Ethiopians have ordinary saying that consoles them at tough times: “Yemayalfut yelem; hulum yitalefal”. It is to say literally: “There would come no challenge to kneel us down.” Indeed, the recent grief is just an ill-wind!
That is the kind of essence Ethiopians, individually or collectively; have developed to overcome and get back on track, no matter what tough the unfolding might be.
Ethiopia is facing challenges after challenges, at a time when it was locked in transition, undertaking several massive reform measures. Some of the measures have resulted in such glorious positive impacts that can transcend to regional countries, triggering regional and international recognitions and supports across the board.
Despite the achievements; the transitional period has never been so smooth. Nor will it be without any challenge in the future. Conflicts, clashes, displacement, weak performance in the export sector, lack of rule of law and several other notable challenges were observed during the transitional period. In the meantime, the recently foiled regional coup attempt was another phenomenon that had left us with lesson though a bitter one.
As the reforms have wide supporters, they have also entailed some opponents, no matter insignificant is. The history of countries that had gone through similar transitions tells us this same fact.
So what would be the fate of the country? Shall we, the people, remain optimistic or not? Any sane mind may ask such and such questions. Of course, Ethiopians have tradition of optimism. Our dictums embraced in all of the languages like the one raised here proves our endurance true.
We, as people, have passed successfully through various difficult situations. The remarkable achievements Ethiopians made at times of extreme difficulties, such as in advent of Adwa War, is witness to their courage written in golden inks.
Ever since the reforms have been introduced, a year ago, astounding results have been registered in the areas of economic diplomacy, people to people relations and regional integration. As projection of the International Monitory Fund (IMF), Ethiopia’s future is very optimistic. The country is likely to continue to register glittering success in terms of attracting foreign direct investment.
Following the heart breaking grievance as a result of the recent heinous and fascistic killings in Addis Ababa and Bahir Dar, Ethiopians have expressed their outrage and vows to intensify the reform process. Ethiopians have expressed determination to further nurture hope and optimism flickered as a result of the reform.
Of course, what we have lost are great leaders that were as solid as rock and as strong as diamond shouldering enormous responsibilities of serving the public. They had a big resolve to unbend their necks until their noble objectives were met. They were Ethiopia’s dearest sons in need who demonstrated their love in practice. Nonetheless, the acts of some gangs will not terminate Ethiopia’s ambition to achieve its stretched goals.
As has been said time and again, Ethiopia has not reached its current stage on steps stuffed with bed of roses. Rather, it is because of unmatched dedication and determination of its peoples at times of difficulty to get rid of all stumbling blocks, beat the darkest moments and prevail the ups and downs valiantly and audaciously.
In view of such a long tradition, the reform path set by Ethiopia will continue and make it a new horizon of hope, and jewel of Africa. Because, as Prime Minister Dr. Abiy Ahmed put it, Ethiopians will not tolerate anything that might harm the country’s unity, sovereignty or its national interests. Nothing comes before Ethiopia, or stands ahead of its peoples.
The Ethiopian Herald, June 28/2019
