Category Archives: Media
The Five Guiding Principles of Oromia’s Development: A Blueprint for Transformation
How the Oromia Regional Government Is Building a Prosperous, Self-Reliant Future
By Daandii Ragabaa
The Oromia Regional Government has unveiled a comprehensive and ambitious development framework anchored in five core principles. Drawing on the region’s history, heritage, and current realities, the government aims to unify state, public, and private efforts to drive transformative change, ensure self-reliance, and secure prosperity for the Oromo people .
As President Shimelis Abdisa declared, the framework is designed to create a “foundation that enables the Oromo people to move forward in step with education, technology, and economic development” . Here is an overview of the five guiding principles shaping Oromia’s future.
1. Returning to Oromo Cultural Foundations
The first principle is a deliberate and powerful act of cultural reclamation. Rooting development in Oromo identity, ethics, solidarity, and social accountability means drawing strength from the past to build a purposeful future.
This commitment is already visible in practice. The regional government is actively pursuing cultural revival initiatives aimed at restoring traditional morning customs, ceremonies, and institutional practices . Festivals like Irreechaa, the Oromo thanksgiving celebration, have been revived and have grown in prominence. The Gadaa system continues to be a living example of indigenous governance and democratic participation, with its peaceful power transfer ceremonies being publicly recognised .
The revitalisation is not merely symbolic. Traditional Courts have been established to allow communities to seek justice according to their cultural norms. In 2018 alone, over 370 community conflict cases were successfully resolved through these structures . Major infrastructure projects like the Me’ee Bokkoo Cultural Center in Guji Zone further demonstrate this commitment .
2. Working Diligently and Accountably
This principle emphasises strategic execution. By systematically utilising time, resources, and opportunities, the government aims to deliver efficient, accountable, and results-oriented work. This approach moves from planning to implementation, and from implementation to tangible change.
The regional administration’s record reflects this focus. The plan targets cultivating 12.4 million hectares of farmland to produce over 379 million quintals of crops and expand dry-season irrigated wheat production on 4 million hectares . The government is also seeking to attract investors with a combined capital exceeding 200 billion Birr to create job opportunities for 1.7 million citizens . The administration has further planned to create permanent job opportunities for 2.7 million citizens .
3. Competitiveness in All Sectors
The third principle is a comprehensive call to action across the economy. By fostering productivity, innovation, and quality across agriculture, industry, investment, and services, Oromia aims to transform its resources into higher value, jobs, and income.
This is being pursued through an ambitious “Integrated Urban Development” master plan, concentrating on key urban centres like Shaggar, Bishoftu, and Adama, and establishing Special Economic Zones (SEZs) to drive growth . The Bishoftu area will be transformed into a major economic hub centred around the Gada Special Economic Zone (GSEZ) and a new USD 10 billion airport . A new land lease directive for flower farm investors is also part of this push, intended to improve the business environment and attract foreign direct investment .
4. Cleanliness and Good Governance
This principle focuses on the quality of governance and public service. Strengthening transparency, accountability, and efficiency in governance and finance ensures public trust and integrity. It also involves serving the public and building a corruption-free administrative structure.
The regional government’s restructuring of major cities is a direct example. The creation of new zonal and city administrations, such as the merger and upgrade of cities like Shashemene and Bishoftu, is intended to streamline service delivery and foster urban development . An “Early Childhood Development (ECD) Roadmap” has also been launched to strengthen integrated services for young children across the region, demonstrating a commitment to long-term human capital development .
5. Unity and Collaboration
The final principle underscores a unified approach. Bringing together government, people, private sector, financial institutions, investors, experts, and youth toward common goals is essential for building transformative growth. This is a collective national project.
The Biftu Oromiya Band, celebrating 30 years of promoting Oromo identity, has been a powerful force for cultural cohesion and unity . The ongoing national dialogue is also part of creating a shared vision for Ethiopia’s future . Initiatives like the Gada Special Economic Zone are designed with this collaborative model in mind, aiming to integrate diverse actors for shared success.
Conclusion: A Foundation for Generations
These five guiding principles represent a coherent and ambitious vision for Oromia. By uniting its cultural strength with disciplined execution, economic competitiveness, good governance, and collaborative spirit, the Oromia Regional Government is laying the groundwork for a prosperous, self-reliant, and dignified future for its people.
Injifannoon Ummata Oromoo!
Irreechaa 2026: A Sacred Call to Gratitude and Unity
Millions Prepare to Celebrate Africa’s Largest Thanksgiving Festival in Finfinne and Bishoftu
By Maatii Sabaa
In the heart of Oromia, a profound spiritual awakening is stirring. Millions of people are preparing to gather at sacred lakes and rivers to lift their hands in gratitude, to sing songs passed down through millennia, and to affirm a cultural identity that has survived centuries of challenge. Irreechaa 2026—the Oromo Thanksgiving—is approaching, and the call to commemorate this sacred occasion resonates across the globe.
