Waaqeffannaa

Waaqeffannaa, also spelled Waaqefannaa, is the traditional religion of the Oromo people of the Horn of Africa. Central to the faith is the belief in Waaqa (Waaq), the supreme creator and sustainer of the world. In many accounts Waaqeffannaa is described as monotheistic, though regional variations may acknowledge reverence toward natural forces or ancestral beings connected to Waaqa. The religion emphasizes a direct relationship with the divine and guidelines for ethical conduct within the community.

Ritual life is led by Waaqeffattoota, practitioners who oversee prayers, songs, and offerings conducted at sacred sites such as groves, wells, and mountains. Worship often includes communal gatherings, songs, and seasonal ceremonies. A central and widely celebrated expression of Waaqeffannaa is Irreecha, the annual thanksgiving festival that marks the seasonal cycle and gratitude to Waaqa; regional prayers and processions are observed across Oromo communities.

Historically, Waaqeffannaa coexisted with Islam and Christianity among the Oromo. At times it faced suppression or marginalization under various regimes, but it persisted in rural areas and as part of broader cultural life. Since the late 20th century there has been revival and renewed interest in Oromo religious traditions, aided by cultural renaissance and academic study. Today Waaqeffannaa is recognized by many as a component of Oromo heritage and a living religious practice, with adherents in Ethiopia and in diaspora communities.

The topic links to related areas of study and culture, including the Oromo people, the Irreecha festival, and the Gadaa social system.