bbc.com
Ethiopia Celebrates Enkutatash: New Year 2018
Ethiopia joyfully ushered in its New Year, 2018, on September 11, 2025 (Western calendar), marked by vibrant celebrations, traditional ceremonies, and the launch of the Grand Ethiopian Renaissance Dam.
- What is the significance of Enkutatash and how is it celebrated?
- Enkutatash, the Ethiopian New Year, is a nationwide celebration not tied to the church. Celebrations include traditional coffee ceremonies using adey ababa flowers and fresh grass, bustling markets selling festive foods like chickens for doro wat stew, and evening concerts.
- How does the Ethiopian calendar differ from the Western calendar, and what broader implications does this have?
- Ethiopia uses a calendar seven years behind the Western calendar due to a different calculation of Jesus's birth year. This difference, along with the 13-month calendar (12 months of 30 days, plus a 5 or 6-day 13th month), highlights the unique cultural and historical identity of Ethiopia, creating a cultural distinction while also illustrating seamless integration between calendars in daily life.
- What economic activities are associated with Enkutatash, and what does this reveal about the cultural and economic context?
- Vendors from the countryside flock to cities to sell flowers, grass, chickens (2,000-3,000 birr), and sheep (15,000-22,000 birr), demonstrating both cultural traditions and economic activity linked to the holiday. The price range of livestock indicates a varied economic landscape, with options for both budget-conscious and more affluent celebrants.
Cognitive Concepts
Framing Bias
The article presents a largely positive and celebratory framing of Enkutatash, focusing on the festive aspects and cultural significance of the holiday. The headline, 'Party like it's 2018', sets a light-hearted and celebratory tone. While the differences between the Ethiopian and Western calendars are explained, the emphasis remains on the vibrancy of the celebrations. This framing might unintentionally overshadow any potential political or social complexities that exist within Ethiopian society during this time.
Language Bias
The language used is largely neutral and descriptive, avoiding overtly positive or negative connotations. Terms like "roaring trade" and "heaving" suggest a bustling atmosphere without explicit judgment. The use of descriptive language such as "spicy stew" and "traditional song" evokes a sense of cultural richness but is generally neutral.
Bias by Omission
The article focuses heavily on the celebratory aspects of Enkutatash, potentially omitting other significant narratives or events occurring during this time in Ethiopia. While the Grand Ethiopian Renaissance Dam's launch is mentioned, the article doesn't delve into potential controversies or differing perspectives surrounding this significant project. Omission of potential political or socio-economic challenges could create an incomplete picture of the overall context.
Sustainable Development Goals
The article highlights economic activities associated with the New Year celebration, such as the sale of chickens, sheep, and flowers. While not directly addressing poverty eradication, the economic activity suggests a level of economic engagement and potential income generation for some individuals, which can indirectly contribute to poverty reduction. The mention of large oxen purchases for feasts suggests a level of affluence for some, further indicating that the event may have differing impacts on poverty levels across socioeconomic groups.