Addis Ababa, October 7/2023 (ENA)- Irreecha festival, which is the annual Oromo people ‘Thanksgiving Day’ is a culture of inclusivity, according to scholars.
Irreechaa is an annual festival celebrated to mark the end of the rainy season and the beginning of the harvesting season. The festival is observed to thank God for his blessings that the people cherish.
This year’s Irreechaa is being celebrated in Addis Ababa and Bishoftu town of Oromia region.
In an exclusive interview with ENA, Haramaya University Vice President, Professor Jeylan Woldyie said Irreechaa, which is principally the Oromo culture is a culture of inclusivity.
The festival promotes cultural and moral unity as the Oromo people together with other people of Ethiopia and beyond are able to come together and share values, and understanding.
Due to this, “Irreechaa is the culture of inclusivity. All people irrespective of their place of origin, irrespective of the language, irrespective of their face, are not only included in the celebration but they are embraced.”
Irreecha festival transcends linguistic, cultural and territorial boundaries; it transcends cultural boundaries he said, adding that all people irrespective of where they come from are united around the principle of peace, mutuality and coexistence which are deeply embedded in the Irreecha culture.
“People coming from all civilizations, all age groups are brought together and allowed to exercise their values, moralities. That’s why we say it’s the culture of creativity.”
Associate Professor at the Addis Ababa University Tadesse Jaleta said for his part Irreechaa is an inclusive national festival because it includes all persons coming from different religious, cultural backgrounds or different ages and sex.
“Any person participates in Irreechaa. Irreechaa includes not only human being but also nature. It is a symbol of the combination of nature and the human beings. It is a festival where human beings express a unity to nature and give thanks to God. That’s why we say Irreecha is an inclusive national festival,” he stated.
Moreover, he elaborated that the values of Irreechaa are applicable to people of all cultures.
“It is about peace. It’s about unity, it’s about love. It is about being respectful and being brother with other people. These values are applicable to all people. Irreechaa is useful not only to Oromo but to all nations, and nationalities of the country.”
The festival unites different cultures and brings different people together, Tadesse indicated adding that people from different cultures and languages learn, enjoy and express their beauty with each other.
It is one of the best festivities of Ethiopia where cultural singing and dancing are common.
This grand festival attracts a large number of the Oromo people and people from all parts of the country regardless of age, religion, political affiliations and sex to come together and celebrate the festival with extraordinary love, chanting and unity.
The 2024 Irreecha festival is going to be celebrated in a warm and special atmosphere in Oromia and abroad.
The annual Oromo Irreechaa festival, the Oromo Thanksgiving Day, in Oromia and diaspora is approaching this month. Irreechaa is not merely a festival; it is the vibrant heart of Oromo culture, a celebration that transcends mere tradition to embody the essence of gratitude, unity, and renewal.
As the Oromo people gather each year to honor this grand occasion, they connect deeply with their history and the rhythms of nature, marking a profound celebration of life and harmony.
Irreechaa, the Oromo Thanksgiving Day, is celebrated twice annually: once at the banks of rivers or lakes during Irreecha Malkaa/Birraa in late September, and again on mountain tops or hills during Irreecha Tuulluu/Arfaasaa in autumn. The former, occurring at the close of winter and the dawn of spring, is a tribute to the end of the rainy season and the promise of new beginnings. The latter, celebrated in the dry season, heralds the approach of winter, symbolizing reflection and preparation.
The term "Irreechaa" itself conjures images of verdant green, symbolizing fertility and thriving life, nourished by the blessings of Waaqaa, the Creator. This ancient festival, with roots extending over 6,000 years, was momentarily eclipsed during the late 19th century when the Oromo were integrated into the Abyssinian Empire. However, the spirit of Irreechaa has persisted, thriving in Oromia and among the Oromo diaspora worldwide, from North America to Europe.
Central to the celebration is the belief that every element of creation is imbued with the spirit of Waaqaa. The Oromo consider that the divine essence resides in natural elements such as the sea, great rivers, and mountain peaks. Thus, Irreechaa is celebrated at these sacred places—rivers and mountains—where the Oromo people express their gratitude and seek blessings.
The essence of Irreechaa lies in giving thanks to Waaqaa for guiding the Oromo people through the trials of winter, for the sustenance provided throughout the year, and for the transition to a season of growth and harvest. It is a time to appreciate the divine for the survival of families, the flourishing of crops, and the bounty of the spring season. Beyond gratitude, Irreechaa also serves as a celebration of the forthcoming harvest and a joyous welcome to the new season.
