Nestled in 36.7 hectares of pristine forest in Southwest Ethiopia, Dembi Eco Lodge is more than a destination—it is a testament to a nation’s commitment to unlocking its hidden treasures.
Addis Ababa, June 24, 2018 (FMC) — Ethiopia stands among the world’s foremost nations, blessed with a wealth of both tangible and intangible heritage. Yet for too long, these natural and man-made resources—capable of becoming tourism powerhouses—remained hidden, their beauty obscured by decades of neglect and a fundamental misunderstanding of their value .
That era is coming to an end.
Through the Homegrown Economic Reform Agenda, the Ethiopian government identified tourism as one of five key pillars for national transformation. Under the leadership of Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed (PhD), a series of ambitious projects have breathed new life into the country’s tourism landscape .
The results are visible across the nation—from the rejuvenation of Addis Ababa’s green spaces under the “Dine for Sheger” initiative, to the development of heritage destinations under “Dine for the Nation.” The “Dine for a Generation” project continues this momentum, transforming previously undiscovered locations into world-class destinations. Among these, Dembi Eco Lodge stands as a striking example of what can be achieved when vision meets action.
Where Nature Meets Architecture
Located in the Bench Sheko Zone of the South West Ethiopia Peoples’ Region, near the town of Mizan Aman, Dembi Eco Lodge represents a new chapter in Ethiopian tourism . Opened in January 2018, it is the first of the “Dine for a Generation” projects to be completed and inaugurated.
The lodge is perched on a dramatic 36.7-hectare site of dense forest, where architectural design harmonises with the natural splendour of the landscape. Here, visitors don’t simply observe nature—they become part of it. The lodge’s construction combines modern and traditional craftsmanship, using local materials and relying on Ethiopian expertise, in a unique public-private partnership.
Dembi Eco Lodge integrates world-class accommodation with a design that merges contemporary and traditional aesthetics. The restaurant spaces are architectural marvels—blending heritage and innovation—while celebrating the culture and music of the local community. With its doors open to both domestic and international guests, the lodge serves as a cultural ambassador, introducing visitors to the richness of the region’s traditions.
A Model of Sustainability and Community Engagement
Dembi Eco Lodge is powered entirely by renewable energy, reflecting Ethiopia’s strong commitment to environmental conservation . This is not merely an aesthetic choice; it is a statement—a declaration that tourism and ecological responsibility can go hand in hand.
The lodge’s impact extends far beyond its boundaries. The project is a model of collaboration between government and private sector, built with the highest quality standards by Midroc Ethiopia using local materials and Ethiopian professionals. It is also one of the first tourism destinations in Ethiopia to adopt a shared ownership model, ensuring that the local community has a stake in the benefits tourism brings.
A Symbol of Ethiopia’s Tourism Transformation
Dembi Eco Lodge stands as a permanent witness to what Ethiopia can achieve when its immense natural and man-made resources are developed and transformed into a solid economic asset . It demonstrates how the country’s tourism sector can become competitive and preferred on the global stage—while also increasing the sector’s contribution to national prosperity.
The story of Dembi Eco Lodge is not just about a beautiful lodge in a forest. It is about a nation awakening to its potential. It is about turning hidden wealth into visible value. It is about the transformation of Ethiopia—one destination, one visitor, one story at a time.
Ethiopia’s hidden wealth is no longer hidden. The world is invited to come and see—and the world has not seen enough.
Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed has issued a national call to replace “sternness” with “smiles and respect,” positioning hospitality as the key to unlocking Ethiopia’s vast tourism potential.
Ethiopia is a land of ancient wonders—the rock-hewn churches of Lalibela, the obelisks of Axum, the castles of Gondar, and the breathtaking landscapes of the Simien Mountains. Yet for decades, the country’s immense tourism potential remained largely untapped. Infrastructure was inadequate, destinations were limited, and visitors often left after a brief tour of a few well-known sites .
That narrative is now changing. Through a comprehensive Homegrown Economic Reform Agenda, the Ethiopian government has identified tourism as one of the five key pillars of national economic transformation . But according to Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed (PhD), the success of this vision depends not just on infrastructure—but on a fundamental shift in national mindset.
