Monthly Archives: June 2010
I’m Proud of my Oromummaa
"We were never ashamed of our Oromummaa. It was who we were and that was that, and we’re glad we never tried to hide it. But a lot happened in our people. Racism can do strange things to people’s sense of who they are. However, I’m glad I still proud of my Oromummaa."
Odaa is a symbol of Oromcracy
ODAA is a symbol which represents the GADAA system of Oromia. ODAA consists of Leaves, branches, stem & one root. They depend on each other to survive but nobody carries anyone. No corner stone, no King , no emperor, No pope or No Sultan …..but there is /are Abba Gadda(s), Abba Dulla(s) & Abba Mudda(s) which are elected from Society by the society but not by the God. It represents the diverse society of Oromo with Vast job like Time keeping, farming, defending the system.It is the national symbols of Oromia which was reinvented over the past few decades come courtesy of our vanguard nationalist organisations such as the Oromo Liberation Front-OLF and/or pioneer Oromoo nationalists.
As we know from our past generation knowledge and wisdom, Odaa is a national symbol of Gadaa-Oromcracy. Gadaa is an Oromo democratic system in which people are elected to serve people in a definite period of eight years national election. Even though, the Oromcracy was marginalized for a century we can see that it continuous in many forms to be flourished again. Thanks to our forefathers stories, we can see our shared history and culture with a new perspective.Oromo Elders played their best role in keeping the tradition and culture. Hence, heritages like Gadaa and Odaa have been survived against continued habasha colonization for a century.
Generation after Generation at least as we know it, in all Oromo oral history, all gathering for governinig purpose and dispute settlement has taken place under this sacred tree, Odaa. When we talk about Bokkuu, Raabaa Doorii, walgayaa Galmaa, haasawaa Gumaa all held under Odaa, beside retaulizing further, among all Oromo trees, Odaa. This has been seen in all Oromo outlook for centuries.
Many Elders express the strong spiritual connections which tie Oromo people to their lands. Oromo Land- Biyya Oromo remains significant place for Oromo people. As always, the land holds the history and culture of the people and their spirits remain their. Their spirit live on within the land , joining the spirit of the ancestors from before the invasion. Today, we can see that Odaa is simply a symbol of Oromo unity because of not its bigness but for heritage of our survived identity that reconnecting our spirit to our stolen culture and history.
In fact Odaa has immense brunch and leaves that ensures great cover from the sun. It also has potential power to reconnect to the natural Law. Although different symbols have been used in different parts of Oromo kingdoms, Odaa has been known to all Oromos for its beauty and longevity. Here, one thing we know for sure Odaa never been worshiped among greatest Oromo trees.
As wee can see from our written history, there were no time when Oromo worshiped Odaa. The only written material that exist about Oromo gathering/ occassions associates with this tree is in Fatul Habasha in 18th century by Othoman empire( explorer who ventured deep in Oromia) have said briefly about this tree connection with Oromo gathering.
From our past glorious history we can feel that Odaa is one of the symbolical elements of Oromummaa. Here Oromummaa is about culture and history, not colour. Hence, Odaa had played and plays a great role in the Oromo political order. Moreover, Odaa is a sacred tree, which had been used by our great forefathers for not only its shade for gathering, but also for holding the spirituality and the history of Oromo people in Oromo Land.
Gadaa is also not only a democratic tradition of Oromo nation. It is a political order of Oromon people, which has been substituted through the repressive Ethiopian political order- a colonial system. Odaa is not only a simple tree which has been used by Oromo community in a limited part of BiyyaOromoo, rather it is an administrative structure of our nation which has been used to bridge the diverse and heterogeneous social, cultural, economic etc relationship Oromo society at large. This has been substituted through the divide and rule policy of repressive Ethiopian colonial system too. Qaalluu and Siiqqee institutions were also intentionally banned by unjust Law of Habasha colonial law.
We know that, seera Gadaa- Gadaa Law and Waaqeffannaa- believe in the Law of Waaqaa- God have been been substituted through the repressive Ethiopian judicial and spiritual institutions- religious institutions. The Oromos are still not allowed to talk and conduct research on all these Oromummaa elements. Amazingly,our new generation continue their struggle for freedom and justice of Oromia under their true slogan, "Odaa is one of the symbolic elements of Oromummaa".
