Selfies as well as Singing as People of Ethiopia Mark Gratitude Festival
Tens of thousands of brightly clothed Ethiopians assembled in central Addis Ababa for the traditional Irreecha event during recent days.
Irreecha is observed by the Oromo community, Ethiopia's largest ethnic group, and takes place at the completion of the country's main wet season.
Every year, festival-goers come together around holy rivers and lakes to show appreciation to their divine beings for the fertile landscape that the rains have brought.
"I have participated in the festival for the previous nine years," mentioned 25-year-old one attendee.
"In my view, the celebration symbolizes my identity, it demonstrates the honor and significance of my people."
Men, women, the older generation and the youth all take part, adorned in striking garments and jewellery.
They vocalize, dance, exchange narratives and place freshly cut green plants and floral arrangements in the water - denoting life, regeneration and optimism.
International Attendance
The celebration does not only attract individuals from across Ethiopia, visitors come from internationally.
"I attended a year ago - it was so good, so magnificent, I brought along my offspring with me this year," said one visitor, hailing from abroad.
"It's wonderful. All people wants to say hello, everyone offers affection and expresses hospitality."
Event Timeline
The first day of the event took place on the weekend in the capital. On Sunday, festival-goers journeyed to a nearby town, a community just outside the main city.
Even though this celebration has its foundations in indigenous faith systems, it is now observed by the majority of the Oromo people, irrespective of their belief system.
Recent Developments
In the recent years, the figure of individuals participating in the festival has grown significantly. This is partly due to the expansion of social media, where many younger generation capture their clothing, dancing and musical expressions during the festival.
Previous Background
In the previous years, Irreecha was used as a venue for political demonstrations - the Oromo community have long complained about political and economic marginalisation.
However, this year's celebration unfolded peacefully, with an emphasis on celebration, solidarity and ethnic identity.
