Author Archives: advocacy4oromia
Victoria ABO District’s New Year Celebration: January 12, 2025
The Victoria ABO District will be celebrating the New Year and WBO Day with the Melbourne community on Sunday 12 March 2025 afternoon.
The ABO district has issued an appeal to the community to celebrate the New Year and WBO Day with the community.
The ABO District respectfully invites the Oromo community in the Melbourne area to attend the event and show their support for the Oromo liberation struggle.
The Amajjii celebration, known as WBO Day, has been celebrated at various levels since the 1980s.
የምጣኔ ሀብት ባለሙያው እና የሰላማዊ ፖለቲካ አቀንቃኙ አቶ ቡልቻ ደመቅሳ
“ለእኔ ኢትዮጵያዊነት ሌላ፤ ኦሮሞነት ደግሞ ሌላ ነው፤ ኦሮሞነቴ ከኢትዮጵያዊነቴ ጋር ተጋጭተውብኝ አያውቁም” በማለት ይታወቃሉ። የካበተ ልምዳቸውን ለሀገራቸው ለማዋጣት አልሰሰቱም። “ኢትዮጵያ ከፍ የምትለው ተባብረን ስንሠራ ነው” ሲሉም ብዙ ጊዜ ይደመጣሉ። ሕዝብን ከሕዝብ ጋር የሚያጋጭ የፖለቲካ አካሄድ ከውድመት ውጭ ለውጥ እንደማያመጣ ከመናገርም አልፈው በሰላማዊ የፖለቲካ መድረክ ተወዳድረው ፓርላማ በመግባት ለሕዝባቸው ድምፅ ለመሆን በቅተዋል።
በዛሬው ዕለት በ94 ዓመታቸው ያረፉት አቶ ቡልቻ ደመቅሳ በኢትዮጵያ የኢኮኖሚ እና የፖለቲካ እንቅስቃሴ ውስጥ ጉልህ ስፍራ አላቸው። በአጼ ኃይለሥላሴ ዘመነ መንግሥት የገንዘብ ሚኒስቴር ምክትል ሚኒስትር እንዲሁም የዓለም ባንክ የአፍሪካ ተወካይ በመሆን ሠርተዋል። በተባበሩት መንግሥታት ድርጅት ተቀጥረው በተለያዩ ሀገራት አገልግለዋል።
አቶ ቡልቻ በምዕራብ ወለጋ ዞን ቦጂ ቢርመጂ ወረዳ ከአባታቸው አቶ ደመቅሳ ሰንበቶ እና ከእናታቸው ወ/ሮ ናሲሴ ሰርዳ በ1923 ዓ.ም ተወለዱ። አባታቸውን በልጅነት በሞት ቢያጡም አጎታቸው ጎቡ ሰንበቶ አሳድገዋቸው ትምህርታቸውን እንዲከታተሉ አቅማቸው የፈቀደውን ሁሉ አድርገውላቸዋል። የመጀመርያ ደረጃ ትምህርታቸውን በጊምቢ አድቬንቲስት እንዲሁም የሁለተኛ ደረጃ ትምህርታቸውን በኩየራ አድቬንቲስት ተምረዋል።
ከአዲስ አበባ ዩኒቨርሲቲ በኢኮኖሚክስ እና በሕግ ዲግሪዎች ተመርቀዋል። በወቅቱም በዩኒቨርሲቲው ከፍተኛ ውጤት በማምጣት ከተመረቁ 10 ተማሪዎች መካከል አንዱ በመሆን ወደ አሜሪካ በመሄድ በሲራኪዩዝ ዩኒቨርሲቲ የሁለተኛ ዲግሪ ትምህርታቸውን ተከታትለው ወደ ሀገራቸው ተመልሰዋል። ወደ ኢትዮጵያ በመመለስም በኢኮኖሚው መስክ የራሳቸውን አሻራ አኑረዋል። አቶ ቡልቻ በዘመናዊ የግል ንግድ ባንኮች ምሥረታ ታሪክ ተጠቃሽ የሆነው የአዋሽ ባንክ መሥራች ናቸው።
በምጣኔ ሀብቱ ያካበቱትን ልምድ በመያዝም የኢትዮጵያ ፖለቲካ ውስጥ ሰላማዊ እንቅስቃሴ ለማድረግ ተቀላቅለዋል። የኦሮሞ ፌዴራሊስት ዴሞክራቲክ ንቅናቄን በመመሥረት እና ሊቀመንበር በመሆን በፖለቲካው ላይ የራሳቸውን አሻራ አሳርፈዋል።ፓርቲያቸውን ወክለው በፓርላማ አባልነት ለአምስት ዓመታት አገልግለዋል።
አቶ ቡልቻ ኢትዮጵያን ሲገልጹ፣ “ባህሏ እና ታሪኳ ራሱን የቻለ ልዩ ስለሆነ ኢትዮጵያ ውስጥ የሚከሰቱ ነገሮች ከሌላው ዓለም ጋር ለንጽጽር መቅረብ የለባቸውም” ይላሉ። ይህን ጉዳይ አስመልክተው በአንድ ወቅት ከአዲስ ዘመን ጋዜጣ ጋር ባደረጉት ቃለ ምልልስ፣ “ኢትዮጵያ እንደ ሌላው የአፍሪካ ሀገር ዓይነት አይደለችም፤ የፈረንጅ ሀገርም አይደለችም፤ ባህሏም ኑሮዋ እና ታሪኳም የሌላ ሀገር አይደለም። ራሷን የቻለች ብቸኛ ሀገር ነች፤ በሌላ ሀገር የሆነ ሁሉ በሀገሪቱ ይሆናል ማለት አይቻልም፤ ስለዚህ ኢትዮጵያ ልዩ ሀገር ነች” ሲሉ ገልጸዋት ነበር።
