Oromo

The Oromo are a large ethno-linguistic group in the Horn of Africa, primarily in Ethiopia, with communities in Kenya and Somalia. They speak Afaan Oromo, also called Oromo, a Cushitic language in the Afroasiatic family. With tens of millions of speakers, Oromo is one of Africa’s most widely spoken languages. They are the largest ethnic group in Ethiopia, forming a substantial share of the national population.

Geographically, they are concentrated in the Oromia Region but also live in Addis Ababa and other regions. The Oromo diaspora is present in North America, Europe, the Arabian Peninsula, and elsewhere. Oromo identity is closely tied to language, culture, and a historical social system known as the Gadaa, which organized governance through age-sets and democratic principles.

Historically, the Oromo formed extensive political and cultural networks in the Horn of Africa. They have diverse religious affiliations, including Islam, Christianity (Ethiopian Orthodox and Protestant), and Waaqeffannaa, a traditional belief in a supreme deity. In modern Ethiopia, Oromo political movements and parties have played a significant role; in 2018, Abiy Ahmed, an Oromo, became prime minister, underscoring the community's political influence.

Cultural life centers on language, poetry, music, and customary practices. The Gadaa system remains a foundational element of Oromo heritage. The community practices Islam, Christianity, and Waaqeffannaa, reflecting religious diversity and historical coexistence. Afaan Oromo is widely used in education, media, and administration within Oromia, contributing to Ethiopia’s linguistic and cultural landscape.