“One visa, a world within!”
This is the vision the Prime Minister has articulated for Ethiopia’s tourism future. And at its heart lies a simple but powerful call: replace “sternness” with “smiles and respect.”
The Five Pillars: Tourism as an Economic Engine
Ethiopia’s economic reform agenda is a comprehensive, multi-sector strategy designed to develop agriculture, manufacturing, mining, tourism, and the digital economy simultaneously . Tourism was selected for profound reasons: the sector possesses a unique capacity to generate extensive employment, secure foreign currency, and portray the true image of the country on the global stage .
The results are already visible. In the first nine months of the recent budget year alone, Ethiopia attracted 1.2 million foreign tourists, generating over $2.6 billion in revenue . The capital, Addis Ababa, hosted approximately 150 international and continental events in just six months—a 50% increase compared to the previous year—injecting 155 billion Birr into the economy .
But these numbers represent more than statistics. They reflect a deliberate, strategic effort to transform Ethiopia’s tourism landscape.
A New Face for Ethiopian Tourism
The transformation has been driven by landmark initiatives: Dine for Sheger, Dine for the Nation, and Dine for a Generation. These projects have fundamentally reshaped the nation’s tourism map .
Dine for Sheger transformed the heart of Addis Ababa through the development of Unity Park, Sheger Park, and Entoto Park—creating green spaces and recreational hubs where none existed before. The Addis Ababa Riverbank Development Project, spanning 50 kilometers and encompassing eight rivers, has converted polluted, hazardous areas into lush recreational spaces .
Dine for the Nation developed destinations like Halala Kela, Chebera Churchura, and Wenchi, blending natural beauty with historical footprints. Dine for the Generation continued this momentum with modern destinations such as Gorgora, Dembi, Shebelle, and Lake Logo .
Beyond new destinations, the government has focused on restoring Ethiopia’s historical heritage. The Castle of Fasilides in Gondar, which had suffered neglect for a century, has undergone sophisticated restoration that will preserve it for the next 50 to 60 years . The rock-hewn churches of Lalibela are undergoing delicate restoration guided by international experts. The Sof Omar Cave, previously inaccessible due to infrastructure deficits, has been transformed to ensure a seamless tourist experience .
The message from the Prime Minister is clear: “We are restorers and protectors of heritages, not destroyers” .
The Call for Service Excellence
Yet infrastructure alone is not enough. As the Prime Minister has emphasized, natural and historical assets must be matched by service excellence . This is where the call for “smiles and respect” becomes crucial.
For years, a culture of “sternness”—what some have called kostaranet—has been a significant barrier to tourism growth. Visitors arriving at airports, using taxis, or checking into hotels have sometimes encountered indifference or even hostility. This cultural disconnect has undermined the hospitality that Ethiopia is historically known for.
The Prime Minister has called for a national shift, urging citizens to greet visitors with warmth and professionalism starting from the moment they arrive at the airport . This is not merely about being polite—it is about economic necessity.
The Role of Transport Workers
One of the first interactions visitors have with Ethiopia is with transport workers—taxi drivers, bus operators, and airport transfers. The Prime Minister has stressed that these individuals are, in effect, “national ambassadors.” They have the power to shape a visitor’s entire perception of the country .
Drivers are expected to:
Reflect Ethiopia’s great tradition of hospitality in practice
Charge fair prices
Serve with integrity and honesty
Recognize their role as ambassadors for the nation
Hospitality and Accommodation
The Prime Minister has also called upon hotels and tourism service providers to deliver quality, internationally competitive service to guests . Beyond welcoming guests, hotels are expected to promote local products and strengthen economic linkages by showcasing Ethiopian goods to visitors.
Tour industry professionals have noted that the greatest success lies in completing the service chain. While beautiful sites existed in the past, they were often bypassed due to a lack of suitable accommodations. Now, international-standard lodges and resorts allow tourists to stay longer and enjoy their visit without haste .
The Diaspora: Ambassadors of a New Ethiopia
The diaspora community has a special role to play. The Prime Minister has called on Ethiopians abroad to take the lead in presenting the true and beautiful Ethiopia to the world—rather than allowing negative narratives to dominate .