አቶ ቡልቻ በአጼ ኃይለ ሥላሴ ዘመነ መንግሥት የገንዘብ ሚኒስቴር ምክትል ሚኒስትር ሆነው ከቆዩ በኋላ ወደ አሜሪካ ሀገር ሄዱ። ደርግ ሥልጣን ሲይዝ ውጭ ስለነበሩ ወደ ሀገር ቤት ሳይመለሱ በዚያው ቆዩ። በኋላም ኢትዮጵያን እና ሌሎች 18 የአፍሪካ ሀገራትን ወክለው በዓለም ባንክ ውስጥ ሠርተዋል፡፡ በባንኩ ኢትዮጵያን በመወከል የቦርድ አባል፣ እንዲሁም የመጀመሪያው የዓለም ባንክ የኢትዮጵያ ተወካይ ሆነው ሠርተዋል። በዚህ ውክልናቸውም ባንኩ የሚያበድረውን ገንዘብ ከፍ ለማድረግ፣ ገንዘቡ ለታለመለት ሥራ መዋሉ እና ሥራው መካሄዱን መከታተል፣ ብድር የተሰጠው ፕሮጀክት በተባለው ጊዜ እንደሚያልቅ ለማረጋገጥ ክትትል ያደርጉም ነበር። እርሳቸው በባንኩ በነበሩበት ጊዜ “አውራ ጎዳና” ይባል በነበረው ፕሮጀክት አማካኝነት ብዙ መንገዶች በኢትዮጵያ የተገነቡ ሲሆን፣ ኢትዮጵያ የጠየቀችው የብድር ጥያቄ እንዳይቀነስ ይታገሉም ነበር።
ኢትዮጵያ ሰላም ስታገኝ ሁሉም ነገር እንደሚሻሻል የሚናገሩት አቶ ቡልቻ፣ ያሉትን ግጭቶች እና ጦርነቶችን ለማስቆም አዋቂዎች መሪዎቻቸውን በማነጋገር እንዲስማሙ እና እንዲታረቁ ማድረግ እንደሚጠበቅባቸው ይመክራሉ።
ኢትዮጵያ ውስጥ ሊደረግ የሚገባው ትግል ሰላማዊ እና አንድነቷን የሚያጠናክር መሆን እንዳለበትም አጽንኦት ሰጥተው ይናገራሉ። ወደ ፖለቲካ ሲመጡ የኦሮሞ ነፃነት ግንባርን (ኦነግ)ን ያልተቀላቀሉት በዚሁ አመለካከታቸው ከወቅቱ አመራሮች ጋር ስላልተስማሙ እንደሆነ ተናግረው ነበር። ሁኔታውን ሲገልጹም፣ “ኦሮሞ ከኢትዮጵያ ተለይቶ መኖር አይችልም አልኩአቸው፤ እነርሱ ጋር ያልገባሁትም ‘ኦሮሞ ከኢትዮጵያ ተገንጥሎ ሌላ ሀገር ይሆናል’ የሚለውን ሐሳባቸውን ተቃውሜ ነው” ብለዋል። የኦሮሞ ሕዝብ የታገለው ጭቆናን ለማስቀረት ነው የሚሉት አቶ ቡልቻ፣ “ኦሮሞ ለብቻው ተገንጥሎ በየት በኩል የውጪ ንግድ ሊሠራ ይችላል? ባህሉን እንዴት ሊያስተዋውቅ ነው ወይስ ዘግቶ ሊቀመጥ? ለሁሉም የሚበቃ ሀብት ስላለን ከሌሎች ጋር በአንድነት አልምቶ መጠቀም ይሻላል” ይላሉ።
አቶ ቡልቻ በኢትዮጵያ አንድነት ላይ የፀና አቋም እንዳላቸው በተለየዩ ወቅቶች ባደረጓቸው ንግግሮቻቸው አሳይተዋል። ይህንኑ አቋም ሲገልጹም፣ “ኢትዮጵያ እንዳለች፣ እንደ ነበረች፣ አንድ ሆና እንድትቆይ እፈልጋለሁ፤ ሁሉንም የሚጠቅመው ይኸ ነው” ይላሉ። የግል ማንነት ከሀገር ማንነት ጋር ፈጽሞ መጋጨት እንደሌለበት አቶ ቡልቻ ይናገራሉ። ሁለቱንም አስማምቶ ለሀገር ዕድገት መሥራት እንደሚቻል እንዲህ በማለት የራሳቸውን ልምድ ያካፍላሉ፣ “ኦሮሞነቴ እና ኢትዮጵያዊነቴ ተጋጭተውብኝ አያውቁም፤ ለእኔ ኢትዮጵያዊነት ሌላ፣ ኦሮሞነት ደግሞ ሌላ ነው። ኢትዮጵያዊነት ለሌላ ነገር ነው የሚያገለግለው። ውጭ ሀገር ስሄድ ‘ምንድን ነህ?’ ተብዬ ስጠየቅ ኢትዮጵያዊ ነኝ ብዬ እመልሳለሁ። ኦሮሞ ነኝ ብል አይገባቸውም፤ ይህ ደግሞ ለእኔ በጣም አስፈላጊ ነው። ኢትዮጵያዊነት ለእኔ በጣም ከፍተኛ ነው” በማለት።
“ካለፈው ታሪክ መልካሙን በመውሰድ የሚታረሙትን በማረም ለቀጣይ ዕጣ ፈንታችን መሥራት እንጂ በታሪክ መጣላት የለብንም” ይላሉ። “ከዛሬ መቶ ዓመታት በፊት የነበሩ ሰዎች ስህተት ሠርተዋል ብለን እነሱን መውቀስ ውስጥ ከገባን እንሳሳታለን፤ እነሱ ያኔ ያስተዳደሩበት፣ የቀጡበት፣ ያስገበሩበት ስልት ዘመኑ የሚጠይቀው እና አሁን ሠለጠኑ የምንላቸው እነ አውሮፓ ይጠቀሙበት የነበረውን ስልት እንደሆነ በመጥቀስ ወደኋላ ተመልሰን እንደነዚህ ዓይነት ጉዳዮች ላይ የምንወዛገብ ከሆነ ከእውነታ ጋር እንጣላለን” በማለት ያስረዳሉ።
