Why Oromo’s question of independence is a headache ?
By Dhugaa Baasuu *
April 9, 2006 — It is well known that Oromo is the largest nation in Ethiopian Empire. Oromia is the largest state. It is a matter of fact that most of Oromo people want to be independent from Ethiopia; however, other nations especially Amhara and Tigre don’t want Oromo’s independence for one or more of the following reasons:
– Oromia is the state producing finest world athletes. Abebe Bikila made Ethiopia known to the world. He is the first Ethiopian and African to win Olympic gold. Young superstar Athlete Kenenisa Bekele, the first person in history to win indoor, outdoor, and cross country. To name some of the best Athletes from Oromia: Haile Gebresellasie, Derartu Tullu, Gete Wami, Tirunesh Dibaba.
– The main income of Ethiopia is through exporting coffee, hide, cereals, gold, and other minor products. Almost all of these are from Oromia.
– Products for daily use in Ethiopia are also mainly from Oromia. For instance, teff, wheat, coffee, vegetables, fruits and name them.
– For the stability of the horn of Africa.
As can be understood from the above and other reasons, Amhara and Tigre are not happy with Oromia’s independence. It is not a matter of happiness or sadiness, but it is a matter of Oromo’s interest and dedication. Oromia will be independent soon if Oromo unites irrespective of religion, location, and minor differences.
* The author is an Oromo, Ph.D. student, residing in USA and can be reached by [email protected]