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Brides and grooms get wed en masse - 24th Jan 2024

Addis Ababa has just hosted a mass wedding celebration, where hundreds of couples converged on their big day. Gathering together many of the unique and distinct cultures of Ethiopia – Africa's second most densely populated country – the occasion was a celebration of its rich diversity.

This blushing bride, Gadise Zabana of the Oromo people, was overwhelmed with the event.

Gadise Zabana: "It is so pleasing to get wed like this with many people from different cultures and we also save ourselves from wedding expenses."

Although the mass wedding was the first in over a decade for event sponsors, a hiatus influenced in part by the pandemic, it's hoped that such eye-catching celebrations might now showcase the country and boost tourism in Ethiopia, a nation more renowned for being the origin of the coffee bean.

Voices babble in distinct tongues in a country claiming at least 80 languages, with five of those being official. Excitement mounts as the colossal couple-ensemble approaches the venue via the capital's wide avenues. While white is generally the colour of choice, the individuals' garments are a unique reflection of their cultural heritage – their tribe and specific place of origin.

This originality of their costumes, as well as the fusion of melodies and dances astounds groom Workeneh Assefa.

Workeneh Assefa: "There are so many distinct cultural attires and wedding songs which makes this unique. Mass wedding is pleasing. We are delighted."

The group celebrations permit many newlyweds to celebrate their nuptials far beyond their means. They're the perfect setting to forge new friendships and to promote unity, something of overarching significance for organiser Eshetu Geletu.

Eshetu Geletu: "Building a family is building a nation. That is the main objective of our project."