Kaleidoscope of Culture & Unity

By Henok Tadele

Addis Ababa December 8/2024 (ENA)— This morning the vibrant city of Arba Minch in Southern Ethiopia Regional State transformed into a living mosaic of color, music, and cultural pride as it hosted the 19th Nations, Nationalities, and Peoples Day. Under the unifying theme “National Consensus for Multinational Unity,” the celebration brought together Ethiopia's over 80 distinct ethnic groups, high-ranking government officials, and foreign dignitaries in a festival of heritage, identity, and shared humanity. 

The streets of Arba Minch came alive with colorful traditional attire, rhythmic beats of cultural drums, and the joyful voices of thousands. The air was filled with a sense of pride and unity as the Ethiopian people showcased the beauty of their cultural diversity. It was more than just a celebration; it was a profound statement about Ethiopia's strength through unity. 


 

In a powerful and poetic metaphor, Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed likened Ethiopia to a grand library, where each ethnic group represents a unique book filled with wisdom and history. "To gain a comprehensive understanding of Ethiopia," he remarked, "it is essential to explore and learn about the diverse nations and nationalities within the country, akin to the way utilizing multiple books in a library enriches one's knowledge."  

His words captured the spirit of the day—a reminder that Ethiopia's vast cultural wealth is a source of strength, not division. The prime minister called for unity rooted in love and peace, urging the people to "return our hearts to peace and love with the idea of unity and togetherness." This call to action resonated with the crowd, as cheers echoed through the streets of Arba Minch. 

In his social media message regarding the day, Ethiopia's President Taye Atsike Selassie called on Ethiopians to build a generation committed to peace and development. In his powerful statement, he declared, a generation that is positive for its nation, that has decided to make development a reality, will also ensure its peace. He urged the youth to rise above division and strive for shared progress. His message underscored the belief that peace is not a passive state but a deliberate choice made by a nation's people. 


 

On the event, Speaker of the House of Federation, Agegnehu Teshager, emphasized the importance of the event in fostering a healthy federal system. He noted that the celebration serves as a platform to promote justice, democracy, and constitutionalism, ensuring equality for all of Ethiopia's nations and nationalities. He highlighted the reforms implemented since the recent political transition, which focus on strengthening unity while honoring each group's distinct identity.


 

After the reform, we have focused on enhancing national unity and equality for all nations and nationalities, said Agegnehu, stressing that the event is not merely symbolic but foundational for a just and democratic Ethiopia. The House of Federation has played a pivotal role in nurturing a federal system that respects Ethiopia's cultural pluralism. 

President of the Southern Ethiopia Regional State, Tilahun Kebede, reaffirmed the idea that Ethiopia's true beauty lies in its diversity. He referred to the Southern region as a microcosm of Ethiopia, where nature and culture coexist harmoniously. "The regional state is a symbol of Ethiopia," he remarked, adding that the region’s cultural wealth and natural beauty make it a fertile ground for promoting cooperation, productivity, and prosperity. 

As the sun cast a golden glow over the city, the main avenue of Arba Minch became a grand stage for Ethiopia’s diverse cultural heritage. Delegates from the country's regions paraded in traditional attire, each costume symbolizing centuries of history and tradition. Attendees were treated to mesmerizing displays of cultural dances, music, and dramatic performances, all of which illustrated the beauty of Ethiopia's diverse customs and traditions. 

One of the most moving moments was the choir's rendition of a unity anthem, which called on Ethiopians to strengthen their national bonds. The song, performed in multiple Ethiopian languages, embodied the spirit of unity in diversity—a harmonious blend of voices that symbolized Ethiopia’s potential to overcome challenges as one. 

Beyond the joy and pageantry, Nations, Nationalities, and Peoples Day carries a deeper purpose. It serves as a moment of introspection on Ethiopia’s path toward unity in diversity. It reflects the progress made toward creating a more inclusive society where every ethnic group feels seen, heard, and valued. 

The Ethiopian Constitution , which recognizes the right to self-determination for all of Ethiopia’s nations and nationalities, underscores the celebration's significance. The day also highlights the government’s ongoing efforts to establish a functional and inclusive federal system, ensuring that every Ethiopian has an equal stake in the country's future. 

Speaker Agegnehu Teshager captured this sentiment perfectly when he stated, The celebration of this event lays the foundation for justice, democracy, and constitutionalism. His words echoed throughout Arba Minch, serving as a reminder that the event is not just ceremonial but a testament to Ethiopia's resolve to build a democratic and inclusive society. 


 

The 19th Nations, Nationalities, and Peoples Day concluded with a renewed sense of hope. Ethiopia's leaders reminded attendees that peace, love, and unity are not distant dreams but achievable realities. As the diverse crowds danced together, hand in hand, the message was clear—Ethiopia’s future depends on the strength of its unity. 

Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed's metaphor of Ethiopia as a library remained a defining image of the day. Every Ethiopian, like a precious book, has a unique story to tell. Together, these stories form an ever-expanding anthology of wisdom, strength, and beauty. With every chapter written in love and collaboration, Ethiopia continues to move toward a brighter, more inclusive future. 

As the sun set on Arba Minch, the city’s streets were still alive with the rhythm of drums and the sound of joyful laughter. The colors of Ethiopia’s cultural diversity glowed in the twilight, a vivid reminder that, just like the pages of a well-worn book, every chapter matters. Every voice matters. Every story matters.

 

Ethiopian News Agency
2023