Maramee Harqaa was born in the 1950s in Qeejjoo village, Gobbuu Sayyoo district, Eastern Wollega Zone. She was the daughter of Obbo Harqaa Kaasaa and Aadde Geexee Baloo. Growing up alongside five brothers and one sister, she entered this world with a spirit of courage.

From a young age, Maramee was known for her strong character. She was truthful, straightforward, and intolerable of injustice. Her vibrant Oromo spirit shone through, making her a beacon of her culture.

She began her elementary education in Baakko and attended high school in Ambo. Even as a student, her dedication to the Oromo cause was evident. She actively participated in organizations working for the people, establishing herself as a true Oromo intellectual.

After completing her secondary education, she joined Dabra Birhan Teacher Training College (TTI). Upon graduation, she returned to Ambo and its surrounding areas, including Awwaaro, to teach in various schools.

During the Derg regime, she became a member of the Oromo Liberation Front (OLF). In Ambo and its environs, she was known for providing strong educational and political training, playing a particularly prominent role in teaching the Oromo script, Qubee, for which she was summoned to court multiple times.

Furthermore, she collaborated with other renowned Oromo women artists like Ilfinash Qannoo and Angaatuu Baalcha, among others, leaving an indelible mark on the Oromo cultural struggle through music and song.

After the Oromo Liberation Front (OLF) was forced out of the transitional government in 1992, Maramee fled persecution and arrived in Finfinne (Addis Ababa) in 1994. However, the government of the time continued to persecute her, denying her peace and stability. Unable to live safely, she left her teaching profession and sought refuge at the independent Oromo Relief Association (ORA), where she began working.

It was during her time at ORA that she authored and published the historically significant folklore book “Gundoo Booree” in 1993 through the A.L.A. publisher. The book, a testament to her literary talent, was 145 pages long with 21 rich chapters.

As one of the pioneering women to write in the Qubee script, Maramee was a mother of Oromo literature. She composed many songs for artists and performed herself, leaving a profound legacy.

This heroine, known as Maramee Harqaa, endured repeated imprisonment, harassment, and torment for her people. After surviving immense hardship, she fell ill in 1995 and, despite efforts to save her, passed away.

Maramee Harqaa, you were a steadfast and courageous heroine. We, the generation that has faltered, remember you at last. My soul mourns for you!