PM Abiy, Aba Gadas Discuss Upcoming Irreechaa Festival

ADDIS ABEBA – Ethiopian Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed has held discussions with Aba Gadas and elders over the upcoming Irreechaa festival and other issues, his office said.

The discussion was centered on ensuring the festival is celebrated peacefully and in alignment with the values and assets of the Oromo tradition and culture of unity, love and forgiveness, the office of the Prime Minister said.

Irreechaa, a Thanksgiving holiday of the Oromo People, is celebrated to thank Waaqa (God) for the blessings and mercies attendees have received throughout the previous year.

Saturday’s discussion at the prime minister office has been attended by vice president of the Oromia regional state Shimeles Abdissa.

The PM office said the Aba Gadas and elders use the platform to call upon all “to play a positive role in enabling a peaceful festival to be shared in harmony with fellow Ethiopian brothers and sisters”.

During the discussion, Abiy and Shimeles responded to questions that were raised pertaining to residents of the Oromia region.

They have reached consensus with the Aba Gadas and elders on matters of development, peace and sustaining the reforms, the PM office said.

“In addition, it was also stated that work will be undertaken with all Ethiopians, towards further nurturing the values, traditions, language and culture of the Oromo people,” said the PM office.

At the end, Prime Minister Abiy declared his hopes for a peaceful preparation and celebration of the Irreechaa festival reflecting values of national unity.

This Year, the celebration of Irreechaa festival will take place in Addis Ababa city and Bishoftu town.  The festival will be celebrated for the first time in more than 150 years in the capital, according to Oromia Culture and Tourism Bureau.