As Girma Tokuma has expressed, there is a deep sense of obligation—a calling from Waaqa (God)—to join this celebration in Finfinne and Bishoftu from October 3 to October 4, 2026 . This is not merely a personal invitation; it is an invitation to all who share a sense of responsibility to honour the Creator, to celebrate life, and to stand in solidarity with one of the world’s most ancient thanksgiving traditions.
What Is Irreechaa?
Irreechaa, also known as Irreessa or Dhibaayyuu, is the annual thanksgiving festival of the Oromo people . Rooted in over 6,000 years of Cushitic civilization, it marks the end of the dark and rainy winter season and the joyous arrival of Birraa (spring) . It is a time when the Oromo people gather at sacred water bodies—lakes, rivers, and springs—to thank Waaqa for the blessings, mercies, and bountiful harvests received over the previous twelve months .
The festival is intimately connected to the Gadaa system, the traditional Oromo governance structure recognised by UNESCO as an Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity . As the elders teach, Irreechaa is simply “giving thanks to the one God”—the pinnacle of Oromo religious and cultural expression . It is a day of peace, reconciliation, love, and unity .
The Two Sacred Sites
This year’s celebration will unfold over two days across two of the Oromo people’s most sacred locations :
October 3: Hora Finfinne
The celebration begins at Hora Finfinne, in the heart of the capital city . This location carries profound historical weight. For decades, under oppressive regimes, public celebrations of Irreechaa were banned, and the Oromo people were denied the right to give thanks at their own sacred sites . Celebrating Irreechaa here is not just a cultural act; it is a powerful reclamation of space, identity, and dignity.
October 4: Hora Arsadi in Bishoftu
The grand celebration moves to Hora Arsadi in the city of Bishoftu, approximately 45 kilometres south of Finfinne . This is the site of the main event—a gathering so vast that it is recognised as one of the largest annual human gatherings on the African continent . Millions of participants, dressed in a vibrant sea of traditional white and green, move with purpose and joy towards the water .
The Rituals of Renewal
The Irreechaa ceremony is rich with symbolism :
- Fresh grass and flowers: Participants carry freshly cut green grass and flowers—symbols of fertility, life, and renewal .
- Water immersion: They dip these offerings in the sacred water and sprinkle themselves, a symbolic act of cleansing, purification, and the washing away of hardship .
- Traditional songs: The air echoes with sirba (traditional songs), their melodies passed down from elders to the youth, ensuring the continuity of a living heritage .
- Blessings: Kormoomsaa (youth) move through the crowd, sprinkling people with fresh water as a gesture of cleansing and blessing .
More Than a Festival: A Symbol of Unity and Resilience
Irreechaa is often described as the “most celebrated cultural festival in Africa” . Its core principles are peace, unity, love, and reconciliation. As the festival teaches, holding onto resentment or grievance is not permitted at Irreechaa . A person cannot attend unless they have resolved their disputes with others—a profound reminder that one cannot give thanks while holding a grudge.
The Prime Minister of Ethiopia, Abiy Ahmed, has extended well wishes to the nation on the occasion of Irreechaa, highlighting the Oromo philosophy of water as the source of purity and the foundation of creation and life . He has also noted the added significance of this year’s celebration, as it follows Ethiopia’s inauguration of the Great Ethiopian Renaissance Dam (GERD) .
A Call to All Who Share This Responsibility
As Girma Tokuma has declared, there is a deep sense of obligation to commemorate Irreechaa alongside millions in Oromia. This invitation extends to all who feel the call—to join in giving thanks, to witness the beauty of Oromo culture, and to stand in solidarity with a people who have preserved their traditions against all odds.
Irreechaa 2026 is not just a date on the calendar. It is a celebration of life, a declaration of identity, and a prayer for peace. It is a testament to the resilience of a people who have carried their culture across millennia, and it is an invitation to the world to witness the beauty of gratitude in its most vibrant form.
A Constructive Journey of Nation-Building: “No Way Back”
How Oromia’s Universities Are Embracing Afan Oromo and Redefining Institutional Identity
By Daandii Ragabaa
Across the landscape of Oromia, a quiet but profound transformation is taking place. University gates and official logos are telling a new story—one of recognition, belonging, and cultural confidence. The growing visibility of Afan Oromo in higher education institutions is not merely a matter of signs or symbols. It is a statement of identity, a commitment to inclusivity, and a bold step in the journey of constructive nation-building.
As one observer aptly noted, “There is no way back.”
A Movement Gains Momentum
The journey began with universities displaying Afan Oromo prominently at their main gates. Ambo University is widely recognised as one of the first to take this step, setting a precedent that others would soon follow.
Oromia State University included Afan Oromo in its institutional identity from its inception, reflecting its mandate and its deep connection to the community it serves.