Previously, diaspora members returning home often worried about finding quality destinations to take their families. The Prime Minister has declared that this concern is now fully resolved. Attractive destinations are being built across the country, and the diaspora is expected to use its resources and knowledge for national image building .
The government has actively encouraged this engagement. Ethiopian Airlines has offered 15-20% discounts on airfare and hotel accommodation for second-generation Ethiopians returning to their homeland, along with free one-day tours of Addis Ababa for the first 100 participants . The “Leave Your Legacy” program has brought numerous diaspora members to Ethiopia for Green Legacy initiatives, renovation projects, and educational programs .
Every Citizen’s Responsibility
The Prime Minister has emphasized that tourism success is not solely the responsibility of government or service providers—it belongs to every citizen. All Ethiopians have a role to play in :
Protecting natural treasures
Maintaining national parks and green spaces
Strengthening peace and unity
Presenting a welcoming face to the world
Ethiopia’s Growing International Recognition
The results of these efforts are being noticed internationally. The President of the Pan-African Tourism Board (PATB), Mariam Lesian, has recognized Ethiopia as a leading model for tourism development in Africa, citing rapid growth, rich cultural heritage, and expanding infrastructure as key drivers of continental influence .
Lesian highlighted Ethiopia’s unique attractions—from its globally renowned coffee heritage to its landscapes, museums, parks, and lakes—as strong draws for visitors .
“When you come to Ethiopia, you get that appetite to come again because there are so many things to see,” she said. “It’s peaceful, it’s clean and the people are very friendly” .
She also credited Ethiopian Airlines as a strategic pillar in Ethiopia’s tourism expansion, describing the carrier as a major force in positioning the country as a gateway to Africa .
A Message of Unity and Hope
The Prime Minister’s call for “smiles and respect” is also a broader message about national identity. Drawing on a cultural comparison, he described Ethiopia as being like the people of Wollo—immensely hospitable when approached with love, yet invincible when faced with aggression .
“Ethiopia has a deep-rooted culture of extending its hand in a smile and welcoming others with honor,” he said. “Conflict hinders development and prosperity; it prolongs our journey” .
This message resonates beyond tourism. It speaks to the kind of nation Ethiopia aspires to be: open, welcoming, and united. As the Prime Minister has said, “Let’s show them why Ethiopia is known for its unmatched hospitality. Let’s make them feel at home, greet them with respect, and embrace them with love” .
The Path Forward
The transformation of Ethiopia’s tourism sector is well underway. From the restoration of ancient heritage sites to the creation of world-class modern destinations, the physical infrastructure is being built . But the final ingredient is the one that only the Ethiopian people can provide: a culture of service, warmth, and genuine hospitality.
The Prime Minister’s message is clear: tourism growth can only continue sustainably when every citizen—not just the government—fulfils their national responsibility. Transport workers, hotel staff, tour operators, diaspora members, and ordinary citizens all have a role to play.
“Together, let’s work to further increase the contribution of the tourism industry to national growth.”
This is the message—a call for a national movement to position Ethiopia as Africa’s premier destination through professional and competent hospitality . It is a vision where ancient history meets modern service, where the warmth of the Ethiopian people becomes as legendary as their heritage.
And it all begins with a smile.
The era of limited destinations is over. Ethiopia now offers a wealth of experiences—historical wonders, natural beauty, modern comfort, and most importantly, a people ready to welcome the world with open arms.
Subtitle: In Ambo Ejersa, the beautiful kora lammii—a community pitch Becomes a Classroom for Culture, Proving That Our Strongest Defence is Unity
The scene is familiar—a dusty pitch, the sharp cry of a whistle, the unified gasp of a crowd as a ball soars toward the goal. But in the Boji area of Ambo, the familiar scene is telling a profoundly unfamiliar, and more beautiful, story. Here, the Ambo Ejersa Community gathering has become something far greater than a community gathering. It has transformed into a living, breathing symposium on survival.