አቶ ቡልቻ ስለ ምጣኔ ሀብት ዕድገት መመዘኛ ሲናገሩ፣ ለውጡ በሰዎች ተጠቃሚነት ላይ መታየት እንዳለበት ይገልጻሉ። ሰዎች መሠረታዊ ፍላጎታቸውን ሳይጨናነቁ ማሟላት ከቻሉ፣ ከታመሙ ታክመው መዳን ከቻሉ፣ የመሠረት ልማቶች ፍትሐዊ ተጠቃሚ ከሆኑ ያኔ ምጣኔ ሀብቱ ማደጉ በተግባር ይታያል ይላሉ።
እንደ ምሳሌም ሲያነሱ፣ “ታይዋን፣ ቻይና፣ ኮሪያ፣ ጃፓን በከፍተኛ ሁኔታ አድገዋል። ይህ ዕድገታቸውም በዜጎቻቸው ሕይወት ውስጥ ይታያል። አፍሪካ ውስጥም ናይጄሪያ እና አንጎላ ነዳጅ በማግኘታቸው አድገዋል። እነዚህ በዜጎች ሕይወት እና በአጠቃላይ በሀገር ደረጃ በሚታዩ ለውጦች ያደጉ ሀገራት ለትክክለኛ የምጣኔ ሀብት ዕድገት ምሳሌ ይሆኑናሉ” በማለት ይናገራሉ።
“የኢትዮጵያ ሕዝብ ኑሮ እንዲሻሻል እመኛለሁ” የሚሉት አቶ ቡልቻ፣ ዋናው የሕዝቡ በሽታ ድኅነት እንደሆነ ይገልጻሉ። ለዚህ ደግሞ ግብርና እንዲስፋፋ ፈጣሪ የሰጠንን መሬት በደንብ መጠቀም ያስፈልጋል ይላሉ። “ይህ ከሆነ አርሶ አደሩ ብዙ እንስሳት ይኖሩታል፤ ተሽከርካሪ ይገዛል፤ ቴክኖሎጂ ይጠቀማል፤ ልጆቹን በአግባቡ ያሳድጋል፤ ኑሮው ይሻሻላል፤ ዘመናዊ ቤትም ይገነባል። ይህ በኢትዮጵያ እንዲሆን እመኛለሁ” ይላሉ። ይህ ሁሉ እውን እንዲሆን ግን መንግሥትም ሰላም አግኝቶ ወደ ሥራ እንዲመለስ ሰላም ማውረድ እንደሚያስፈልግ ይናገራሉ።
አሁን ያለው የፖለቲካ ሁኔታ መናናቅ የመበዛበት እና መከባበር የራቀው መሆኑን የሚገልጹት አቶ ቡልቻ፣ እንደዚህ ዓይነት አካሄዶች ከ60ዎቹ ጀምሮ ብዙ ዋጋ ስላስከፈለን ስክነት ያስፈልጋል በማለት ስለ ሰላማዊ የፖለቲካ አስፈላጊነት ይናገራሉ። በመናናቃችን እና በመገዳደላችን ምክንያት ብዙ ምሁራን ሸሽተው ሀገር ለቀው ተሰደው ሀገራችን የተማረ ሰው እንድታጣ አድርጓታልም ይላሉ።
“መከባበር ከሌለ፣ ሕዝብ ካልተባበረ፣ መነጋገር እና መደማመጥ ካልቻልን፣ ዋናው ችግራችን ድህነታችን መሆኑን አምነን እሱን ለመታገል ካልወሰንን ውኃ ላይ ቁጭ ብለን እንጠማለን፤ ሀገርም በምንም ሁኔታ አይረጋጋም በማለት ችግሮቻችንን በስክነት መፍታት አለብን” በማለት ይመክራሉ።
በሕዝቦች መካከል የሚዘራ ጥላቻ በጣም አደገኛ መሆኑን በማውሳት ተጎራብቶ፣ ተጋብቶ፣ ተዋልዶ የማይበጠስ ኅብር የፈጠረውን ሕዝብ ከማለያየት ይለቅ ችግሮች ካሉም ሕዝቡን አነጋግሮ መፍትሔ ማበጀት በእንሚያስፈልግ ይናገራሉ።
አቶ ቡልቻ ለኢትዮጵያ ምጣኔ ሀብት ዕድገት ላበረከቱት አስተዋፅኦ የኢትዮጵያ ብሔራዊ ባንክ እና አዋሽ ባንክ ሽልማት አበርክተውላቸዋል። በዚህም የኢትዮጵያ ብሔራዊ ባንክ በቅርስነት የሚያዝ የልዩ ታሪካዊ ሁነቶች ማስታወሻ የወርቅ ሳንቲም የሸለማቸው ሲሆን፣ አዋሽ ባንክ ደግሞ የምስጋና የምስክር ወረቀት፣ ካባ እና የወርቅ ሜዳሊያ አበርክቶላቸዋል።
ጠቅላይ ሚኒስትር ዐቢይ አሕመድ (ዶ/ር) ዛሬ በ94 ዓመታቸው ከዚህ ዓለም ያለፉትን አቶ ቡልቻ ደመቅሳ ለገር የሚችሉትነ ሁሉ ማበርከታቸውን በማውሳት፣ አሳቸውን የመሰሉ ታላቅ ሰው ማጣት ለሀገር ጉዳት እንደሆነ ገልጸዋል፡፡ በእሳቸው እረፍት የተሰማቸውን ሀዘንም ገልጸዋል፡፡
የኢትዮጵያ ብሮድካስቲንግ ኮርፖሬሽንም በአቶ ቡልቻ ደመቅሳ ህልፈት የተሰማውን ሀዘን እየገለጸ፣ ለቤተሰቦቻቸው፣ ለዳጅ ዘመዶቻቸው እና ለአድናቂዎቻቸው መጽናናትን ይመኛል፡፡
በለሚ ታደሰ
Veteran politician, parliamentarian Bulcha Demeksa passes away at 95
Veteran politician and parliamentarian Bulcha Demeksa, a prominent figure in Ethiopian opposition politics, passed away on Monday morning at the age of 94.