The movement soon progressed beyond university gates. Salale University was the first to incorporate Afan Oromo into its official logo, paving the way for others to follow. Haramaya University then marked a turning point by placing Afan Oromo prominently at the top of its institutional identity. Other institutions—Jimma University, Wallaga University, Mattu University, and Dambi Dollo University—soon joined the movement. Ambo University, despite starting the journey early, later formalised its commitment with a new logo. Bule Hora University, Borana University, and Madda Walabu University also embraced the change.
Now, Arsi University has joined at a particularly important moment. Its decision carries strong symbolic weight: despite changing circumstances, the momentum continues—a clear message that there is no turning back.
A Constructive, Not Political, Act
This movement should not be misconstrued as a political statement. It is, at its core, a constructive act of nation-building.
Universities are federal institutions within the national higher education system. But they are also geographically and socially rooted in the communities where they are located. Recognising the language and culture of those communities does not conflict with treating all students and members of the academic community equally.
The Addis Ababa Education Bureau provides a useful example: it works effectively in both Amharic and Afan Oromo. Linguistic recognition and institutional inclusiveness can coexist. Respecting one community’s language does not require disrespecting another’s.
The Role of University Leadership
The growing visibility of Afan Oromo in universities is a testament to the courage and vision of university presidents and their teams. These leaders have taken bold steps in a direction that affirms the identity of their institutions and the communities they serve.
Some of these courageous leaders have since moved on to other responsibilities, but their contributions remain—etched into the logos, the gates, and the institutional memory of the universities they helped transform.
Looking Ahead: Completing the Journey
While the movement has been embraced by many universities, a few have yet to make the change. Among them are Adama Science and Technology University (ASTU_Official) , Salale University, and Oda Bultum University. There is hope that they too will complete this journey, with Salale University formally completing the process it helped to initiate.
As the observer noted: “I hope they too will complete this journey.”
Conclusion: More Than Signs and Logos
The growing visibility of Afan Oromo in Oromia’s universities is more than a matter of signs or logos. It represents recognition, belonging, cultural confidence, and constructive nation-building. It is a declaration that the language of the Oromo people has a place in the highest halls of learning—and that the university is a space where all identities are welcomed and valued.
Injifannoon Ummata Oromoo!
Afaan Oromo haa jabaatu!
This feature article is dedicated to the university presidents and their teams who have taken courageous steps to affirm the identity and language of the communities they serve.
The Founding Edition Is Now Live: From Migrant to Movement Builder
Discover the Vision Behind Australia’s First Empowerment-Focused Pageant Movement
By Dhabessa Wakjira
The Founding Edition of The Multicultural Magazine™ is now live, and it features a story that is as inspiring as it is transformative. In a world where women are often searching for confidence, connection, and purpose, one woman’s journey from migrant to movement builder is lighting the way for countless others.
Lee Plowman, the founder of Miss Multicultural NT and creator of the C.R.O.W.N. Method™, is redefining what a pageant can be.
A Vision Born from Personal Experience
When women migrate to a new country, they often leave behind more than family and friends. Many experience a profound loss of identity, confidence, and certainty about who they are becoming. Lee Plowman understands that journey personally. After migrating from the Philippines to Australia, she faced the challenges of rebuilding her identity in a new land.
Through years of advocacy and community leadership, including her work with the Australian Red Cross Connected Women program, Lee met countless women who shared similar struggles. She recognised a critical gap: many women were not lacking potential; they were lacking a pathway.
That insight became the foundation of Miss Multicultural Australia™ —a movement designed to help women reconnect with who they are while providing clarity, structure, and direction for who they are becoming.
The C.R.O.W.N. Method™: A Framework for Empowerment
At the heart of the movement is the proprietary C.R.O.W.N. Method™, a structured empowerment framework developed by Lee Plowman. The method guides women through a journey of self-awareness, confidence-building, leadership development, and purposeful action.
Every workshop, training session, and community activity within the movement is intentionally curated to create impact from the inside out. As Lee explains: “Miss Multicultural Australia™ was never created to be just another pageant. It was created as a movement for empowerment. We believe women deserve more than a title. They deserve opportunities to develop confidence, leadership skills, cultural pride, and the belief that their voice matters.”
Building Social Cohesion Through Pageantry
Australia is one of the most culturally diverse nations on earth, yet migrants often report feeling invisible or stereotyped. Lee Plowman is turning that legacy on its head. Her pageant actively encourages women to showcase their cultural heritage through traditional dress, food, music, and storytelling, educating audiences and building bridges between communities.
Community engagement is a core requirement for participants. Each woman undertakes a community service project that addresses a need in her local area—from multicultural food drives to mentoring programs for newly arrived refugee women. By pairing personal development with community action, the pageant creates a ripple effect that extends far beyond the individual contestant.