The rainy season, stretching from June to September, is seen as a challenging period marked by floods and isolation. It is during this time that Irreechaa provides a platform for peace, reconciliation, and renewal. The festival is renowned for its emphasis on unity and the restoration of harmony. Elders and Abbaa Gadaas (community leaders) play a crucial role, offering blessings and promoting the values of peace and coexistence.
Irreechaa also serves as a communal stage for significant life events, including naming ceremonies, weddings, and matchmaking. It is a moment when the community comes together to celebrate Oromummaa (Oromoness) and sabboonummaa (nationality), transcending differences in age, sex, religion, or social status. It embodies a collective affirmation of unity, respect, and shared heritage.
The celebration culminates at major sites like Hora Finfinnee and Lake Arsadi, where thousands of Oromos converge. The evening of Irreechaa is a poignant moment of reflection and reconciliation. Elders ask the community whether they are at peace with one another and with Waaqaa. Those with unresolved conflicts are encouraged to seek resolution before the festivities begin, underscoring the festival’s commitment to harmony.
Irreechaa is a powerful expression of Oromo cultural values, a living testament to the strength and unity of the Oromo people. It is a celebration that not only acknowledges the past and the present but also renews the bonds of community and the shared joy of life’s blessings.
Festivals of peace are a wonderful way to understand other cultures, and the values that matter to them.
Professor of Economics, University of Minnesota Duluth
Gender inequality isn’t just unfair — it’s also a drag on the world economy. Giving women the same economic opportunities as men would add about US$12 trillion to global gross domestic product by 2025, one analysis found. That’s an 11% boost.
The link between women’s empowerment and economic growth is well established. When women are economically empowered, they invest more in their families, creating a cycle of positive outcomes that spans generations. Women’s participation in the workforce leads to greater productivity and brings diverse perspectives that enhance decision-making and drive innovation.
Recognizing these benefits, governments and nongovernmental organizations have increasingly directed aid — funds provided to developing countries to foster economic growth — toward promoting women’s empowerment.
As an economist who studies development, I wanted to know: Does all that money really make a difference? So, in a recent study, my colleagues and I analyzed the impact of gender-related aid on gender inequality using data from 118 countries over a 13-year period, from 2009 to 2022.
What we found was uplifting: Gender-related aid reduced inequality in most countries we studied.
We looked at two types of gender-related aid. The first is funding for projects that tie gender into larger economic goals. Development experts call this “significant gender-related aid.” There’s also aid funding that narrowly and explicitly targets gender equality. Experts call this “principal gender-related aid.”
We found that the first approach consistently and significantly reduced gender inequality in 115 out of 118 counties we studied. The latter approach had statistically significant effects in 85 countries. It also appeared to be much more effective when paired with the first approach.
Our findings strongly suggest that integrating gender-related aid into broader development efforts is crucial for promoting gender equality. Gender and development are intricately intertwined, a fact often overlooked. Recognizing this connection is crucial for achieving sustainable and inclusive growth.
That might all sound pretty abstract, but our research shows that the world has made progress in real people’s lives over the past decades. Cases from several countries show just how much progress is possible:
Rwanda: Following the 1994 genocide, Rwanda made a concerted effort to rebuild its society with gender equality at its core. Today, women hold 61% of parliamentary seats, the highest percentage in the world. This remarkable achievement is in part a direct result of gender-focused policies and significant investments in women’s political empowerment. Rwanda’s progress illustrates how political will and dedicated gender-related aid can transform a society.
Bangladesh: Despite traditional gender roles, Bangladesh has made significant strides in gender equality, particularly in education and economic participation. Through targeted programs like the Female Secondary School Stipend Program and microfinance initiatives by organizations like the Grameen Bank, Bangladesh has seen substantial improvements in girls’ education and women’s economic empowerment. These initiatives have contributed to a decline in gender disparities and have spurred economic growth.
Ethiopia: In recent decades, Ethiopia has invested heavily in education, particularly for girls. Programs aimed at increasing school enrollment and reducing dropout rates among girls have led to improved literacy rates and better health outcomes. These educational advancements have empowered women economically and socially, reducing gender inequality.
Despite progress made, these achievements aren’t set in stone. Instability can rapidly undo years of progress. Recent policy backsliding in Afghanistan, Brazil and the United States shows the need for vigilance.
Discussions about the importance of reducing gender inequality often revolve around the direct benefits to women and girls. But everyone, including men, stands to win in a more gender-equal society.
First, women’s economic empowerment leads to stronger economies, which benefits everyone. Research shows that gender equality promotes healthier relationships, reduces violence and fosters more cohesive and supportive communities. Similarly, workplaces prioritizing gender equality tend to have better team dynamics, higher employee satisfaction and increased productivity. These are gains for everyone, regardless of gender.
