Culture & Sports Minister: Meskel-Demera embodies Ethiopia’s rich history, cultural diversity, and unity as a nation

Addis Ababa, September 26, 2025 (FMC) — The nationwide celebration of the Meskel-Demera festival reflects Ethiopia’s diverse culture, rich history, and enduring national bond, according to Culture and Sports Minister Shewit Shanka.

Speaking at the Meskel-Demera festival held at Meskel Square today, the Minister described Ethiopia as a land of varied cultures, religions, vibrant values, abundant resources, and profound history.

Shewit noted that Meskel, inscribed by UNESCO as one of Ethiopia’s world heritage traditions, stands as a symbol of the nation’s cohesion. The nationwide celebration, she added, underscores Ethiopia’s strong foundation of unity, with the varied expressions of the holiday affirming its character as a multinational state.

Highlighting Ethiopia’s longstanding tradition of peaceful coexistence, the Minister recalled that Ethiopians have lived together in harmony for thousands of years by respecting one another — a unique value to be preserved for future generations.

She stressed the importance of safeguarding and transmitting such cultural assets and narratives, which she described as essential to ensuring lasting peace and eradicating poverty. She also pointed to the completion of the Grand Ethiopian Renaissance Dam (GERD) as a true demonstration of national unity, calling for joint endeavors to achieve Ethiopia’s growth and prosperity.

Meanwhile, Ethiopian Christians are celebrating the Meskel-Demera festival — which commemorates the Finding of the True Cross — with colorful religious and cultural events across the country.

Addis Ababa Mayor Adanech Abiebie, addressing the gathering at Meskel Square, emphasized that the GERD’s success was achieved through perseverance, prayer, and divine blessing.

She underlined that this year’s Demera celebration holds special significance as it coincides with the completion of the dam. Describing it as a unifying achievement, the Mayor drew a parallel between the Demera bonfire, which represents unity, and the collective spirit with which Ethiopians realized the long-awaited project.

Adanech urged Ethiopians to continue striving against poverty and working toward prosperity by drawing strength from the cross. “Just as the True Cross was uncovered from beneath dirt and debris, Ethiopians must work together to clear away the obstacles to national development,” she stressed.

The Mayor also reaffirmed her administration’s determination to enhance Addis Ababa’s appeal and readiness to host major religious festivals, pointing to the beauty of Meskel Square as a reflection of this commitment.

Meskel is recognized by UNESCO as an Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity, inscribed in December 2013. The centuries-old festival commemorates the Finding of the True Cross of Christ and is marked with traditions such as the Demera bonfire, hymns, and prayers.