Known for his wit, oratorical skills, fearless debates, and strong convictions, Bulcha Demeksa was the founding chairman of the Oromo Federalist Democratic Movement (OFDM). He served as a vocal member of the Ethiopian parliament from 2005 to 2010.
“An elder statesman and a true public servant has left us,” Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed said in a statement. “He gave his all to his country and Africa, stood firm in his convictions, worked relentlessly to unite people, and always spoke his truth, no matter the time or place.”
Bulcha Demeksa’s career in government dates back to the regime of Emperor Haile Selassie, during which he served as Vice-Minister of Finance for nearly a decade.
Born in the Bojji Diremeji Woreda of the West Wollega Zone, Bulcha was the fourth child and the only son among his siblings.
He received his primary education at Gimbi Adventist School and his secondary education at Kuyera Adventist Church.
He then joined Haile Selassie I University, where he earned a BA in economics, ranking among the top ten students. He was subsequently sent to the United States on a scholarship to pursue his master’s degree. He graduated from Syracuse University with a master’s in public finance and went on to serve as a member of the World Bank Board (1970–1975) and as a policy analyst at the United Nations in New York for 17 years.
After returning to Ethiopia, he co-founded Awash Bank SC in 1993 and served as its president until 2000.
The former General Manager of Awash International Bank, Leykun Berhanu, remarked that Bulcha played a pivotal role in advancing the country’s economy, especially during a period when private sector banks were scarce. Together with his colleagues, he made significant contributions to the establishment and growth of Awash Bank, Leykun added.
The Oromo Federalist Democratic Movement, which Bulcha founded and led until his retirement, was among the opposition groups that mobilized thousands of people onto the streets of Addis Ababa in 2005 contested elections. The movement advocated for the realization of Oromo rights to self-determination within a fully democratized Ethiopia. In 2008, the party joined the Forum for Unity and Democracy (Medrek), a political coalition formed that same year to contest the 2010 elections.
In an interview, he once said: “The main objective of the Oromo Federalist Democratic Movement is to reclaim the rights that the Oromo people have lost. At the time, most Oromo were sitting behind closed doors, so we formed the party to declare, ‘There’s an Oromo cause that needs attention.”
Mulatu Gemechu, a member of the executive committee of the Oromo Federalist Congress, stated that at a time when Oromo political parties were virtually non-existent, Bulcha Demeksa founded a party to advocate for the rights of the Oromo people. “In parliament, he was known for speaking his mind and openly challenging ideas he believed to be flawed. He remained a steadfast supporter of our party, offering assistance whenever possible,” he said.
Oromia Support Group Report 68
This report includes an analysis of Fano groups operating in North Showa (pp.3-5) and Wallega (p.15), as well as the abuses committed by Fano and ENDF.
Using troops trained to masquerade as OLA and Fano groups which it supports, the Ethiopian government is deliberately promoting violence and hatred between Amhara and Oromo.
Please distribute the information contained in the report. Much of it is supplied at great risk to informants.
Comments and suggestions are welcome.
Please find attached Report 68 from the Oromia Support Group.
Understanding Insecure Men: 20 Key Traits and Solutions
20 key traits and behaviors commonly associated with insecure men, along with potential solutions to help overcome these insecurities:
### Traits and Behaviors of an Insecure Man
1. **Constant Need for Validation**: Frequently seeks compliments and reassurance about their worth from others.
– **Solution**: Work on self-affirmation exercises; focus on personal achievements.
2. **Jealousy**: Displays excessive jealousy in relationships, often overreacting to perceived threats.
– **Solution**: Develop trust-building exercises and open communication with partners.
3. **Avoids Commitment**: Hesitant or unwilling to fully commit in romantic relationships due to fear of rejection.
– **Solution**: Understand personal values and what commitment means; gradually engage in more serious relationships.
4. **Overly Critical of Themselves**: Engages in negative self-talk and focuses on personal flaws, leading to low self-esteem.
– **Solution**: Practice self-compassion; keep a journal to highlight accomplishments and positive qualities.
5. **Defensiveness**: Reacts defensively to criticism, viewing it as a personal attack rather than constructive feedback.
– **Solution**: Cultivate a growth mindset; practice accepting feedback with an open mind.
6. **Comparison with Others**: Frequently compares themselves to others, feeling inferior or inadequate.
– **Solution**: Limit exposure to social media and focus on individual progress and self-improvement.
7. **Need to Appear Tough or Strong**: Puts on a facade of toughness, refusing to show vulnerability or seek help.
– **Solution**: Engage in therapy or support groups to explore vulnerabilities in a safe environment.
8. **Difficulty Expressing Emotions**: Struggles to communicate feelings, often resulting in emotional distance from others.
– **Solution**: Practice emotional literacy; use journaling or art to express feelings creatively.
9. **Avoidance of Difficult Situations**: Tends to shy away from conflicts or challenging discussions, fearing negative outcomes.
– **Solution**: Role-play difficult conversations with a trusted friend or therapist to build confidence.
10. **Overemphasis on Appearance**: Focuses excessively on their looks or physical attributes as a measure of self-worth.
– **Solution**: Shift the focus to health and wellness rather than appearance; celebrate inner qualities.
11. **Insecurity in Professional Settings**: Feels threatened by colleagues and doubts their abilities.
– **Solution**: Pursue professional development opportunities and seek mentorship for guidance.
