Celebrating Gofa “Gaze” Masqala and Oida “Yoo” Masqala Holidays in Ayda Woreda

The Gofa and Oida ethnic groups commemorated their respective holidays, Gofa’s “Gaze” Masqala and Oida’s “Yoo” Masqala, through a series of planned activities. A delegation, headed by Gofa Zone General Administrator Dagmawi Ayele II (Engineer), undertook a visit to Ayda Woreda’s Aba Dama Saa Gula mountain in order to celebrate this year’s holidays.

Gofa and Oida Holidays

Gofa and Oida Holidays

Gofa and Oida Holidays

Gofa and Oida Holidays

Gofa and Oida Holidays

Gofa and Oida Holidays

Gofa and Oida Holidays

Gofa and Oida Holidays

Gofa and Oida Holidays

Gofa and Oida Holidays

Gofa and Oida Holidays

Gofa and Oida Holidays

Gofa and Oida Holidays

Gofa and Oida Holidays

Gofa and Oida Holidays

Gofa and Oida Holidays

Gofa and Oida Holidays

Gofa and Oida Holidays

Gofa and Oida Holidays

The objective of the visit was to promote the tourist attractions within the zone, which has significant potential in a number of domains, including agriculture and tourism. The delegation’s visit included a welcoming address by Oida Woreda’s General Administrator, Mr. Tegen Abebe, who emphasised the importance of love, peace, and unity in resolving conflicts and strengthening the community.Gofa and Oida Holidays

Gofa and Oida Holidays

Gofa and Oida Holidays

Gofa and Oida Holidays

Gofa and Oida Holidays

Gofa and Oida Holidays

Gofa and Oida Holidays

Gofa and Oida Holidays

Gofa and Oida Holidays

Gofa and Oida Holidays

Gofa and Oida Holidays

Gofa and Oida Holidays

Gofa and Oida Holidays

Gofa and Oida Holidays

Gofa and Oida Holidays

Gofa and Oida Holidays

Gofa and Oida Holidays

Gofa and Oida Holidays

Gofa and Oida Holidays

Gofa and Oida Holidays

Gofa and Oida Holidays

Engineer Dagmawi stated that the Saa Gula mountain is not only a source of interest for tourists but also evokes a sense of joy due to its natural appearance. Furthermore, he elaborated that the zone has significant potential in the realms of agriculture, tourism, and other domains. His objective is to harness the inherent resources of the zone and transform them into opportunities for prosperity.

The regional government is placing a premium on the advancement and growth of the area’s natural and cultural attractions with the intention of establishing it as a tourist destination that will serve to bolster the regional economy. In attendance at the visit were the Deputy Head of the Southern Ethiopia Regional Culture and Tourism Bureau, Mr. Tariku Oicha, regional and zone leaders, district and city administration senior leaders, and other invited guests.Gofa and Oida Holidays

Gofa and Oida Holidays

Gofa and Oida Holidays

Gofa and Oida Holidays

Gofa and Oida Holidays

Gofa and Oida Holidays

Gofa and Oida Holidays

Gofa and Oida Holidays

Gofa and Oida Holidays

Gofa and Oida Holidays

Gofa and Oida Holidays

Gofa and Oida Holidays

Gofa and Oida Holidays

Gofa and Oida Holidays

Gofa and Oida Holidays

Gofa and Oida Holidays

Gofa and Oida Holidays

Gofa and Oida Holidays

Gofa and Oida Holidays

Gofa and Oida Holidays

Gofa and Oida Holidays

Gofa and Oida Holidays

Gofa and Oida Holidays

Gofa and Oida Holidays

Gofa and Oida Holidays

Gofa and Oida Holidays 

Gofa and Oida Ethnic Groups

The Gofa zone of the Southern Nations, Nationalities, and Peoples’ Region (SNNPR) in Ethiopia is the area of residence.
The respective holidays of Gofa’s “Gaze” Masqala and Oida’s “Yoo” Masqala are celebrated.

Gofa “Gaze” Masqala Holiday

– Celebrated on September 27th.
– This commemorates the discovery of the True Cross by Queen Helena, mother of Emperor Constantine.

Oida “Yoo” Masqala Holiday

– Celebrated on October 1st.
– This date marks the end of the rainy season and the beginning of the harvest season.

Saa Gula Mountain

– Also known as Zhausha mountain.
– Located in the southern Ethiopian region of Gofa zone, Oida woreda, Aba Dama kebele.
– The site is renowned for its historical significance, awe-inspiring views and picturesque surroundings.

Additional Details

– The Gofa people have a rich cultural heritage, including traditional music, dance and crafts, which are of significant cultural and economic value.
– The Oida people are primarily engaged in agricultural and pastoral activities, with a culture that is closely aligned with the land.
– The Gofa zone boasts a diverse landscape, including mountains, forests, and rivers, and is home to a variety of wildlife.
– Saa Gula mountain is a highly sought-after destination for hikers and nature enthusiasts, offering unparalleled views of the surrounding countryside.

Ethiopia Autonomous Media

Related Publications