announced the 14th annual Conference of Pan African Lawyers Union (PALU) will be held in Addis Ababa from October 16-19, 2024. PALU, Established in 2002, is the premier continental forum of and for lawyers and lawyers’ associations in Africa. It aims at reflecting the aspirations and concerns of the African people and to promote and defend their shared interests. The 14th annual Conference of PALU will be held in Addis Ababa from October 16-19, 2024. Over 300 participants drawn from Africa and other parts of the world including bar associations continental and international advocacy organizations as well as the representatives of African Union and UN agencies are expected to attend the four days conference. In his Media briefing, the international organizing committee coordinator and the vice president of the African Bar Association, Tewodros Getachew said holding the conference in Addis Ababa will make a positive contribution to the process of modernizing Ethiopia's legal system. Members of PALU are lawyers, professionals and institutions from various areas of legal practice and professionals that adhere to our vision of seeing a united, just and prosperous Africa, built on the rule of law and good governance. PALU brings together the continent’s regional and national lawyers’ associations, and over 1,000 individual lawyers.          

Addis Ababa October 3/2024 (ENA) The Ministry of Health announced that it has been working to enhance health financing in collaboration with its development partners to further improve the healthcare services across Ethiopia. The six years Health Financing Improvement Program (HFIP), implemented with the support of USAID with the objective of expanding health insurance coverage for Ethiopians, has been successfully completed.   The program made significant progress in supporting reforms to achieve universal health coverage, and improve access to quality primary healthcare by reducing financial barriers. Addressing the completion of the health financing program project implemented for the past six years with the support of USAID, State Minister of Health Ayele Teshome highlighted the Ethiopian government's dedication in improving healthcare services through various strategies. The State Minister emphasized that the Ministry of Health is actively collaborating with numerous partners and stakeholders to enhance healthcare services and strengthen health financing, which aims to address the community's evolving health needs effectively The health financing strategy has prioritized enhancing financial resources for the health sector, adopting a different approach to improve health service coverage and quality, he added. Over the past two decades, per capita health expenditure has significantly increased from 4.5 USD in 1995/96 to 36 USD in 2019/2020, the state minister said. According to Ayele, Ministry of Health's medium-term development and investment plan aims to sustain and expand upon the remarkable achievements in health services and needs. This strategic plan focuses on resource mobilization, efficient allocation, and improved accountability and transparency in resource management. He emphasized the importance of government-private sector collaboration to achieve national health priorities and transition towards sustainable health financing through domestic resource mobilization. He acknowledged the continued crucial role of partners, including USAID, in improving community-based health insurance. The State minister also highlighted the effectiveness of USAID's efforts and emphasized the need for ongoing partnerships in areas like financial investment, technical support, and policy support to address future health financing challenges. USAID Deputy Mission Director Eleanor TanPiengco, underscored the project's significant contribution to expanding health insurance coverage and strengthening health financing in Ethiopia.   She emphasized the positive impact of accessible healthcare on public health, economic stability, and individual well-being. USAID is committed to improving the health of the Ethiopian people and building a healthcare system that ensures universal access to essential services. Its support has enabled over 52 million people to benefit from community-based health insurance programs. The conclusion of this USAID project marks a key step in Ethiopia’s path toward universal health coverage. The reforms introduced through the program will continue to improve quality of healthcare services and access for all Ethiopians, creating a more equitable and efficient healthcare system.  

Addis Ababa September 3/2024 (ENA) In an op-ed published ahead of World Food Day, Dr. QU Dongyu, Director General of the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) of the United Nations, emphasized the urgent need to translate the "Right to Foods" into reality for all individuals. This year’s theme, "Right to Foods for a Better Life and a Better Future," highlights the fundamental human right to adequate, nutritious, and affordable food. Director General of FAO pointed out that while global farmers produce enough calories to feed the population, approximately 730 million people are still facing hunger, largely due to conflicts, climate change, and economic inequalities. Furthermore, over 2.8 billion people cannot afford a healthy diet, leading to widespread malnutrition and health issues. The FAO Director underscored the importance of diverse diets and accessible food systems, advocating for agricultural practices that respect traditional food cultures while ensuring sustainability. He highlighted ongoing FAO initiatives aimed at enhancing food security, particularly in conflict-affected areas and vulnerable communities. Dr. QU called for collective action from all sectors—governments, private enterprises, and civil society—stressing that young people play a crucial role in shaping a food-secure future. He encouraged the adoption of sustainable agricultural practices, the provision of local, nutritious foods, and innovations in agri-food systems. As World Food Day approaches, the FAO urges a renewed commitment to building resilient food systems that prioritize everyone’s right to diverse and nutritious foods. Dr. QU concluded with a call to action, reinforcing the collective responsibility to achieve the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development and to ensure that no one is left behind. This year, the World Food Day Global Ceremony will take place on 16 October 2024 at FAO headquarters during the World Food week.     -            