12. **Staying in Unhealthy Relationships**: Maintains relationships that are detrimental to their well-being due to fear of being alone.
– **Solution**: Reflect on relationship patterns; consider therapy to explore attachment styles.
13. **Overreactions to Partner’s Actions**: Misinterprets innocent actions as betrayal or disinterest.
– **Solution**: Develop strong communication strategies; practice assumptions versus facts probing.
14. **Dependency on Technology for Connection**: Relies on texting or social media for interactions instead of face-to-face communication.
– **Solution**: Engage in more real-life social activities, avoiding screens when possible.
15. **Difficulty in Making Decisions**: Often second-guesses choices due to fear of making the wrong decision.
– **Solution**: Establish decision-making frameworks and set small goals to practice decisiveness.
16. **Fear of Abandonment**: Holds onto relationships out of fear of being abandoned, leading to clinginess.
– **Solution**: Work through abandonment issues with therapeutic guidance, focusing on building self-reliance.
17. **Controlling Behaviors**: Attempts to control situations or partners to alleviate their own fears.
– **Solution**: Explore the roots of control issues; engage in mindfulness practices to manage anxiety.
18. **Avoiding New Experiences**: Hesitant to try new things due to fear of failure or embarrassment.
– **Solution**: Set small, achievable challenges to gradually step out of comfort zones.
19. **Overthinking**: Dwells excessively on past interactions or future events, leading to anxiety.
– **Solution**: Adopt mindfulness and grounding techniques to stay present and combat overthinking.
20. **Poor Conflict Resolution Skills**: Struggles to resolve conflicts effectively, often escalating tensions instead of resolving issues.
– **Solution**: Study conflict resolution techniques; practice active listening and empathy.
### Conclusion
Insecurities can significantly affect interactions and relationships. However, acknowledging these traits and working towards constructive solutions can lead to personal growth, improved self-esteem, and healthier relationships. Engaging in therapy or counseling can also be beneficial for deeper issues.
15 Reasons for Inconsistency in Behavior
Understanding Inconsistency in Human Behavior
### Introduction
Human behavior is often marked by inconsistency. Individuals may frequently change their opinions, habits, and decisions, which can lead to frustration in both personal and professional contexts. This inconsistency can stem from various factors, including psychological, environmental, and social influences. Understanding why people struggle with consistency is crucial for fostering personal development, improving relationships, and enhancing productivity. Below are 15 reasons that explain why people may not be consistent, followed by 15 solutions to help individuals cultivate greater consistency in their lives.
### Reasons for Inconsistency
1. **Lack of Clear Goals**
People often fail to maintain consistency when they do not have well-defined goals. Without clarity on what they want to achieve, individuals can easily drift from task to task, lacking direction and purpose.
2. **Fear of Failure**
A pervasive fear of failing can paralyze individuals, prompting them to avoid commitment or consistent action. This fear can lead to procrastination or abandoning tasks altogether.
3. **External Pressures**
Social influences, peer pressure, or societal expectations can cause individuals to deviate from their beliefs or plans. The desire to conform can undermine personal principles and lead to inconsistency.
4. **Shifting Priorities**
Life circumstances, such as changing jobs, relationships, or responsibilities, can lead to shifting priorities. When priorities change frequently, it’s difficult for individuals to remain consistent in their efforts.
5. **Overwhelm and Burnout**
Taking on too much at once can lead to feelings of overwhelm and burnout. When individuals are stressed, they may abandon their commitments or struggle to maintain a consistent effort.
6. **Lack of Accountability**
Without accountability, individuals may not feel compelled to follow through on their commitments. The absence of external pressure or oversight can result in a lack of consistency in behavior.
7. **Self-Doubt**
Individuals who lack confidence in their abilities may second-guess their decisions, leading to inconsistent behaviors. This self-doubt can erode commitment and foster a cycle of indecision.
8. **Procrastination**
The tendency to postpone tasks or decisions can result in a lack of consistency. Procrastinators may start strong but falter due to distractions or a failure to prioritize tasks.
9. **Poor Time Management**
Inconsistent behavior is often a result of ineffective time management skills. Without a structured approach to prioritizing tasks, individuals may struggle to maintain focus and dedication.
10. **Emotional Variability**
Human emotions fluctuate, influencing behavior and decision-making. Individuals may react differently to circumstances based on their emotional state, leading to inconsistency in their responses.
11. **Information Overload**
In today’s digital age, individuals are bombarded with information, which can create confusion and indecision. This overload can lead to inconsistent choices as individuals struggle to process and prioritize information.
12. **Limited Motivation**
Without intrinsic motivation or passion for a task, individuals may lack the drive needed to remain consistent in their efforts. External rewards alone may not be sufficient to foster lasting commitment.
13. **Habit Formation Challenges**
Creating new habits requires time, patience, and consistency. Individuals may struggle to adhere to new routines, leading to inconsistency as they attempt to incorporate change into their lives.
14. **Social Comparison**
Comparing oneself to others can lead to feelings of inadequacy or insecurity, prompting changes in behavior to seek approval or validation. This need for external validation can disrupt personal consistency.
15. **Cognitive Dissonance**
When individuals hold conflicting beliefs or values, it can create cognitive dissonance, leading to inconsistency in behavior as they struggle to reconcile their internal conflicts.
### Solutions for Achieving Consistency
1. **Set Clear, Achievable Goals**
Establish specific, measurable, achievable, relevant, and time-bound (SMART) goals. Clarity around objectives fosters a sense of purpose, making it easier to maintain focus and consistency.
2. **Cultivate a Growth Mindset**
Embrace a growth mindset, recognizing that challenges and failures are part of the learning process. This perspective can mitigate the fear of failure and encourage commitment to goals.
3. **Establish Personal Values**
Identify core values that guide decision-making. Having a clear set of values aids individuals in navigating external pressures and making consistent choices aligned with their beliefs.
