The Embassy of the Federal Democratic Republic of Ethiopia in Kampala has celebrated Hibir Ken, or Unity in Diversity Day, with a call for Ethiopians to embrace their cultural and social diversity as a source of national strength.
The celebration, held in Kampala, marked the fourth day of Pagume, the 13th month of the Ethiopian calendar, under the theme “Diversity: The Ornament of Ethiopia.”
The event brought together members of the Ethiopian community in Uganda, people of Ethiopian descent and friends of Ethiopia, alongside Ugandan leaders and business and tourism representatives.
Speaking at the event, Ethiopian Ambassador to Uganda Etsegenet Bezabih Yimenu said Ethiopia’s diversity in culture, identity, traditions, geography and environment should unite rather than divide the country.
She said Ethiopians have historically demonstrated the power of unity by defending the country’s sovereignty, defeating colonialism at the Battle of Adwa and undertaking major national development projects, including the Grand Ethiopian Renaissance Dam (GERD).
The Ambassador also pointed to Ethiopia’s nationwide tree-planting initiatives and other development achievements as examples of what can be accomplished through collective national effort.
She further highlighted Ethiopia’s ongoing National Dialogue, describing it as an important process for promoting inclusive participation, building consensus, resolving differences peacefully and strengthening national unity.
The Chief Guest, Kampala Central Division Mayor Salim Saad Uhuru, conveyed President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni’s New Year greetings to the people of Ethiopia and underscored the strong historical and diplomatic ties between Uganda and Ethiopia.
“Uganda and Ethiopia share more than diplomatic relations. We share a common African identity, a belief in unity, and a commitment to building a stronger and more prosperous continent for future generations,” Uhuru said.
He assured members of the Ethiopian community that Kampala was their second home and encouraged them to approach his office whenever they needed assistance.
“Our offices are yours. We are there to serve you,” he said.
The celebrations also showcased Ethiopia’s rich cultural heritage through traditional dances, music, poetry and an authentic Ethiopian coffee ceremony.
A group of young Ethiopian women performed the traditional song “Abeba Ayesh Hoy Alayenim” while collecting contributions to support people affected by natural and man-made disasters in Ethiopia. The fundraising drive raised nearly 3,000 US dollars.
The evening also featured a poetry presentation by Ethiopian architect Kalkidan Tewodros, a traditional Ethiopian cake-cutting ceremony and documentary screenings highlighting some of Ethiopia’s recent development projects.
An Ethiopian Airlines round-trip ticket raffle brought the celebrations to a festive conclusion, as the embassy used the occasion to showcase Ethiopia’s cultural diversity, national achievements and the enduring bonds between Ethiopians and their friends in Uganda.
