IT was Ethiopia all the way at a function celebrating the country's National Day at the Ethiopian Consulate on Thursday. The event turned out to be a grand celebration that got Ethiopian expats nostalgic about their home country. “On this day our country got its true independence when the nation overthrew the Communist junta 18 years ago,” said Tekleab Kebede, Ethiopian Consul General Ambassador, addressing the people. Girls of the Ethiopian International School, Jeddah, sang the National Anthem. A cultural show comprising traditional dances of the country, such as, Afar, Amhara, Oromo, Gurega, Harari, Somali, Kuche, Cidamo, Arguba, and Ajare, charged up the evening. Ethiopian expatriates, especially children and women, were dressed up in traditional garbs that represented the diverse culture of their country, which is a federal republic comprising of nine provinces. “I'm here because my people are here celebrating the National Day. Today, I feel like a true Ethiopian,” said 26-year-old Murad, who has been living in the Kingdom since he was 6-years-old. Ethiopian bread called ‘Ingera' and ‘Ambasha', cakes and coffee were served to the people.
