ADDIS ABABA – Promoting the New Year festival of the Sidama people, Fichee-Chambalaalla, is required to enhance tourism and preserve cultural heritage, the Ministry of Tourism emphasized.
Fichee-Chambalaalla was celebrated yesterday in Hawassa city with various ceremonies.
During the cultural celebration, Tourism Minister Selamawit Kassa stated that this event showcases the state’s rich cultural heritage and diverse traditions, which are vital for attracting tourists.
The festival to highlights unique traditions, including local foods and customs, fosters pride among the Sidama people in preserving their heritage while also enhancing tourism, she noted.
Selamawit further emphasized that the festival serves as a platform for cultural exchange and economic development, contributing to Ethiopia’s overall prosperity. She added that it plays a crucial role in promoting tourism and preserving cultural traditions.
Sidama State Chief Administrator Desta Lendamo stated that the ancestors and elders of the Sidama people have played a significant role in safeguarding the traditions of their New Year celebration.
He highlighted that the Fichee-Chambalaalla festival helps maintain peace, promote harmony, and prevent conflict while honoring ancestors for their contributions to preserving traditions and values.
On the occasion, Oromia State Chief Administrator Shimelis Abdissa remarked that the Fichee-Chambalaalla celebration showcases the rich traditions and philosophies of the Sidama people, emphasizing their historical significance.
“The festival offers an opportunity to reflect on the deeper philosophical ideas and wisdom of the Sidama people, highlighting their contributions to Ethiopian heritage. It also serves as a means to promote unity among the Sidama and neighboring communities, reinforcing a shared cultural identity,” he stated.
He added that the festival not only preserves cultural heritage but also contributes to Ethiopia’s future prosperity by fostering resilience and national pride.
Somali State Chief Administrator Mustafe Mohamed noted that the Fichee-Chambalaalla festival is a significant event that marks the transition from one generation to another among the Sidama people.
He emphasized that the festival embodies values of peace, love, and understanding, making it a grand celebration.
Mustafe also highlighted the historical ties between the Somali and Sidama peoples, pointing out that the festival serves as a platform to honor their shared heritage.
He stated that the event acts as a catalyst for economic development, offering potential benefits for local businesses through increased tourism and cultural exchange.
Southern Ethiopia State Chief Administrator Tilahun Kebede added that the festival reflects a commitment to collaboration among different ethnic groups in Southern Ethiopia, promoting peace and mutual understanding.
BY MISGANAW ASNAKE
THE ETHIOPIAN HERALD SATURDAY 29 MARCH 2025