4. **Prioritize Self-Care**
Engage in self-care practices to manage stress and prevent burnout. Prioritizing mental and physical well-being enhances resilience and enables individuals to remain consistent in their actions.
5. **Implement Accountability Measures**
Seek accountability partners, mentors, or coaches to provide support and encouragement. Accountability can motivate individuals to stay on track and follow through on commitments.
6. **Build Confidence**
Engage in activities that foster self-efficacy. Setting and achieving small goals can boost confidence, helping individuals to make more consistent decisions in the face of challenges.
7. **Create Time Management Plans**
Develop effective time management strategies, such as using calendars, to-do lists, or productivity apps. Structured planning can help individuals allocate time efficiently and maintain focus.
8. **Practice Mindfulness**
Incorporating mindfulness practices can enhance awareness of emotions and thoughts. Mindfulness allows individuals to manage emotional variability and respond to challenges more consistently.
9. **Limit Distractions**
Identify and minimize distractions that lead to inconsistency. Creating a dedicated workspace and implementing boundaries can help individuals maintain focus on their priorities.
10. **Find Intrinsic Motivation**
Connect with the underlying motivations for pursuing goals. Understanding why a task is meaningful can foster a deeper commitment and enhance consistency.
11. **Start Small to Form Habits**
Break larger goals into smaller, manageable tasks. Gradually incorporating new habits into daily routines can increase the likelihood of long-term adherence.
12. **Avoid Negative Comparisons**
Focus on personal progress rather than comparing oneself to others. Celebrating individual achievements, no matter how small, can bolster confidence and consistency.
13. **Engage in Continuous Learning**
Stay informed and educated about the tasks or areas in which one seeks consistency. A commitment to learning can foster adaptability and allow individuals to make informed decisions.
14. **Utilize Visual Reminders**
Use visual cues, such as sticky notes or habit trackers, to remind oneself of commitments and goals. These prompts can serve as motivation to follow through on plans.
15. **Reflect and Adjust Regularly**
Periodically assess progress, focusing on what’s working and what isn’t. Reflection allows individuals to realign their strategies and commitments, promoting greater consistency over time.
### Conclusion
Inconsistency is a common aspect of human behavior that can stem from a variety of factors, including psychological barriers, social influences, and environmental conditions. However, by understanding the underlying causes and implementing targeted strategies, individuals can cultivate greater consistency in their actions and decisions. Whether through setting clear goals, fostering accountability, or engaging in personal development practices, fostering consistency can lead to improved outcomes in various areas of life, ultimately enhancing personal fulfillment and productivity.
Celebrating Oromo Identity Through Film: A Look at Soolanee
(A4O, 29 December 2024) Soolanee-a film by writer and director Keeyeron Dereje was screened in Melbourne on Saturday.
At the beginning of the film, Keeyeron told of her many difficult and emotional ups and downs. She talked about how teamwork was done in Soolanee and how it was included in the history of the Oromo family.
Soolanee: Truth, Freedom, Justice, Faith, Sin, Deceit, Goodness, Oppression, Equality, Resistance, Sexual Assault, love etc. are accompanied by key messages.
Toltu Tufaa gave the opening speech at the beginning of the film based on Oromo folklore. “Our folklore reflects our identity, and the story of this film reflects the wisdom inherited by our ancestors.”
“Keeyron’s efforts to promote our folklore and identity by making Soolanee are remarkable,” Toltu said.
The audience of the film said that Keeyeron deserves to be appreciated for her contribution to the development of the Oromo arts.
As is well known, the Oromo art, especially film, is still in its infancy. It is understandable that it takes a lot of work to make the Oromo language competitive in the films produced in Ethiopia and at the same time it needs the support of the people.
Oromo people are expected to encourage those who are engaged in what promotes the language in every way to ensure the development of their language.
Oromo Unity and Self-Governance: A Path Forward
Achieving self-governance for the Oromo people in Ethiopia is a complex process that requires a multifaceted approach involving political, social, and economic strategies. Here are 15 points outlining what the Oromo must do to work toward self-governance, emphasizing unity, advocacy, organization, and dialogue.
### 1. **Unity Among Oromo Groups**
To effectively push for self-governance, the Oromo community must foster unity among various political parties, organizations, and grassroots movements. A coordinated approach with a shared vision and objectives can amplify their demands and enhance their negotiating power.
### 2. **Build Strong Political Institutions**
Establishing and strengthening Oromo political institutions and parties is crucial. These entities should focus on ideological coherence and strategic policy-making while representing the interests of the Oromo people.
### 3. **Promote Civic Education**
Educating the Oromo populace about their rights, governance structures, and political engagement is essential. Civic education initiatives can empower citizens to participate actively in governance, demand accountability, and understand the importance of self-governance.
### 4. **Engage in Negotiations with the Government**
Oromo leaders must engage in direct and constructive negotiations with Ethiopian government officials to articulate their aspirations for self-governance. Presenting a clear, unified set of demands can enhance the legitimacy of their claims.
### 5. **Leverage International Support**
Building relationships with international organizations, foreign governments, and diaspora communities can provide the Oromo movement with external pressure on the Ethiopian government to recognize their demands. This could include raising awareness about human rights violations and advocating for Oromo autonomy.
### 6. **Utilize Legal Frameworks**
Oromo leaders should leverage Ethiopia’s constitution, which provides for ethnic federalism and the right to self-determination. Engaging in legal battles to assert these rights can strengthen their claims and establish a precedent for autonomy.
### 7. **Develop Economic Strategies**
Creating sustainable economic models within Oromo regions can demonstrate the viability of self-governance. Focusing on local resources, agriculture, and trade can build economic resilience and show that the Oromo can thrive independently.
### 8. **Foster Inter-Ethnic Dialogue**
Promoting dialogue with other ethnic groups can decrease tensions and create alliances. Engaging in collaborative projects that benefit multiple communities can help build a coalition in favor of a more decentralized governance structure.
