Renowned Afrobeat superstar, Davido, headlined the Ethiopia New Year party, marking the country’s entry into 2017.
A viral video on social media showcases the electrifying performance, which drew thousands of Ethiopians to the vibrant celebration in Addis Ababa, the nation’s capital.
The unique event highlights the country’s distinctive cultural traditions
To the surprise of many fans on social media, Ethiopia is seven years behind the rest of the world, rightly so, because the country follows its unique calendar system, known as the Ethiopian calendar or Ge’ez calendar. It is based on the ancient Egyptian calendar and has some distinctive features compared to the Gregorian calendar used by most of the world.
Ethiopia’s new year is celebrated on either September 11th or 12th in the Ethiopian calendar (Ge’ez calendar), which is seven to eight years behind the Gregorian Calendar, owing to alternate calculations in determining the date of the annunciation of the birth of Jesus.
The celebration involves church services and festive and traditional meals, amongst others.
Social media users have reacted to the trending videos of the singer as some suggest that Davido travelled back in time to perform.
An Instagram user, @coded_prince_miles, reacting to the post, said, “Davido is the first Nigerian artist to travel back in time.”
Still reacting, @d_youngnelly wrote, “Na to relocate go Ethiopia, at least before 2024, I go don achieve some kind things. This is a smart move.”
Another user, @ksolo_hitz wrote, “Dem just enter new year how come dey participate for Olympic 2024.”
@mcee_a1 also said, “so if dem travel, what year do they write on their passports and documents? Just asking 😂.”
@uncle_azeez also wrote, “This whole time I have been in the future nisha, Ethiopia, I dey come oo, maybe I go find how to avoid this pregnancy.”
@viks_vico wrote, “😂😂😂…we shouldn’t tell our experience in 2017 and let them use their eyes to witness it.”
