Hora Finfinne Irreecha festival ends in peace and splendor

Addis Ababa, October 4, 2025 (FMC) — The 2018 E.C. Hora Finfinne Irreecha Festival concluded peacefully in Addis Ababa, reflecting unity, gratitude, and the preservation of Ethiopia’s rich cultural heritage, Mayor Adanech Abiebie announced.

Mayor Adanech praised the successful completion of this year’s celebration, noting that it was marked by beauty, order, and joy — drawing participants from across Ethiopia as well as international tourists and cultural researchers.

She highlighted that Addis Ababa’s ongoing development and beautification projects, including riverbank restorations and new public spaces, have enhanced the city’s capacity to host major cultural gatherings.

The Mayor also expressed appreciation to residents, organizers, and security institutions whose coordinated efforts ensured the festival’s smooth and peaceful conduct while upholding its enduring values and traditions.

For his part, Oromia Regional State Chief Administrator Shimelis Abdisa also extended heartfelt gratitude to all who contributed to the festival’s grand success.

He thanked Addis Ababa residents for their warm hospitality in welcoming guests of the Hora Finfinne celebration and appreciated the participation of representatives from various ethnic communities who joined in sharing the joy of the Oromo people.

Mr. Shimelis commended the security forces for their dedication in maintaining peace and the local and international media for helping to showcase the festival’s cultural beauty to the world.

He reaffirmed that efforts will continue to strengthen the process of registering Irreecha with the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) as part of Ethiopia’s living heritage.

Meanwhile, the Addis Ababa Police confirmed that the Hora Finfinne Irreecha Festival — celebrated under the theme “Irreecha for National Leap Up” and rooted in the Geda system — was held successfully and peacefully.

The police commended the strong cooperation of the public and the professionalism of all security and intelligence institutions in maintaining peace throughout the celebration.

They added that all necessary preparations have been finalized to ensure that the Hora Harsade Irreecha Festival in Bishoftu will also be celebrated safely and colorfully tomorrow. The Police further urged citizens to continue their cooperation in preserving peace and upholding the cultural and spiritual values of Irreecha.