Perhaps, one of the most ambitious developmental plans in Ethiopia's History, the original Tana Beles project was launched in 1987. Salini Construction company and Studio Pietrangeli who had worked on projects such as the Legedadi dam and now Gilgel Gibe I, II and III were tasked to build an agro-industrial complex complete with a new airport, hospital, and residential units to as many as 45,000 settlers. The original project was abandoned when EPRP kidnapped some of the Italian engineers in 1987. Now re-launched as part of the Tana Beles dam project, the integrated project is planned to provide irrigation water for thousands of hectares of land. Which specific part of Ethiopia is this project located and what is the name of the indigenous people who inhabit this area? Answers to Spotlight.

These two battles of the late 80s between the Dergue and its opponents symbolize the largest and most devastating military defeats any Ethiopian government had experienced in its history. The first one occured shortly after Colonel Mengistu had the legendary General Tariku Ayene, the commander of the Nadew Command demoted and executed. The second one occured in Western Tigray where the 3rd revolutionary army was completely annihilated paving the way for the TPLF to capture the whole of Tigray and then the rest of the country. What are the names of these two battles? Answers to Spotlight.

This engineer who rose to become one of the most effective and beloved mayors of Addis Ababa was also the first Ethiopian engineer with a doctorate degree. His contribution to the country include his role in the construction of Koka dam, Gode airport, Assab Refinery, Gode bridge across Wabe Shebelle river, Awash Tendaho road, Jima-Agaro road, Bedele-Metu road, Legedadi dam, and tens of other projects. Imprisoned by the Fascist Dergue in 1974 for 8 years and later released, he is now survived by his equally dynamic and talented wife Sister Jember Teferra (now Dr. Jember). Who was this extraordinary unforgettable Ethiopian? Answers to Spotlight.

Answer: Dr. Hailegiorgis Workeneh

Rising almost 2400 meters (7800 ft) above the floor of the southern Main Ethiopian Rift (MER) - also known as the Great Rift Valley - this mountain chain provides a rich water catchment area. The runoff from this mountain chain eventually goes to the Arba Minch aquifers which feed the famous '40 springs' that have lent their name to the city of Arba Minch. What is the name of this mountain chain whose north side is inhabited by the Dorze people? Answers to Spotlight.

Answer: The imposing Guge Mountains.

One finds a good number of words of foreign origin in modern Amharic, Tigrigna and Oromignna languages. E-mail us the answers if you can guess the origin of the following words: Kofia, Coolie, Qemis (kemis), shemeez, nehas, gumruk, nefs, shanTa, feres, mehandis, qumar (kumar), Tirs (tooth), and dem (blood). Answers to Spotlight.

Perhaps the single most important event that had a dramatic effect on Ethiopia's history in the 2nd Millennium was the invasion of Ethiopia by the Jihadist Gragn Mohammed resulting in the pillage and destruction of the country's unique cultural and religious items. The emperor who finally defeated Gragn in 1543 was Emperor Gelawdeos. His father, the fateful Emperor shown above was, however, unfortunate as he lost a series of battles against Gragn and eventually died in Tigray. Who was this Emperor who was overwpowered by the cannons of Gragn? Importantly enough, the regent who groomed this emperor to power was one unforgettable Queen who hailed from the Hadiya people and later married Emperor Zara Yakob. Who was this Queen who had enormous influence in 16th century Ethiopia? Answers to Spotlight.

Answer: Emperor Libne Dengel was deafted by Gragn. Queen/Empress Elleni who hails from Hadiya.

As important as - or in some accounts more important than - the Gragn invasion of the 16th century, the great Oromo migration that followed in the 16th and 17th century is credited for transforming the ethnic and cultural fabric of Ethiopia of the 2nd Millennium. The ethnic balance of Ethiopia had changed so much so that in the reign of one Gondarian emperor, the court language was actually Oromignna. Who was sthis emperor who was half-Oromo? Answers to Spotlight.

