Snapshots and Chanting as People of Ethiopia Observe Annual Thanksgiving
Countless individuals of vibrantly dressed attendees assembled in downtown the city center for the yearly Irreecha event over the past days.
Irreecha is observed by the Oromo, the predominant community, and takes place at the end of the land's main wet season.
Every year, participants come together around sacred water bodies to give thanks to their creators for the lush vegetation that the rainy season have delivered.
"I've been celebrating Irreecha for the previous nine years," mentioned 25-year-old Moata Abdulmajid.
"For me, the celebration represents my identity, it reflects the honor and significance of my people."
Gentlemen, ladies, the senior citizens and the youth all take part, ornamented in striking clothes and jewellery.
They sing, move rhythmically, exchange narratives and arrange newly gathered grass and blossoms in water - representing life, regeneration and aspiration.
International Attendance
The celebration not only draws participants from throughout the country, guests come from around the world.
"I visited the previous year - the experience was amazing, so magnificent, I brought along my kids with me currently," mentioned Claire, from Northern Ireland.
"It is amazing. Everybody greets you, each person offers affection and says welcome."
Event Timeline
The first day of the festival was held on Saturday in the capital. On Sunday, celebrants journeyed to a provincial location, a small town close to the main city.
While this celebration has its foundations in native spiritual practices, it is now observed by the bulk of the community, without consideration for their belief system.
Recent Developments
In the recent years, the number of participants participating in the festival has increased dramatically. This is in part thanks to the growth of digital platforms, where many younger generation document their clothing, dance moves and singing during the festival.
Previous Context
In the previous years, the festival was served as a venue for political demonstrations - the Oromo people have historically expressed concerns about social exclusion.
However, this year's celebration took place calmly, with an priority on joy, unity and cultural pride.
