Addis Ababa, August 19, 2025 (FMC) – The legendary Ethiopian artist Debebe Eshetu, celebrated for his profound contributions to theater, film, literature, and public life, was laid to rest this afternoon at Menbere Tsebaot Holy Trinity Cathedral in Addis Ababa.
The funeral brought together senior government officials, dignitaries, artists, colleagues, family, and hundreds of admirers who came to honor one of Ethiopia’s most revered cultural figures. Chief Whip at the House of Peoples’ Representatives Tesfaye Beljige (PhD), Government Communication Service Minister Legesse Tulu (PhD), Social Affairs Advisor to the Prime Minister Daniel Kibret, Peace Minister Mohamed Edris, and Education Minister Professor Berhanu Nega were among the officials in attendance.
Earlier in the day, a wake was held at the National Theater, attended by President Taye Atske Selassie and Addis Ababa Mayor Adanech Abiebie. Their presence underscored the depth of public and official recognition for Debebe’s lifetime of artistic service.
Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed expressed his “heartfelt condolences” over the passing of Debebe, describing him as an icon whose artistic talent and creativity left a lasting imprint on the history of contemporary Ethiopian art. The Prime Minister said Debebe’s role in helping Ethiopia advance through art and culture will always be remembered.
President Taye also paid tribute, noting that Debebe’s “profound affection for his country and its people, as well as his contributions to the advancement of art and knowledge, will always be remembered.” He praised him as an “exceptional individual who devoted his life to the pursuit of truth and wisdom, serving as a role model for the generation.”
Deputy Prime Minister Temesgen Tiruneh, in a message shared on social media, remembered Debebe as “one of Ethiopia’s most beloved icons” whose artistic legacy remains a testament to his devotion to the nation.
Born in 1942, Debebe began his education at Teferi Mekonnen School before briefly training at the Ethiopian Air Force. He later studied at Debre Birhan Teachers College and went on to pursue the arts at Haile Selassie I University (now Addis Ababa University) and the Intézmény Loránd School of Art in Budapest, Hungary, where he graduated in 1966 as one of the institution’s first Black students.
His career spanned more than four decades across stage, film, radio, and television. He took part in over 40 major stage productions and numerous films, including *Shaft in Africa*, *The Sailor from Gibraltar*, *Guma and Afri*, and *The Grand Rebellion*. He also enriched Ethiopian literature and theater as a translator and playwright, authoring works such as *A Letter to the Chairman*, *Workshop Results*, and *My Test of Faith I and II*.
Beyond his artistic achievements, Debebe was known for his humanitarian and civic engagement. He volunteered extensively at the National Theater, mentored generations of young performers, and was also active in public life. He served as spokesperson for the Coalition for Unity and Democracy during the 2005 elections, an involvement that led to his imprisonment for a year.
In recognition of his lifelong service to Ethiopian arts and culture, Addis Ababa University awarded him an honorary doctorate in July 2023, while Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed bestowed upon him Ethiopia’s highest national honor under the theme “Ethiopia is grateful for your service.”
Debebe Eshetu, who passed away on August 17 at the age of 83 after a long illness, is remembered as a versatile artist, devoted educator, and committed advocate whose legacy will continue to inspire Ethiopia’s cultural and artistic community for generations.