Addis Ababa October 2/2024 (ENA)Irrecha is a festival of Thanksgiving where the Creator is praised for everything he has done for the creatures, Abba Gadaas said. The Abba Gadaa/Abba Bokkuu is the leader known for his duties as a father or keeper of Gadaa in power. Currently, the festival is primarily celebrated in Addis Ababa at Hora Finfine and in Bishoftu at Hora HarSedi. This year, it will take place next Saturday and Sunday and draw a large number of crowd. The festival strengthens peace and brotherhood, they emphasized. The Irrecha festival is closely related to the Gadaa system and has been celebrated by the Oromo community for centuries. The Oromo people celebrate the festival of Irrecha to give thanks to the creator, Waaqa who created the earth and the sky. It is a festival in which the Oromo people give thanks to God who has brought peace from generation to generation. Irrecha, means to praise the Waaqa (Creator). The Oromo people have celebrated the Irrecha festival together for centuries, without social class or age. On Irrecha Day, they give thanks to the Creator for the end of winter. Abba Gadaas told ENA that the festival is celebrated by expressing gratitude for the transition of difficult months of winter and darkness to the dawn of the sun and light with the arrival of spring. Relatives who have been separated during the winter months come together in September, he said. Abba Gadaa Daud Ali on his part noted that spring is a time for people to express their gratitude and joy for reuniting with family, made possible by the Creator’s provision of water. He explained that Irrecha is celebrated to thank the Creator for the good He has done for humanity and to seek blessings for the future. He mentioned that the Creator is honored by the Oromo people with offerings of green grass and poppy flowers. Abba Gadaa Daud emphasized the festival is celebrated by all ethnic groups, strengthening the bonds between people. “Irrecha is a festival of peace and love, marking the Oromo people's transition from the dark winter to the bright season of the year. It is a time of thanksgiving, celebrating our journey from the shadows of winter into the light of the New Year. Irrecha brings us together in gratitude for the past and hope for the future. This vibrant festival is not only celebrated by the Oromo people but also embraced by other nations and nationalities."   The secretary of Oromo Abba Gadaa Union, Abba Gadaa Abdurazaq Ahmed, expressed that people will come together to thank the Creator for guiding them through the challenging winter months. They will seek forgiveness with pure hearts, embracing the spirit of renewal and gratitude that Irrecha embodies. He announced that it is a festival where peace is preached so that the year will be one of peace, love, success and prosperity. According to him, if anyone who attends the festival has a conflict even with a close person, he should first reconcile with himself or with the other persons. Irrecha is a festival that reflects the unity and beauty of nations, nationalities, and peoples," Abba Gadaa Dechasa Wedajo stated.   He emphasized that one of the key aspects that make Irrecha a festival of peace is its ability to foster reconciliation among those in conflict, instilling love to prevail among humanity. He also highlighted the festival's significant contribution to promoting peace and stability within society. The Irrecha festival is celebrated twice a year: Irrecha Melka takes place in spring near water bodies, while Irrecha Tulu is celebrated in the autumn in the mountainous regions. This festival represents humanity's submission to the natural laws that govern the relationship between individuals, their Creator, and the world around them.            