And gender equality has distinct benefits for men. This is because it alleviates the pressures associated with traditional masculinity, which can lead to better mental health. For example, in more gender-equal societies, men report being happier with life and less stressed and depressed.
This shows that the benefits of gender equality aren’t limited to women and girls; they extend to all members of society. Everyone has a stake in helping progress move along.
Governments and aid professionals should follow five steps for success to safeguard the advances made in gender equality and continue progressing:
1. Keep the aid flowing: Continued financial and technical support for gender equality initiatives is vital. Our research suggests policymakers should focus on integrating gender considerations into all development projects.
2. Engage everyone: Involving men and boys in gender equality efforts helps to challenge and change harmful gender norms, fostering a more inclusive society.
3. Tailor strategies: Although aid has an effect across the board, gender equality initiatives must consider each country’s unique sociopolitical and cultural contexts. Tailoring strategies to fit these contexts ensures that interventions are relevant and practical.
4. Strengthen institutions: Effective institutions and governance are crucial for successfully implementing and sustaining gender equality initiatives. Efforts to improve governance and reduce corruption will enhance the impact of aid
5. Promote education: Schools are a powerful tool for promoting gender equality. Investing in educational programs that empower women and girls and raise awareness about gender issues is essential for long-term change.
Gender equality is a cornerstone of a just and prosperous society. The benefits of empowering women extend far beyond the immediate recipients of gender-related aid, fostering economic growth, political stability and social cohesion. Our research shows that efforts to empower women really do pay off — literally and otherwise.
As a long time listener of Elemo Ali’s songs and an ethnographic writer who explores the music of different cultures, I list down the albums released by the artist so far and present my reflections in some of them.
1. His first album was released in Djibouti (circa 1982)-
It was an audio cassette. Elemo used his acoustic guitar ( a.k.a. “box guitar”) for that album.
2. His second album released in Saudi Arabia- 1986.
It was an audio cassette and a female singer called “Shamsi” featured Elemo Ali (she had two solo songs; the rest of the songs were by Elemo) . In the cassette Elemo sung in Harari language too. But what many people remember from that cassette was Elemo’s singing Mahmoud Ahmed’s famous Amharic song called “እንቺ ልቤ እኮ ነው” in Oromo language. The lyrics used by Elemo was very similar to the Amharic one.
3. The album he has done with Nuho Gobana in Saudi Arabia (1987)-
This was also an audio cassette. From that album a single that goes like “Biiftuu tiyya, urjii tiyya, suma bira jira yaadni kiyya” became popular in the media (I repeatedly heard it while Harar Radio Stations Oromo Language Service broadcasted it).
However, people usually confuse this album with the one he released with “Shamsii”. This happened because the music arrangements of the two albums were the very similar.
4. The album he released in Italy in 1988:
Truly speaking, I have no detail information about this album. I heard recently from the words of Elemo when we communicate through telephone that he released an album in Italy while he was living in that country for a short period of time. I will seek additional information on the album and bring to the public.
Elemo Ali produced most of his albums in Canada and a gained popularity there. Here are the list of those albums and my reflection on them.
5. “Jabeessa Aadaa Teenya”-1989:.
According to my evaluation this was Elemo Ali’s finest album of all time and one of the best albums in the history of Oromo Music and art. The rich linguistic treasure seen in the lyrics of the songs, the artist’s ability to sing in different musical scales in addition to the standard pentatonic scale derived from Oromo cultural beats, and Elemo Ali’s emblematic ability to display the vocals in a clear way were the main features that gave the album special color and quality. The most surprising thing was that almost all of the lyrics an the melodies of that album were created by Elemo Ali himself. Of course songs like ” Xiyyaan Nadirtee”, “Yaa jiruu biyya Ormaa”, “Jabeessaa Aadaa Teenyaa”, ” Koottu yaa Boontuu”, “Yaa Urjii Samiidhaa” are unforgettable.
6. “Oromiya”- 1990:
Another critically acclaimed and artistically emboldened album of Elemo Ali. It was a historical album in which Elemo addressed the Oromo people’s quest for freedom and justice in a highly organized and rhythmically synthesized Oromo poetry. This was also one of the best albums seen in the history of Oromo music. From the album ” Yaa Biyya too Gaarii”, “Oromiyaa” and “Carcar Xirroo” were the top ones.
7. ” Guyyaanis Keenya”- 1993:
This was the first album of Elemo Ali produced by a local music shop in our country. In that album Elemo brought many new songs together with certain songs from his earlier cassets (example: “Baadiyyaadha jirtii tanin ani jaallee from his album with Nuho Gobana, and Kottu yaa Boontuu Yaa shaggee tiyya from his album of 1989)
The album was released by Biftu Music Shop of Dire Dawa and became one of the best selling Oromo music albums of 1993 together with Shamsadin Yusuf’s “illii Jannataa” album.
