ADDIS ABABA– The Ethiopian Heritage Authority (EHA) is working tirelessly to secure international recognition for the Wolayeta community’s New Year, Gifaataa, as an intangible cultural heritage by the United Nations Educational, Scientific, and Cultural Organization (UNESCO).
In a recent statement, EHA representative Getachew Arebera highlighted the collaborative efforts of the Wolayeta University, Wolayeta Zone Culture and Tourism Department, Wolayeta Zone Administration, and the former Southern Nations, Nationalities, and Peoples Region (SNNPR) Culture and Tourism Bureau to elevate Gifaataa to international status.
Since Ethiopia’s first intangible cultural heritage registration in 2013, the country has successfully listed five such heritages. EHA has now submitted a comprehensive proposal for Gifaataa, which involves a detailed evaluation of the festival’s cultural significance and adherence to UNESCO’s criteria. “In this regard, the necessary application documents were prepared and submitted to the organization seven months ago,”Getachew added.
The rating and identification process for Gifaataa is currently underway, and EHA is closely overseeing the steps to ensure its successful registration. If recognized by UNESCO, Gifaataa would not only enhance Ethiopia’s cultural heritage portfolio but also contribute to the global recognition of the Wolayeta community and the country as a whole.
Getachew urged all stakeholders to actively participate in preserving, promoting, and transmitting Gifaataa to future generations. By seeking UNESCO recognition, the EHA and the Wolayeta community are demonstrating their commitment to safeguarding their cultural heritage and sharing it with the world.
Gifaataais a significant cultural celebration marking the New Year for the Wolayeta people, an ethnic group primarily residing in the South Ethiopia State. The festival is steeped in rich traditions, rituals, and symbolic activities that reflect the unique cultural heritage of the Wolayeta community.
BY MESERET BEHAILU
THE ETHIOPIAN HERALD TUESDAY 24 SEPTEMBER 2024
