Meskel-Demera Demonstrates Ethiopia’s Diverse Culture, Rich History & Strong Bond

Addis Ababa, September 26, 2025 (ENA) -- The nationwide celebration of Meskel-Demera festival demonstrates Ethiopia’s diverse culture, rich history, and strong bond as a nation, Culture and Sports Minister Shewit Shanka said.

Addressing the Mekel-Demera festival at the Meskel Square today, the Minister said Ethiopia is a land of diverse culture, religions, vibrant values, diverse resources and history.

Stating that Meskel is one of Ethiopia’s world heritages inscribed by UNESCO, she added that the nationwide celebration shows Ethiopia’s strong bond as a nation.

This strong foundation is our unity and the varieties of celebrations demonstrate our being a multi-national state, she noted.

According to her, Ethiopians have been living together for thousands of years in harmony by respecting one another --- a unique value that will be kept for generations to come.

The Minister further stressed the need to maintain and transmit such valuable assets and narratives which are foundations to ensuring lasting peace and eradicate poverty.

Moreover, Shewit pointed out the need for joint endeavors to realize Ethiopia’s growth and prosperity as the completion of the Grand Ethiopian Renaissance Dam (GERD) is a true demonstration of unity.

Ethiopian Christians are joyfully celebrating the Meskel Demera festival, which commemorates the Finding of the True Cross, with a variety of religious and cultural events across the country.

On her part, Addis Ababa City Mayor  Adanech Abiebie  emphasized that the success of GERD was achieved through perseverance, prayer, and the blessing of God.

This year’s Demera celebration holds special significance as it coincides with the completion of the Grand Ethiopian Renaissance Dam (GERD), she added.

The Mayor described the dam as a unifying achievement, noting that just as the Demera bonfire represents unity, Ethiopians came together with one spirit to realize the long-awaited project.

She further called on Ethiopians to continue striving to defeat poverty and achieve prosperity by drawing strength from the cross.

Just as the True Cross is uncovered from beneath dirt and debris, Ethiopians must now work in unison to clear away obstacles to national development, Adanech stressed.

The mayor finally reaffirmed the city administration’s determination to make Addis Ababa more attractive and fit for visitors to host such major religious celebrations, citing the beauty of Meskel Square as a reflection of this commitment.

Meskel is a UNESCO-registered Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity, inscribed in December 2013. This major religious and cultural festival commemorates the finding of the True Cross of Christ and involves traditions like the Demera bonfire and prayers.