7. “Leelloo Tiyya”: 1998:
Another critically aclaimed album of Elemo Ali which contains songs in multiple beats , the Oromo traditional “ragada” and “Shaggoyee”, the Caribbean “reggae”, the Central African “rumba” and “Afrobeats”, the Sudanese “hageeba” and the Western “pop”, “jazz” and “blues”. The band accompanied him for that album as well had members from many countries, Africans and North Americans.(Continued from above)
From the album the single titled ” Himi naaf Himi” became the most popular.
It was clear that Elemo brought a tradition of using multiple beats from different traditions for his songs in order to introduce the Oromo, Ethiopian and East African music and culture to the global audience.
The album was very fruitful in attaining its goals and introducing Elemo Ali to music fans of different countries. Elemo Ali won Canada’s annual music award for that album.
Mariin Prof Kuwee Kumsaa waliin taasifame kun kan kutaa duraa ti. Kutaa kana keessatti waa’ee maqaa isaanii, waa’ee muuxannoo hojii isaanii fi mudannoo adeemsa kana keessatti isaan mudate gadfageenyaan kaafnee jirra. Itti dhiyaadhaa!
KUTAA 1FFAA
How do we remember Girma Gamada?
Girma Gamada was born and raised in Oromia. When he was young, however, the political situation did not allow him to serve his countrymen. The passion and passion for promoting Oromo and Oromummaa did not disappear from him. Instead, this charity left the country with Girma and became an example of Oromo Volunteerism.
GIRMA GAMADAA: An Example of Oromo Volunteerism
Volunteerism is doing good for the community. This culture is to do work that benefits the community and the country. Everyone has the ability to be kind; but not everyone works beyond their own existence and livelihood for the benefit of other communities. But people who are born with this gift cannot hide themselves. When they get this opportunity, they start doing things that will promote and promote their nation.
We can take Girma Gammada as an example of the people that Oromo had like this, and lost in a short time.
Girma was exiled from Oromia for political reasons and lived in exile in Nairobi, Kenya. He then settled in Toronto, Canada. From then on, he started working to address the shortage of Oromo through advertising and information. In a short time, he promoted Oromo songs in various ways and made various posters.
He also made it known in the community by preparing advertisements for festivals and events.
He was doing advertising for various Oromo associations. He contributed greatly to the recognition and growth of the Waqeffannaa association by preparing many posters. He has been contributing to the international recognition and growth of the Irreecha festival.
He was involved in all Oromo structures such as OMN, sports associations and community building. He has done a basic job to make the history of the Oromo fighters like Jaal Bureyessso known to the Oromo people and follow their fancy.
Jawar Mohammed recalled Girma’s contribution to OMN as highly dedicated. “It is devastating to hear of the passing of Girma Gemda. We have lost a true friend and a selfless servant of our community. Girma was one of the most committed and consistent people I had the privilege to work with for more than a decade. He was with us from day one, through all the ups and downs. May you rest in peace, brother. My heartfelt condolences to his family and the Toronto community.”
Since arriving from Oromia, almost 20 years ago, Girma has been serving customers with his friendly and informative approach to seafood selections.
It is with heavy hearts that we inform you that Girma has been diagnosed with ALS (Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis or Lou Gehrig’s disease), a rare and life-altering condition. ALS is a neurological disease that affects the motor neurons; motor neurons are the nerve cells in the brain and spinal cord that control voluntary muscle movement. This diagnosis means that Girma can no longer work and provide for his family as he once did.
It also means he can no longer continue his volunteer work as a graphic designer for the Oromo Community Center or pursue his passion for photography. Girma’s photography skills were evident in his coverage of the Toronto Waterfront Marathon, Afrofest Toronto and African Fashion Week Toronto.
For people like Hawwinee Alamayehu, Girma was a brotherly advisor. “A patriot, a strong professional, a hero of man, for me to lose you from my own good brother is a strong sorrow beyond words.”
Girmaan was an adult who was strong in many ways. Tulluu Liiban testified to the achievements of Girma Gamada who will be well remembered by the community. “Girma Hordofa Gemeda, who has been a shining star in promoting the Oromo cause through his creative works over the past 2 decades, passed away untimely in North America and beyond hoped he would recover from his illness Unfortunately this humble and clean human being is gone capacity He has been rendering his works for free with passion.
” Moreover, Girma has designed promotional pieces including printable materials such as T-Shirts, caps, banners, artifacts, logos etc. He has also contributed to the design and editing of choreographies and photography. Girma has recorded and documented a number of vital events in Oromo, in videos and pictures. He has designed events, stages and presented auction items for free for community fundraisers. His Lega Xaafoo Studio is based in Toronto, Canada. Girma will be greatly missed because of his invaluable contributions and commitment to the Oromo people throughout his life.”
