Ethiopian Ambassador to Uganda, H.E. Etsegenet Bezabih Yimenu, has called on Ethiopians to embrace the country’s diversity as a source of strength and unity, rather than division.
Ambassador Etsegenet made the remarks during the celebration of Hibir Ken (Unity in Diversity Day) hosted by the Embassy of the Federal Democratic Republic of Ethiopia in Kampala under the theme “Diversity: The Ornament of Ethiopia.”
Hibir Ken is observed on the fourth day of Pagume, the 13th and final month of the Ethiopian calendar.
In her address, Ambassador Etsegenet noted that Ethiopians across the country are diverse in their cultures, identities, traditions, topography and environments, but said these differences form an important part of the country’s collective identity.
She stressed that Ethiopia’s diversity should not be viewed as a source of division but as a strength that is united by a shared country and common Ethiopian identity.
The Ambassador pointed to what she described as collective national achievements as evidence of what Ethiopians can accomplish when united.
She cited the defence of Ethiopia’s sovereignty and independence over centuries, the defeat of colonial forces at the Battle of Adwa, the construction of the Grand Ethiopian Renaissance Dam (GERD) and national initiatives such as the planting of millions of seedlings in a single day.
“Diversity” was therefore presented not as a barrier to national progress, but as a foundation upon which Ethiopia can build its future.
Ambassador Etsegenet also highlighted Ethiopia’s ongoing National Dialogue, describing it as an important national process aimed at promoting inclusive participation, building consensus and addressing differences through peaceful dialogue.
She said the process was important in strengthening national unity while creating space for Ethiopians with different identities and perspectives to participate in shaping the country’s future.
The celebration brought together Ethiopian nationals, people of Ethiopian descent and friends of Ethiopia, alongside Ugandan leaders and business and tourism representatives.
The Chief Guest, Kampala Central Division Mayor and NRM Kampala Central Division Chairperson Salim Saad Uhuru, conveyed President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni’s Ethiopian New Year greetings and reaffirmed the strong historical and diplomatic ties between Uganda and Ethiopia.
The evening also featured Ethiopian traditional dances, poetry, an Ethiopian coffee ceremony and a dinner combining traditional Ethiopian cuisine with modern dishes.
A fundraising drive for people affected by natural and man-made disasters in Ethiopia raised close to US$3,000, further underscoring the spirit of solidarity celebrated through Hibir Ken.
The event concluded with a traditional Ethiopian cake-cutting ceremony, presentations highlighting Ethiopia’s development projects and a raffle for a free Ethiopian Airlines round-trip ticket.