### 9. **Cultural Promotion and Preservation**
Oromo culture, language, and heritage need active promotion. Fostering a sense of cultural pride can mobilize support for self-governance and appeal to broader audiences, emphasizing the unique identity of the Oromo people.
### 10. **Strengthen Civil Society Organizations**
Developing robust civil society organizations focused on Oromo rights and self-governance can facilitate grassroots activism. These organizations can engage in advocacy, education, and protection of ethnic rights.
### 11. **Compile and Present Data**
Collecting data about the socio-economic conditions in Oromia and using this information to demonstrate the need for self-governance can make a compelling case. Presenting evidence to various stakeholders may help facilitate discussions around autonomy.
### 12. **Empower Youth and Women**
Engaging youth and women more actively in political processes and governance discussions is essential. Their involvement can bring fresh ideas, strengthen community ties, and ensure a more inclusive approach to governance.
### 13. **Form Alliances with Political Parties**
Collaborating with other political parties that support federalism and regional autonomy can create a broader political base. Seeking partnerships with organizations that share similar goals can amplify their voice and visibility.
### 14. **Monitor Political Developments**
Staying informed about local, national, and international political developments is critical. Understanding the political landscape in Ethiopia and the global context can aid in strategic planning and response to challenges that arise.
### 15. **Commit to Non-Violent Protest and Advocacy**
Adopting a non-violent approach in advocating for self-governance can increase support and legitimacy. This includes organizing peaceful protests, engaging in dialogue, and leveraging media to spread awareness of their cause.
### Conclusion
Achieving self-governance for the Oromo people necessitates a comprehensive approach that combines unity, advocacy, legal strategies, cultural promotion, and economic development. By building strong institutions and engaging constructively with stakeholders, the Oromo can effectively articulate their aspirations and work toward greater autonomy within Ethiopia. The journey toward self-governance will require resilience, strategic planning, and a commitment to peaceful dialogue, ultimately contributing to a more inclusive and equitable Ethiopian state.
Fostering Peace Through National Dialogue Strategies
National dialogue is a crucial process for fostering peace, reconciliation, and development within a country, especially in contexts marked by conflict, division, or significant political change. It offers an opportunity for diverse stakeholders to engage in constructive discussions aimed at addressing pressing issues and establishing a shared vision for the future. Here are fifteen essential points regarding the requirements of national dialogue:
### 1. **Inclusivity of Stakeholders**
For a national dialogue to be credible and effective, it must include a broad range of stakeholders. This includes government representatives, opposition parties, civil society organizations, community leaders, youth, women, and marginalized groups. Inclusion ensures that the perspectives and needs of all segments of society are considered, fostering a more comprehensive understanding of the issues at hand.
### 2. **Clear Objectives and Scope**
National dialogues should have clearly defined objectives and a well-articulated scope. Stakeholders need to agree on what they aim to achieve, whether it be conflict resolution, constitutional reforms, or social cohesion. Clear objectives help guide discussions and decisions, ensuring that the dialogue remains focused and productive.
### 3. **Facilitation by Neutral Parties**
An impartial facilitator is essential to ensure that discussions are fair, balanced, and focused. Neutral parties, such as international organizations or respected non-governmental organizations (NGOs), can play a pivotal role in guiding the process, mediating disputes, and maintaining an atmosphere of trust and respect.
### 4. **Safe and Respectful Environment**
A conducive environment is necessary for open and honest dialogue. Participants must feel safe to express their views without fear of retribution or discrimination. This requires measures to ensure security, confidentiality, and respect for differing viewpoints, which can help build trust among participants.
### 5. **Access to Information**
Informed dialogue is critical for effective discussions. Stakeholders should have access to relevant information and data that can help frame the issues being discussed. This may include socio-economic statistics, legal frameworks, and historical context. Providing participants with comprehensive information allows for more informed decision-making.
### 6. **Time for Reflection and Discussion**
National dialogues are often complex and cover sensitive topics. Sufficient time should be allocated for participants to reflect on discussions and engage in meaningful dialogue. Rushed processes can lead to misunderstandings and inadequate resolutions. Allowing for ample discussion time is crucial for developing consensus and understanding.
### 7. **Commitment to Dialogue Principles**
All participants must commit to the principles of dialogue, including transparency, honesty, and respect. Upholding these principles fosters a productive atmosphere where stakeholders can share and debate ideas without animosity. A commitment to constructive dialogue helps mitigate conflict and polarization.
### 8. **Support from Leadership**
National dialogue often requires strong support from political, social, and community leaders. Their endorsement can enhance legitimacy and motivate broader participation. Leadership must also model inclusive behavior, demonstrating a commitment to engaging all stakeholders in the dialogue process.
### 9. **Focus on Root Causes**
Effective national dialogue should aim to address the root causes of conflicts or divisions rather than merely treating the symptoms. This requires thorough analysis and discussion of underlying issues, such as inequality, historical grievances, or systemic injustice. Addressing these root causes is vital for achieving lasting solutions.
### 10. **Mechanisms for Implementation and Follow-up**
Post-dialogue, there should be clearly defined mechanisms for implementing the agreements reached. Participants must agree on how to turn discussions into actionable items and ensure accountability. Follow-up processes, such as regular reviews and assessments, help maintain momentum and allow stakeholders to address any challenges that arise.
### 11. **Conflict Resolution Frameworks**
National dialogues should be underpinned by conflict resolution frameworks that provide guidelines for managing disputes and disagreements. Such frameworks can help mitigate tensions during discussions and facilitate the resolution of contentious issues. Establishing clear procedures for resolving conflicts can support a more stable dialogue environment.
### 12. **Resource Allocation and Training**
Sufficient resources, both financial and human, are essential for the successful execution of a national dialogue. This includes funding for logistics, training for participants in negotiation and dialogue skills, and support for outreach activities. Ensuring that resources are available helps to legitimize the process and guarantees that participants are equipped for effective engagement.
