Documented by Ezra Ejigu and AddisAlem mulat
The Remarkable Journey of Cherenet Hundessa: Shaping the Oromo newspaper landscape
Cherenet Hundessa, a passionate journalist with a career spanning over three decades, has played a pivotal role in shaping the Afan Oromo newspaper landscape. Over the course of 26 years, he has wholeheartedly dedicated himself to serving the community through his invaluable contributions to this publication. Currently holding the position of editor-in-chief at Bariisaa newspaper, he impeccably fulfills his professional responsibilities. His outstanding talent has garnered him widespread recognition as a highly influential figure in the realm of Afan Oromo publishing, especially during the transformative era of journalism in the 1990s.
Born in August 1975, he entered the world welcomed by his devoted parents in the tranquil Fite Wato Kebele in the Wonchi District of the enchanting South West Showa Zone, Oromia Region. His education began at Chobo Wonchi School, where he completed up to eighth grade. Seeking further learning, he ventured to bustling Addis Ababa, attending at Shimelise Habte High School for a varied academic environment.
Continuing his studies at Nifas Silk High School, he focused on Social Studies, Business Studies, and Accounting Studies, obtaining certification in 1985. Amidst clashes during the Derg regime and the rise of the Ethiopian People’s Revolutionary Democratic Front, he faced disruptions and delays in his schooling but remained dedicated to learning. Overcoming obstacles through repeated exam attempts, he displayed firm commitment to education.
While excelling in his studies of Afan Oromo grammar and writing, he completed his education and began sharing his expertise with institutions such as the Oromia Education Bureau and Mecha-Tulema Association to advocate for the preservation and promotion of Oromo culture.
Initially completing an accounting course at Nifas Silk High School as part of a certificate program, he later pursued a diploma in accounting from the General Wingate Secondary School in 1969, followed by a diploma in information technology from Rift Valley College in 2007. Continuing his education at the same institution, he earned a degree in business management and eventually achieved a master’s degree in Afan Oromo from Addis Ababa University.
He actively participated in committees with a focus on promoting Afan Oromo and the diverse aspects of Oromo culture during that period. His aim was to increase awareness and respect for the language within Addis Ababa, a city where the use and understanding of Afan Oromo were limited, therefore enhancing the city’s cultural diversity.
From 1992 to 1994, he committed himself to teaching the Oromo language at Atse Zera Yacob and Abyot Kirse schools in Kera area, providing individuals with opportunities to learn the language, grasp their culture, and secure job prospects. In 1994, he engaged in training programs on Afan Oromo literature and library science organized by the Oromia Culture and Tourism Bureau, obtaining certificates and applying his newfound knowledge to benefit his current organization, continuing to contribute in his capacity.
In 1994, he committed himself to literary training with a focus on enhancing his skills and broadening his knowledge under the guidance of The Ethiopian Press Agency. By late 2017, the agency was in need of two freelance proofreaders who were well-versed in Afan Oromo and had received literary training.
Despite fierce competition, Cherenet emerged as the successful candidate, showcasing exceptional skills in written and oral examinations. His excellent performance earned him a desired freelance position, which he held from 1995 to 2001. In July 2001, he transitioned into a permanent role at the agency, solidifying his commitment to their mission.