Oromo new generation also continued their struggle with protests and various forms of cultural resistance. Their determination to keep their land and culture remained, and latter developed to freedom movement. As a new generation of the 21st century it’s time to face the truth of our past and move on in the Oromia freedom struggle process. The time has come to listen to each other with open hearts and minds.
The Oromo elders determination to survive their culture and history paved the way for further social victory. As Oromo new generation, we can still over come our multi-faces obstacles as fast as we holding our glory history and culture-Oromummaa as a master identity under Odaa tree to ensure the survival of their culture and history. A day when
Odaa as a symbol of Oromcracy, a symbol suppressed for a century, coming into view is not far. As our freedom fighters say, for the peace and harmony to truly turn to Oromia, our stolen natural rights must be respected.Living with a Glory of Oromummaa!!
Oromo proverbs and moral values
Oromo proverbs and moral values
Aspect of development
1. love and friendliness
Proverb
a) Hiriyyaan wal hinamanne, malkaa ceetutti wal kakti
English translation
a) Friends who do not trust each other, do solemn oaths on every spot.
Moral value deduced
a) Unity and oneness is desirable
ii. mutual trust
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Aspect of development
2. honesty and truthfulness
Proverb
a) Qullaa lafa hindhoksan; dhugaa Waaqa hindhoksan
b) Dhugaan aduuma diida teettu tana
English translation
a) One cannot hide his private part from the ground, as one cannot hide truth from God.
b) Truth is that sunlight out there
Moral value deduced
a) Truth is all-pervading
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Aspect of development
3. self-respect and esteem
Proverb
a) Of-hinagarre raafuu lagatti
English translation
a) He who doesn’t’ know himself very well despises cabbage simmer
Moral value deduced
a) To over-judge oneself spoils relation
Oromo Proverbs
Oromo Proverbs.
1. ‘what shall i add for the poor?’ asked god. ‘fingernails and itch,’ answered the poor.
2. To fight once shows bravery, but to fight all the time is stupid.
Oromia: The Oromo Land
The physical geography of Oromia is quite varied. It varies from rugged mountain ranges in the centre and north to flat grassland in most of the lowlands of the west, east and south. Among the many mountain ranges are the Karra in Arsi (4340 m), Baatu in Baaie (4307 m), Enkelo in Arsi (4300 m), Mui’ataa in Hararge (3392m) and Baddaa Roggee in Shawa (3350 m).
Similarly, there are many rivers and lakes in Oromia. Many of the rivers flow westwards into either the Blue Nile or the White Nile, and others flow eastwards to Somalia and Afar land. Among the large rivers are the Abbaya (the Nile), Hawas (Awash), Gannaaiee, Waabee, Dhidheessa, Gibe and Baaroo.
For the peoples of Egypt, the Sudan and Somalia, life would be impossible without these rivers. They carry millions of tons of rich soil to Egypt, the Sudan and Somalia every year. Somalia depends heavily on the Gannaaiee (Juba) and Waabee (Shaballe) rivers which come from Oromia. In fact Oromia supplies almost 100 per cent of the fresh water for Somalia, Djibouti and Afars. At present the Ethiopian government depends heavily on Hawas (Awash) water as a source of electric power for its industries and irrigation water to grow sugar cane, cotton and fruits. The Wanji and Matahara sugar estates are good examples. There is a great potential in all these rivers for the production of electric power and for irrigation. Qoqaa, Fincha, Malkaa Waakkenne, Gibee Tiqqaa dams are examples of where hydro-electric power is already being produced or in the process of being harnessed.
Among the Oromo lakes are Abbaya, Hora, Bishofitu, Qoqaa, Langanno and Shaalaa. Many of these lakes possess a great variety of fish and birds on their islands and shores.
The climate is as varied as the physical geography, although close to the equator (to the north of it), because of the mountain ranges, high altitudes and vegetation, the climate is very mild and favourable for habitation. Snow can be found on the mountains such as Baatu and Karra. In the medium altitudes (1800-2500 m) the climate is very mild throughout the year and one of the best. Up to 80 per cent of the population lives at this altitude and agriculture flourishes.
