Snapshots and Melodies as People of Ethiopia Mark Gratitude Festival

Countless individuals of vibrantly dressed participants gathered in downtown Addis Ababa for the annual gratitude celebration during recent days.

The festival is honored by the Oromo community, Ethiopia's largest population group, and takes place at the conclusion of the nation's main rainy season.

Each year, festival-goers gather around holy natural water sources to express gratitude to their higher powers for the fertile landscape that the precipitation have delivered.

"I have participated in Irreecha for the past nine years," commented 25-year-old Moata Abdulmajid.

"To me, the celebration represents my heritage, it showcases the dignity and greatness of my people."

Gentlemen, women, the older generation and the youth all take part, ornamented in striking clothes and accessories.

They sing, dance, tell tales and place freshly cut foliage and floral arrangements in liquid - denoting vitality, renewal and optimism.

Global Participation

Irreecha not only draws individuals from all regions of Ethiopia, guests fly in from globally.

"I came last year - it was wonderful, so spectacular, I brought my children with me currently," said an international guest, originating from Belfast in Northern Ireland.

"It's incredible. Everybody welcomes you, each person offers affection and offers greetings."

Celebration Program

The first day of the event occurred on Saturday in Addis Ababa. On the following day, festival-goers made their way to a nearby town, a community just outside the urban center.

Although this celebration has its foundations in native spiritual practices, it is now celebrated by the bulk of Oromos, irrespective of their religion.

Modern Trends

In the last ten years, the quantity of people participating in the celebration has grown significantly. This is partly due to the growth of online networks, where numerous youth capture their outfits, dancing and musical expressions during the celebration.

Historical Background

In the past, the festival was served as a stage for political demonstrations - the Oromo people have historically expressed concerns about political and economic marginalisation.

However, the latest gathering unfolded peacefully, with an emphasis on joy, solidarity and ethnic identity.