Lee Plowman has also been recognised by the Women Economic Forum Australia as an Empowerment Coach, and her work aligns with the forum’s mission to empower women economically and socially, particularly those from marginalised backgrounds.
A National Vision with Local Roots
Although still in its early stages, the momentum is building. Lee Plowman plans to expand the pageant to other states and territories, creating a network of regional pageants that feed into a national event. Each regional pageant will be tailored to the specific cultural demographics and community needs of that area.
The first Miss Multicultural NT 2025 titleholder, Sarah Madinah, an Indonesian-Australian woman, represents the beginning of this vision in action. Her crowning marked the start of a movement dedicated to empowering women from all cultural backgrounds to embrace their identity, strengthen their confidence, and become active contributors within their communities.
How You Can Be Part of the Movement
For women who feel the pull to step into their own power, Miss Multicultural Australia offers a structured, supportive pathway. There are no height or weight requirements, and the age limit for this empowerment pageant is 18 to 45 years old. The program is designed for Australian residents who identify with a multicultural background and are committed to personal development and community impact.
Applications for Miss Multicultural NT 2026 are now open, with another opportunity in early 2027.
Because Every Story Deserves to Be Seen
The Multicultural Magazine™ celebrates culture, confidence, community, leadership, and impact through stories that inspire. The Founding Edition is now available to read at www.multiculturalmagazine.com/founders-edition-2026.
✨ Applications are also open for future features—for Women of Influence, Community Leaders, Cultural Ambassadors, Business Founders, Titleholders, and Changemakers.
📩 Interested in being featured? We’d love to hear your story. Because every story deserves to be seen.
Read the full feature now:
👉 www.multiculturalmagazine.com/founders-edition-2026
This feature article is part of The Multicultural Magazine’s coverage of inspiring stories that strengthen belonging, connection, and social cohesion.
Arsi University Updates Logo, Puts Afaan Oromo First
A Historic Step for Linguistic Recognition in Higher Education
By Daandii Ragabaa
In a significant move for linguistic inclusivity and cultural recognition, Arsi University has announced an update to its institutional logo, placing Afaan Oromo first in the order of languages displayed on the emblem. The announcement, made on 23 August, marks an important milestone in the recognition of the Oromo language within Ethiopia’s higher education system.
The New Design
The university has made what it describes as “slight modifications” to its former logo, with the revised design featuring a new language order: Afaan Oromo first, Amharic second, and English third.
The university has also corrected the Afaan Oromo inscription from “Yunivarsitii Arsii” to “Yuunivarsitii Arsii,” ensuring linguistic accuracy in the representation of the language .
The announcement instructed all stakeholders to “recognize and use the new logo in accordance with the captions order stated above.”
A Growing Movement for Afaan Oromo Recognition
The decision by Arsi University aligns with a broader movement within Oromia to promote and preserve the Afaan Oromo language in academic and public life. The University has previously demonstrated its commitment to Afaan Oromo through collaborative initiatives, including a Memorandum of Understanding with Wachemo University aimed at preserving and digitising the rich cultural heritage of the Afaan Oromo language .
This latest move represents a tangible step toward normalising the use of Afaan Oromo in official and institutional contexts, affirming the language’s status as a medium of higher education and institutional identity.
The Role of Language in Cultural Identity
For the Oromo people, Afaan Oromo is more than a means of communication—it is a vessel of history, culture, and identity. The prioritisation of Afaan Oromo on an institutional logo is a symbolic but powerful recognition of the Oromo people’s right to see their language reflected in spaces of knowledge and governance.
The decision also carries practical implications for students and staff who use Afaan Oromo as their primary language. It signals that their linguistic identity is valued and respected within the institution. This is particularly significant given the historical marginalisation of Afaan Oromo in education and public life.
The efforts to preserve and digitise Afaan Oromo language resources, including through university partnerships, have helped strengthen its role in academic and public life .
The University’s Visual Identity
The updated emblem retains the university’s core visual elements, including the agricultural sheaves, gears, triangular structure, globe and open book. These elements symbolise the university’s commitment to education, innovation, and community development, while the new language placement underscores its commitment to linguistic inclusivity.
Located in Assela, the capital of the Arsi Zone in the Oromia Regional State, Arsi University serves students from across the region. The university also operates extended campuses in different parts of the zone, further expanding its reach and impact.
A Broader Conversation
The update follows the growing importance of Afaan Oromo in academic and official contexts . Research has highlighted the significance of mother-tongue instruction in educational settings, noting that students benefit from learning in their first language. The perception of mother-tongue use in educational contexts has been shown to positively influence learning outcomes .
Arsi University’s logo update joins a broader conversation about language recognition in Ethiopia, where the federal constitution recognises the equality of all languages but where Amharic has historically dominated official and educational contexts. Other institutions and public bodies may follow suit, reflecting the changing linguistic landscape of the country. While the logo change is primarily symbolic, it represents a tangible step towards normalising the use of Afaan Oromo in institutional settings.