The low altitude areas (below 1500 m) in west, south and central part are relatively warm and humid with lush tropical vegetation, and although few live there permanently most graze their cattle and tend their beehives there. Although there is little agriculture at this altitude at present, it has great potential for the future. As the highland areas are already eroded and over populated, people are gradually moving to the lowlands. The low altitude areas in the east and south-east are mostly semi-arid and used by pastoralists seasonally.
The vegetation of Oromia ranges from savanna grassland and tropical forest to alpine vegetation on the mountaintops. The forests contain a variety of excellent and valuable timbers. Oromia is known for its unique native vegetation as well as for being, the centre of diversity for many different species. For instance, crops like coffee, anchote (root crop), okra, etc. are indigenous to this area.
Faarsuu Dache: In Praise of Mother Earth
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Oromian Story
Oromian story is a web based story that presents the historical, cultural, and current issues of Oromian. Stories are mostly narrated by the subjects themselves. The story aims to present a varied and contrasting picture of contemporary Oromia and Oromians from many different perspectives and to contribute to the wider spectrum of coverage of issues and individuals.
The aim of the feature, and its success, will be measured by the degree to which it can expose an additional dimension to the famous lives through the prism of other mass media, and to which it can express the fullest meaning of being alive in Oromia through the elderly stories of our citizens.
Oromian Story: Voices of the People, Narratives of a Nation
A web-based platform capturing the historical, cultural, and contemporary realities of Oromia—told by those who have lived it
OROMIA — In a world increasingly dominated by curated narratives and filtered realities, there remains a hunger for authenticity—for stories told not by distant observers but by the subjects themselves. The Oromian Story project answers this call, offering a web-based platform where the historical, cultural, and contemporary realities of Oromia are presented through the voices of those who have lived them.
**”Stories are mostly narrated by the subjects themselves.”**
This simple statement captures the essence of the Oromian Story project. It is not a collection of academic analyses or journalistic accounts from outsiders. It is a tapestry of lived experiences, woven together by the people who have shaped and been shaped by the land, culture, and history of Oromia.
A Kaleidoscope of Perspectives
**”The story aims to present a varied and contrasting picture of contemporary Oromia and Oromians from many different perspectives.”**
Oromia is not a monolith. It is a land of remarkable diversity—geographically, culturally, and historically. From the highlands of Arsi to the lowlands of Borana, from the urban centers of Addis Ababa to the rural villages of Wallagga, the Oromo people have a rich tapestry of experiences, traditions, and aspirations.
The Oromian Story project embraces this diversity. It does not seek to present a single narrative or a unified perspective. Instead, it aims to capture the complexity, contradictions, and richness of Oromo life through multiple lenses and voices.
**This commitment to diverse perspectives is essential to understanding the full scope of Oromo experience. It challenges stereotypes, complicates simplistic narratives, and reveals the humanity of a people too often reduced to headlines or statistics.**
Beyond the Headlines
**”The aim of the feature, and its success, will be measured by the degree to which it can expose an additional dimension to the famous lives through the prism of other mass media.”**
In the age of mass media, certain stories dominate the headlines. Political conflicts, humanitarian crises, and celebrity scandals capture the attention of the global audience, while the everyday lives, quiet struggles, and ordinary triumphs of most people remain invisible.
The Oromian Story project seeks to correct this imbalance. It aims to expose the additional dimensions of lives that are often reduced to soundbites or stereotypes. Through the stories of ordinary Oromians—their hopes, fears, joys, and sorrows—the project offers a more complete picture of what it means to be Oromo in the contemporary world.
The Wisdom of Elders
**”The project aims to express the fullest meaning of being alive in Oromia through the elderly stories of our citizens.”**
At the heart of the Oromian Story project are the voices of Oromo elders. These are the individuals who have witnessed the transformation of their society over decades—who have experienced the joys and sorrows, the triumphs and tragedies, the continuities and changes that have shaped Oromo life.
