Meskel, the Founding of the True Cross, stands as one of the most traditional celebrations in Ethiopia. Followers of the Ethiopian Orthodox Christians went out en mass at the Meskel Square at the heart of the Ethiopian capital, Addis Ababa, where the celebration began with numerous processions that arrive from the churches with the aim of surrounding a wooden construction decorated with yellow daisies. The celebrations culminate when the huge bonfire (Damera) at the conspicuously set in the center of the square will be lit.
One of the major religious celebrations in the Eastern African nation, Meskel was also a spectacular scene in Woldia and Bahir Dar, both up north in the State of Amhara.
For his part, Arega Kebede, the Regional President, underscored that Meskel signifies peace and reconciliation.
Negash Wagesho, who sits at the top of the South Western Ethiopian Regional Administration, underlined that Meskel is a manifestation of Ethiopianism. According to Wagesho, whenever there is Damera, every individual come up with his bonfire and when lighting the bonfire, sing together and bless each other. This is Ethiopia. The more we become together the more we become strong and beauty.
Meskel, a beginning of hope as the New Year unfolds, was celebrated with much fanfare in Gambella near the Ethio-South Sudanese border.