Girma was being treated for a neurological disease. However, he could not be cured by treatment. He passed away on July 4,2024. Girmaan was the father of one child; condolences to his wife and child.
Girmaan is not with us today. His voluntaristic work will live with us forever. People like Birhanu Olana are remembering him as very committed Oromo professional.”Girman was a strong Oromo son. He was a strong cameraman and graphics expert that he was helping us day and night when we were looking for such professionals and he never asked us for payment for his services.”
Girmaa Gamadaa akkamitti yaadanna?
Girmaa Gamadaa Oromiyaa keessatti dhalatee guddate. Yeroo umuriin isaa dargagoometti garuu lammii isaa akka tajaajiuuf haalli siyaasaa ture hin hayyamneef. Fedhii fi dharraan waa’ee Oromoo fi Oromummaa guddisuu garuu isa biraa hin dhabamne. Inumaayyuu dharraan toleeyyummaa kun Girmaa waliin biyyaa bahee fakkeenya toleeyyummaa Oromoo ta’e.
GIRMAA GAMADAA: Fakkeenya Toleeyyummaa Oromoo
Toleeyyummaan aadaa tola hawaasaaf hojjachuu dha. Aadaan kun hojiilee hawaasaa fi biyya fayyadu hojjachuu dha. Namoonni hundi dandeettii toleeyyummaa qaban; garuu namni hundi jiruu fi jireenya ofii bira darbe kan hawaasa biraa fayyadu hin hojjatu. Namootni kennaa kana waliin dhalatan garuu of dhoksuu hin danda’an. Hiree kana yeroo argatan waan saba isaanii beeksisuu fi guddisu hojjachuu jalqabu.
Namoota Oromoon akkanatti qabaatee ture, yeroo gabaabaa keessatti dhabe Girmaa Gammadaa akka fakkeenyaatti ilaaluu dandeenya. Girmaan biyya Oromiyaa irraa sababa siyaasaatiin dhiibamee biyya baqannaa Keeniyaa, Naayiroobii, keessa jiraatee ture. Sana booda biyya Kanaadaa, magaalaa Torontoo keessatti qubate.
Yeroo san irraa kaasee hanqina Oromoo karaa beeksisaa fi odeeffannoo jiru furuuf hojii jalqabe. Yeroo gabaabaa keessatti sirboota Oromoo karaa addaddaa beeksisuu, postara addaddaa hojjachuun akka guddatan taasise. Hawaasa keessattis beeksisa ayyaanotaa fi taatotaa qopheessuun akka beekamu gochaa ture. Waldaalee Oromoo addaddaaf beeksisa hojjachaa ture. Waldaan Waaqeffannaa akka beekamuu fi guddatu dhaadhessa hedduu qopheessuun qooda guddaa gumaache. Ayyaanni Irreechaa akka sadarkaa addunyaatti beekamuu fi guddatu gahee olaanaa gumaachaa ture. Ijaarsa Oromoo kan akka OMN, waldaa ispoortii fi ijaarsa hawaasa Oromoo mara keessatti hirmaataa ture. Seenaa qabsaa’ota Oromoo kan akka Jaal Bureyesssoo fa’aa akka ummanni Oromoo beekanii fi faan-dhahii isaanii hordofaniif hojii bu’ura qabu hojjachuun yaadatama.
Jawaar Mohaammad gumaacha Girmaa OMNf godhe of kennuu ol’aanaa ta’uu yaadateera. “Boqonnaa Girmaa Gammadaa dhaga’uun gaddisiisaa dha. Hiriyaa dhugaa fi tajaajilaa ofittummaa hawaasa keenyaa dhabneerra. Girmaan namoota kutannoo fi wal irraa hin cinne waggoota kurnan oliif waliin hojjechuuf mirga argadhe keessaa tokko ture. Guyyaa tokko irraa kaasee, bu’aa ba’ii hunda keessa nu waliin ture. Nagaa siif haa boqottu obboleessa. Maatii isaa fi hawaasa Toroontootiif jajjabina onneen qaba.”
Girmaan erga Oromiyaa irraa dhufee waggoota 20 dura jechuun ni danda’ama, filannoo nyaata galaanaa irratti mala michuu fi odeeffannoo qabuun maamiltoota tajaajilaa tureera.