### 13. **Public Engagement and Awareness**
Involving the broader public and raising awareness about the national dialogue is crucial for its legitimacy. Engaging citizens through media, public forums, and social platforms ensures that the dialogue resonates with societal concerns and aspirations. This public dimension can also enhance accountability, as citizens become stakeholders in the process and its outcomes.
### 14. **Cultural Sensitivity**
National dialogues must be sensitive to the cultural contexts in which they occur. Understanding local customs, languages, and traditions is vital for fostering inclusive dialogue. Cultural sensitivity can enhance communication, build trust among participants, and lead to more meaningful engagement in discussions.
### 15. **Continuous Evaluation and Adaptation**
Finally, national dialogues should be dynamic processes that allow for continuous evaluation and adaptation. Stakeholders should regularly assess the dialogue’s progress, identify areas for improvement, and adjust their approaches as needed. By remaining flexible and responsive, the dialogue can better address evolving challenges and contribute to sustained peace and development.
### Conclusion
National dialogue is a vital mechanism for building consensus, addressing grievances, and paving the way for a more unified society. While the requirements for an effective national dialogue are multifaceted, ensuring inclusivity, clarity, safety, and commitment among participants forms the foundation for success. By adhering to these principles and practices, countries facing division and conflict can harness national dialogue as a powerful tool for fostering peace, stability, and social cohesion. The key lies in recognizing the value of each participant’s voice and collectively working towards a shared vision for the future.
Empowering Oromos: Actions by the Australian Community
The Oromo community in Australia has a unique opportunity and responsibility to support their counterparts in Oromia, Ethiopia. Given their collective experience, cultural background, and the socio-political dynamics of Oromia, the Australian Oromo community can engage in several initiatives. Here are ten vital actions that they can undertake to improve the welfare and status of the Oromo people in Oromia:
### 1. **Advocacy and Awareness Raising**
The Oromo community in Australia can engage in advocacy efforts to raise awareness about the issues faced by Oromos in Ethiopia. This includes educating the Australian public and government officials about human rights abuses, political suppression, and socio-economic challenges faced by Oromos in Oromia. Hosting workshops, seminars, and cultural events can effectively disseminate this information, encouraging a broader understanding and potential support for Oromo causes.
### 2. **Establishing Partnerships with NGOs**
Collaborating with non-governmental organizations (NGOs) that focus on human rights and development in Ethiopia can amplify the impact of initiatives. The Oromo community can support NGOs working directly in Oromia by providing funding, volunteer services, and logistical support. This partnership can ensure that projects are culturally sensitive and aligned with the needs of the local population.
### 3. **Cultural Exchange Programs**
Initiating cultural exchange programs between the Oromo community in Australia and Oromia can foster mutual understanding and solidarity. Through cultural festivals, art exhibitions, and oral history projects, both communities can share their traditions, challenges, and triumphs. Such programs not only strengthen ties between the diaspora and the homeland but can also serve as a platform for preserving Oromo heritage.
### 4. **Educational Support and Scholarships**
Education is a powerful tool for social change. The Australian Oromo community can establish scholarship programs to support Oromo students in Oromia who face financial barriers to education. They can also partner with educational institutions in Australia to create opportunities for Oromo students from Oromia to study abroad, learn new skills, and gain exposure that they can bring back to their communities.
### 5. **Health Initiatives**
Access to healthcare remains a significant challenge in many parts of Oromia. The Oromo community in Australia can organize fundraising efforts to support health initiatives, including clinics, maternal health services, and mental health programs in Oromia. Collaborating with healthcare professionals in Australia to share knowledge and resources can also enhance healthcare delivery in their homeland.
### 6. **Economic Development Projects**
To support sustainable development in Oromia, the Australian Oromo community can invest in economic development projects. This could include microfinance programs for small businesses, agricultural cooperatives, or vocational training programs. By empowering individuals and providing them with the tools to succeed, the community can help lift families out of poverty and enhance local economies.
### 7. **Promoting Political Engagement**
Encouraging political awareness and engagement among the Oromo community in Australia is crucial. They can organize information sessions on how to participate in political processes, both locally and in relation to Ethiopia. By engaging in public discussions and lobbying efforts, they can advocate for policies that support democracy and human rights in Oromia.
### 8. **Documentation of Human Rights Abuses**
Establishing a documentation project to collect testimonials and evidence of human rights abuses against Oromos in Ethiopia is vital. This can serve as a resource to inform international bodies, human rights organizations, and policymakers. By creating a repository of stories and data, they can amplify the voices of those who have suffered, ensuring that these issues receive the attention they deserve.
### 9. **Support for Refugees and Asylum Seekers**
Many Oromos have sought refuge in Australia due to persecution in Ethiopia. The Australian Oromo community can provide support for fellow Oromos navigating the complexities of the refugee process, offering legal assistance, social integration programs, and mentorship. By creating a welcoming environment, they can help enhance the chances of successful settlement for refugees.
### 10. **Strengthening Community Bonds**
Finally, the Oromo community in Australia must prioritize strengthening their internal community bonds. By fostering a sense of unity and shared purpose, they can mobilize resources and support more effectively. Regular community gatherings, cultural celebrations, and dialogue platforms can help reinforce a shared identity and commitment to improving conditions for Oromos in Oromia.
### Conclusion
The Oromo community in Australia holds a significant position to make a difference in the lives of their counterparts in Oromia. Through advocacy, education, health initiatives, economic support, and cultural exchange, they can contribute to building a stronger, more empowered Oromo community both at home and abroad. By leveraging their skills, resources, and passion, the Australian Oromo community can be instrumental in achieving lasting positive change for the Oromo people in Ethiopia. Their commitment to these efforts not only benefits Oromos in Oromia but also enriches the cultural landscape of Australia and reinforces the importance of global solidarity.
Advocacy for Oromia 