On November 30, 2024, Negussie Tefera (PhD) celebrated the inauguration of his 438-page autobiography, “Zore Beya Sayew,” at the National Theatre Hall. A passionate reader since childhood, Tefera reflects on his journey from radio to a leadership role in the Prime Minister’s Office, detailing his experiences through significant political transitions. With multiple accolades and a rich publishing history, Tefera’s work adds a vital narrative to Ethiopian literature.

The autobiographical book titled “Zore Beya Sayew” was inaugurated by Negussie Tefera (PhD), who has had a deep passion for reading since childhood. The event took place at the National Theatre Hall on Saturday, November 30, 2024.

Negussie Tefera spent over three years writing this 438-page autobiography. He is the author of three books on journalism and has served as a co-editor for more than six published works in the United States, as well as contributing to over thirty different magazines. His achievements have earned him numerous awards both domestically and internationally.

In his biography, he details his transition from radio to the campaign department, where he served as the head of the Foreign Affairs, Justice, and Publicity Bureau in the Prime Minister’s Office for five years during both the Derg and the EPRDF regimes.

The vibrant Wynwood Art District is set to host the launch of Ethiopian artist Prince Merid Tafesse’s latest book, ‘LI’ILIT|PRINCESS: Homage to Mother’, co-curated by renowned artist and philanthropist Rita Marley. The event will take place on Sunday, December 1, and will also be accessible via Zoom.

Rita Marley, wife of reggae legend Bob Marley, has long been a champion of Ethiopian visual arts, intertwining her legacy with heritage and music. Alongside her close friend, Desta Meghoo, she has curated this retrospective of Merid’s work, which spans 25 years. Marley describes Merid’s art as “powerful and purposeful,” capturing the hope, pride, and complexities of the Ethiopian and broader African experience.

The bond between Marley and Merid dates back 20 years to the Africa Unite concert in Addis Ababa, a celebration of Bob Marley’s legacy. “When we met and I allowed my art studio to participate in the celebration, I never imagined she would be co-curating my artwork. I am honored and blessed,” expressed Merid.

In recognition of their contributions to the arts, both Rita Marley and Merid will receive a Congressional proclamation from Florida Congresswoman Frederica S. Wilson. This honor will be presented by High Chief Nathaniel B. Styles, Executive Director of Osun’s Village Miami and the African Caribbean Arts Corridor.

The book launch promises to be a unique experience, featuring a live-streamed discussion with Merid from Addis Ababa, a pop-up exhibition, and a silent art auction benefiting the Rita Marley Foundation. Attendees can participate either in person or online via Zoom.

This event not only celebrates the artistic journey of Merid Tafesse but also aims to bridge cultural connections between Ethiopia, Africa, and the global diaspora through the transformative power of art.

Record label Muzikawi has unveiled the full performance video of the Gondar Fasiledes Cultural Group at the Addis Jazz Festival 2023.

This stunning showcase is a visual and auditory feast, featuring energetic music, vibrant costumes, rich culture, lively dances, harmonious melodies, and a dynamic blend of dialects.

Founded in 1977, the Gondar Fasiledes Cultural Music Group has been a cornerstone of Ethiopia’s artistic history. Initially known as Taglo Atagay, the group quickly gained popularity for its dynamic performances that merged music, dance, and theatre.

In 1979, the group was renamed Ras Dejen Kinet, expanding its repertoire to include social and political theatre. By 1983, the group became Yefasiledes Kinet, playing a pivotal role in promoting Ethiopian culture on the global stage, particularly through their influential Hizib Lehizib concert. However, following the regime change in 1990, the group disbanded, and Gondar’s cultural arts scene faced a decline.

In 2014, the Gondar City Administration revived the group as the Gondar Fasiledes Cultural Music Group. After getting new leadership, the group officially relaunched in 2018. Now with 34 members, it continues to celebrate and share Gondar’s rich cultural heritage through music and dance. The group’s contributions to Ethiopian culture have been recognised with various awards, including third place in the 2014 Amhara Region cultural competition.

In addition to its Addis Jazz Festival performance, the Gondar Fasiledes Cultural Group recently teamed up with Muzikawi to release the single ‘Eregnaw’ from their upcoming album, Gonder Fasiledes, on 10 May. The single is available on both the Muzikawi YouTube channel and its other digital streaming platforms, with the full album, featuring 12 tracks, set to be released soon.

The group hails from Gondar, a city in Ethiopia that was founded in 1636 by Emperor Fasilides, who also built the Fasil Ghebbi fortress complex. The Fasil Ghebbi complex is a UNESCO World Heritage Site that includes the emperor’s castle, palaces, churches, and other buildings. The area was a centre of artistic, architectural, and literary achievement during the Gondarine period, which lasted from 1632 to 1769.