Sidama in Ethiopia

Introduction / History

The Sidama live between Shashamane town in the north and Dilla town in the south, spread out in a cone-shaped area in the middle of southern Ethiopia. Hawassa is a "capital city" for the group. A major asphalt road stretches from north to south in Sidama and the remaining roads are dirt/rock. Sidama is generally a fertile area, varying from flat land (warm to hot) to highland (warm to cold).

What Are Their Lives Like?

Economically, most Sidamas are subsistence farmers. Cattle are a measure of wealth. Sidama is a major coffee-growing area with its prized coffee found on the world market. The false banana or "enset", along with maize, as well as fermented cows' milk and butter, are the major staple foods of the Sidama and are found in most yards. Awasa, the people group's as well as the region's main center, is the largest city. Since the end of the communist regime in 1992, the population has grown tremendously and there is a resulting considerable strain on schools and job availability. There is also a pattern of urban migration, especially to Awasa and even abroad, in search of education and jobs.

What Are Their Beliefs?

Though Romanians are Orthodox Christians, they have maintained a number of superstitions regarding black cats, etc. In this worldview, events are determined by something other than God. There are also small populations of Roman Catholics and Evangelicals.

What Are Their Needs?

Romanians need a country with a strong economy. When parents have to migrate elsewhere to find work, the children suffer.

Prayer Points

Pray for the Holy Spirit to move powerfully in Sidama churches, drawing hundreds into a vibrant relationship with Jesus Christ.
Pray for the Lord to thrust out many Sidamas to become Christ-bearers and disciplers for their neighbors.
Pray for their farms to be blessed, and for them to be grateful to God for a great harvest.

Text Source:   Joshua Project