Ethiopia is home to a diverse-range of tangible and intangible cultural heritages. It is well-known for its annual colourful festivals, which draw large numbers of both domestic and foreign visitors. These include the well-known Irrecha the Oromo Thanksgiving Day, Timket (the Baptism of Jesus Christ), and Meskel (the Founding of the True Cross).
For centuries, horses have played a vital role in the daily lives of Ethiopians, serving as trusted companions, symbols of prestige, and vehicles for exploration. Horse riding holds immense historical significance in Ethiopia, dating back to ancient times. The country’s long tradition of horsemanship can be traced to the era of the Aksumite Empire, where horses were utilized in warfare, transportation, and ceremonial events. Over time, horse riding became an integral part of Ethiopian society, firmly ingrained in various cultural practices and celebrations.
In rural Ethiopian communities, where horses are still an integral part of daily life, horsemanship skills are passed down through generations. Horses are used for herding livestock, transportation, and navigating challenging terrains. The bond between horse and rider is nurtured from a young age, creating a symbiotic relationship based on trust and mutual understanding. This deep connection exemplifies the significance of horses in Ethiopian culture and the vital role they play in the livelihoods of many.
The 84th Annual Agew Horse Riders Association festival was colourfully celebrated this year as always in different parts of Awi Zone and including Addis Ababa. On the festivals numerous Diasporas, tourists, higher officials, cultural researchers, and other participants took part.
According to researches, settled in the breath-taking landscapes of Ethiopia, the Agew Horse Riders Association Festival is a mesmerizing event that showcases the exceptional horsemanship skills and cultural heritage of the Agew people. This annual festival not only captivates the senses with its vibrant displays of color and movement but also offers a glimpse into the profound bond between the Agew community and their majestic equine companions.
The Agew people, an ethnic group residing in the Amhara region of Ethiopia, have a long-standing tradition of horsemanship that has been passed down through generations. The festival serves as a platform to honour their rich cultural heritage and showcase their equestrian skills to the wider community. Horse riding is deeply intertwined with the Agew way of life, and this festival provides an opportunity for participants to express their pride and preserve their traditional practices.
The festival is a visual feast, featuring awe-inspiring horse riding performances that leave spectators spellbound. Skilled Agew riders, adorned in vibrant traditional attires, showcase their mastery of horsemanship through elaborate choreographies and acrobatic manoeuvres. The synchronized movements between horse and rider create a harmonious spectacle, highlighting the deep bond and mutual trust that exists between them. From graceful dressage routines to high-energy equestrian stunts, the performances at the Agew Horse Riders Association Festival are a testament to the agility and beauty of these remarkable animals.
Beyond the equestrian performances, the festival offers a platform for the Agew community to share their rich cultural traditions with attendees. Traditional music, dance, and attire take centerstage, creating a vibrant atmosphere that immerses visitors in the heart of Agew culture. Colourful parades featuring beautifully decorated horses, accompanied by traditional music and joyful celebrations, add to the festive ambiance. The festival becomes a living tapestry of Agew heritage, inviting everyone to experience the beauty and diversity of Ethiopian culture.
The Agew Horse Riders Association Festival serves as a catalyst for community cohesion and solidarity. The event brings together Agew people from various villages and neighbouring regions, fostering a sense of unity and pride in their shared cultural identity. It is a time when families and friends reunite, forging new connections and strengthening existing bonds. The festival also provides economic opportunities for local artisans, food vendors, and entrepreneurs, stimulating the local economy and promoting sustainable development within the community.
The Agew Horse Riders Association Festival plays a crucial role in preserving and passing on traditional equestrian practices and skills to future generations. By showcasing the beauty and significance of horse riding, the festival inspires younger members of the community to embrace their cultural heritage and develop a deep appreciation for the bond between humans and horses. It ensures that the age-old traditions of the Agew people are not lost to the passage of time.
The North Cushitic people are fully aware of the Agew people’s civilization, according to Minister of Culture and Sports Kejela Mardasa. They were the first people in recorded history to use several crops for agriculture, such as white barely and others. He added that since horses were the first tamed animals, the Agew people adopted them and now horses are everything to the Agew people. The Agew community has a strong attachment with their horses. Horses have a big role for Agew people in almost every walk of their life: during war, marriage, funerals, farming, among other events. The annual Agew Horsemen Festival celebration has a great role in promoting the social interaction of the Agew community. While cavalry, or horse fighting, was well-known in Europe in the 17th century, it was also well-known in Ethiopia, where it was practiced by the people of Agew and Oromos, among others. The Agew people were renowned for more than just their prowess on horses; they also established powerful states and dynasties. The Agew people formed the Zagwe dynasty, which meant that they had a major influence in the establishment of state building. Above all, the Agew people were vital to the Adwa victory and during the Italian invasion.
According to him, the yearly celebration has been observed for the past 84+ years, depicting the distinct socio-cultural expressions of the Agew people, whose culture is still thriving today. Since the event has drawn a large number of both domestic and foreign visitors, it has gained momentum and is now a crucial tool for promoting tourism in the area.
Currently, the Agew Zone has some 6,200 community leaders who are capable of promoting tolerance and peace in the country the festival does not only reinvigorate the Zone Tourism and enhance social interaction, it also stimulates the economy said Awi zone culture and tourism office. The association is discharging various social responsibilities though the fundamental objective was to commemorate the role of the horses during the war. Apart from being a commemoration festival, the event is playing a key role in conflict resolution, promoting cooperation and serving as a traditional court which is more acceptable by the community than formal legal institutions.
The Agew people are known for their ancient architecture, indigenous knowledge and hardworking culture, and the Agew Horsemen’s Association has become a symbol and manifestation of the Agew people.
The Agew Horse Riders Association was established in connection with the Golden Victory of Adwa over the Italian aggressors. The horse riders and fighters of the Agew people established the association as soon as returning from the battle of Adwa. The festival perfectly suits to explore the then roles of Ethiopian fighters and commemorate how the brave fighters of the Agew people enthusiastically fought against all odds in the past on the back of their horses.
Sources indicated that in the 1930’s the people of Agew Awi (Sebat Bet Agew) joined patriots who waged guerrilla warfare against Fascist Italian invaders with other Ethiopians. Agew patriots utilized a rich tradition of horse riding skills to fight and transport logistics for war by then. Agew Awi Zone, is one of the zones in Amhara state found to the South and South West of the State capital, Bahir Dar. The name Sebat Bet Agew (seven families of Agew) was coined from the name of seven brothers; Ankesha, Banja, Kuakura, Dangila , Metekel, Zigem and Azena.
After the total defeat and departure of Italy from Ethiopia, Sebat Bet Agew Equestrian Association (Yesebat Bet Agew /Seven Houses of Agew/Horsemen Association) was established to commemorate the role of horses and St. George in clearing the invading army from the land
BY NAOL GIRMA
THE ETHIOPIAN HERALD SATURDAY 10 FEBRUARY 2024
