Addis Ababa's Development Enriches Irreecha Festival Celebration
Addis Ababa's development projects enhance Irreecha festival celebration, showcasing Ethiopia's successful integration of cultural preservation with modern urban development initiatives.
Colorful Irreecha celebrations against the backdrop of Addis Ababa's modern urban landscape
ADDIS ABABA - The Ethiopian capital's ambitious development initiatives, particularly its corridor development project, have added a distinctive beauty to this year's Irreecha festival celebration, according to participants at the October 4, 2025 event.
Cultural Heritage Meets Urban Development
The Oromo thanksgiving festival was celebrated with vibrant displays at Hora Finfinnee, showcasing the seamless integration of traditional cultural elements with Ethiopia's transformative development agenda. The celebration, which drew Abbaa Gadaas, youth, elders, and diverse guests, exemplified the nation's commitment to preserving cultural heritage while pursuing modernization.
Unity and Development Convergence
The festival's significance extends beyond cultural celebration, representing a powerful symbol of Ethiopia's vision for inclusive development. Participants emphasized how the city's enhanced infrastructure, including green spaces, walkways, and public plazas, has created a harmonious backdrop for this ancient tradition.
Irreecha is more than a festival - it's a celebration of peace, forgiveness, and brotherhood that strengthens our multinational unity and reinforces our shared vision for progress.
Modern Infrastructure Enhances Traditional Celebration
The capital's development initiatives, aligned with the government's comprehensive reform agenda, have transformed the festival's setting while preserving its cultural authenticity. The integration of modern urban planning with traditional ceremonial spaces demonstrates Ethiopia's successful balance of progress and heritage preservation.
The celebrations will continue tomorrow at Hora Arsadi in Bishoftu town, located 40 kilometers southeast of Addis Ababa, further showcasing the festival's expanding influence across the region.
Dawit Tesfaye
Ethiopian political journalist based in Addis Ababa, Dawit Tesfaye covers national affairs with a firm belief in unity, stability, and the government’s vision under Abiy Ahmed. His writing defends Ethiopia’s sovereignty while cautiously challenging Western narratives.