Girmaan dhukkuba ALS (Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis ykn Lou Gehrig’s disease) jedhamu kan baay’ee hin mul’anne fi jireenya namaa jijjiiru qabamee ture. ALS dhukkuba niwurooloojikaalaa kan niwuroonota sochii qaamaa miidhudha; motor neurons seelii narvii sammuu fi lafee dugdaatti sochii maashaalee fedhii isaaniitiin to’atanidha. Qorannoo kun Girmaan kana booda akka durii hojjetee maatii isaa guutuu hin danda’u jechuudha.
Kana booda hojii tola ooltummaa Giddugala Hawaasa Oromootiif graphic designer ta’ee itti fufuus ta’e fedhii suuraa isaa hordofuu hin danda’u jechuudha. Girmaan dandeettiin suuraa ka’uu isaa Maraatoonii Toroontoo Waterfront, Afrofest Toronto fi African Fashion Week Toronto irratti uwwisa isaa irratti mul’ateera.
Girmaan dhukkuba narviitiin wal’aanamaa ture. Haa ta’u malee yaalaan fayyuu hin dandeenye. Adoolessa 4,2024 addunyaa kanarraa boqote. Girmaan abbaa mucaa tokkoo ture; haadha warraa fi mucaa isaatiif jajjabina hawwina.
Namoota akka Hawwinee Alamayehutiif Girmaan gorsaa obbolummaa ture.”Sabboonaa, ogeessa cimaa, goota namaa, anaaf obboleessa gaarii ofii irraa si dhabuun gadda jabaa jechaa ol ta’edha.”
Girmaan nama guddaa karaa hedduun jabaa ture. Bu’aa ba’ii Girmaa Gamadaa hawaasa biratti akka gaariitti yaadatamu Tulluu Liiban ragaa ba’aniiru. “Waggoota kurnan 2 darban hojiiwwan kalaqaa isaatiin kaayyoo Oromoo beeksisuuf urjii ifaa ta’ee kan ture Girmaa Hordofaa Gemeda, yeroo malee Ameerikaa Kaabaa keessatti du’aan addunyaa kanarraa boqote, dhibee isaa irraa ni fayya jedhee abdate bira darbee Kan nama dhibu ilmi namaa gad of qabuu fi qulqulluun kun hin jiru.”
Dandeettii hojiiwwan isaa tolaan fedhiidhaan agarsiisaa tureera. Kana malees Girmaan meeshaalee maxxanfamuu danda’an kanneen akka T-Shirt, caps, banners, artifacts, logos etc. dizaayinii fi gulaaluu kooreegiraafii fi suuraa irrattis gumaacha godheera Girmaan Oromo keessatti taateewwan barbaachisoo ta’an hedduu galmeessee jira. Gumaacha gatii guddaa fi kutannoo umurii isaa guutuu ummata Oromoof kenneen dhabame.”
