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Discovering Jimma, Ethiopia: A Hidden Gem of History, Nature, and Culture

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The Story of Onesimos Nasib and Aster Gano



Onesimos Nasib or Abbaa Gammachiis

Let us commemorate Abba Gammachiis, the unsung hero who opened a long-closed door for the Oromo language and its people.


Did you know this?


- 130 years ago, Onosimos Nasib and Esther Ganno wrote the first significant book in African languages.


- Onosimos Nasib, the hero of Iluu Abba Boor, was the first to call today's Oromia "Oromo Country" and proudly represent his people.


- He proved to the world that the Oromo people and their language were a great nation in Africa.


- Onosimos was the first to write religious texts, folklore, and literature in the Oromo language.


- He endured immense personal losses to teach in Oromo and demonstrate the existence of an Oromo nation.


The book pictured here, written 130 years ago by Father Gammachiis (Onosimos Nasib), was published by a Saudi publishing house. Onosimos adapted the book to teach the alphabet in Oromo. He even wrote "Oromo Country" in the Sabaean script to proudly represent his people.


Onosimos' early life was marred by abduction, displacement from his family, language, and community. Despite these challenges, his insistence on preserving his language led to the first major book written in Oromo, a feat that the current generation often fails to acknowledge.


Let us celebrate Abba Gammachiis, the unsung hero who bravely opened doors for the Oromo language and its people.


As we move forward, let us remember that the progress we enjoy today is the result of sacrifices made by many heroes who faced insults, death, and humiliation. Honoring our heroes and embracing the truth of their sacrifices will lead us to success. We must unite and strive to build on their legacy, rather than engaging in endless conflicts and losing sight of our goals.


Onosimos Nasib's dedication to translating the Bible into Oromo, his role in Oromo literature, and his refusal to live in Europe but return to teach his people in their language are testament to his selfless devotion to his people.


Let us cherish the memory of these candles in our history – those who melted, burned, and gave light to illuminate our path. Onosimos Nasib and Esther Ganno are among those remarkable individuals.


Esther Ganno, the first Oromo woman to translate the Bible into Oromo alongside Onosimos Nasib, overcame tremendous hardships in her life. Born in freedom, she was later sold into slavery, but she was eventually freed and educated by Swedish missionaries. Esther's intelligence and love for her language made her a vital contributor to Oromo literature and the translation of the Bible.


Let us remember and honor the remarkable contributions of these unsung heroes in the history of Oromo literature and language. Their dedication and sacrifices have paved the way for the progress and opportunities we have today.



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