
19/09/2025
Region prepares to welcome global tourists
-Ready to celebrate Gifata, Gazie Masqala, Oyda Masqala celebrations
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: The South Ethiopia Region has announced it is fully prepared to host a series of iconic New Year festivals this September, expecting to draw a significant number of international tourists.
In an interview with Gazette Plus, Head of the Region’s Culture and Tourism Bureau, Woynitu Melku, confirmed that all necessary arrangements are complete to welcome visitors to the celebrations.
"The region is ready to host these September festivals with warm celebrations," Woynitu stated. The key events include Gifata, the Wolayta New Year celebration; Gazie Masqala, held in the Gofa Zone; and the Gamo people's Oyda Masqala (also known as Yo Maskala), all taking place around September 21st.
Woynitu emphasized the cultural significance and drawing power of these events, noting they are celebrations that "unite us in our diversity, as many officials and tourists from various ethnic backgrounds gather."
The bureau anticipates these unique cultural festivals will attract a large influx of foreign tourists eager to experience Ethiopia's rich traditions.
Furthermore, Woynitu noted that the region's festive calendar will continue with several more festivals starting in November.
By Yesuf Endris