For Immediate Press Release
Oromo Federalist Congress Announces Historic Unity Agreement and Roadmap for Peace in Oromia

The Oromo Federalist Congress (OFC), alongside the Oromo Liberation Front (OLF), Oromo community organizations, religious leaders, elders, and professionals, has concluded a landmark four-day joint conference in Finfinnee (Addis Ababa) to address the escalating political, security, and humanitarian crises in Oromia. The conference, held from February 19–22, 2025, marks a critical step toward unifying Oromo political forces and charting a path to sustainable peace, justice, and self-determination for the Oromo people.

Key Resolutions and Commitments:

1. Restoring Peace and Establishing Inclusive Governance

• The OFC and OLF affirm that the full restoration of the Oromo people’s freedom and rights is essential for lasting peace. They pledge to utilize all available means to ensure peace is restored and maintained in Oromia.
• The OFC and OLF will work to establish an inclusive “Transitional National Unity Government of Oromia” with other major stakeholders to ensure democratic governance, self-determination, and expanded public services until a permanent system is established through a popular mandate.
• The Oromo Liberation Army (OLA), as Oromo freedom fighters, will be entrusted to maintain peace, security, and the boundaries of Oromia. They will be integrated into peacekeeping efforts under the Transitional Government’s authority to enforce law and order, following inclusive political negotiations and settlements.

2.Resolving Boundary and Administrative Disputes

• The conference reaffirmed Finfinnee’s status as the rightful capital of Oromia, directly answerable to the Oromia state. It pledged to legally reclaim all encroached territories through diplomatic and legal channels.

3. Revitalizing Oromo Unity and Traditions

• The ‘Gadaa/Siinqee’ system will serve as the foundation for Oromo political, cultural, and social unity. The OFC and OLF will work to modernize this traditional governance framework through public dialogue and alignment with contemporary needs, establishing a governance structure rooted in Oromo traditions.

4. Rights of the Oromo People and Minority Groups in Oromia

• The conference emphasized the ‘Gadaa’ system’s teachings on coexistence with non-Oromo communities. The OFC and OLF commit to ensuring the rights of all ethnic groups in Oromia are respected without fear or discrimination.

5. Equitable Representation in Ethiopia’s Federal System

• The OFC and OLF demand fair representation for Oromia in all federal institutions, including the judiciary, defense, and federal police, as well as in resource allocation, to reflect the Oromo people’s demographic and historical contributions.
• The OFC and OLF demand the reform of all democratic institutions of the state to ensure their independence, professionalism, and freedom from partisan bias, strengthening democracy and the rule of law.

A Cautious Yet Determined Path Forward
In a statement, OFC leadership emphasized the urgency of the moment: “Our people endure daily violence, economic collapse, and systemic marginalization. While we pursue dialogue with the federal government, we will not disarm our vigilance. Every commitment must be tested against tangible outcomes within defined timelines. Empty promises will no longer suffice.”

The OFC acknowledges potential challenges, including factional disputes and government intransigence, but remains committed to a pragmatic, step-by-step approach. The party urges all Oromo organizations—regardless of their methods of struggle—to prioritize unity and the collective vision of liberation.

Call to Action

• The OFC calls upon all genuine Oromo forces, regardless of their method of struggle, to resolve their political differences and galvanize their unity in rallying behind this initiative to save the nation.
• The OFC appeals to all Ethiopian nations and nationalities, Ethiopia’s democratic forces, and the international community to support this initiative, recognizing that Oromo unity is vital to Ethiopia’s stability.
• The federal and Oromia regional governments are called upon to engage sincerely with these resolutions, as their success is in the best interest of all Ethiopians and the Horn of Africa.

Oromo Federalist Congress (OFC)
February 23, 2025
Finfinnee, Oromia, Ethiopia

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This press release outlines a significant step toward addressing the crises in Oromia and fostering unity among Oromo political forces. It emphasizes the importance of inclusive governance, traditional values, and equitable representation while calling for broad support from both domestic and international stakeholders.

Joint Assembly Discussion Agreement

A delegation of various Oromo community organizations, the Oromo Liberation Front (OLF), and the Oromo Federalist Congress (OFC) held an extensive four-day discussion at Ilili Hotel from February 19 to February 22, 2025.

The purpose of the discussion was to seek solutions for the ongoing political and military crises in Oromia and the challenges affecting the livelihood of the Oromo people.

During these discussions, we thoroughly analyzed the dire situation in Oromia, where human lives are being lost daily, people are struggling to make a living, and the community is facing severe instability, leaving them uncertain about their future.

