Ethiopia’s Sidama Community Welcomes New Year with UNESCO-Recognized Festival

Addis Ababa, March 15, 2026 (ENA)—Residents of Ethiopia’s Sidama Region gathered in colorful ceremonies and traditional rituals to celebrate Fichee-Chambalaalla, the annual New Year festival recognized by UNESCO as part of the world’s Intangible Cultural Heritage.

The festival was celebrated with colorful ceremonies in Hawassa, bringing together federal and regional government officials, community elders, Ayantus (traditional cultural leaders), Abba Gadas, youth representatives, and invited guests.

Speaking during the event, the Speaker of the House of Federation, Agegnehu Teshager, highlighted the festival’s role in strengthening social cohesion and unity among communities.

 

He described Fichee-Chambalaalla as a major Ethiopian cultural celebration distinguished by its unique traditions and symbolic meaning.

The festival was inscribed on the Representative List of the Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity by UNESCO in 2015, recognizing its cultural significance and its role in preserving the traditions of the Sidama people.

According to Sidama oral tradition, Fichee commemorates a woman who, after marriage, visited her parents and relatives once a year bringing buurisame, a traditional dish made from false banana, milk, and butter.

 The meal was shared with neighbors, symbolizing generosity and communal harmony.

 

Over time, the practice evolved into a broader cultural celebration marking the Sidama New Year.

Speaker Agegnehu Teshager said the festival embodies values of solidarity, peace, and forgiveness, encouraging communities to set aside past grievances and welcome the new year with reconciliation and unity.

He noted that such cultural celebrations provide an opportunity for children and youth to learn and preserve their heritage, ensuring traditions are passed down to future generations.

The Speaker also emphasized the importance of safeguarding Ethiopia’s cultural heritage, stating that traditions recognized by UNESCO, including Fichee-Chambalaalla, serve as valuable cultural diplomacy tools that must be protected and promoted.

 

Addressing national issues, he highlighted the significance of the upcoming general election in strengthening national unity and ensuring equitable participation.

 He called on citizens to contribute to a peaceful and democratic electoral process.

According to the National Election Board of Ethiopia, more than nine million citizens registered to vote during the first week of voter registration for Ethiopia’s 7th General Election.

 

The celebration in Hawassa continues with traditional Ketala performances, horse racing known as Gugs, and various cultural programs attended by leaders and representatives from different nations and nationalities across the country.