Language
- There are 86 individual languages indigenous to Ethiopia, of which Amharic is the National Language and is widely spoken by most people.
- Amharic is written left-to-right using a system that grew out of the Ge’ez script. The writing system is called Fidal, meaning alphabet, script, letter, or character.
- Most Ethiopians speak conversational English, this is because English language lessons are given in primary and secondary high schools.
- You can communicate in English in daily conversation in the capital Addis Ababa.
- English language is the language of instruction mostly used in secondary schools.
- Click Here for Basic Amharic and English Phrases.
Religion
- People here value their religious beliefs and practices in accordance with the Orthodox Christian teachings and Islamic culture taking the lead with the largest population.
- Religion in Ethiopia has a greater influence on its people with half the population adhering to Ethiopian Orthodox church teachings.
- The other half consists of Muslims and those who follow Judaism forms.
- Wednesdays and Fridays are considered as fasting days by Ethiopian Orthodox followers. The fasting includes no touch on animal and dairy products such as milk, meat and eggs.
- Expect to see most people wearing small crosses around their necks that act as religious symbols.
- Friday at noon, most Muslims go to Friday prayer in almost all towns in the country.
