January 2, 2026, Global Oromo Community Commemorates 46th Anniversary of Oromo Liberation Army (OLA) and New Year

In a powerful display of unity and resolve, the global Oromo diaspora and supporters convened virtually on January 2, 2026, to jointly commemorate two pivotal occasions: the 46th anniversary of the founding of the Oromo Liberation Army (OLA) and the traditional Oromo New Year, Ayyaana Amajjii 1.

The online gathering, organized via Zoom, served as both a solemn remembrance and a strategic assessment. Participants honored the immense sacrifices made over nearly five decades of struggle for Oromo self-determination while analyzing the current status, achievements, and ongoing challenges facing the movement.

Speakers and attendees reflected on the harsh conditions under which the OLA—the armed wing of the Oromo Liberation Front (OLF)—was founded and how its founding day has become a cornerstone of resistance and identity for the Oromo people. The event highlighted how these anniversaries are perennially observed wherever Oromo patriots, OLF members, and supporters of the liberation struggle are found.

A central theme of the commemoration was a call to the younger generation. In a keynote address, Dr. Daggafaa Abdiisaa emphasized the weight of legacy and continuing responsibility, stating to Oromo youth: “The duty to pursue the goal and objective of the OLF rests upon you, the beloved children of the fallen heroes.” This message framed the struggle not as a historical artifact, but as a living mission requiring sustained commitment.

The dual commemoration of Ayyaana Amajjii—a cultural celebration of renewal—with the military anniversary of the OLA underscored a profound narrative: the intertwining of cultural identity and political resistance. It reinforced the idea that the fight for Oromo rights is as much about preserving heritage as it is about achieving political autonomy.

The virtual event allowed for participation from across the globe, demonstrating the widespread and enduring connection of the diaspora to the cause in Oromia. As the movement enters its 47th year, this commemoration served to reaffirm global solidarity, honor a legacy of sacrifice, and rally a new generation to the ongoing pursuit of the Oromo Liberation Front’s objectives.

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Background Notes:

•  On January 1, 1980, the Oromo Liberation Army (OLA) celebrated its first formal day to commemorate a hard-fought victory over the Darg regime’s campaigns.
• This day stands as a testament to the early courage and sacrifice that laid the foundation for the ongoing struggle. We remember, honor, and draw strength from the resilience shown from the very beginning.
• Ayyaana Amajjii 1 marks the Oromo New Year based on the traditional Gadaa calendar.
• The OLA has been engaged in an ongoing armed conflict with the Ethiopian government, fighting for the self-determination of the Oromo people, Ethiopia’s largest ethnic group.
• The Oromo Liberation Front (OLF) is the political organization from which the OLA originated.