Girmaan har’a nu waliin hin jiru. Hojiin toleeyyummaa isaa bara baraan nu waliin jiraata. Namoonni akka Birhaanuu Olaanaa ogeessa Oromoo baay’ee of kenne ta’uu yaadatu.
“Girman ilma Oromoo cimaa ture. Ogeessota akkanaa yeroo barbaannu halkanii guyyaa nu gargaaraa akka ture ogeessa kaameeraa fi giraafiksii cimaa turee fi takkaa kaffaltii nu gaafatee hin beeku; kaffaltii tajaajila isaaf kaffalu.”
ግርማ ገመዳን እንዴት እናስታውሳለን?
ግርማ ገመዳ ተወልዶ ያደገው ኦሮሚያ ነው። በወጣትነቱ ግን የአገሩን ሰው ለማገልገል የፖለቲካ ሁኔታው አልፈቀደለትም። ኦሮሞን እና ኦሮምማንን የማስተዋወቅ ስሜቱ እና ፍላጎቱ ከሱ አልጠፋም። ይልቁንም ይህ የበጎ አድራጎት ፍላጎት ከአቶ ግርማ ጋር ሀገሩን ጥሎ የኦሮሞ በጎ ፈቃደኝነት ተምሳሌት ሆነ።
ግርማ ገመዳ፡ የኦሮሞ በጎ ፈቃደኝነት ተምሳሌት
በጎ ፈቃደኝነት ለህብረተሰቡ መልካም እያደረገ ነው። ይህ ባህል ማህበረሰቡንና ሀገርን የሚጠቅም ስራ መስራት ነው። ሁሉም ሰው ደግ የመሆን ችሎታ አለው; ነገር ግን ሁሉም ከራሱ ህልውና እና መተዳደሪያ አልፈው ለሌሎች ማህበረሰቦች ጥቅም አይሰራም። ነገር ግን በዚህ ስጦታ የተወለዱ ሰዎች እራሳቸውን መደበቅ አይችሉም. ይህን እድል ሲያገኙም ሕዝብን የሚያስተዋውቅና የሚያስተዋውቅ ተግባራትን ማከናወን ይጀምራሉ። ኦሮሞ እንደዚህ ነበረው እና በአጭር ጊዜ ውስጥ ያጣውን ህዝብ ግርማ ገመዳን ልንወስድ እንችላለን።
ግርማ ከኦሮምያ በፖለቲካ ምክንያት ተሰዶ በኬንያ ናይሮቢ በስደት ኖረ። ከዚያም በካናዳ ቶሮንቶ መኖር ጀመረ። ከዚያን ጊዜ ጀምሮ የኦሮሞን ችግር በማስታወቂያና በመረጃ ለመፍታት መስራት ጀመረ። በአጭር ጊዜ ውስጥ በተለያዩ መንገዶች የኦሮምኛ ዘፈኖችን በማስተዋወቅ የተለያዩ ፖስተሮችን ሠራ። ለበዓላትና ዝግጅቶች ማስታወቂያ በማዘጋጀት በህብረተሰቡ ዘንድ እንዲታወቅ አድርጓል።
ለተለያዩ የኦሮሞ ማኅበራት ማስታወቂያ ይሠራ ነበር። ብዙ ፖስተሮችን በማዘጋጀት ለዋቄፈና ማህበር እውቅና እና እድገት ከፍተኛ አስተዋፅዖ አድርጓል። የኢሬቻ በዓል በዓለም አቀፍ ደረጃ እንዲከበርና እንዲያድግ የበኩሉን አስተዋፅኦ ሲያደርግ ቆይቷል።
በሁሉም የኦሮሞ መዋቅሮች እንደ OMN፣ የስፖርት ማኅበራት እና የማህበረሰብ ግንባታ ላይ ተሳትፏል። እንደ ጃል ቡሬሶ ያሉ የኦሮሞ ታጋዮችን ታሪክ በኦሮሞ ህዝብ ዘንድ እንዲታወቅ እና ምኞታቸውን እንዲከተል መሰረታዊ ስራ ሰርቷል።
ጃዋር መሀመድ ግርማ ለኦኤምኤን ያበረከቱትን አስተዋፅዖ ከፍተኛ ቁርጠኝነት እንዳለው አስታውሷል። “የአቶ ግርማ ገመዳ ህልፈት መስማት በጣም አሳዛኝ ነው። እውነተኛ ጓደኛ እና ከራስ ወዳድነት ነፃ የሆነ የማህበረሰባችን አገልጋይ አጥተናል። ግርማ ከአስር አመት በላይ አብሬ የመስራት እድል ካገኘኋቸው በጣም ቁርጠኝነት እና ቋሚ ሰዎች አንዱ ነበር። እሱ ከመጀመሪያው ቀን ጀምሮ በሁሉም ውጣ ውረዶች ውስጥ ከእኛ ጋር ነበር። በሰላም ያርፍህ ወንድሜ። ለቤተሰቦቹ እና ለቶሮንቶ ማህበረሰብ ልባዊ ሀዘንን እመኛለሁ።”
ግርማ ከኦሮሚያ ከመጣ የዛሬ 20 ዓመት ገደማ በፊት ባሳየው የወዳጅነት እና መረጃ ሰጪ የባህር ምግብ ምርጫ ደንበኞችን ሲያገለግል ቆይቷል።
