AMN PLUS-October 3, 2026
The Office of the Mayor of Addis Ababa, in a statement shared on its official social media account this morning to mark the 2026 Hora Finfinnee Irreecha Festival, described Irreecha as “a cultural gathering that washes away differences with the water of gratitude.”
Every year, as the darkness and rains of the rainy season pass and the season of light arrives; the Oromo people begin their journey toward bodies of water to offer gratitude to their Creator, Waaqa.
However, this journey has grown beyond the boundaries of the Oromo people and has become a major national cultural celebration that brings together people from across Ethiopia.
From the north, south, east, and west—the four corners of Ethiopia—people come together on the shores of the same water. This celebration is not one that emphasizes differences; rather, it is a bridge that brings differences together.
At that gathering, hearts that once seemed distant come together, and hands that once seemed far apart meet in a handshake. Every hand holding fresh green grass and sprinkling water carries a silent prayer that says, “Thank you for the past and I have hope for what is to come.”
Today, Irreecha also plays another significant role: it has become a powerful force for tourism.
According to the statement, Visitors from around the world travel to Ethiopia to witness this vibrant celebration of colors, songs, and unity. It is often described as one of the largest cultural gatherings in East Africa.
This means that Irreecha is not only strengthening culture; it is also contributing to economic growth. Hotels, transportation services, handicrafts, and many other sectors benefit from the celebration.
Beyond this, Irreecha has a unique power to draw Ethiopians back to their homeland. Ethiopians living abroad wait for this season and return to their homeland to reconnect with their roots and satisfy their longing for home.
The celebration has a special power to bridge distances. This heritage is not the property of only one ethnic group; it is a shared cultural treasure of all Ethiopians.
Every Ethiopian has a responsibility to preserve, respect, and pass this beautiful cultural heritage on to future generations. Because Irreecha teaches us an important lesson: gratitude, unity, and hope know no boundaries.
By Leta Teresa