An Iran-related regional war is dampening Ethiopia’s Easter season as fuel and food prices surge sharply nationwide.
Millions of Orthodox Christians in Addis Ababa marked Good Friday ahead of Easter Sunday celebrations this weekend.
Ethiopia’s Orthodox community follows a distinct calendar and observes Easter later than most Christian populations worldwide.
The 55-day Abiy Tsom fast shapes solemn worship, communal prayers, and traditional white garments across congregations.
Rising costs have disrupted rituals, including animal slaughter and travel between urban centers and rural areas.
Sheep prices have nearly doubled, leaving many families unable to afford traditional Easter sacrifices this year.
Rooster prices have also almost doubled, further straining household budgets during the holiday season.
Transport costs have surged as sellers struggle to move livestock from rural farms into cities.
Fuel shortages and black market sales have intensified as stations run dry across major urban areas.
Tefera Aragaw said delays at fuel stations have crippled income, adding, “We have been waiting for three days without fuel access.”
The government has introduced remote work for public servants and prioritized fuel supplies for essential services nationwide.