Ministry of Culture and Sports Calls for Unity in Preserving Culture at Ashenda Festival

Addis Ababa, August 23, 2025 (ENA)— The Ministry of Culture and Sports has urged the public to strengthen unity to safeguard Ethiopian cultural heritages and values to future generation.

Ashenda celebration was held yesterday in Mekelle which was attended by a number of high-profile officials, including Minister of Women and Social Affairs Ergoge Tesfaye, Minister of Urban Development and Infrastructure Chaltu Sani, and Chief Administrator of the Interim Administration of the Tigray Region Lt. General Tadesse Werede.

 Speaking at the event, Minister of Culture and Sports Shewit Shanka emphasized the need for collective action to develop and enrich the nation, which is "blessed with a beautiful culture and history."

Preserving and promoting Ethiopia's cultural heritage in every region is a shared responsibility, the minister noted.

The minister also noted that the Ashenda festival, which symbolizes peace, love, unity, and solidarity, should be promoted as a cultural attraction, and added that the event empowers young women by providing a platform for them to express their freedom, making it an important occasion for both social empowerment and tourism.

 Chief Administrator of Tigray Region Lt. Gen. Tadesse Werede also echoed these sentiments, underscoring that Ashenda embodies the spirit of peace and unity.

He pledged to work diligently to ensure the festival's continued development and sustainability.

 Additionally, Atsbeha Gebregzaabher, Head of the Culture and Tourism Bureau of Tigray Interim Administration, affirmed his commitment to safeguarding the festival's traditional character and authenticity for generations to come.

 Minister Shanka concluded by extending her heartfelt wishes to the young women celebrating Ashenda and to the people of Tigray, expressing hope that the festival remains a beacon of peace and harmony.

 Ashenda festival, also known as Shadey in the Amhara region, is a vibrant and time-honored celebration deeply rooted in Ethiopia’s cultural and religious heritage.

Observed in late August, the festival is a joyous occasion that highlights the voices and presence of young girls and women. For three days, they dress in colorful traditional attire, style their hair in elaborate fashions, and adorn themselves with striking jewelry.

 Moving from house to house, they sing and dance to the rhythm of drums, while families welcome them with gifts or money in return. Beyond the lively music and festivity, Ashenda is a moment of empowerment, when young women are celebrated, given freedom of expression, and placed at the very heart of their communities.