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Dr Dlamini-Zuma

ADDIS ABABA. — The Chairperson of the African Union Commission (AUC) Dr Nkosazana Dlamini-Zuma, sent her best wishes to all the people of Ethiopia as they celebrated their New Year and the feast of St John the Baptist (Enkutatash) on September 11.

“My best wishes of peace, prosperity and good health to my Ethiopian brothers and sisters, as you mark the beginning of a new dawn, filled with hope.” Dr Dlamini-Zuma said, calling on all the Ethiopians to enhance peace, love and reconciliation in their communities and nation at large as they celebrate their new year.

Referring to Ethiopia’s positive growth trajectory, and its potential for prosperity development, the AU Commission Chairperson said the New Year should usher in new meaning and renewed enthusiasm to all the people of Ethiopia to approach the future of their nation and continent with optimism, peace and unity.

Ethiopians on Sunday celebrated their New Year, and according to the calendar of the East African country, it is the year 2009.

Ethiopian New Year celebration is also known as “Enkutatash,” meaning “gift of jewels” in Amharic language, which originally derives from the story of the Queen of Sheba returning from visiting King Solomon in Jerusalem, according to a legend.

And, upon arrival at home, the Queen was greeted by Ethiopians with enku, jewels.

Ethiopian New Year/Enkutatash is an occasion filled with festivities and marked by dancing and singing across the green countryside, budding with spring flowers, and in cities as well with people enjoying foods and drinks prepared for the joyful holiday.

While celebrating the holiday, Ethiopians wear traditional costumes and enjoy special foods and drinks, exchange greetings of the New Year occasion. — AU Commission/ Xinhua.