Meskel (Finding of the True Cross), is one of Ethiopia’s major religious and cultural festivals and it is a time when the Gurage people reflect their age-old cultural values and further strengthen their social interactions. The festival serves as a moment of unity, togetherness plus considerateness, bringing together families and communities from different parts of the country to honor their heritage.
What makes the Meskel festival special is that it brings together a family that has been separated for a long time. During Meskel, it is common for the people of Gurage, who moved to different parts of the country in search of a better life, to get back home to mark together with parents, family members, friends, relatives, neighbors, and villagers.
This festival is currently celebrated warmly in different parts of the country, mainly in East Gurage Zone, the Central Ethiopia State.
In the East Gurage Zone, particularly in the Sodo Districts Gente Mariam Kebele, the celebration of Meskel is being marked vibrantly in a manner showing the rich cultural tapestry of the Gurage people, emphasizing the importance of preserving their traditions in every aspect of the celebration.
Culture Department Deputy Head and Head of Culture Sector at the Central Ethiopia Culture and Tourism Bureau, Degneh Bogale, said that Meskel festival is a big festival and cultural celebration where the cultural and social cohesion of the people is observed, Due to this, the festival has special value among the people of Gurage and plays a crucial role in promoting the longstanding unity and solidarity among the people.
He said that Gurages are hardworking people, who strive to preserve and pass on their norms and cultural values to the next generation; apart from their welcoming nature and ability to live together peacefully with a spirit of solidarity.
The East Gurage Zone is a unique tourist destination in Ethiopia with its outstanding historical and cultural attractions which can yield substantial economic returns to the zone, the state, as well as the country; he said exemplifying the Tiya megalithic, one of the archeological sites in Ethiopia.
The rich cultural practices of the Gurage people, including their traditional judicial systems, named Gordena Shengo, (Gordena Council) Feragazene, and Sinano, as well as the Birindo (red meat), Gomen’s kitfo (chopped cabbage) Adabna (women’s and young people festival) plus Arefa festivals exemplify the hospitality and the peace-loving nature of the community.
Thus, the Meskel festival should be promoted and enriched as it is the platform where the Gurage people show their traditions and perform their social interaction, he remarked.
Culture and Tourism Department Head Biruktayet Tsagaye, also said that the Meskel festival holds both religious and historical significance, serving as a manifestation of the values that bind the community together.
She noted that promoting Meskel can further enhance the cultural richness of the Zone and attract more visitors. In addition to its cultural heritage, East Gurage Zone is known for its natural beauty and historical sites such as Aymallal, and Gogot. With its stunning landscapes and rich traditions, East Gurage offers a unique experience for both residents and visitors, making it a vital part of Ethiopia’s diverse cultural landscape.
As the community continues to celebrate Meskel, the hope to enhance awareness and appreciation for the values and traditions that define the Gurage people is greater, she added. In her call, Biruktayet urged the community should promote and develop the natural and cultural tourist destinations of the Zone alongside the festival.
Chief Administrator of the East Gurage Zone Mustafa Hassan expressed that Meskel transcends beyond religious and cultural significance. It embodies values of love, togetherness, unity, sympathy, and mutual support. The festival is also a time for new beginnings, as many couples choose to wed during this auspicious occasion. This blending of cultural practices and personal aspirations adds depth to the celebrations, making Meskel an enjoyable event for the Gurage people.
Sodo District Chief Administrator, Birhanu Bete, also said that in addition to the Meskel festival, there are several tangible and intangible heritages in the district and these heritages should be properly promoted and developed. He said, it is a place where various developmental and business activities are carried out on a large scale and, where young people receive blessings from their fathers, which reflects solidarity.
Ethiopia, steeped in rich cultural heritage and diverse traditions, is home to a myriad of festivals that reflect the collective identity of its people. Among these, Meskel, the commemoration of the Finding of the True Cross stands out as one of the most significant religious and cultural celebrations. This vibrant festival celebrated with colorful processions and traditional rituals, offers a unique opportunity to highlight the importance of developing cultural and religious festivals and tourist attraction sites across the country.
An age-old culture of celebrating Mesekel by Gurage and other people supports this claim. Ethiopia’s cultural heritage is a treasure trove of customs, traditions, and historical landmarks that can captivate the minds of both domestic and international tourists. The Meskel festival, with its deep-rooted significance, showcases the rich traditions of the Ethiopian Orthodox Church, as well as the communal spirit of the people.
As one can understand from the experience of Gurage people in central Ethiopia, by promoting such festivals, Ethiopia can present its cultural narrative to the world, fostering a sense of pride and identity among its citizens. But this needs the active involvement of all stakeholders.
Developing cultural values is essential for maintaining the authenticity of these celebrations. The Meskel festival, in this regard, serves as a perfect example of how cultural practices can be leveraged to attract tourists, providing them with an immersive experience that goes beyond mere sightseeing. On top of this, communities that actively engage in preserving their traditions not only safeguard their identity but also create an inviting atmosphere for visitors.
As witnessed from recent experiences in Ethiopia, investing in tourist attraction sites can lead to significant economic growth for local communities and the country. By developing infrastructure, such as hotels, restaurants, and cultural centers, Ethiopia can create jobs and provide income opportunities for its citizens. Furthermore, promoting local artisans and crafts during festivals like Meskel can empower communities and support the preservation of traditional skills.
The Meskel festival is not just a local celebration; but as an intangible heritage registered by UNESCO, it has the potential to attract hundreds of thousands of global audiences. By inviting tourists to participate in the festivities, Ethiopia can foster cultural exchange and mutual understanding. Visitors can learn about the Ethiopian way of life, participate in traditional dances, and savor local culinary delights. This exchange enriches both the visitors and the host communities, creating lasting memories and friendships.
BY LEULSEGED WORKU
THE ETHIOPIAN HERALD THURSDAY 26 SEPTEMBER 2024