ግርማ በአልኤስ (Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis or Lou Gehrig’s disease) በተባለው ያልተለመደ እና ህይወትን የሚቀይር በሽታ ተያዘ። ALS የሞተር ነርቭ ሴሎችን የሚጎዳ የነርቭ በሽታ ነው; የሞተር ነርቮች በአዕምሮ ውስጥ እና በአከርካሪ አጥንት ውስጥ በፈቃደኝነት የሚደረጉ የጡንቻ እንቅስቃሴዎችን የሚቆጣጠሩ የነርቭ ሴሎች ናቸው. ይህ ምርመራ ግርማ እንደ አንድ ጊዜ ሰርቶ ቤተሰቡን ማሟላት አይችልም ማለት ነው።
ለኦሮሞ ኮሚኒቲ ሴንተር ግራፊክ ዲዛይነር ሆኖ የበጎ ፈቃድ ስራውን መቀጠል ወይም የፎቶግራፍ ፍላጎትን መከተል አይችልም ማለት ነው። ግርማ የፎቶግራፍ ችሎታው በቶሮንቶ የውሃ ፊት ለፊት ማራቶን፣ አፍሮፌስት ቶሮንቶ እና የአፍሪካ ፋሽን ሳምንት ቶሮንቶ ላይ ባቀረበው ዘገባ ላይ ታይቷል።
እንደ ሃዊኔ አለማየሁ ላሉት ሰዎች ግርማ ወንድማዊ አማካሪ ነበር:: “ሀገር ወዳድ፣ ጠንካራ ፕሮፌሽናል፣ ጀግና ሰው እኔ ከራሴ ጥሩ ወንድሜ ላጣህ ከቃላት በላይ ከባድ ሀዘን ነው።”
ግርማን በብዙ መልኩ ጠንካራ የነበረ ጎልማሳ ነበር። ቱሉ ሊባን በህብረተሰቡ ዘንድ በደንብ የሚታወሱትን የግርማ ገመዳን ስኬት መስክሯል። “ባለፉት 2 አስርት አመታት የኦሮሞን ጉዳይ በማስተዋወቅ አንፀባራቂ ኮከብ የነበሩት ግርማ ሆርዶፋ ገመዳ ያለጊዜው ርቀዋል።ነገር ግን ባለፉት ጥቂት ወራት የግርማ ጤና ሁኔታ ላይ ባይሆንም ጓደኞቹ፣ቤተሰቦቹ እና የኦሮሞ ማህበረሰብ በሰሜን አሜሪካ እና በቅርቡ ከህመሙ ይድናል ተብሎ ከሚጠበቀው በላይ ይህ ትሁት እና ንፁህ የሰው ልጅ በሰሜን አሜሪካ፣ በአውሮፓ እና በኦሮሞ ስነ-ጥበባት ላይ ለሚኖሩ ኦሮሞዎች ያለ እረፍት ምላሽ በመስጠት በጎ ተጽዕኖ አሳድሯል።
“የአቅም ስራዎቹን በነፃ ሲያቀርብ የቆየው የግርማ ዲዛይኖች ፣የዲጅታል አኒሜሽን ፣የሙዚቃ ኢንቶር እና የሽግግር ስራዎችን ቀርፆ ነው ለማለት አያስቸግርም። እንደ ቲሸርት፣ ኮፍያ፣ ባነሮች፣ ቅርሶች፣ ሎጎዎች ወዘተ.የኦሮሞ አርቲስቶችን የኮሪዮግራፊ እና የፎቶግራፍ ስራዎችን በመንደፍ እና በማስተካከል የበኩሉን አስተዋፅኦ አበርክቷል።”
“ግርማ በርካታ የኦሮሞ ወሳኝ ኩነቶችን በቪዲዮ እና በምስል ቀርጾ ዘግቧል። ለህብረተሰቡ የገንዘብ ማሰባሰቢያ ዝግጅቶችን፣ መድረኮችን ነድፎ በነጻ የጨረታ ዕቃዎችን አቅርቧል። መቀመጫውን በቶሮንቶ ካናዳ ያደረገው የእሱ Lega Xaafoo Studio ከግርማ ግላዊ ጥቅም ይልቅ ለማህበረሰብ አገልግሎት ይውላል ማለት ይቻላል። ግርማ በህይወት ዘመናቸው ለኦሮሞ ህዝብ ባበረከቱት የማይናቅ አስተዋጾ እና ቁርጠኝነት በእጅጉ ይናፍቃሉ።”
ግርማ በነርቭ በሽታ ታክሞ ነበር.፡፡ ይሁን እንጂ በሕክምና ሊድን አልቻለም. በሐምሌ 4, 2024 ከዚህ አለም በሞት ተለየ። ግርማ የአንድ ልጅ አባት ነበር; ለሚስቱ እና ለልጁ ከፍተኛ ሀዘን የተሰመን መሆኑን መግለጽ እንወዳለን፡፡
ግርማ ዛሬ ከእኛ ጋር የለም። የበጎ ፈቃድ ስራው ከእኛ ጋር ለዘላለም ይኖራል። እንደ ብርሃኑ ኦላና ያሉ ሰዎች እሱን የሚያስታውሱት በጣም ቁርጠኛ የኦሮሞ ፕሮፌሽናል መሆኑን ነው::”ግርማን ጠንካራ የኦሮሞ ልጅ ነበር::ጠንካራ የካሜራ ባለሙያ እና የግራፊክስ ባለሙያ ነበር፡፡ እንደዚህ አይነት ባለሙያዎችን ስንፈልግ ሌት ተቀን ይረዳን ነበር እና ፈጽሞ ክፍያ አልጠየቀንም:: ለአገልግሎቶቹ ክፍያ፡፡”
(A4O, 22 July 2023) Maryland County proclaimed the week of July 22nd- 29th, 2023 OROMO WEEK.
The Oromo Sports Federation of North America (OSFNA) Festival will be taking place at Montgomery Blair High School.
Welcome all to the neighborhood for OSFNA Festival of this year’s event in DMV area.
Advocacy for Oromia 