Millions of Ethiopian Orthodox Christians marked Good Friday in Addis Ababa, but their traditional Easter celebrations have been significantly overshadowed by severe fuel shortages and escalating food costs, largely attributed to the ongoing Iran war's disruption of global supply chains.
Calendar Differences and Traditional Observances
Ethiopia's Orthodox Christians follow a distinct religious calendar, with Easter occurring this weekend, unlike most of the world's Christians who observed it on April 5. Good Friday culminates a rigorous 55-day fast known locally as Abiy Tsom, characterized by communal prayers and worshippers adorned in traditional white attire. This period leads into a festive vigil where parishioners seek forgiveness and peace ahead of Easter Sunday.
Economic Strain on Rituals and Travel
However, the economic fallout from the Iran war has severely impacted key aspects of these observances. High prices have hindered both travel for gatherings and the communal ritual of animal slaughter, a cornerstone of Easter festivities.
Resident Samuel Teshome reported that the price of sheep has nearly doubled, rendering it unaffordable for his family. Similarly, Sirawdink Admaus noted that rooster prices have also almost doubled. Sellers attribute these increases to heightened transportation costs from rural areas, driven by the fuel crisis.
Fuel Shortages and Black Market Exploitation
Ethiopia is grappling with a acute fuel shortage, with only a limited number of stations stocking the commodity. This scarcity has forced some businesspeople to resort to the black market, where prices are even more exorbitant.
Minibus taxi driver Tefera Aragaw described how prolonged waits at gas stations—sometimes spanning three days with overnight stays—have disrupted his income and led him to anticipate a muted Easter celebration. "There is also a possibility that we may not be able to get fuel at all," he lamented.
Government Response and Mitigation Efforts
In response to the crisis, the Ethiopian government has implemented cost-saving measures. These include allowing most public servants to work from home and prioritizing fuel supplies for essential services, though these steps have provided only partial relief for the broader population.
The combination of fuel scarcity and food inflation, intensified by the Iran war's global repercussions, has cast a pall over what is typically a joyous and spiritually significant period for millions of Ethiopians, highlighting the far-reaching economic and social impacts of international conflicts.