Conclusion
Arsi University’s decision to place Afaan Oromo first on its logo is a significant step for the recognition of the Oromo language. It affirms the identity of Oromo students and staff, sets a precedent for other institutions, and demonstrates the ongoing vitality of Afaan Oromo in higher education.
A Life Measured by Service: Remembering Dr. Ephraim Mamo
In an age that measures success by wealth and status, one man’s legacy is defined by humility, sacrifice, and the quiet act of giving.
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The two benches sit unassuming in a modest home in Dambii Dolloo. They are rough-hewn, practical, and utterly unremarkable to the casual observer. But to the family of Dr. Ephraim Mamo, these simple wooden planks—placed together to form a bed in his parents’ home—tell the story of a man who measured his worth not in possessions, but in people.
On August 25, 2026, as the world continues its relentless spin, those who knew Dr. Ephraim gather in memory of a life that touched countless others. His daughter, Metahara Ephraim Mamo, speaking on behalf of the family, offered a reflection that transcends grief, celebrating instead a life of profound purpose and quiet dignity.
A Man of Principle in a World of Pretense
Dr. Ephraim Mamo was many things to many people. To his family, he was a pillar of strength and a wellspring of love. To his students and colleagues at Haramaya University, he was a mentor, a scientist, and a friend. To his community, he was a humble servant whose compassion knew no bounds.
Those who knew him best recall a man who never sought the spotlight. He achieved significant professional success as a scientist and academic, yet he never allowed accolades to inflate his ego. His greatest joy came not from publications or promotions, but from the quiet satisfaction of helping others—even when it required personal sacrifice.
The simplicity of his life serves as a powerful counter-narrative to a world obsessed with accumulation. In a society where status is often measured by material wealth, Dr. Ephraim chose a different path. He valued service over comfort, principles over profit, and relationships over riches.
A Legacy of Generosity
“His greatest joy came from helping others and giving, even when it required personal sacrifice,” Metahara reflects. This generosity was not performative; it was woven into the fabric of his daily existence. Whether mentoring a struggling student, offering counsel to a colleague, or extending kindness to a stranger, Dr. Ephraim embodied the belief that true success lies in what we give away.
His colleagues and friends at Haramaya University remember a man who was always approachable, always willing to listen, and always ready to extend a helping hand. In a world that often rewards ambition at the expense of humanity, Dr. Ephraim remained steadfast in his commitment to compassion.
The Global Embrace of Grief and Gratitude
The outpouring of love following Dr. Ephraim’s passing speaks volumes about the life he lived. Relatives, friends, colleagues, and neighbors—both near and far—rallied around the family with prayers, messages, and condolences. Haramaya University’s staff and colleagues stood in solidarity, honoring a man who had given so much to their institution.
Metahara expressed profound gratitude to Abdi Mekonen and Meti Midekssaa, whose kindness and support during this difficult time exemplified the community spirit that Dr. Ephraim himself cultivated. Special acknowledgment was also extended to those who traveled great distances to be present, and to those who, though physically absent, reached out through social media, phone calls, and messages.
“Though you were not here physically, we felt your love and support,” Metahara writes, capturing the profound truth that grief, when shared, transforms into something bearable—even beautiful.
Faith as Foundation
At the heart of Dr. Ephraim’s life was an unshakeable faith. Metahara begins her reflection with gratitude to her Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ, who she says “was gracious and faithful to our father throughout his life.” This spiritual grounding anchored Dr. Ephraim through life’s triumphs and trials, shaping his character and informing his values.
In times of sorrow, faith offers not easy answers, but a sustaining presence. It reminds mourners that life is more than its final chapter, and that love outlasts the grave.
A Life That Endures
Though the family’s hearts are heavy, they find solace in gratitude. They thank God for the privilege of knowing and loving their father, and they extend their deepest appreciation to everyone who stood with them in their time of grief.
Dr. Ephraim Mamo’s life is a testament to the enduring power of humility, generosity, and service. In a world hungry for heroes, perhaps the most heroic act is to live quietly, love deeply, and leave the world better than you found it.
As the two benches in Dambii Dolloo remain, they are no longer just pieces of furniture. They are sacred relics—reminders that a man once slept there, dreaming not of gold or glory, but of a world made kinder by his presence.
And in that, Dr. Ephraim Mamo found his eternal success.
Slaughter in the Shadows: The Unfolding Horror in East Wollega
As the world looks elsewhere, Ethiopian civilians are being burned alive, and a desperate plea for help rises from the ashes.
In the quiet villages of Ethiopia’s Oromia region, a summer of horror is drawing to a close. While global attention remains fixed on other crises, the International Oromo Women’s Organization (IOWO) has released a desperate appeal documenting an escalating campaign of violence that has turned the East Wollega Zone into a graveyard of professional promise and a testament to human cruelty .