Kora Lammii of Buundhaa from Itaya, Ambo, Meti, Machi, Wadesse, and Shanen did not just come to compete. They came to convene. In a world where fragmentation is often the default, these generation chose convergence. They built a kora lammii—a community pitch—and upon it, they are rebuilding a community spirit. The real match is not just between teams; it is a collective struggle against the erosion of identity. The victory they seek is the preservation of their cultural soul: aadaa and safuu.
This is the quiet, revolutionary power of what is happening. In the breaks between matches, in the shade of Odaa tree, the kora lammii gathering organically spawns marii boonsaa—deep, communal dialogues. These are not academic lectures, but urgent, grassroots consultations. How do we practice respect (safuu) in a digital age? How do we wear our culture (aadaa) not as a costume for holidays, but as daily armour against assimilation? The gathering is the ignition; the conversation is the sustainable fire.
What these young people in Boji instinctively understand is a truth many societies grapple with: culture is not a museum artifact. It is a muscle. It atrophies without use. It strengthens under collective strain. By using the universal language of community gathering to strengthening the dispersed chapters of their community, they are creating a gymnasium for their Oromumma. They are exercising their shared identity, passing the weight of tradition from elder to youth, ensuring it does not grow weak.
The palpable joy reported by participants—“waan haalan nama gammachisuu dha” (it is something that brings deep joy)—is the most important metric here. This joy is not merely the thrill of sport. It is the profound relief and empowerment that comes from reconnection. It is the joy of speaking your mother tongue freely in a crowd that understands its nuance. It is the joy of seeing your values reflected in the conduct of your peers—in a fair tackle on the field, in the respectful deference to an elder off it.
In an era where globalized culture often flattens uniqueness, the Ambo Ejersa Buundhaa gathering is an act of gentle defiance. It declares that the future need not be a departure from the past, but a continuation of it, adapted on our own terms. These players are not running away from their heritage to chase modernity; they are sprinting toward a future where their heritage is the foundation of their strength.
The commentary from the sidelines, therefore, should be one of keen observation and high praise. This is grassroots cultural innovation at its finest. The kora lammii gathering is proof that the most effective guardians of a people’s spirit are not always politicians or institutions, but can be its youth, a ball, and a collective will to remember. They have remembered that the most crucial goal to defend is the one protecting their very essence. And in that defense, they are finding not just victory, but a deep and abiding joy.
Subtitle: Lammii gathering of Buundhaa from Across the Region Unite on the Pitch, Spark Community Dialogue on Aadaa and Safuu
BOJI, OROMIA — The sound of cheering fans and bouncing footballs has become a powerful call to unity in the rural landscape of Boji. Here, at the Ambo Ejersa gathering, a simple cultural gathering event has blossomed into a profound social gathering, uniting Oromo generations from various parts of the country and reigniting vital conversations about cultural heritage and values.
The generation gathering has successfully drawn teams that map the Oromo heartland: local generation from Boji are competing alongside their brothers from Itaya, Ambo, Meexxii, Maatii, Wadesse, and Shanan. This convergence on the lammii pitch represents a significant grassroots effort to strengthen communal bonds that stretch across the region.
“This is truly something that brings joy,” remarked an elderly spectator, Bulo Tadese, his eyes following the energetic play. “In these times, seeing our sons from different corners come together in peace and healthy competition… it warms the heart. Waan haalan nama gammachisudha (It is profoundly joyous).”
Yet, the true significance of the event extends far beyond the final score. In the shade of trees and under makeshift tents, the community surrounding the gathering is engaging in a parallel, equally important contest: a collective effort to reclaim and revive core Oromo principles.
During breaks and after matches, elders, players, and spectators are gathering for marii boonsaa—meaningful, extended community dialogues. The central focus is the urgent discussion of aadaa (culture/tradition) and safuu (a deep-seated moral and ethical code governing respect and social harmony).
“This lammii gathering of Buundhaa was the spark, but the conversation is the real fire,” said organizer Dhaqaba Gammada. “We play the meeting to bring the generation of Buundhaa together, but we use this gathering to ask important questions: How do we preserve our identity? How do we practice safuu in our daily lives? The energy here shows our people are hungry for this discussion.”
