The cultural richness of Ethiopia
We all have an idea about Ethiopia in our minds which I don’t need to describe what it is. That idea is impressively biased and that’s why on the first day I questioned if why I was in the right place. As a result I’ll share a little bit on how I changed my view about Ethiopia and broadened my view of the world
The food
The base of Ethiopian food is Injera — a plain bread made of a cereal called teff and there is a huge variety of curry type foods which are extra spicy. They eat cow, lamb, sheep and a pretty significant assortment of vegetables. Their flavors are quite reach and intense and they fast twice week for religious reason, abstaining from all animal derived product. In the West this is known as vegan.
The language
In Ethiopia the official language is Amharic, which besides Ethiopia itself it might be understood in some parts of Eritrea too. Amharic has its own set of characters and it was quite hard to me to learn some very basic wording.
The ethnical diversity
Ethiopia has around 80 different ethnic groups which all they have their different languages many wont understand Amharic and those who understand Amharic won’t understand all local languages. You just need to go 60m away from Addis and this is enough from Ethiopians not to be able to communicate with one another.
The dances & clothing
Because Ethiopia is such an ethnically diverse country they have so many local clothing of different vibrant colours. One can see this heritage through their powerful dances with unique instruments, it such a delight. Actually in the cultural restaurants in Addis Ababa you’ll get dances, clothing and fantastic food. It’s a delight!
The landscape
No words needed right?
