The Shuwalid Festival is currently being celebrated in Ethiopia’s historic city of Harar, drawing local and regional participants to honor a centuries-old cultural tradition that was recently recognized by UNESCO as part of humanity’s intangible cultural heritage.
The festival, observed annually by the Harari people, marks the end of six days of voluntary fasting after Ramadan and involves communal prayers, spiritual songs, traditional dances, and exhibitions of Harari crafts, jewelry, clothing, and cuisine. The three-day celebration is centered at the revered shrines of Aw Shulum Ahmed and Aw Akebara, located at the main gates of the ancient walled city of Harar.
Shuwalid was officially inscribed on the Representative List of the Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity during the 18th session of UNESCO’s Intergovernmental Committee, held in December 2023 in Kasane, Botswana. The recognition has brought renewed attention to Harar as a cultural tourism destination and further strengthened the Harari people’s commitment to preserving their rich heritage.
According to government officials, the festival aligns with Ethiopia’s broader cultural and tourism development strategy. Adam Farah, Vice President of the Prosperity Party, emphasized that promoting such traditions contributes not only to economic growth but also to national unity and social development.
Harari State President Ordin Bedri also noted that Shuwalid’s inclusion on the UNESCO list has already sparked increased interest in the region, helping turn cultural practices into valuable economic and social assets.
The Harari people, known for their Islamic scholarship and ancient walled city architecture, have historically maintained connections with the Ottoman Empire through religious, trade, and scholarly ties. Elements of Ottoman influence remain visible in Harari architecture, calligraphy, and religious practices.
Today, Shuwalid continues to serve as a living cultural platform, bringing together people of all ages and providing a space for elders to pass down traditions and for youth to connect with their roots. Ethiopia now celebrates not only a festival, but also a global recognition of cultural identity in motion.