The spontaneous emergence of these dialogues points to a deep-seated community desire to navigate modernity while firmly rooting the younger generation in their cultural foundation. Elders see it as a chance to impart wisdom, while youth see it as a space to understand their heritage in a contemporary context.
The Ambo Ejersa lammii gathering of Buundhaa stands as a powerful example of how lammii gathering can serve as a catalyst for social cohesion and cultural preservation. It demonstrates that the goal is not only to win games but to strengthen the very fabric of the community, ensuring that the values of aadaa and safuu are passed on, debated, and lived.
As the lammii gathering of Buundhaa continues, the message is clear: the most important victory is happening off the field, in the hearts and minds of a people rediscovering the strength of their shared identity.
Addis Ababa, Ethiopia – The life of Dr. Paulos Dubale, a groundbreaking Ethiopian agronomist and soil scientist, stands as a powerful testament to a relentless pursuit of knowledge and an unwavering dedication to national development, often achieved in the face of severe institutional and financial constraints.
Born in June 1936 E.C. in Kendo Wolayta, Dr. Paulos’s journey began humbly in local schools before he pursued agriculture at the then-Alemaya College of Agriculture. His talent was quickly recognized; excelling as both a student and a singer, he was appointed as a “Student Singer” to a national development campaign, which led to his first research posting at the Jimma Agricultural Research Station in 1968 E.C.
His career would become synonymous with coffee research, a cornerstone of Ethiopia’s economy. Recognizing a critical shortage of specialists, the research institute sponsored him for a Master’s degree at the University of Hawaii, USA, which he earned in Horticulture with a focus on coffee. Despite his professors’ strong recommendations to pursue a doctorate immediately, a lack of replacement staff at home forced his premature return to Ethiopia—a recurring theme of institutional limitations that would challenge his progress for years.
A Champion of Collaboration Against Scarcity
Back at the Jimma research center, Dr. Paulos rose to lead the coffee research team and later coordinated the entire national coffee research program. His role expanded dramatically as he was tasked with simultaneously managing the nascent Soil and Water Research directorate. Archival documents reveal a continuous, frustrating struggle: numerous invitations for doctoral fellowships in Italy, the Netherlands, and the UK were declined by the institute due to a crippling “lack of qualified manpower” to fill his role.
His perseverance finally paid off in 1982 E.C. when, with World Bank funding, he secured a “Split PhD” program at Wye College in the UK. This allowed him to conduct research in Ethiopia while completing his degree, which he earned in 1986 E.C. He returned immediately to Ethiopia and was appointed Director of the newly formed National Soil and Water Research Directorate.
A Life of Multifaceted Service and Modest Reward
Dr. Paulos’s leadership extended beyond the lab. He taught at Alemaya University, served on the board of the Metehara Sugar Factory, and was an active member of the Ethiopian Society of Soil Science. His scientific contributions were prolific, authoring or co-authoring over 60 publications, including progress reports, technical papers, journal articles, and handbooks.
Despite his monumental contributions, his personal compensation starkly highlighted the sacrifices made by a generation of scientists. Records show that upon his retirement, his monthly salary was just 3,335 Ethiopian Birr, with a responsibility allowance of 450 Birr. His pension was calculated at 1,576.78 Birr per month.
His career was also marked by extensive international travel for training and conferences, taking him to the USA, UK, Brazil, Ghana, Tanzania, India, Uganda, Sri Lanka, and Kenya, where he represented Ethiopia’s scientific community.
Forced to retire in 1991 E.C. upon reaching the mandatory age, his expertise was deemed so indispensable that his tenure was extended twice, allowing him to continue coordinating vital research projects for an additional six years before his final retirement in 1997 E.C.
Dr. Paulos Dubale’s story is not merely one of personal achievement but a narrative of intellectual resilience. It illustrates the profound impact one dedicated scientist can have—nurturing a key economic sector, mentoring future generations, and building institutional capacity—even when operating within a system strained by scarcity. His legacy endures in Ethiopia’s agricultural research foundations and serves as a powerful inspiration for the nation’s scientific community.
