ADDIS ABABA –The Addis Ababa Art, Culture, and Tourism Bureau has called on all relevant stakeholders to safeguard Ethiopian culture and values during the upcoming Meskel and Irreechaa celebrations.
The Bureau kicked off the Meskel Symposium yesterday under the theme “Calling the world in its harmonious light; Meskel is the foundation of our unity.” During the event, Haftay Gebre-Egziabher, Head of the Tourism Department at the Bureau, emphasized the cultural significance of Meskel, one of Ethiopia’s 13 heritages registered under UNESCO as an intangible cultural asset.
According to Haftay, the traditional Demera (bonfire) and the celebration of Meskel, alongside the Oromo people’s Irreechaa festival, continue to uphold Ethiopian culture and values. These celebrations play a vital role in heritage protection and enhancing the public’s awareness of the importance of cultural preservation.
The head further explained that the celebration of Meskel not only promotes unity, love, and understanding among humanity but also serves as a platform for tourism development, enhancing Ethiopia’s global image and contributing to its economic growth. However, he stressed the urgency of preventing cultural invasion, as heritage is a key source of identity and uniqueness. Haftay urged all concerned bodies to ensure that the Meskel Festival is celebrated peacefully while safeguarding Ethiopia’s cultural integrity.
In addition to the speeches, Melakselam Aba Kaltsidik Mulugeta (PhD) from the Ethiopian Orthodox Tewahedo Church and Teshome Tekelu from the tourism sector presented discussion papers on the historical origins of Meskel and its significance for tourism development.
The symposium was attended by a diverse group of participants, including representatives from the Islamic faith, Aba Gadaa (Oromo cultural leaders), and officials from sub-cities, underscoring the event’s inclusive and unifying spirit.
By promoting cultural preservation and celebrating festivities like Meskel and Irreechaa, Addis Ababa aims to strengthen its cultural identity and attract tourists, contributing to the city’s economic progress.
BY MESERET BEHAILU
THE ETHIOPIAN HERALD THURSDAY 26 SEPTEMBER 2024