**The stories of elders are not merely historical records—they are repositories of wisdom, resilience, and hope.**
Through their narratives, we learn:
– **How Oromo culture has been preserved and adapted** in the face of immense challenges
– **How communities have survived and thrived** despite displacement, conflict, and marginalization
– **How the values of the Gadaa system** continue to guide Oromo life
– **How the Oromo identity has been maintained and strengthened** across generations
– **How hope has endured** in the most difficult of circumstances
A Platform for the Unheard
The Oromian Story project is also a platform for voices that are often marginalized or excluded from mainstream narratives:
– **Women** whose stories have been overlooked
– **Youth** who are shaping the future of Oromia
– **Rural communities** whose experiences are often invisible to urban audiences
– **Diaspora communities** who maintain connections to their homeland
– **Marginalized groups** within Oromo society
**By amplifying these voices, the project contributes to a more inclusive and representative understanding of Oromo life.**
The Power of Personal Narrative
Personal narratives have a unique power to connect us to the experiences of others. When we hear a story told in someone’s own words, we are invited to step into their world, to see through their eyes, to feel their joys and sorrows.
**The Oromian Story project harnesses this power, using personal narratives to:**
– **Humanize complex issues** and make them accessible to a broader audience
– **Build empathy and understanding** across differences
– **Preserve cultural knowledge** for future generations
– **Empower storytellers** by validating their experiences and perspectives
– **Create a lasting record** of Oromo life and history
A Contribution to the Wider Spectrum
**”The project aims to contribute to the wider spectrum of coverage of issues and individuals.”**
The Oromian Story project does not exist in isolation. It is part of a broader movement to expand the range of voices and perspectives available in the media landscape. By contributing to the wider spectrum of coverage, the project helps to:
– **Challenge dominant narratives** and offer alternative perspectives
– **Fill gaps in coverage** of underreported issues and communities
– **Provide context and depth** to news stories and current events
– **Create a more informed and engaged public**
Measuring Success
The success of the Oromian Story project is measured not by clicks or views but by impact:
– **Has it exposed additional dimensions** to the lives and issues it covers?
– **Has it amplified voices** that would otherwise be unheard?
– **Has it contributed to a deeper understanding** of Oromo life and history?
– **Has it preserved cultural knowledge** for future generations?
– **Has it built bridges** of understanding between communities?
**The ultimate measure of success is the degree to which the project helps to express the fullest meaning of being alive in Oromia.**
Conclusion
The Oromian Story project is more than a collection of stories—it is a testament to the resilience, diversity, and vitality of the Oromo people. Through the voices of elders, the perspectives of ordinary citizens, and the commitment to diverse and authentic narratives, the project offers a window into the soul of Oromia.
In a world that often reduces complex realities to simple headlines, the Oromian Story project stands as a reminder that every life is a story worth telling, every voice is worth hearing, and every perspective is worth understanding.
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*In the voices of Oromo elders lies the story of a people—a story of resilience, resistance, and hope. Through the Oromian Story project, that story will continue to be told.*
The Oromian Story: Preserving Voices, Empowering Communities, and Celebrating Culture
Through the voices of elders and the vitality of community, the Oromian Story program ensures that Oromo culture remains a living, breathing force for generations to come
FINFINNE, OROMIA — In the heart of every culture lies a story—a narrative passed down through generations, carried in the voices of elders, and woven into the fabric of daily life. For the Oromo people, this story is not merely a record of the past; it is a dynamic, living force that shapes identity, builds community, and points toward the future.
The Oromian Story program stands as a testament to this truth. By centering the voices of Oromo elders and engaging communities at the grassroots level, the program ensures that Oromo culture remains vibrant, resilient, and relevant in a rapidly changing world.
“The Oromian elders’ voices is a dynamic part of Oromian culture and identity.”
This recognition lies at the heart of the Oromian Story program. Elders are not simply repositories of ancient wisdom—they are active participants in the ongoing creation of culture. Their voices, their memories, and their insights are essential to understanding who the Oromo people are and who they are becoming.
The Power of Elders’ Voices
In Oromo society, elders occupy a position of profound respect and responsibility. They are the keepers of history, the guardians of tradition, and the guides for the younger generation. The Gadaa system, which has governed Oromo society for centuries, is built on a foundation of elder wisdom and intergenerational transmission.