“Daraaro”: The Gedeo Festival of Renewal and its Modern Resonance
In the heart of Ethiopia’s capital, a celebration of profound cultural and spiritual significance is unfolding. The Gedeo people’s “Daraaro” festival—the annual marker of their transition from the old year to the new—is being observed in Addis Ababa with a solemnity and vibrancy that speaks to both its deep roots and its contemporary relevance.
Described as a festival of “gift, gratitude, and peace,” Daraaro is far more than a calendrical event. It is a living embodiment of a worldview. At its core, it is an act of communal reorientation: a time to present gifts (sita) to spiritual leaders (Abba Gada), expressing thanks for peace and success granted, and articulating collective hopes for health, security, and a bountiful harvest in the year ahead. This intertwining of the spiritual, the social, and the agricultural reveals a holistic philosophy where human well-being is inseparable from divine favor and environmental harmony.
What makes the current observance in Addis Ababa particularly noteworthy is its dual character. It is simultaneously an act of cultural preservation and a statement of modern identity. The inclusion of symposia and events detailing Gedeo history, culture, and language transforms the celebration into a platform for education and dialogue. It asserts that Gedeo heritage is not a relic of the past, but a vital, intellectual, and artistic tradition deserving of national recognition and understanding.
The festival’s official framing around the theme of “development for culture and tourism” is a significant and complex evolution. On one hand, it represents a strategic move to gain visibility and economic leverage within the Ethiopian state, which actively promotes cultural tourism. On the other, it risks commodifying a sacred tradition. The true test will be whether this external framing can remain a vessel for the festival’s intrinsic meanings of gratitude, peace, and social justice, rather than subsuming them.
Indeed, the commentary’s note that issues of “justice and the national system” are part of the discourse during Daraaro is crucial. For the Gedeo—a people with a distinct identity and a history intertwined with questions of land, resource rights, and administrative recognition—a festival of renewal is inevitably also a moment to reflect on societal structures. Prayers for a good harvest and communal safety are, in the modern context, also implicit commentaries on land tenure, economic equity, and political inclusion.
The most forward-looking aspect of the report is the work towards UNESCO recognition as intangible cultural heritage. This pursuit is a high-stakes endeavor. Success would provide a global shield for the festival, fostering preservation, research, and prestige. However, it must be navigated carefully to avoid fossilizing the tradition or divorcing it from the community that gives it life.
A Commentary: The Bridge of Daraaro
Daraaro, in its essence, builds a bridge. It bridges the old year and the new, the human and the divine, the individual and the community. Now, as celebrated in Addis Ababa, it builds another: a bridge between the particularity of Gedeo culture and the broader Ethiopian—and indeed global—conversation.
Its message of gratitude and peace is a universal one, yet it is delivered in the specific, potent vocabulary of Gedeo tradition. Its emphasis on social justice ties an ancient ritual to the most pressing contemporary debates. Its pursuit of UNESCO status places a local Ethiopian practice within an international framework of cultural value.
The celebration of Daraaro in the capital is thus a powerful symbol. It signifies that Ethiopia’s strength does not lie in a monolithic culture, but in the ability of its diverse nations and peoples to bring their unique, rich, and reflective traditions to the national table. It reminds us that a “new year” is not just a change of date, but an opportunity for societal recalibration—a time to offer gratitude, seek justice, and plant collective hopes for the future. In honoring Daraaro, we are reminded that some of the most vital frameworks for building a peaceful and prosperous society are not new political doctrines, but ancient festivals of renewal, patiently observed year after year.
Feature News: Victoria Joins National Day of Mourning, Illuminating a Path Forward from Bondi Tragedy
MELBOURNE, VIC – Today, Victoria stands in solemn solidarity with the nation, observing a National Day of Mourning to honour the 15 lives lost in the devastating terrorist attack at Bondi Beach’s Jewish community centre on December 14, 2025.
The Victorian Department of Premier and Cabinet has outlined the state’s formal acts of remembrance, framing the day as both a moment for collective grief and a resolute stance against hate. “It is a day for all Australians to come together to grieve, remember, and stand against antisemitism and hate,” the statement read.