The reports paint a picture of systematic terror allegedly perpetrated by Amhara Fano armed groups. Beginning in July and intensifying throughout August 2026, the violence has centered on the Gida Ayana Woreda—including the communities of Andode Dichoo, Angar Gute, and Tullu Lenca—as well as Kiramu and Horro Guduru. The testimonies describe not merely a conflict, but a targeted attempt to dismantle the very fabric of civilian life.
A Targeting of Hope
What distinguishes these atrocities is the chilling precision of the attacks. Among the dead are not just anonymous civilians, but the very pillars of the community. On August 19, the violence claimed Mr. Lamessa Mangistu, the branch manager of Awash Bank in Gida Ayana, and Mr. Mamush Maru, a banker at the Oromia Cooperative Bank. Their crime? Providing essential financial services to their community .
In Angar Gute, armed men reportedly burned Sister Liktu Amanu, a midwifery and nursing professional, while she was carrying out emergency duties. Just days earlier, 65-year-old Amanu Hirpha Bidu was reportedly burned alive inside an active ambulance during a patient transfer—a blatant violation of the fundamental protections afforded to medical transport under international humanitarian law . The attack on Mr. Olika Sagni, a local teacher, represents another devastating blow, stripping the community of its educators and the promise of future generations.
“We as mothers and sisters, cannot stand the endless brutal actions against civilian human beings,” writes Dinknesh D. Kitila, IOWO’s Board Director, in the appeal . Their plea is directed at the UN Security Council, the Human Rights Council, the U.S. Secretary of State, the EU, and governments worldwide: act before more innocent lives are extinguished.
Scorched Earth and Silence
The destruction is not limited to lives. The IOWO report details widespread arson targeting public offices, private homes, and transport vehicles, displacing families and paralyzing local economies. The group has released harrowing images of vehicles and property consumed by flames, emphasizing that the campaign is as much about erasing community infrastructure as it is about inflicting casualties. The targeted destruction of the Angar Gute area, including a special attack on Tullu Lenca, points to an attempt to force a demographic change or to punish communities for their identity .
This violence is part of a broader pattern of instability in Ethiopia. Travel advisories from various embassies currently designate East Wollega as a “red” or “extremely high-risk” area, warning citizens to avoid the region due to the presence of armed groups and the risk of attacks on civilians . The international community, while aware, has often been slow to act as the crisis deepens.
The World’s Response
The IOWO appeal calls for two immediate actions: emergency civilian protection for vulnerable populations in the affected woredas, and accountability for the perpetrators of these unlawful killings.
As the appeal letter was signed on August 24, the silence from the international community remains deafening. The documented cases of targeted killings of professionals, the use of ambulances as instruments of death, and the burning of entire communities demand more than a passing glance.
The mothers and sisters of East Wollega are not asking for charity; they are demanding the basic right to live. The charred remains of a midwife’s ambulance and the empty desks of murdered teachers are a stain on the conscience of humanity, a stark reminder that the cost of inaction is always counted in lives.
The World Looks Away: Western Oromia’s Cry for Justice
As violence escalates in Western Oromia, a leading advocacy group warns that silence is complicity and calls for urgent international intervention.
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Melbourne – August 22, 2026 – The Advocacy for Oromia (A4O) has issued a stark warning that the escalating violence against civilians in Western Oromia (Wallagga) has reached an alarming level, demanding immediate action to protect vulnerable communities. In a powerful statement released today, the organization condemned the intensifying attacks that have reportedly displaced families, claimed lives, and created a pervasive climate of fear across the region.
The violence, concentrated in the Giddaa Ayyaanaa and Angar Guutee areas, has targeted civilians in their homes and while traveling, according to local accounts. Families are being forcibly displaced, their lives upended by a campaign of terror that shows no sign of abating.
A Crisis of Complicity
While many attacks have been attributed to the Fano armed group, A4O has expressed grave concern over allegations implicating state actors. The organization has accused the Ethiopian government of failing to adequately protect affected communities, a failure that demands independent and transparent investigations.
“Western Oromia is a region of profound political and social significance, and this continued violence threatens not only the immediate security of residents but also the broader stability of the region,” an A4O spokesperson stated. “The resulting displacement and destruction have severe humanitarian consequences that require an urgent global response.”
The government’s apparent inaction raises difficult questions about accountability and the protection of civilians. A4O insists that these serious allegations necessitate thorough investigations to establish facts, ensure accountability, and bring perpetrators of abuses to justice.
A Call to Break the Silence
In response to the unfolding crisis, A4O has issued a Call to Action, urging community members, advocates, civil society organizations, faith leaders, youth, women, and the diaspora to break their silence. The organization insists that “silence is not an option” in the face of such suffering.
The call outlines several key priorities:
· Strengthened advocacy and documentation of human rights violations to ensure that the world bears witness to the atrocities.
· Immediate humanitarian assistance for displaced families, whose basic needs remain unmet.
