BY STAFF REPORTER
Ethiopia is a country of citizens boasting a multitude of peculiar identities. It doesn’t therefore come as a surprise for one heading in all direction of the country witnessing an amalgam of cultural values, a multitude of languages and different religions the sum total of which is accentuated by unity in diversity.
Addis Ababa too is a city that reflects a spectrum of ethnic hues and people that contributed bricks for its birth and ascension of fame it catapulted to. As the city comprises residents hailing from all ethnic groups of the country, Addis is entitled the nickname a model Ethiopia. Thus, it is the assignment of its residents to harness such wealth to irrigate its income.
The construction of nations and nationalities cultural centers has proceeded apace to spur the development of the aforementioned identities the city is entitled to, facilitate things so that residents get closer to know one another and let people relish a source of pride from nation’s wealth. The birth of such centers afford an income-generating means to the city drawing the attention of foreigners who come for MICE tourism and who do not have a chance to visit the various touristic spots of Ethiopia. It serves as a peek into Ethiopia.
Aside from introducing Ethiopia more, this commendable initiative multiplies over the jewels on the city’s crown thereby opening a floodgate of opportunities of popularizing the city and better building the image of the country. It will afford the city a magnetic pool.
One opportunity the ethnic and religious diversity of the nation affords it is the colorful celebration of cultural events, anniversaries and religious holidays. The finding of the Meskel (True cross), Timket (Epiphany), Irecha and Ashenda are but to mention a few of the anniversaries that bring together celebrants. The ebullient economic activities during these holidays foster cash inflows to business persons. Its role in magnetizing foreigners is not insignificant. Developing and turning these virtues into the boons of the city rest on the shoulder of residents.
Addis Ababa’s inhabitants are marked for, in concert, ensuring the peace and development of the city that showcases a broad array of ethnic and religious hues—a feast of the eyes. Inhabitants are expected to stand by the government ‘s side in maintaining tranquility.
The participation of residents in the development endeavor is commendable. Considerate investors, deducting from their incomes, have injected into developmental thrusts that benefit citizens. The clicking in the reconstruction of dilapidated buildings, the construction of food centers and the bent of sharing diets portray the chemistry of the ethnic and religious mixes.
In the grip of the Covid-19 pandemic, residents had exhibited astounding harmony extending helping hands one to another and volunteering in tackling of needed tasks. This way they have circumvented bad days. Their active participation in the green legacy and in the campaign to reverse the existential threat is in consonance with the aforementioned chemistry.
Addis’ unity in diversity should serve a warrant to its wealth, peace and influence wielding power. The opportunity should be created so that citizens tap into the perks the ethnic and religious diversities bring in their sway.
The Ethiopian Herald December 8/2022