Across the state and the country, visual symbols will mark the day’s gravity. Flags will be flown at half-mast at all Commonwealth and Victorian Government buildings—a universal gesture of loss and respect. As dusk falls, the tribute will transform. Major landmark buildings across Victoria’s skyline will be illuminated in white, a deliberate symbol of light, peace, and resilience cutting through the darkness of tragedy. “A symbol of light, as we move forward as a nation,” the government statement noted.
The commemoration will reach its poignant peak at 7:01 PM, the exact time the attack unfolded. Australians are invited nationwide to observe a minute of silence, a shared national pause to remember the 15 innocent victims whose lives and futures were tragically stolen.
The coordinated national response, which includes similar observances from federal and other state authorities, underscores a unified commitment to social cohesion. By designating a National Day of Mourning, officials aim to channel raw community sorrow into a reaffirmation of shared values—condemning antisemitic violence and all forms of bigotry while honoring the victims with dignity.
Today, as buildings glow white and flags hang low, Victoria’s official acts of remembrance serve as a public covenant: to mourn deeply, to remember collectively, and to walk forward together, guided by light.
DIRRE DHAWAA, OROMIA – In a move set to transform the cultural and academic landscape of eastern Oromia, Dirre Dhawaa University has announced the foundation of a new institution dedicated to musical excellence: the Dr. Alii Birraa Memorial Music School.
The university made the formal announcement via its official Facebook page, outlining plans to establish the school in the legendary artist’s hometown. This initiative is not just about building a structure, but about rooting a center of artistic excellence in the very soil that inspired one of Ethiopia’s most cherished musical voices.
Bridging Institutions for a Harmonious Future
The project is already hitting the right notes through a powerful collaboration. Experts and lecturers from the renowned Yared Music School at Addis Ababa University are providing crucial initial support. According to the university, these seasoned academics are traveling to Dirre Dhawaa to share their expertise, helping to design curricula and establish foundational frameworks. This knowledge transfer represents a significant vote of confidence and a bridge between the nation’s premier music academy and this promising new venture.
A key driving force behind this collaborative spirit is Dr. Malaaku Yigzaw, Dean of the Yared Music School. The university confirmed that Dr. Malaaku has formally pledged his institution’s full professional support to ensure the successful establishment of the memorial school.
Honoring a Native Son, Investing in a Region’s Soul
The decision to name the school after the late Kabajaa Artist Alii Birraa is deeply symbolic. Born in the Dirre Dhawaa area, Alii Birraa was a monumental figure in Ethiopian music, celebrated for popularizing the Oromo musical tradition of Biftuu and singing powerfully about love, social issues, and identity. Establishing a music school in his name serves a dual purpose: immortalizing his legacy and actively nurturing the next generation of artists from his region.
President of Dirre Dhawaa University, Magarsaa Qaasim (PhD), emphasized this point, highlighting the area’s rich but often under-recognized artistic heritage. “Dirre Dhawaa is a wellspring of many renowned artists,” President Magarsaa noted, underscoring the school’s mission to cultivate this latent talent formally.
A Conductor’s Baton for Regional Development
The university stated that it is undertaking all necessary preparations for the project and has already begun receiving “favorable support” from various organizations. This suggests the project is resonating beyond academic circles, potentially attracting cultural and developmental partners.
The establishment of the Dr. Alii Birraa Memorial Music School is more than an academic expansion. It is an act of cultural preservation, a tribute to a national icon, and a strategic investment in the creative future of eastern Ethiopia. By transforming the memory of a single great artist into a living institution of learning, Dirre Dhawaa University is ensuring that the region’s melodies will not only be remembered but will continue to evolve, inspire, and educate for generations to come.
Feature News: Empowering Victoria’s Multicultural Homes in the Clean Energy Transition
MELBOURNE, VIC – As Victoria accelerates its shift toward renewable energy, one question remains central for many households: how can every family participate in and benefit from electrification? The answer lies not just in technology, but in accessible information and community-led support. Recognising this, the Ethnic Communities’ Council of Victoria (ECCV) is launching a pioneering new project designed to empower multicultural households to make confident, informed decisions about electrifying their homes.
Titled “Empowering Multicultural Communities at Home,” the initiative directly addresses a critical gap in the clean energy transition: ensuring that language barriers, cultural nuances, and access to trusted information do not leave diverse communities behind.