Answer: Emperor Iyo'as. For more dtails, look at Richard Pankhurst's article: http://www.addistribune.com/Archives/2004/01/13-02-04/Dynastic.htm

Now in its unprecedented 8th edition, this book of the legendary Ethiopian author, Ato Bealu Girma, 'Ke-Admas Bashager' is considered one of his finest works. The beauty of his language and his imagination and attention to details of Ethiopian life and thoughts rarely caught by others make this writer unique. The above is a sample of his work. In this novel of 'Ke-Admas Bashager' one of the intriguing characters is referred to as the "Teym TaOt" - 'Olive-colored Idol'. What was here name? Answers to Spotlight

Answer: General

"Ethiopia, always has a special place in my imagination and the prospect of visiting Ethiopia attracted me more strongly than a trip to France, England and America combined!!!" says Mandela in his auto-biography reminiscing about his military training days in Ethiopia in the 60s. One of the little known details of his stay in Ethiopia that time involves an interesting Ethiopian personality who was a colonel then. This colonel was a liason officer for the young Mandela and gave him a Russian pistol as a gift. The colonel finally rose to the rank of a General in service of the Ethiopian army under H/Selassie. Later, this General was imprisoned during the Emperor's time for starting the Macha-Tulama movement of the Oromo people (Note: The Emperor was, however, grateful for the General's decisive role in breaking the Mengisu Neway coup of 1960). He was later killed by the brutal Mengistu regime the same day as Meles Haile (the man whose name Meles Zenawi adopted). Who is this Ethiopian General considered among the founders of the OLF?

Answer: General Tadesse Birru.

This bridge across the Qebena river was built by German engineers in the late 19th century during Emperor Menelik's time. It was later called the 'Adwa Bridge' because the Ethiopian Army trekked across it on its way to the now famous Battle of Adwa. However, most people still call it by its old name. What is the old name of this oldest bridge in Addis Ababa?

The new bridge shown below is now part of the ring road as it passes through Qebena.

Answer: The German Bridge.

Rising almost 2400 meters (7800 ft) above the floor of the southern Main Ethiopian Rift (MER) - also known as the Great Rift Valley - this mountain chain provides a rich water catchment area. The runoff from this mountain chain eventually goes to the Arba Minch aquifers which feed the famous '40 springs' that have lent their name to the city of Arba Minch. What is the name of this mountain chain whose north side is inhabited by the Dorze people?

Answer: Genta Mountains .

There are at least three ways of getting to the beautiful and rich city of Jimma from Addis Ababa. The well-known and short road involves crossing the old Gilgel Gibe bridge which recently collapsed. The repair is not expected to be completed till November 07. The second and less-travelled road was built over the last 20 years and involves a trip through the Rift Valley. The third one is the one currently being used and follows a westerly direction only to branch at this city now famous for its great beer. Do you know which cities these two major road cross?

Answer: Bedele (through Wollega/Illubabor) and Sodo (through Rift Valley) and thenthrough the Sodo mountain range).

Numbering about 25,000, this intriguing ethnic group of Ethiopians living in the Chilga region of Gondar speak a Cushitic language that falls under the "Agaw" language family. Their religion is described as Pagan-Hebraic and is often confused with Judaism. Their traditional priest is referred to as "Wember". Their language is currently spoken by only a few thousand people and is believed to face extinction in the next 40-50 years. What is the name of this fascinating Ethiopians who consider Saturday as their Sabbath and carry out worship services under large trees?

Answer: Qmant (Kmant).

Two of the most decisive battles in the History of 19th century Ethiopia took place during the Ethiopian Orthodox Lent season. The first one took place in the early days of the fasting season in the closing years of the 19th century resulting in an unforgettable historical win for Ethiopia. The second such battle concluded with the fall of one of Ethiopia's bravest emperors on a Good Friday. What are the names of these two important battles? Answers to Spotlight.

Answer:Adwa and Meqdela.

Born from an Indian father and an Ethiopian mother in 1938 in Illubabor , this novelist rose to prominence and a place among the finest Ethiopian authors ever. For his outstanding and unforgettable works like Kadmas Bashager (Beyond the Horizon), Yehilina Dewel (The Bell of Consciousness), Yeqey Kokeb Tri (Call of the Red Star), and Derasiw, a large number of Ethiopians consider him to be perhaps the best author Ethiopia has ever produced. He may be remembered most for his last fateful novel that has few parallels in Ethiopian literature. Who was this magnificent soft-spoken Ethiopian author who fell victim to the Fascist Mengistu?

Answer: Ato Bealu Girma.

The photo on the left shows part of the 1960 Rome Olympics delegation from Ethiopia. Shown along with the legendary Abebe Bikila (circled) and Kibur Ato Yidnekachew Tessema(left) is the Swedish athletic trainer (right of picture) who is credited for encouraging Abebe to run barefoot. Later embroiled in an affair with a wife of a US diplomat in Addis, this Swede (born Finnish) served Ethiopia not only as a long distance trainer but also running the national board of physical education. Who is this Swede?

Answer: Onni Niskanen.

