Sikir

Sikir is a town located in the Wolaita Zone of Ethiopia's Southern Nations, Nationalities, and Peoples' Region (SNNPR). It lies approximately 48 kilometres southeast of the zone's capital, Sodo, at an elevation of about 2,200 metres above sea level.

Geographically, Sikir sits on the southern slopes of the Arussi mountain range, where the climate is temperate with average annual rainfall of around 1,200 millimetres. The surrounding landscape is dominated by terraced fields and dry stone walls, reflecting traditional agricultural practices.

The town's economy is primarily based on subsistence farming. Major crops include maize, tef, wheat, and slightly less common varieties such as barley and beans. Coffee is cultivated on fringe plots, while animal husbandry—particularly cattle and goats—provides additional income for many households. Small-scale markets in Sikir trade produce, livestock, and locally produced goods with neighbouring villages.

Sikir's demographic profile consists mainly of the Wolaitta people, who make up the majority of the population. The community has a strong cultural heritage tied to traditional Wolaita festivals like Kurukoya, celebrated with music, dance, and communal feasts. The Wolaita language is widely spoken, while Amharic serves as a lingua franca for wider communication.

Transport links connect Sikir to larger urban centres through a network of unpaved roads. Rural access remains challenging during the rainy season, yet the town maintains a weekly market that links regional trade networks. In recent years, informal initiatives have sought to upgrade road maintenance, aiming to facilitate smoother movement of goods and people.

Overall, Sikir represents a typical rural Ethiopian town where agriculture, cultural continuity, and gradual infrastructure development combine to shape local life.