Mekelle/Tel Aviv/Nairobi/Pretoria/London
Mayor Adanech Abebe Calls for Unity and Renewal in 2026 Timket Message
By Chekole Alemu
Addis Ababa Mayor Adanech Abebe has called on Ethiopians to use the 2026 Ethiopian Epiphany celebration as a moment of unity, national renewal, and shared responsibility.
In a message released through the Addis Ababa City Administration Communication Office on the occasion of Timket, marked annually on January 19, the mayor emphasized the importance of strengthening social cohesion and rejecting divisions that undermine collective progress. She urged citizens to focus on common national goals and to work together toward a peaceful and prosperous Ethiopia.
Mayor Adanech also paid tribute to individuals who have made sacrifices for the country’s peace and stability. She noted that progress and victory are not achieved without sacrifice and stressed the need to honor those contributions as the nation moves forward.
Addressing this year’s celebration, the mayor highlighted the role of Addis Ababa’s recent urban corridor development projects, describing them as a renewed public setting that complements the city’s long standing religious and cultural traditions. According to the message, the improved urban landscape is expected to enhance the Timket celebrations at Jan Meda, where major religious processions and ceremonies traditionally take place.
She further called on residents and visitors to cooperate with security forces and city administration staff to ensure the festival remains peaceful, orderly, and clean, underscoring that the success of the celebration depends on collective responsibility.
Timket commemorates the baptism of Jesus Christ in the River Jordan and is recognized by UNESCO as an Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity. In Addis Ababa, the celebration draws large crowds to Jan Meda for the procession of the Tabots and the sprinkling of holy water. City officials say the 2026 celebration is also intended to promote Addis Ababa as a cultural and tourism destination by linking the ancient religious festival with ongoing urban renewal efforts.
Mayor Adanech concluded her message by expressing hope that Timket would serve as a symbol of peace, love, and togetherness for the country and its people.
Editor’s Disclaimer:
The views and opinions expressed in articles published by Horn News Hub are those of the authors and do not necessarily reflect the official position or editorial stance of Horn News Hub. Publication does not imply endorsement.