Considered as the largest construction activity in the country's history, the completion of the third stage of this hydroelectric power project is projected to add a staggering 2.5GWatts (2500 MW) of electrical energy to the country's electrical power supply. Long the dream of many Ethiopian water resources engineers since the 1960s, this project is now entering the final stages of phase 2 with final completion of phase 3 scheduled for 2011. The Italian construction company, Salini, shares the credit along with visionary Ethiopian engineers for this big promise of 'white gold' from the ancient land of the Gera, Gomma, Limmu-Ennarea, Gojeb, Konta, Kulo, and Gimira people among others. Where is this massive construction taking place? And more importantly, what is the name of the river that feeds its waters to these series of dams?

Answer: Gilgel Gibe river. After Gojeb joints it, it is called the Omo.

Exclusively due to the absolute monopolistic hold on telecom the government continues to exercise, Ethiopia holds the distinction of the worst Internet penetration rate anywhere in the world - far below even North Korea. What is the estimated number of Internet account holders in Ethiopia?

Answer: Less than 20,000.

Emperor Haile Selassie is shown presenting award to one of the early graduates of the Harar Military academy - a venerable Ethiopian military institution established in 1957. The academy was closed in 1977 but is remembered as training some of the finest officers in the country. Which country helped establish this academy that trained many fellow African officers as well between 1957-1977?

Established by the Norwegians after the Italo-Ethiopian war, the Mosvold department store in Piazza in Addis Ababa was the sole trendy furniture store in the country. The 9-storey building housing this store was later bought by a wealthy and influential community. Which émigré group owned this building?

Answer: The Greek community.

This Ethiopian diplomat and civil servant has the distinction of serving his country as foreign minister, ambassador and as a very trusted aide of Emperor Haile Selassie. His finest hour was his representation of Ethiopia as a foreign minister in her darkest hours during the Italian invasion. His youthful appearance and unwavering loyalty to the Emperor and the country has left an enduring image of the ultimate civil servant. He died at the young age of 40 in Moscow where he was serving Ethiopia as an ambassador. Who was this Historical figure who symbolized professionalism in civil service?

Answer: Lorenzo Mebrehatu Taezaz.

Answer: 1) Telemagn Inatihi - Sem = Ab the father is more important than your mother St. Mary. Worq = St. Mary is our intermediary/intercession.

Self proclaimed as the 'Son of Thunder' (Wolde Neguwodgad), this artist shown on right is perhaps the best Ethiopian artist of all times. Among his less known works is the painting of the Patriot Ras Abebe Aregay shown on the left. Who is this "wolde Neguwodgad"?

Answer: Maitre Artist AFework Tekle.

Born in the beautiful city of Asmara, Melake Selam Dimetros G/Mariam was among the most influential and unforgettable Eritreans who fought hard for the unification of Eritrea with her motherland. He died at an old age pleased that the early days of unification were among the happy days of this difficult and ongoing relationship between Ethiopia and its sister people of Eritrea. What was the name of the organization that Melake Selam was a member of that pushed for the union of Eritrea and Ethiopia?

Answer: Mahbere ANdenet Ethiopia - Unity Party.

Arguably, the most popular beer in Ethiopia, St. George Beer factory located inside Addis Ababa itself was established in 1922. Few people know who started this enduring establishment that has lent its name and money to another famous Ethiopian institution - St. George football club. The Dergue accused Emperor Haile Selassie embezzling the brewery's money and nationalized it in 1974. The EPRDF sold the industry to a French business group called BGI. Who established St. George Beer Factory?

Answer: We are yet to find out ourselves!

The St. Gabriel church shown on left is among the largest modern church buildings in Ethiopia today rivaled only by Bole Medhane Alem in Addis. In today's Ethiopia, where religion still remains to be a private affair, all the major religions like Ethiopian Orthodox Christianity, Protestantism, and Islam are expanding with Catholicism registering only a modest growth. Where is this St. Gabriel church located?

Answer: In the beautiful city of Awassa.

A trusted and very close advisor of Emperor Menelik, this Swiss engineer was instrumental in bringing numerous technological products to Ethiopia such as telephone service and the Djibouti-Addis Ababa railway. He was also the main architect of the churches of the city of Addis Ketema which Menelik wanted to be his new capital but later abandoned due to pressure from Empress Taytu - Ze-Birhane Ethiopia. Who was this Swiss engineer whom Menelik considered as his technology mentor, trusted friend and a fellow Ethiopia? Answers to Spotlight.

Answer: Alfred Ilg.

