The diplomatic bazaar, an annual event organized by diplomats’ spouses residing in Ethiopia, kicked off last Saturday at Millennium Hall where some 50 embassies and international organizations were in participation.

On Saturday, it seems as if a small sample of the world population was represented at Millennium hall with the smell of traditional food from Indian curry, Sudanese shwarma, to Turkish chicken, and a variety of beverages from various countries were overwhelming the place.

For Ethiopians who were at the bazaar it was also possible to witness the vast diplomatic community residing in Addis Ababa.

However, by far the busiest booth was the Sudanese henna place, where a lot of people can be seen waiting in line. For Asiya Mohammed, the ethio- Sudanese henna artist, it is here first time the appear at the bazaar. The crowd in front of her booth seemed to be overwhelmed by the turnout and acceptance of henna here. Some people gave her designs of their own while others choose from her list.

“It is very interesting to see all these different people here wanting the same thing,” states Asiya.

The Cuban music, the circus shows, child performers dancing here and there, people cheering the performances and, on the other hand, people sitting in silence and enjoying their Moroccan tea were all the attractions of the show. For Ida Johnson, what is interesting about the bazaar was to see how different communities blend in together.

“I thought it was interesting that the US embassy was selling tacos, which are Mexican delicacies,” Ida says. The other interesting thing for her was the large presence of the Asian community.

“I think that's quite in line with what is going on in the world, especially with China's growing role in the world,” comments Ida.

Proceeds from the ticket sale and raffle prizes go to small projects that assist women, children and the disabled through local, registered non-governmental organizations and schools.

Source: EthiopianReporter