PM Abiy Extends Ireecha Wishes, Linking Celebration to National Dev’t and Sovereignty

Addis Ababa, October 3, 2025 (ENA)—Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed extended his message to all Ethiopians on the occasion of Irreecha, the traditional Oromo festival of thanksgiving, peace, and unity, highlighting its connection to the nation’s ongoing efforts toward development and sovereignty.

In his message, Prime Minister Abiy extended his greetings and underscored Irreecha’s significance as a profound expression of gratitude, closely tied to Ethiopia’s national development and sovereignty. 

 "Irreecha is the Oromo system of thanksgiving," he stated.

 "The Oromo people believe that humanity multiplies and the sown seed dies to rise again and bear fruit with the support and help of the Creator. This is why when Irreecha arrives, the Oromo offer praise, thanking the pure-hearted great Creator for all that has been done for them and seeking mercy for the time to come."

 PM Abiy highlighted the deep philosophical significance of water in the ancient Oromo worldview, noting that the Oromo consider water as the source of purity and the foundation of creation and life.

 He pointed out that this year's celebration carries added national significance.

 "This year's Irreecha is celebrated right after Ethiopia inaugurated the Grand Ethiopian Renaissance Dam (GERD) by harnessing the Abay River to meet its citizens' energy needs, making our joy double," the Prime Minister said.

 The Prime Minister drew a parallel between the Oromo saying, "People without Melka (a significant river or sacred place) are people without head," and the necessity for national access to maritime resources.

 He affirmed that the government is actively working to secure sea access in a peaceful and legal manner for the prosperity of its citizens.

 "A country without sea access is a country without a life, and for the prosperity of our people, we are working to secure sea access in a peaceful and legal manner," he stated, adding that this effort is gaining acceptance within the international community.

 Reflecting on past achievements, PM Abiy attributed Ethiopia's recent remarkable transformations, despite numerous challenges, to a resolute and mature leadership guided by the philosophy of _Medemer (synergy), where the country's resources, experience, and knowledge are channeled with the people's participation.

 He concluded his message by urging citizens to hold fast to the core values of Irreecha, peace, mercy, and unity, in the coming year to ensure the revival of the country.