Among the most brilliant Ethiopian economists of the latter part of the 20th century, this intellectual wrote on numerous topics such as agriculture, industrial and social development issues affecting Ethiopia and Africa. He once wrote these unforgettable words that continue to beg for an answer, "....Now, in a rare instance of generosity, history has once again given us another chance to redeem our country and pull it out of the quagmire. The fundamental question, therefore, is: will we rise to the occasion and rehabilitate our Society and economy, or will we once again waste a historic opportunity, thereby perpetuating hell an earth, not only for this generation but also for generations to come? Two opportunities in less than a generation is a privilege seldom granted to a people; squandering both of them is a crime that will not be forgiven by posterity." Who was this leading Economist of Ethiopia? Answers to Spotlight.

Answer: Dr. Eshetu Chole

This Dejazmach led the Ethiopian resistance army in the Ogaden during the Italian invasion in 1935. He is credited for the monumental defense his troops put against the better equipped Italians who suffered tremendous loss. The battle of Korahe which most Ethiopians believe was won by this Dejazmach and his troops in November 1935 remains to be one of the most important battles in Ethiopian history. The Dejazmach was mortally wounded on November 5, 1935. The monument built for him in Jijiga at the end of the war was desecrated by Somali agents associated with Meles's EPRDF in 1991. Who was this Dejazmach known as the Lion of Qorahe in Ogaden? Answers to Spotlight.

Answer: Dejazmach Afework Wolde Semayat.

Recognized as one of the leading founders of the legendary Ethiopian Air Force, this Lieutenant General was considered progressive in nature and dedicated to modernizing the Air Force and later the coountry's army. He was among the 60 senior government officials brutally murdered by the Fascist Mengistu in 1975. Who was this charistmatic first Ethiopian commander of EtAF? Answers to Spotlight.

Answer: L/t General Assefa Ayana

Few other places in Ethiopia carry as much historical importance as these two sites of major battles. The first is a plain near the present small town of Mojo where the Jihadist Ahmed Gragn & 200 Turkish gunners defeated Emperor Libne Dengel in 1529.

The second place is in the Lake Tana region between Debre Tabor and Woldiya where Emperor Gelawdeos decisively ended the Jihadist pillage by killing Ahmed Gragn in 1543. What are these two places? Answers to Spotlight.

Answer: Shibra Qure between Mojo and Mount Zuquala is where Emperor Libe Dengel was defeated. Gragn was defeated in Weyna Dega in Lake Tana area. Gragn was actually wounded by a Portuguese soldier in Weyna Dega but managed to run for another 30 or kilometers. The Portuguese soldier followed the wounded Gragn and finished him off in a relatively unknown area that came to be known as Gragn Ber.

This Ethiopian entrepreneur (1913 - 2000) is arguably the single most important personality to have left a long lasting positive effect on the tourist industry of southern Ethiopia from Mojo to Moyalle. He had started his business at the age of 12 just with less than 16 Maria Theresa dollars selling eggs and chicken in Harar. At the end of his long and fruitful life, his business empire was responsible for employing more than 500 people. Who was this visionary entrepreneur? Answers to Spotlight.

Answer: Ato Bekele Mola

General Orde Wingate shown on the right picture with Emperor Haile Selassie during the Italian war is well-known among many Ethiopians for his decisive part in the defeat of the Italian troops in 1941. A grateful Ethiopia later built a high-school named after him. However, the pilot shown on the left (1909- 1977) is yet to be honored by this country even though he is credited for helping establish the legendary Ethiopian Air Force. He spent many years training Ethiopian pilots. After many adventurous years spent in the Netherlands, Finland, Congo and Nigeria (during the Biafra War), he returned to Ethiopia to help with relief efforts following the 1974 drought. This brave Swede was killed by Somali terrorists in 1977 in the town of Gode while conducting relief flights. He was buried at the Gulele Cemetary in Addis Ababa. Who is this Swedish aviator? Answers to Spotlight.

Answer: Count Carl Gustaf von Rosen

The legendary Tilahun Gessesse is considered by the majority of Ethiopians to be the best Ethiopian male singer of all times. Arguably, the unforgettable artist shown on the left is perhaps the best female singer of all times. Who is this artist who will be remembered for ever for here hits like 'Yenat Weletawa',  'Sintun Ayehu Bante', 'Beber Ayegezam', and 'Ferenj Ager Satehed'? Answers to Spotlight.

