Oromo Studies Association (OSA) Mourns the Passing of Professor Hamdeessaa Tusoo

The Oromo Studies Association (OSA) has expressed its profound sorrow upon the passing of the esteemed scholar and activist, Professor Hamdeessaa Tusoo.

In an official statement, OSA remembered Professor Hamdeessaa not only as a brilliant Oromo intellectual but also as a founding member who played an indispensable role in the establishment of the association. The statement emphasized that his contributions to the fields of Oromo scholarship and the global academic community were truly immeasurable.

The association highlighted his pivotal leadership from the very beginning, noting that he served as its first president and laid a strong foundation for the organization. This was at a critical time in 1986 when Oromo history, knowledge, and culture were under significant pressure. Professor Hamdeessaa provided crucial leadership and made immense contributions to building a robust institution dedicated to critical inquiry, intellectual empowerment, and collective advancement.

OSA’s statement further detailed the professor’s lifelong dedication. Born and raised in Oromia, he waged a long and steadfast struggle for the rights, dignity, and freedom of the oppressed Oromo people.

His commitment to the Oromo cause was evident early on; while in secondary school, he began his activism in human rights, demonstrating an unwavering sense of justice and a spirit of self-sacrifice for the goals of his people. These early experiences set the tone for a life dedicated to scholarship, mentorship, and public service.

After earning his Ph.D. from Michigan State University in 1981, Professor Hamdeessaa held significant academic positions at numerous prestigious institutions, including George Mason University, Antioch University, Nova Southeastern University, Menno Simons College, and the University of Manitoba.

His scholarly work was robust, focusing on critical areas such as peace and conflict, indigenous peacemaking, African oral traditions, and the politics of the Horn of Africa.

Beyond the academy, OSA noted, Professor Hamdeessaa Tusoo also played a major role in community service and empowerment, leaving a legacy that extends far beyond the classroom.