Addis Ababa October 2/2024(ENA) The Indian Ambassador to Ethiopia has reiterated his country’s commitment to cement historic bilateral ties with Ethiopia in various fields of cooperation. Ambassador Anil Kumar Rahi made the statement during an event to mark the 155th birth anniversary of Mahatma Gandhi, the father of Indian independence, was celebrated today at Gandhi Memorial Hospital in Addis Ababa. The ambassador highlighted that Indian investors are actively engaged in various sectors in Ethiopia, including healthcare and manufacturing. Rai also stated that the Government of India is committed to enhancing the services provided by the Gandhi Memorial Hospital. Speaking on Mahatma Gandhi’s indispensable contribution for the independence of India, the ambassador described him as a hero who played a pivotal role in this regard. Gandhi’s social and political contributions, along with his transcendental ideals, are deeply reflected in India’s freedom struggle, he revealed.   “We want to make this hospital as an important organic linkage between the Indian and Ethiopian people. This hospital is about to go for a major renovation. We will see that at various levels, including at the level of government of India or at the level of people who may be to contribute.” According to him, the health sector is an important area of cooperation between Ethiopia and India. India has been enjoying one of the best relationships with Ethiopia which it has with any foreign country, the ambassador underscored. He added the sisterly countries are contributing their fair share at various levels like at the United Nations (UN), BRICS and others. Dr. Tariku Deresa, General Manager of the hospital, pointed out that the hospital serves around 10,000 mothers annually through its delivery services.   He also mentioned that the hospital provides services for more than 4,000 neonatal intensive care units each year. The general manager emphasized that the government of Ethiopia is delivering exceptional services in maternal and child care, expressing gratitude to the Indian government and community for their support.  

Addis Ababa October 1/2024( ENA) India has reaffirmed its commitment to collaborate with African nations in their endeavors to realize a comprehensive healthcare ecosystem, Ambassador Shri Anil Kumar Rai said. The Indian Embassy in Addis Ababa hosted an inaugural conference today under the theme: “One Earth, One Health: Healthcare beyond Boundaries.”   This initiative aims to enhance healthcare access, improve medical infrastructure, and promote sustainable health solutions across the African continent. Speaking at the occasion, Indian Ambassador to Ethiopia Shri Anil Kumar Rai emphasized India’s dedication to addressing health disparities and enhancing healthcare systems across Africa. He further underscored the importance of collaborative health initiatives between India and African nations, highlighting India’s significant role as a health security provider during the COVID-19 pandemic. With a population of 1.4 billion, India is poised to assist African countries in bridging healthcare gaps, it was learned. Sharing his country’s best experience on the rapid healthcare infrastructure, the ambassador indicated that his country has embarked on a 600-billion USD worth of projects this year. Those Projects are largely driven by foreign investments. State Minister of Health, Frehiwot Abebe highlighted Ethiopia's strides in environmental sustainability and health sector development.   Frehiwot elaborated that the government of Ethiopia has been executing a sound strategy to create a healthy and prosperous Ethiopia through cohesive health promotion and disease prevention. She also gave emphasis on the development of antimicrobial stewardship guidelines and the importance of collaboration among the health, environment, and agriculture sectors to enhance global health security. Ethiopia is also advancing its health supply chain, including digital solutions that now support 90 percent of health facilities nationwide, according to the State Minister. Frehiwot added that the country has planned to establish a vaccine manufacturing plant to bolster self-reliance and local production. Ramiz Alakbarov, UN Resident and Humanitarian Coordinator in Ethiopia, praised Ethiopia's significant health advancements and government's investments in healthcare over the past decade.   Alakbarov emphasized the vital role of the private sector in improving access to high-quality medical technology and services, which have become more affordable and widespread. The coordinator underscored the importance of prioritizing the health of Ethiopian women and children, advocating for universal access to vaccines and basic health services. He also urged African countries to focus on local production and innovation as key strategies to address health needs. "One Earth, One Health" and "Healthcare Beyond Boundaries" is an Indian initiative aimed at enhancing the global ecosystem for health-related, anticipated to ensure quality, affordability, and accessibility of top-quality healthcare for all.

Addis Ababa, September 30/2024 (ENA) The Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Ethiopia has announced that it is closely monitoring developments in Lebanon to ensure the safety of Ethiopian residents and diplomatic personnel. This was announced today at a meeting held to discuss citizen-centered diplomatic activities, presided over by State Minister Ambassador Birtukan Ayano, according to the Ministry of Foreign Affiars. The meeting was attended by leaders and staff from the Ethiopian Consulate in Beirut, Lebanon, as well as leaders from relevant offices in the Ministry. During their discussion, State Minister Ambassador Birtukan reaffirmed the government's commitment to paying close attention to the issue, citing citizen-centered diplomacy as one of Ethiopia's top foreign policy priorities. According to Ambassador Birtukan, Further announcements and follow ups regarding the situation in Lebanon and the necessary support for Ethiopians residing in the country will be made via appropriate channels of the Foreign Ministry, the Ethiopian Consulate in Lebanon and various Ethiopian Community Associations.