Finfinne

Finfinne is the Oromo name for Addis Ababa, the capital city of Ethiopia. The name "Finfinne" is derived from the Oromo words "finfin" meaning "spring" and "ne" a possessive suffix, referring to the hot springs located in the area. These springs are a significant natural feature of the region and were historically important to the Oromo people.

The history of Finfinne as a settlement predates its establishment as the imperial capital. Emperor Menelik II chose the site for his new capital in the late 19th century, partly due to its strategic location and the availability of resources, including the hot springs. The city rapidly grew and developed, becoming a major political, economic, and cultural center.

The Oromo people have consistently referred to the city by its Oromo name, Finfinne. In recent times, there has been a renewed emphasis and advocacy for the use of the name Finfinne, reflecting a broader movement for Oromo cultural and linguistic recognition within Ethiopia. This has led to discussions and sometimes tensions regarding the official naming conventions and the historical narrative of the city. The dual naming reflects the complex historical and cultural layers of Addis Ababa.