Addis Ababa:The Hora Finfinne Irreecha festival concluded peacefully in Addis Ababa, highlighting Ethiopia's rich cultural heritage and the values central to the Oromo thanksgiving festival.
According to Ethiopian News Agency, Addis Ababa Mayor Adanech Abiebie described Irreecha as a living expression of thanksgiving, peace, love, and unity. The festival brought people together in a spirit of brotherhood, solidarity, and tolerance.
Hundreds of thousands of people attended the festival from early morning, dressed in colorful traditional attire. The event featured vibrant music, dance, blessings, and a powerful display of cultural pride.
Mayor Adanech emphasized that Irreecha serves as a major gathering beyond its cultural significance, uniting people from diverse backgrounds and demonstrating the enduring values of coexistence and togetherness. She urged Ethiopians to translate these values into action by working collectively to strengthen peace, national consensus, and the country's prosperity.
The Mayor expressed gratitude to everyone who contributed to the festival's peaceful and successful conclusion, particularly appreciating the residents of Addis Ababa for their hospitality and warmth. She also thanked the Abba Gadaas, Haadha Siinqees, Follees, security forces, and leaders for ensuring the event's success.
Concluding her message, Mayor Adanech underscored the festival's broader message with the call 'Irreecha for National Consensus! Irreecha for Peace and Unity!'
Irreecha is a traditional Oromo thanksgiving festival celebrated at the end of the rainy season, marking a time of gratitude to Waaqa (God), renewal, reconciliation, and community gathering.