To ensure lasting peace and stability for the Oromo people, we have reached the following agreements:

1. On Establishing and Maintaining Peace

a. The delegation of various Oromo community organizations participating in this meeting recognized that the Oromo people have been deprived of justice and freedom since the fall under the Nafxanya system. Consequently, they have continued to live in instability and conflict. We agreed that for sustainable peace and stability, the justice and freedom of the Oromo people must be fully restored.

To achieve this, the OLF and OFC have taken responsibility for doing everything within their capacity to ensure the cessation of war in Oromia and the establishment of lasting peace.

b. The delegation acknowledged the necessity of providing a fundamental political and administrative solution to Oromia’s crisis.

To this end, the OLF and OFC are entrusted with ensuring that, until the Oromo people democratically elect their own government, an Interim Transitional Government of Oromia is established. This government should include all relevant political parties and stakeholders and should be capable of delivering essential public services.

c. Recognizing the significant role of the Oromo Liberation Army (OLA) in securing peace in Oromia, the OLF and OFC have taken responsibility for integrating the OLA into the political and administrative framework of the Interim Transitional Government of Oromia. This ensures that the army will be accountable for maintaining law and order, as well as protecting Oromia’s territorial integrity.

2. Resolving the Issues of Addis Ababa (Finfinnee) and Oromia’s Borders

a. The delegation unanimously recognized that Addis Ababa (Finfinnee) historically and legally belongs to the Oromo people and is the capital city of Oromia. Thus, the OLF and OFC have committed to ensuring that the city is officially administered by the Oromia government.

b. Acknowledging that several Oromo territories, including Wallo, Dire Dawa, Matakkal, Moyale, and Madda Walabu, have been forcibly separated from Oromia due to various administrative decisions, the OLF and OFC have taken responsibility for reclaiming these territories in accordance with international and national legal frameworks.

3. Strengthening Oromo Unity and Institutional Development

a. The delegation recognized the Gadaa/Siinqee system as the foundation of Oromo unity and governance in political, economic, social, and cultural aspects. The OLF and OFC have been entrusted with thoroughly studying and revitalizing the Gadaa system to align it with contemporary realities, ensuring that it becomes the governing system for the Oromo people.

4. Rights of Non-Oromo Nations and Nationalities in Oromia

a. Understanding that the Gadaa system historically provided a framework for peaceful coexistence among different communities, the OLF and OFC have committed to ensuring that all ethnic groups residing in Oromia can live without fear and that their rights are fully protected.

5. Relations Between the Oromia Government and the Federal Government

a. The delegation acknowledged the lack of rule of law within the Federal Government, the underrepresentation of Oromos in federal institutions despite their population size and contributions, and the absence of autonomy in federal institutions such as the judiciary, federal police, and defense forces.

The OLF and OFC have committed to addressing these issues and ensuring that the Oromo people’s rights and interests are respected at the federal level. Participants in the Joint Assembly The following Oromo organizations and traditional institutions participated in the discussions:

1. Council of Oromia’s Gadaa Leaders

2. Macca and Tulama Association

3. Irkoo 1976 (Traditional Council of Elders)

4. Yaa’ii Ganyaa Harooreessaa (Siinqee Women’s Council)

5. Council of Abbaa Dhugaa (Abbaa Muudaa/Ayyaantuu Institution)

6. Wayyooma Anaajinaa (Dirree Sheek Huseen Council)

7. Wayyooma Soof Umar (Judiciary Council)

8. Nagummaa Dambii (Sayidii Alfaqii Religious Council)

9. Oromia National Elders Council

10. Academia and University Scholars Council

11. Teessoo Magarsaa Badhaasaa (Oromia Synod Council – Pheexiroos Seat)

12. Makaana Yesus Church Council of Ethiopia

13. Dhugeeffannaa Uumaa (Waaqeffannaa Faith Organization)

14. Yuba 1st Council (Human and Civil Rights Advocacy Group)

15. Waahilan Waltajjii (Yuba 4th Council)

16. Yaa’aa Haaromsa Finfinnee (Addis Ababa Oromo Community Council) Final Commitment

The OLF and OFC have been entrusted with implementing the agreements reached in this assembly. The Oromo community representatives at this meeting have pledged to provide full support for the realization of these resolutions.

