A Tribute to Hussein Badaso: A Pioneer of Afan Oromo Radio and a Guardian of Oromo Heritage

The individual in the photograph is Hussein Badaso, a veteran program journalist for the Afan Oromo service of Ethiopian Radio. His career represents a foundational chapter in Ethiopian broadcasting and the cultural history of the Oromo people.

A Trailblazer in the Face of Adversity

Following the fall of the imperial regime on Meskerem 2, 1967 (Ethiopian Calendar), the Ethiopian Radio Services launched national broadcasts in Afan Oromo for the first time. Hussein Badaso was among the first cohort of university graduates recruited and rapidly trained in journalism to lead this historic initiative.

He served with courage and dedication during an era of widespread ignorance and prejudice against the language, bravely breaking down barriers to ensure Afan Oromo radio programming could begin. Alongside other pioneers like journalist Temesgen Gemeda, he helped shatter the culture of exclusion and narrow-mindedness that had previously dominated the airwaves.

More Than a Journalist: A Scholar and a Mentor

Hussein Badaso is a living archive of Oromo history, culture, identity, and language. He was not only the first journalist to present a full-hour national program in Afan Oromo but also a master teacher of Oromo art, history, philosophy, and culture through the radio.

His contributions extend beyond broadcasting. When mother-tongue education was introduced after the Derg regime took power, he worked alongside Professor Mahdi Hamid Mude, then editor of the “Beresa” newspaper, to develop foundational Afan Oromo curriculum modules. He is also a published author, having written four books to date and currently preparing two more. His research into Oromo folk music, conducted in collaboration with legendary artists like the late Ali Shabo, has been invaluable.

A Legacy of Resilience and an Urgent Call for Support

Despite facing immense political pressure, moral attacks, and professional sidelining for his perceived affiliations and unwavering stance, Hussein Badaso persevered. Today, in his old age, he survives on a meager pension.

The Oromo people, the Oromia Regional Government, philanthropic foundations, and civic organizations have a profound debt of gratitude towards this hero. Failing to honor his monumental contributions while he is still with us would be a historical injustice, akin to erasing a vital chapter of the struggle for justice and freedom.

A Concrete Opportunity to Help

Among his works is the prepared manuscript for “Afaan Oromoo Raadiyorraa, Volume 2,” a continuation of his educational radio programs. Due to a lack of financial support from either individuals or institutions, it remains unpublished. Volume 3 is also in progress.

We have an obligation to support this generation-bridging champion. Let us ensure his knowledge is preserved and shared. We can help by supporting the publication costs of his invaluable books, particularly his Afan Oromo radio educational series.

Let us not just offer words of thanks, but tangible support. Let us help ensure that the light of knowledge he lit continues to shine for future generations.