Snapshots and Melodies as Ethiopian Citizens Celebrate Gratitude Festival
Countless individuals of brightly clothed participants gathered in downtown Addis Ababa for the traditional thanksgiving festival this weekend.
This thanksgiving celebration is honored by the Oromo community, the predominant population group, and takes place at the conclusion of the nation's primary rainy season.
Every year, participants come together around holy rivers and lakes to show appreciation to their creators for the greenery that the rains have delivered.
"I've attended Irreecha for the last nine years," mentioned young adult Moata Abdulmajid.
"In my view, the celebration represents my identity, it showcases the dignity and significance of my ethnic group."
Males, ladies, the elderly and the young all join in, ornamented in striking attire and accessories.
They vocalize, dance, share stories and place recently harvested foliage and flowers in liquid - representing life, rebirth and aspiration.
Worldwide Presence
This festival does not only attract participants from all regions of Ethiopia, visitors come from internationally.
"I attended a year ago - the experience was amazing, so beautiful, I invited my kids with me this year," expressed an international guest, hailing from abroad.
"It's wonderful. Everyone welcomes you, everyone shows warmth and expresses hospitality."
Festival Schedule
The first day of the celebration was held on the weekend in the capital. On the next day, festival-goers journeyed to a nearby town, a small town near the main city.
While this celebration has its foundations in indigenous faith systems, it is now observed by the majority of the community, without consideration for their faith.
Contemporary Trends
In the last ten years, the figure of people attending the event has increased dramatically. This is partially because of the expansion of online networks, where various younger generation capture their clothing, traditional dances and vocal performances during the festival.
Past Context
In the previous years, Irreecha was served as a stage for anti-government protests - the Oromo community have historically expressed concerns about political and economic marginalisation.
Nevertheless, the latest gathering proceeded harmoniously, with an priority on joy, unity and heritage appreciation.
