Addis Ababa, December 10, 2025 (FMC) — Ethiopia has pledged to promote and preserve Gifaataa, the New Year festival of the Wolaita people, both nationally and internationally following its inscription on UNESCO’s Representative List of the Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity.
Gifaataa was officially inscribed on UNESCO’s Representative List of the Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity during the 20th session of the Intergovernmental Committee for the Safeguarding of Intangible Cultural Heritage in New Delhi, India.
The country’s Tourism Minister Ms. Selamawit Kassa delivered a video message at the event, expressing gratitude to the committee for the recognition.
She described Gifaataa as one of the most treasured cultural traditions of the Wolaita community in southern Ethiopia.
Celebrated according to the traditional Wadia Kodo calendar, which aligns the movements of the moon, earth, and sun, Gifaataa marks the spiritual beginning of the Wolaita New Year. The term “Gifaataa,” meaning “firstborn” or “beginning,” reflects renewal and the aspirations for peace, unity, and shared prosperity, the Minister noted.
Selamawit highlighted that the festival brings together people of all ages, genders, religions, and social backgrounds. In the days leading up to the celebration, communities engage in cleaning and beautifying their surroundings, renovating homes, planting trees, and supporting vulnerable families. Long-standing disputes are also reconciled, allowing communities to enter the new year with strengthened relationships and renewed spirit.
“The recognition by UNESCO holds deep meaning for the Wolaita people and for Ethiopia,” the Minister said. “It reinforces our commitment to safeguarding this heritage and strengthening the shared cultural richness that unites our communities.”
Looking ahead, she emphasized that the government will promote Gifaataa through education and broad media outreach to ensure its traditions are shared not only within Ethiopia but also on international platforms.
Minister Selamawit also congratulated the Wolaita people, who have preserved, nurtured, and passed down this remarkable cultural tradition and to all Ethiopians.
“Now is the time to showcase Ethiopia’s beautiful culture, nature, and history to the world,” she added.
The UNESCO inscription coincides with Ethiopia celebrating its 20th Nations, Nationalities, and Peoples’ Day, marking a significant cultural milestone for the country and reinforcing national pride in its diverse heritage.