· Local, national, and international awareness campaigns to shine a spotlight on the crisis.
· Unity and collective action to amplify victims’ voices and advance justice.
A4O is also calling on international institutions, humanitarian organizations, and global human rights bodies to closely monitor the situation in Western Oromia and take concrete steps to prevent further atrocities.
The Cost of Inaction
The human toll of the violence is immeasurable. Families torn apart, communities shattered, and lives cut short—all while the international community remains largely silent. The displacement and destruction have severe humanitarian consequences, yet the global response has been insufficient.
A4O’s statement is a desperate plea to the world: “We must not remain silent. The lives, dignity, and security of innocent civilians depend on immediate attention and action. We stand in solidarity with all victims of violence and their families and demand lasting peace, justice, and respect for human rights in the region.”
A Call to Remember
As the violence continues to escalate, the world faces a choice: to act or to look away. A4O’s message is clear—silence is complicity, and inaction is a choice to abandon innocent lives.
The organization’s commitment to amplifying the voices of the Oromo people and advocating for peaceful solutions is a reminder that even in the darkest times, hope persists. But hope alone is not enough. It requires action, solidarity, and a collective demand for justice.
The people of Western Oromia are not merely statistics; they are mothers, fathers, children, and communities whose lives hang in the balance. Their cries for help must not go unanswered.
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For more information, contact Advocacy for Oromia (A4O), a civil society organization dedicated to promoting human rights, justice, and democratic governance for the people of Oromia.
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We Must Not Remain Silent: The Unfolding Horror in Western Oromia
As violence escalates and thousands are displaced, the Oromo Sisterhood Institute issues a desperate plea: silence is complicity, and action cannot wait.
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In the quiet villages of Western Oromia, a crisis of staggering proportions has been unfolding for years. But in recent weeks, the violence has reached a terrifying crescendo. The Oromo Sisterhood Institute (OSI) has issued an urgent condemnation of the escalating attacks against civilians in the Wallagga region—a humanitarian catastrophe that has displaced thousands, claimed countless lives, and left communities living in a state of paralyzing fear.
The areas of Giddaa Ayyaanaa and Angar Guutee have borne the brunt of the violence. According to local reports, families have been forced to flee their homes, leaving behind everything they have ever known. Civilians have reportedly been killed while simply traveling, while others have been murdered in their own homes—a brutal reminder that no place is safe.
The Oromo Sisterhood Institute, a leading voice for women’s rights and community protection, is sounding the alarm: the international community cannot afford to look away.
A Crisis of Accountability
While many attacks have been attributed to the Fano armed group, serious concerns have also been raised regarding the role of state actors and the Ethiopian government’s failure to adequately protect affected communities. The government’s apparent inaction raises deeply troubling questions about the protection of civilians and the rule of law.
OSI insists that these serious allegations warrant independent investigations to establish the facts, ensure accountability, and bring those responsible for abuses against civilians to justice.
“Western Oromia is widely recognized as an area of significant political and social importance,” the Institute states. “The continued violence threatens not only the security and well-being of local residents but also the stability of the broader region.”
The ongoing displacement of civilians and destruction of communities have both immediate and long-term humanitarian consequences. Families are being torn apart, children are being denied their futures, and an entire region is being pushed to the brink.
A Call to Action: Silence Is Not an Option
In the face of such unimaginable suffering, the Oromo Sisterhood Institute is issuing a powerful call to action. The message is clear and uncompromising: silence is not an option.
“We urge community members, advocates, civil society organizations, faith leaders, youth, women, and members of the diaspora to stand up for civilian protection, speak out against human rights violations, and support affected families and communities.”
The Institute is calling for:
· Strengthened advocacy and documentation of human rights violations through credible channels.
· Immediate humanitarian assistance for displaced families, whose basic needs remain unmet.
· Local, national, and international awareness campaigns to shine a spotlight on this unfolding tragedy.
· Unity and collective action to amplify the voices of victims, advance accountability, and contribute to the pursuit of justice and lasting peace.
Every Community Deserves Safety
The Oromo Sisterhood Institute’s message is rooted in a fundamental belief: every community has the right to live in safety, dignity, and freedom from violence. This is not a partisan issue; it is a human issue.
The Institute is calling upon international institutions, humanitarian organizations, and global human rights bodies to closely monitor the situation in Western Oromia and take meaningful action to ensure the protection of civilians and the prevention of further atrocities.
“We stand in solidarity with all victims of violence and their families,” OSI declares. “We call for an immediate end to attacks against civilians, independent and transparent investigations into reported abuses, humanitarian assistance for affected communities, and concrete measures to ensure lasting peace, justice, accountability, and respect for human rights in the region.”
The Cost of Inaction
As the violence continues to escalate, the world faces a choice: to act or to remain silent. The Oromo Sisterhood Institute has made its position unequivocally clear.
