(FINFINNEE, Oromia, 8 September 2026) – In a powerful display of cultural pride and historical remembrance, a grand memorial concert was held today at Addis Ababa Stadium to honor the life and legacy of the legendary artist and freedom fighter, Ilfinesh Qannoo.

Born in 1962 in the Gutoo Giddaa district of East Wallagga, Ilfinesh Qannoo was a figure of immense courage from her earliest days. Her journey into the arts began in her childhood, but it was her unwavering commitment to the unity and identity of the Oromo people that would define her life’s work.

A Star Rises in Wallagga
Ilfinesh Qannoo first showcased her extraordinary talent by joining the Great Wallagga Cultural Troupe, where she quickly rose to prominence as a star. Her performances radiated bravery, talent, and a deep connection to her roots.

After relocating to the capital, Addis Ababa, she became a voice of resistance during a dark period in Ethiopian history. Her music, carried by Oromo Radio, became an anthem of unity and resilience for the Oromo people, a beacon of hope amid political repression. She used her art as a weapon of consciousness, never shying away from the struggle, even as she endured immense hardship, including imprisonment and torture.

A Legacy in Music and Struggle
Throughout her career, Ilfinesh Qannoo produced over ten albums, which continue to resonate widely. Her songs remain timeless anthems that advocate for Oromo unity and envision a progressive future for the Oromo people. Her voice was not just an instrument of entertainment, but a clarion call for political and social change.

Beyond the stage, she was a mother to four daughters—having given birth to two and raising two others—and was a matriarch whose life embodied the spirit of the Oromo woman. Her personal and professional journey reflected the broader narrative of her people’s struggle and perseverance.

Her Final Wish
Ilfinesh Qannoo passed away on September 6, 2026, at the age of 64. In a poignant farewell message, she left a powerful wish that continues to echo in the hearts of her followers:

“If my body can serve to unite the Oromo people, bury me in Ambo. If not, let my remains rest in the cold of Norway.”

Today, her funeral service is also being held in Ambo, fulfilling a portion of her solemn request.

Today’s Ceremony
Today’s memorial event at Finfinne Stadium brought together a massive crowd, including federal and Oromia regional state officials, family members, relatives, admirers, and Oromo people from various parts of the region. The concert served as a final tribute to an icon whose art and activism left an indelible mark on the cultural and political fabric of the Oromo nation.

As the nation honors her legacy, Ilfinesh Qannoo remains a symbol of resilience—a voice that continues to inspire future generations through the power of her timeless art and defiant spirit.