The Significance of Ethiopia’s Nations and Nationalities Day for Sidama

The 19th Ethiopia Day, also known as Nations and Nationalities Day, holds profound meaning for the Sidama people, symbolizing their cultural, political, and historical identity within the broader Ethiopian federal framework. This day celebrates Ethiopia’s multinationalism, recognizing the diversity that constitutes the country while reinforcing the principle of unity in diversity. For Sidama, this celebration is both a reflection of their achievements and a reminder of the ongoing need to safeguard and strengthen the federal system, which is vital for their continued self-determination and development.

Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed’s analogy of Ethiopia as a grand library filled with diverse knowledge, values, cultures, and histories is particularly apt. This metaphor underscores the importance of celebrating the unique contributions of every ethnic group, including Sidama, to Ethiopia’s national identity. Sidama, with its rich cultural heritage, distinct language, and strong traditions, is an indispensable part of this “library.” However, just as books in a library thrive when preserved and respected, Ethiopia’s federal system must ensure that all groups are accorded the autonomy and resources they need to flourish.

For Sidama, the federal system represents the bedrock of their cultural and political identity. Under Ethiopia’s multinational federalism, Sidama has achieved significant milestones, most notably the realization of its self-administrative autonomy in recent years. This autonomy is not merely a political arrangement but a recognition of Sidama’s unique identity and their right to self-governance within the Ethiopian framework.

However, while federalism has provided opportunities, its implementation over the past 35 years has been fraught with challenges. Inequities in resource distribution, power centralization, and tensions between federalism and unionist agendas have limited the full potential of this system. Sidama’s experience reflects this dichotomy: while the system has enabled autonomy, much work remains to ensure that it delivers equitable benefits and fosters genuine unity.

Celebrating Nations and Nationalities Day is a reminder that multinationalism, as a principle, cannot be taken for granted. It must be actively defended against unionist tendencies that seek to undermine the federal structure in favor of a centralized system. For Sidama, unionism poses an existential threat to their cultural and political identity. A unitary system would erode the autonomy they have fought for, relegating their distinctiveness to the margins. Thus, Sidama must continue to advocate for a strengthened federal system, ensuring that it remains a vehicle for equality, representation, and self-determination.

While Nations and Nationalities Day is a time for celebration, it should also serve as a call to action for Sidama. The federal system’s potential has been underutilized, with limited progress in addressing economic disparities, infrastructure development, and social services in Sidama’s region. Sidama must work proactively to leverage their autonomy, demanding equitable resource allocation and greater participation in national decision-making processes. This requires strategic engagement with the federal government and collaboration with other regional states to address common challenges and strengthen Ethiopia’s federalism.

Here is my take, the 19th Ethiopia Day is a poignant occasion for Sidama to reflect on their journey within the Ethiopian federation. It is a celebration of their unique identity and the shared sacrifices that have shaped Ethiopia’s multinationalism. Yet, it is also a reminder of the work ahead. Sidama must continue to champion the federal system, not only as a safeguard for their cultural and political identity but also as a mechanism for equitable development and national unity. By doing so, Sidama can ensure that their story remains an integral part of Ethiopia’s grand library of diversity.

ኖሞናኖቶ ነኝ
መልካም ሰኞ!!