The Oromian Story program recognizes that the preservation of culture depends on the active engagement of elders. When elders share their stories, they are not merely recounting the past—they are shaping the future. They are teaching younger generations about their identity, their values, and their responsibilities.
Maintaining Culture Through Community Involvement
“The Oromian story program presents the maintenance and continued development of Oromo culture at the community level.”
Culture is not something that can be preserved in museums or archives alone. It lives in the daily practices, rituals, and relationships of communities. The Oromian Story program understands this, focusing on community-level activities that keep culture alive and dynamic.
Through community gatherings, storytelling sessions, and cultural events, the program ensures that Oromo culture is not a relic of the past but a living presence in the present. It engages people of all ages in the ongoing work of cultural preservation and innovation.
Supporting New Forms of Cultural Expression
The program supports activities that support new forms of Oromo cultural expression.
Culture is not static—it evolves, adapts, and grows. The Oromian Story program recognizes this, supporting new forms of cultural expression that reflect the creativity and dynamism of the Oromo people.
This might include:
– Contemporary art and music that draws on traditional themes
– Digital storytelling that reaches new audiences
– Literary works that explore Oromo identity in new ways
– Cultural festivals that bring together diverse communities
– Intergenerational projects that bridge the gap between elders and youth
By supporting new forms of cultural expression, the program ensures that Oromo culture remains relevant and vibrant in the modern world.
Increasing Public Awareness of Oromo Culture
The program supports activities that increase public awareness of Oromo culture, including through the presentation and exchange of culture.
One of the greatest challenges facing Oromo culture is the lack of public awareness—both within Ethiopia and internationally. The Oromian Story program addresses this challenge by promoting the presentation and exchange of culture.
Through public events, cultural exchanges, and educational initiatives, the program helps to:
– Educate the broader public about Oromo culture and history
– Foster cross-cultural understanding and dialogue
– Challenge stereotypes and misconceptions
– Celebrate the richness and diversity of Oromo traditions
– Build bridges between Oromo communities and others
Sustainable Development of Community Organisations
The program supports the sustainable development of community organisations involved in cultural activities.
Cultural preservation cannot be achieved without strong, sustainable community organisations. The Oromian Story program invests in the capacity of these organisations, helping them to:
– Develop effective governance and management structures
– Build financial sustainability
– Train staff and volunteers
– Expand their reach and impact
– Collaborate with other organisations and institutions
The Broader Impact
“The program promotes activities that encourage culturally vibrant communities and contribute to the cultural wellbeing of Oromia.”
The impact of the Oromian Story program extends far beyond the preservation of culture. By strengthening cultural identity and community cohesion, the program contributes to:
Social Cohesion: When communities share a strong cultural identity, they are more resilient, more united, and better able to address common challenges.
Youth Engagement: By involving young people in cultural activities, the program helps to build their sense of identity and purpose.
Community Pride: Cultural activities foster a sense of pride and belonging, strengthening communities from within.
Economic Development: Cultural tourism, arts, and crafts can contribute to local economic development.
Peacebuilding: Cultural exchange and dialogue can help to build trust and understanding between communities.
A Vision for the Future
“The Oromian Story program presents the maintenance and continued development of Oromo culture at the community level.”
The vision of the Oromian Story program is a future in which Oromo culture is not merely preserved but is a vibrant, dynamic force in the lives of Oromo people. It is a future in which elders are honored and their wisdom is valued; in which young people are engaged and empowered; in which communities are united and resilient; and in which Oromo culture is celebrated and shared with the world.
Conclusion
The Oromian Story program is a vital initiative for the preservation and development of Oromo culture. By centering the voices of elders, engaging communities, supporting new forms of cultural expression, and investing in community organisations, the program ensures that Oromo culture remains a living, breathing force for generations to come.
“The Oromian elders’ voices is a dynamic part of Oromian culture and identity.”
As the Oromo people continue their journey of cultural revival and self-determination, programs like the Oromian Story will play an essential role in ensuring that the voices of elders are heard, the stories of the past are remembered, and the culture of the Oromo people continues to thrive.
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In the voices of Oromo elders lies the story of a people—a story of resilience, resistance, and hope. Through the Oromian Story program, that story will continue to be told.
Advocacy for Oromia 