Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed (Ph.D.) has extended his well wishes to the nation on the occasion of the Irreecha Melka celebration, an event he hailed as an Oromo system of thanksgiving to the Creator.
In his message, the Prime Minister highlighted the core Oromo belief that the multiplication of humankind and the successful harvest of crops—where the "sown seed dies and is resurrected to bear fruit"—is solely due to the Creator's support and help.
"This is why, when Irreecha arrives, the Oromo offer praise by thanking the great, pure-hearted Creator for all that has been done and by pleading for mercy for the time to come," he stated.
Dr. Abiy further explained the ancient Oromo philosophy regarding water, which is viewed as the source of purity and the foundation of creation and life. Consequently, the traditional prayer is offered to the "Creator God, the God of Creations, the God of Burqaa Wallaabu."
The Prime Minister noted that this year's celebration carries added significance as it follows immediately after Ethiopia's inauguration of the Great Ethiopian Renaissance Dam (GERD).
"The fact that this year's Irreecha is being celebrated right after Ethiopia inaugurated the Great Renaissance Dam (GERD) by harnessing the Abbay (Nile) River to meet the energy needs of its citizens doubles our joy," he declared, adding, "Congratulations to you! Congratulations to us!"
Connecting the cultural value of water to national strategy, the Prime Minister referenced an Oromo proverb: "A people without Melka (a river/water source) is like a people without a head."
Applying this to the nation, he stated, "We believe that a country without a sea outlet is a country without life (prosperity). For the prosperity of our people, we are working to secure a sea outlet through peaceful and legal means." He added that this effort "is gaining acceptance within the international community."
Dr. Abiy recalled that in recent years, his administration, guided by the philosophy of Medemer (synergy/coming together), has leveraged the country's wealth, experience, and knowledge. He affirmed that this, combined with resolute and mature leadership and the help of the Creator, has led to the registration of remarkable changes despite numerous challenges.
He concluded by urging citizens to firmly uphold the Irreecha values of peace, mercy, and unity in the upcoming Ethiopian year, 2018 E.C. (2025/2026 G.C.). He called on the public to "work diligently and unyieldingly against challenges to ensure the resurgence of our country."