Signed by:

Delegation of Oromo Community Organizations & Oromo Political Organizations (OLF & OFC) February 22, 2025 – Finfinnee (Addis Ababa)

Robera Abdeta’s 18th birthday marks a significant milestone, not only for him but also for his family, friends, and the broader Oromo community. Turning 18 is often seen as a transition into adulthood, a moment filled with hope, responsibility, and celebration. For Robera, this day was made even more special by the presence and blessings of his loved ones, including his family, siblings, friends, and relatives.

In Oromo culture, such celebrations are deeply rooted in communal values, where the collective joy of the community amplifies the significance of individual milestones. The blessings from Oromo elders and fathers carry profound cultural and spiritual weight, symbolizing the passing of wisdom, guidance, and good fortune to the younger generation. These blessings are not just personal but are seen as a way to strengthen the bonds within the community and ensure its continuity.

The presence of family, brothers, sisters, and friends highlights the importance of kinship and solidarity in Oromo society. Such gatherings are not merely social events but are also opportunities to reinforce cultural identity and shared values. For Robera, this day likely represents a moment of reflection on his journey so far and the responsibilities that come with adulthood.

The celebration also underscores the role of the Oromo community in nurturing and supporting its youth. By coming together to celebrate Robera’s 18th birthday, the community reaffirms its commitment to guiding and empowering the next generation. This day, therefore, is not just about Robera as an individual but also about the collective aspirations of his family and community for his future.

In essence, Robera Abdeta’s 18th birthday is a celebration of growth, unity, and cultural heritage. It is a day that encapsulates the love, hope, and blessings of his family and community, marking the beginning of a new chapter in his life as a young adult within the Oromo tradition.

The forum entitled “Joint Conference “organized by the OLF and OFC started in Finfinnee, Oromia.
The first ever conference in history, the Joint Conference of the ABO (OLF) and KFO (OFC) will involve all sections of the community to discuss the current situation with the people.

The Joint Conference is being attended by Abbots of Gadaa, religious leaders, scholars from various Universities, past and present yubboota- (retired elders) and those who have not been involved in the political movement before.

Although the Joint Conference of the ABO and KFO will officially start on January 19, 2025, they have been meeting for the past three months to discuss the success of the Conference.

The Joint Conference will discuss the importance of MCBNO (OTNG) and the situation of human rights violations in Oromia as well as the independence of the borders of Oromia.

The Joint Conference was attended by more than 100 delegates representing various delegations including ABO and KFO leaders.

The joint conference of the ABO and KFO which started on January 19/2025 is expected to pass major decisions.

The forum is said to be the first in history to be held in this manner and the forum is closed to any media.

In Oromo culture, the **shanan day** (the fifth day after childbirth) is a deeply respected and cherished tradition. This day holds significant cultural, social, and emotional importance for the mother, the newborn, the family, and the community. It is a time of celebration, healing, and bonding, rooted in the values of care, support, and communal love.

Significance of the Shanan Day in Oromo Culture:

1. Celebration of New Life:
   - The shanan day marks the arrival of a new life into the family and the community. It is a time to celebrate the miracle of birth and the continuation of the family lineage.
   - The newborn is welcomed with blessings, prayers, and rituals that reflect the community's hopes for the child's future.

2. Family Blessings and Support:
   - On this day, the mother and child receive blessings from elders, family members, and the community. These blessings are believed to bring protection, health, and prosperity to the newborn.
   - Relatives and friends gather to show their love and support, reinforcing the communal bonds that are central to Oromo culture.

3. Healing and Recovery:
   - The shanan day is also a time for the mother to recover from the physical and emotional challenges of childbirth. The community's support during this period is crucial for her well-being.
   - Traditional practices, such as special meals, herbal remedies, and rest, are often provided to help the mother regain her strength.

4. Role of Midwives:
   - Midwives play a vital role during the shanan day and the entire childbirth process. Their knowledge and skills are highly valued, and they are often honored during the celebrations.
   - The shanan day serves as both a **prevention** and **intervention** measure, as midwives ensure the mother and child are healthy and provide guidance on postpartum care.

5. Cultural Rituals and Traditions:
   - The shanan day is marked by various cultural rituals, such as the preparation of special foods, the sharing of gifts, and the performance of traditional songs and dances.
   - These rituals not only celebrate the newborn but also reinforce the cultural identity and continuity of the Oromo people.

6. Community Bonding:
   - The shanan day brings the community together, fostering a sense of unity and shared responsibility. It is a reminder that the well-being of the mother and child is a collective concern.
   - The love and sympathy shown by relatives and friends during this time strengthen social ties and create a supportive environment for the family.