“We must not remain silent,” the statement concludes. “The lives, dignity, and security of innocent civilians depend on immediate attention and action.”
The people of Western Oromia are not just statistics; they are mothers, fathers, children, and communities whose lives hang in the balance. Their cries for help must not go unanswered. The time for action is now—before more lives are lost, more families are displaced, and more communities are destroyed.
The Oromo Sisterhood Institute calls upon the international community, human rights organizations, policymakers, and members of the diaspora to recognize the seriousness of the situation and to support efforts aimed at protecting civilians, preventing further displacement, and promoting accountability for human rights violations.
The world must not remain silent. The time to act is now.
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The Oromo Sisterhood Institute (OSI) is a civil society organization dedicated to promoting the rights, dignity, and well-being of Oromo women and communities. Through advocacy, awareness, and collective action, OSI works to amplify the voices of the marginalized and advance justice and lasting peace.
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Gaammee: Oromo Youth Celebrate Ifaanoo 6420 with Joy and Splendour
A Festival of Light, Renewal, and Cultural Pride
By Maatii Sabaa
In a dazzling display of cultural pride and spiritual devotion, the Oromo youth—the Gaammee generation—have celebrated the sacred festival of Ifaanoo for the year 6420 with warmth, beauty, and unwavering commitment to their heritage. The celebration, held in the historic Galma Amantaa Waaqeffannaa Duudhaa Ganamaa Walisoo Liiban, was a powerful affirmation of Oromo identity and cultural continuity.
The Ifaanoo festival, which marks the transition from the dark winter season to the bright spring season, is one of the most significant celebrations in the Oromo calendar. This year’s celebration was particularly meaningful, as it coincided with the Oromo New Year 6420—a milestone that reflects the ancient roots of Oromo civilization and its enduring traditions.
The Significance of Ifaanoo
Ifaanoo is a sacred festival of light and renewal. The word ifaa in Afaan Oromoo means “light,” and the festival embodies the dispelling of darkness—both literal and metaphorical. Just as the dawn breaks after a long night, Ifaanoo represents the triumph of hope over despair, of unity over division, of life over hardship.
The lighting of the Mijirii bonfire is the centrepiece of the celebration. The bonfire is not merely a source of warmth; it is a symbol of the sun’s return, the rebirth of the earth, and the renewal of the community’s covenant with Waaqa (God). As the flames rise, participants offer prayers of gratitude for the blessings of the past year and petitions for peace, prosperity, and unity in the year ahead.
The Gaammee Generation: Carriers of the Flame
The Gaammee youth played a central role in the Ifaanoo 6420 celebration. As the generation that will inherit the responsibilities of leadership and cultural preservation, the Gaammee youth demonstrated their commitment to the values and traditions of their ancestors.
The celebration featured traditional songs, dances, and rituals that have been passed down through generations. The youth, dressed in their finest traditional attire, participated with joy and reverence, embodying the spirit of cultural continuity that has sustained the Oromo people for millennia.
A Declaration of Peace and Unity
The Ifaanoo 6420 celebration was also a declaration of peace and unity. As the community gathered to celebrate, they reaffirmed their commitment to the values that have sustained the Oromo people through centuries of challenge: solidarity, resilience, and mutual respect.
The elders, known as Abbootii Gadaa and Haadholii Siinqee, led the prayers and offered blessings for the coming year. They shared the wisdom of the ancestors, reminding the younger generation of their responsibilities to their community and their culture.
The celebration was also a reaffirmation of the Gadaa system, the traditional Oromo governance structure recognised by UNESCO as an Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity. Through the rituals and ceremonies of Ifaanoo, the community honoured the principles of the Gadaa system: democracy, accountability, and the peaceful transfer of power.
A Celebration of Oromo Identity
The Ifaanoo 6420 celebration was a powerful expression of Oromo identity. It was a reminder that the Oromo people have a rich cultural heritage that predates modern empires and nation-states—a heritage that continues to flourish despite centuries of oppression and marginalisation.
The celebration was also a declaration of hope. As the Oromo people look to the future, they draw strength from their traditions, their community, and their faith. The Ifaanoo festival is a testament to their resilience and their determination to build a future of peace, prosperity, and dignity.
Conclusion
The celebration of Ifaanoo 6420 by the Gaammee generation was a moment of profound significance for the Oromo people. It was a celebration of light and renewal, a reaffirmation of cultural identity, and a declaration of hope for the future.
As the flames of the Mijirii bonfire rose toward the heavens, they illuminated not only the faces of the gathered community but also the path forward—a path guided by the values of peace, unity, and cultural pride.
Ifaanoo 6420 haa jabaattu!
Gaammeen Oromoo haa jabaattu!
Injifannoon Ummata Oromoo!
This feature article is dedicated to the Gaammee generation and all those who work to preserve and promote Oromo culture and identity.
Advocacy for Oromia 