Culture, dance and heritage as Ethiopians welcome 2019

What the report says

The Ethiopian community in Uganda marked the Ethiopian New Year at Mestil Hotel in Kampala with an evening built around culture, dance, poetry and food, according to Sqoop Uganda. The gathering welcomed 2019 under the theme “Diversity: The Ornament of Ethiopia,” and also observed Hibir Day, a celebration of unity in diversity. The event brought together Ethiopian nationals, Ugandan guests and friends of the community for a programme that highlighted heritage and cultural exchange.

Sqoop Uganda reported that the celebration also helped explain Ethiopia’s distinct calendar, which has 13 months and does not align with the January 1 New Year used in many countries. The article framed the occasion as both a festive and symbolic moment, with performances and presentations showcasing Ethiopian traditions while emphasizing the shared identity of a country with many languages, cultures and customs.

Kampala Lord Mayor Salim Uhuru attended as guest of honour and used the event to underline ties between Uganda and Ethiopia. He praised Uganda’s hospitality toward Ethiopians living and working in the country and called for stronger cooperation, peace and prosperity between the two communities. Ethiopian Ambassador Etsegenet Bezabih Yimenu also spoke, describing diversity as part of Ethiopia’s strength.

The evening ended with dinner, traditional performances and the cutting of a New Year cake, turning the hotel event into a public display of cultural pride and community connection.