Benefits of the Shanan Day:

- For the Mother: The shanan day provides emotional and physical support, helping her recover from childbirth and adjust to her new role as a parent.
- For the Newborn: The blessings and rituals performed on this day are believed to ensure the child's health, happiness, and prosperity.
- For the Community: The celebration reinforces cultural values, promotes unity, and highlights the importance of collective care and responsibility.
- For Midwives: The shanan day recognizes their essential role in childbirth and postpartum care, ensuring their knowledge and skills are respected and preserved.

Conclusion:
The **shanan day** is a beautiful and meaningful tradition in Oromo culture, reflecting the community's deep respect for life, family, and communal support. It is a time to celebrate new beginnings, honor the sacrifices of mothers, and strengthen the bonds that hold the community together. By preserving and cherishing this tradition, the Oromo people continue to pass down their values and wisdom to future generations. **Fayyaa fi nagaa!** (Health and peace!)

The inauguration day is a profoundly significant and honorable occasion, not just for the immediate family but for the entire Oromo community. It is a celebration of sacrifice, resilience, and the collective effort to uplift future generations. Specifically, honoring families like Latii Habte Tolessa Bechere’s, who have dedicated their time and resources to educate their children despite not having the opportunity to educate themselves, is a powerful testament to the values of perseverance, love, and community.

Why This Inauguration Day is a Great Success:

1. Celebration of Sacrifice:

• Families like Latii Habte Tolessa Bechere’s represent the countless parents who have prioritized their children’s education over their own aspirations. Their sacrifices are the foundation of this success, and the inauguration day is a moment to honor their selflessness.
• This day serves as a reminder that education is a collective journey, often built on the sacrifices of those who came before.

1. A Milestone for the Family:

• The inauguration day marks the culmination of years of hard work, dedication, and perseverance. It is a celebration of the family’s unwavering commitment to ensuring their children’s success.
• For the children, it is a moment of pride and achievement, knowing that their accomplishments are a direct result of their family’s support and sacrifices.

1. A Victory for the Oromo Community:

• The success of one family is a success for the entire Oromo community. It demonstrates the power of education as a tool for empowerment and progress.
• This inauguration day inspires others in the community to value education and invest in the future of their children, reinforcing the idea that collective effort leads to collective success.

1. Preserving Cultural Values:

• The Oromo community places great importance on family, community, and education. This inauguration day is a reflection of these values, showcasing how cultural traditions and modern achievements can coexist and strengthen one another.
• It is also an opportunity to celebrate Oromo identity and resilience, reminding the community of their shared history and aspirations.

1. A Legacy of Empowerment:

• Families like Latii Habte Tolessa Bechere’s are creating a legacy of empowerment. By prioritizing education, they are breaking cycles of poverty and opening doors for future generations.
• This inauguration day is a reminder that education is not just an individual achievement but a communal one, with the potential to transform entire communities.

A Message to the Family and Community:

To Latii Habte Tolessa Bechere and the family, this inauguration day is a testament to your unwavering commitment, love, and sacrifice. Your efforts have not only brought success to your family but have also inspired the entire Oromo community. This day is a celebration of your resilience and a reminder of the power of education to create lasting change.

To the Oromo community, this inauguration day is a call to continue supporting one another, valuing education, and working together to uplift future generations. It is a reminder that every sacrifice made for the sake of education is a step toward a brighter, more empowered future.

In conclusion, this inauguration day is not just a personal milestone but a communal triumph. It is a celebration of the past, present, and future—a day to honor sacrifices, celebrate achievements, and inspire hope for generations to come. Fayyaa fi nagaa! (Health and peace!)

Mr Tesfaye Defa, Secretary of the Oromo Elders Association of Australia has been awarded the 2024 Elderly Award by the Victorian Government.

Mr. Tesfaye Defa, as the Secretary of the Oromo Elders Association of Australia, being awarded the 2024 Elderly Award by the Victorian Government is a significant recognition of his contributions and dedication to his community. Such awards often highlight the efforts of individuals who have made a positive impact on society, particularly in supporting and uplifting their communities.

The Oromo Elders Association of Australia likely plays a crucial role in preserving cultural heritage, providing support to the Oromo community, and fostering connections among its members. Mr. Defa's work in this capacity would have been instrumental in achieving these goals, making him a deserving recipient of this honor.

This award not only celebrates his individual achievements but also shines a light on the importance of elder contributions in maintaining cultural identity and community cohesion, especially within diaspora communities. Congratulations to Mr. Tesfaye Defa on this well-deserved recognition!