“Every Victorian deserves the opportunity to lower their energy bills and reduce their carbon footprint through home electrification,” a project spokesperson said. “But to do that, people need information that is clear, in their own language, and delivered by those they trust. That’s where this project comes in.”
A Tailored, In-Language Approach
The project will move beyond generic brochures by providing clear, culturally relevant, and in-language information about home electrification and available energy upgrades. This includes everything from understanding efficient electric heating and cooling (reverse-cycle systems) and hot water systems to navigating government rebates and installer qualifications. The goal is to equip people with the knowledge to understand their options and ask the right questions of providers.
“Information is power,” the spokesperson added. “We’re demystifying the process—from what an induction cooktop is really like to use, to how to finance upgrades—so households can make choices that are right for their family and budget.”
Community at the Core
The project’s methodology is deeply community-centric. Key activities will include:
Local Information Sessions & Workshops: Held within community hubs, these sessions will provide practical, hands-on guidance.
Training Community Electrification Leads: ECCV will train and support trusted community members to become local points of knowledge and guidance.
Developing Accessible Multilingual Resources: Creating easy-to-understand guides, checklists, and digital content in multiple languages.
Facilitating Peer-to-Peer Learning: Creating spaces for communities to share experiences, concerns, and successes.
This model ensures information is not only translated but also transcreated—adapted to be meaningful within specific cultural contexts—and delivered through trusted channels.
Navigating the Transition with Confidence
With a focus on practical support, the project aims to do more than just inform; it aims to build confidence. For many families, the upfront cost and complexity of upgrading appliances or installing solar can be daunting. By breaking down the steps, explaining long-term savings, and clarifying available support, the project helps households see a clear pathway forward.
“Our focus is on making sure multicultural communities across Victoria have the information and support they need to navigate this transition with confidence,” the spokesperson emphasised. “This is about equity, ensuring the benefits of a clean energy future—like healthier homes, lower bills, and a safer climate—are shared by all.”
The “Empowering Multicultural Communities at Home” project is set to launch in the coming months, with ECCV beginning outreach to communities across the state. It represents a vital step toward an inclusive and just energy transition for Victoria.
For more information or to express interest in partnering, community organisations are encouraged to contact the Ethnic Communities’ Council of Victoria (ECCV).
Condolence News: The Passing of Dr. Lata Tesfaye Jule
It is with profound sorrow and heavy hearts that we announce the sudden passing of Dr. Lata Tesfaye Jule, former President of Dembi Dollo University and a senior advisor to the Prime Minister of Ethiopia. Dr. Lata passed away in his hotel room at the Hilton Hotel in Virginia, USA, earlier today.
He was in Washington D.C. as part of an official Ethiopian government delegation, having arrived just yesterday. The cause of death is not yet publicly known, pending the results of a hospital examination. His remains are expected to be repatriated to Ethiopia tomorrow, Sunday, through the coordination of the Ethiopian Embassy.
Dr. Lata was also a member of the Ethiopian Parliament. He was widely recognized as a brilliant and accomplished scholar, having earned two doctorate degrees at a young age and playing a pivotal role in the expansion and development of Dembi Dollo University during his presidency.
A colleague who knew him personally from his time in Washington shared these reflections:
“I had the privilege of meeting Dr. Lata closely when he came to Washington D.C. for work. In our time together, I came to understand what a profoundly knowledgeable man he was—a scholar with great dreams. He never stopped learning. He had come to America to pursue his third doctoral degree when his life was tragically cut short in his hotel room, leaving his ambitions unfulfilled. The grief is double when people of such integrity and grand vision are taken from us so soon.”
The news of Dr. Lata’s untimely demise has sent shockwaves through communities in Ethiopia and abroad, prompting an outpouring of grief. Many express a deep sense of loss, mourning a dedicated public servant who worked with humility for his community and a man whose character and expertise transformed many lives.
Our deepest condolences go to his family, friends, colleagues, and all who knew and loved him. May God grant strength and solace to his loved ones during this unimaginably difficult time. May his soul rest in eternal peace.
Oromedia 