Zerihun’s Contribution to Oromo Art and Freedom
Artist Zerihun Wadajo was a father of three to two daughters and a son. Zerihun was one of the icons of resistance and freedom struggle in the art of the early Oromo generation. Zerihunwas born in the East Welega zone, of the Oromia region, in Nekemte city, in 1957 (1949 E.C). He was born to his father, Wedajo Gobena, and his mother Zewditu Meko Solen. Zerihun attended primary school at Leilt Tsehay Keso and Dejazmach G/Egzihaber school in Gimbi. He attended secondary school at the School of Addis Ketema in Finfine. At a young age, Zerihun observed the oppression and persecution the Oromo people were facing from multiple state regimes and decided to raise his voice over the concerns of his people. He became involved and remained in the arts for almost half a century.
Zerihun was known and loved by the wider Oromo community for his resistance songs and unwavering dedication to the Oromo struggle for freedom, liberty, and equality. Zerihun Wadajo has become a legend and has performed more than 95 songs in his musical career, with most of his songs focusing on politics and the Oromian struggle. At one time, the government authority asked Zarihun to stop the music and fight for freedom, promising to give him what he needed. However, Zarihun said: “I fight for the truth and rights of my people, not for personal gain.”
In addition, he released seven albums and singles, not so much as charging any money for his music. He released his music for the people to allow them to hear a message and to wake up consciously so that they might elevate the condition of the whole Oromian nation. For these and other reasons, Zarihun is considered one of the heroes of the Oromo. He is an artist who instilled pride in Oromo nationalism and independence. During his life: he defended the truth, sacrificed himself for his people, and refused to go against his convictions in a constant act of selflessness. Zarihun was imprisoned and tortured several times: during the Derg and EPRDF regimes, respectively. Several times he fell ill while languishing in prison. Zarihun is quoted as saying: “I will not give up on Oromo art until I die. I will write in bed, not something we will leave behind until my country gets somewhere”.
Unfortunately, after a long struggle, Zarihun died of a serious illness on April 22, 2023, while undergoing treatment in India. The funeral service of Zerihun Wedajo took place on April 26, 2023, in Finfine. “Ani hin duno, dhalootan guddisa…”/ “I’m not dead, I’m raising a generation.” Through his music and exemplary creations, Zarihun inspired an entire generation. He was highly regarded for his love for art and the Oromo people and played an important role in promoting Oromo art and strengthening Oromo unity. Zarihun Wadajo’s contribution to freedom and unity is nationwide. He leaves behind an immortal voice embedded in the consciousness to free oneself from oppression. He left a legacy of what it means to stand for one’s faith and truth that will be remembered forever through generations.
OLLAA offers profound condolences to his family, fans, and the larger Oromo and Ethiopian community who admired him. OLLAA will remember and entirely admire Zarihun Wadajo for his determination to remain unwavering Oromo.
May his soul rest in peace.