Gondar Hosts Ethiopia’s Communities and Cultural Representatives to Promote Fraternity and Cohesion for Timket

Addis Ababa, January 15, 2026 (FMC) – Gondar, having completed preparations for the Ethiopian Epiphany (Timket) festival, is welcoming local and international guests as the historic city anticipates over two million visitors for the celebrations.

A delegation of elders and community representatives from across Ethiopia, alongside the Kin Ethiopia arts troupe, arrived in Gondar on Wednesday to promote national unity and intercommunity solidarity. Upon arrival, they were received by Melkamu Tsegaye, Head of the Amhara Regional State Culture, Tourism and Sports Bureau, and city elders.

Melkamu highlighted the troupe’s role in showcasing Ethiopia’s diverse cultural heritage and national identity. He emphasized that both artists and community leaders should foster empathy, harmony, and unity to strengthen cohesion among the nation’s communities.

During their stay, the Kin Ethiopia delegation will carry out programs designed to reinforce solidarity while respecting the cultural traditions and customs of Ethiopia’s peoples. The forum, organized by the Ministry of Culture and Sports in collaboration with the Amhara Regional State Culture, Tourism and Sports Bureau, aims to consolidate national cohesion through cultural engagement.

Preparations for Timket in Gondar have been completed in a manner that respects both the city’s religious and cultural values, with service providers ensuring hospitality that reflects Ethiopian tradition for both domestic and international visitors.

Timket, also known as Ethiopian Epiphany, is being celebrated with a range of programs in Gondar, including commemorations of Emperor Tewodros II’s birthday on January 14.

Kin Ethiopia, officially referred to as “Kin Ethiopia: Ethiopia Rising,” is a large-scale cultural and artistic ensemble coordinated by Ethiopia’s Ministry of Culture and Sports and the Ministry of Foreign Affairs.

The troupe showcases Ethiopia’s heritage, ancient civilization, and vibrant traditions through music, dance, fashion, and coffee ceremonies, both internationally and domestically, aiming to strengthen tourism, diplomacy, economic ties, and national cohesion.