The shanan tradition, observed on the fifth day after a woman gives birth, is a beautiful and culturally significant practice among the Oromo people and other communities in Ethiopia. This tradition involves family, neighbors, and friends gathering to celebrate the mother, offer blessings, and provide her with marqaa (a traditional nutritious food). The shanan ceremony not only strengthens the mother physically and emotionally but also reinforces her social standing and respect within the community. Here’s an exploration of how this tradition benefits the mother and strengthens societal bonds:

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Cultural Significance of Shanan

1. Celebration of Motherhood:

• The shanan ceremony is a celebration of the mother’s strength and resilience in childbirth. It acknowledges the physical and emotional challenges she has endured and honors her role in bringing new life into the world.
• This celebration helps the mother feel valued and respected, boosting her morale and confidence.

1. Community Support:

• The gathering of family, neighbors, and friends demonstrates the community’s collective support for the mother. It reinforces the idea that childbirth is not just an individual experience but a communal event.
• This support system is crucial for the mother’s well-being, as it provides her with emotional comfort and practical assistance.

1. Nutritional Care with Marqaa:

• Marqaa, a traditional Oromo food made from barley or other grains, is prepared and served to the mother during the shanan ceremony. This nutritious food helps her regain strength and recover from the physical toll of childbirth.
• The preparation and sharing of marqaa symbolize the community’s care and concern for the mother’s health.

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How Shanan Strengthens the Mother

1. Physical Recovery:

• The nutritious marqaa food provides essential nutrients that aid the mother’s recovery, helping her regain energy and strength after childbirth.
• The communal focus on her well-being ensures that she receives the care and attention she needs during this critical period.

1. Emotional Support:

• The presence of loved ones and the blessings offered during the shanan ceremony provide emotional comfort to the mother. This support helps alleviate feelings of isolation or postpartum stress.
• The mother feels loved and appreciated, which contributes to her mental and emotional well-being.

1. Encouragement and Motivation:

• The words of encouragement and blessings from elders and community members inspire the mother to embrace her new role with confidence and resilience.
• This encouragement helps her endure the challenges of motherhood and strengthens her resolve to care for her child.

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How Shanan Increases the Mother’s Respect in Society

1. Recognition of Her Role:

• The shanan ceremony publicly acknowledges the mother’s vital role in the family and community. It highlights her strength, sacrifice, and contribution to the continuity of the community.
• This recognition elevates her status and earns her respect from others.

1. Cultural Validation:

• By participating in the shanan tradition, the mother is validated as an integral part of her cultural heritage. This connection to tradition enhances her sense of identity and belonging.
• The ceremony reinforces the cultural values of motherhood, family, and community, which are deeply respected in Oromo society.

1. Strengthening Social Bonds:

• The gathering of family and friends during shanan strengthens social bonds and fosters a sense of unity within the community.
• The mother’s role as a central figure in this celebration further solidifies her importance and respect within the social fabric.

1. Intergenerational Connection:

• The shanan ceremony often involves elders who share wisdom, blessings, and traditional knowledge with the mother. This intergenerational connection reinforces cultural continuity and respect for elders.
• The mother, in turn, becomes a link between generations, further enhancing her respected position in society.

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Broader Implications of Shanan

1. Preservation of Cultural Heritage:

• The shanan tradition is an important part of Oromo cultural heritage. By continuing this practice, the community preserves its traditions and passes them on to future generations.
• This cultural preservation strengthens the community’s identity and resilience.

1. Promoting Maternal Health:

• The focus on the mother’s well-being during shanan highlights the importance of maternal health and postpartum care. This traditional practice aligns with modern efforts to improve maternal and child health outcomes.
• The communal support system ensures that the mother receives the care she needs during the postpartum period.

1. Empowerment of Women:

• The shanan ceremony empowers women by celebrating their strength and resilience in childbirth. It reinforces the idea that motherhood is a respected and honored role in society.
• This empowerment contributes to the overall well-being and confidence of women in the community.

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Conclusion

The shanan tradition is a powerful and meaningful practice that strengthens the mother physically, emotionally, and socially. By celebrating her strength, providing nutritious food, and offering communal support, the shanan ceremony enhances the mother’s well-being and increases her respect in society. This tradition also reinforces cultural values, strengthens social bonds, and promotes maternal health, making it an essential part of Oromo heritage. As communities continue to practice and honor shanan, they ensure the preservation of their cultural identity and the empowerment of women in their society.