Answer: Artist Bizunesh Bekele

Negadras Tessema Eshete (1877-1964), the legendary poet and Qne master has the distinction of being Ethiopia's first automobile chauffeur, mechanic, as well as recording artist. Among his most memorable 'qne' is the above. What is the meaning of the qne and the story behind it? Hint: 'Tea Room' building in Piassa. Answers to Spotlight.

Answer: Negadras owned the Tea Room Building that was occupied by the Italians who turned part of it to a restaurant. Once, when he went to eat at the restaurant, the owner asked him to go to the back rooms assigned for the Ethiopians and leave the main room for the White Italians. The Qne says that in my own house, I have been forced to hide.

A man of many talents and unparalleled international recognition, he is particularly remembered for the 23 years he played for the legendary St. George football team wearing their cherry and yellow jersey. At 23, he was the founder of Ethiopians Sports Association. What his fans remember are not only his achievements in sports but also his eloquence in the Amharic language that many say he inherited from his equally successful and illustrious father. Who was this legendary Ethiopian? Answers to Spotlight.

Answer: Ato Yidnekachew Tessema

Debre Berhan Selassie church in the beautiful and historical Gondar (Ethiopia's Camelot as Westerners call it) was built in the 17th century by Emperor Iyassu the Great. What features distinguish this church making it one of the most important historical buildings in Gondar and Ethiopia as a whole? Answers to Spotlight.

Answer: Unlike most Ethiopian churches which are round in plan, Debre Berhan Selassie has a rectangular shape. Further, the art inside the church is supposed to be teh finest in Ethiopia.

Awassa and its lake are known by many Ethiopians. However, the small town right outside it on the way to Shashemene is barely known in the country. The only 15-minute fame that this small town ever enjoyed was its claim as the birth place of the talented but shy singer, Tamrat Tadesse. Do you know the name of this small town named after the river that flows through the city of Awassa?Answers to Spotlight.

Answer: Tiqur Wuha.

Shown on the left is the title of one of his important works "Bible Reader". This artist was the founding director of the Addis Ababa Fine Arts school. Like his contemporary, the unforgettable Ato Agegnehu Engeda, this notable Ethiopian artist had painted master-pieces at Trinity Cathedral. Known for his landscape and portrait paintings, who is this painter? Answers to Spotlight.

Answer: Ato Alefelege Selam

Sitting by the side of his wife, W/o Atsede is the aristocrat, Dejach Nessibu Ze-Ammanuel. W/o Atsede who hails from a family that has contributed significantly to Ethiopia is the sister of Ethiopia's first pilot. Who is this family - particularly the brother? Answers to Spotlight.

Answer: The Babitchef family - emigres from Czarist Russia. Mishka Babitchef is, of course, Ethiopia's first pilot.

A favorite daughter of Emperor Haile Selassie, she died at an early age due to child birth complications. Her name, however, is immortalized with the naming of one of Addis Ababa's hospitals after her. Who was this princess who was trained as a nurse? Answers to Spotlight.

Answer: Princess Tsehai

W/o Wolete Ammanuel Papatakis (shown far left) played a significant role as a patriot during the war against the Italians by sending food and clothing to the group led by the unforgettable W/o Shewareged Gedle. W/o Zewditu Gizaw (shown also here) was active in the Menz and Tegulet region and participated in many raids on Italian troops earning a respect among the patriots of Ras Abebe Aregay. Ato Tadesse Zewolde narrates the lives of these and many other patriots in a book he published in 1968. What is the name of this must read historical book? Answers to Spotlight.

Answer: Qerin Geremew

These two heroes of the Ethiopian Airforce were perhaps among the best generals the country has ever produced. Both of them were brutally killed by the Fascist Mengistu who considered staying in power more important than honoring true Ethiopian heroes. Born in 1934 in Gondar, the general shown in far left came to national recognition in 1977 for his brave role in saving the city of Dire Dawa from the Somali invaders. Armed with AK-47 and driving in a Jeep, he spent most of those fateful 48 hours in leading the war both on ground and in the air. The other general shown above carried out as many as five sorties a day to repel the Somali invaders. His memorable heroic deeds came in July 1977 with his successful elimination of convoys of Somali tanks in the Dire Dawa, Jire and Jijiga wars. Who are these modern day Ethiopian heroes? Send Answers to Spotlight. Photo courtesy of Assoc. of Former. EtAF members.

Answer: Major General Fanta Belay and General Amha Desta.

The author of such books like "How Japan Progressed", "Teretna Missale", "Ye-Hilina Berhan", "ye-tinbit Qetero", "Hannibal", etc, this Ethiopian literary giant was awarded the Haile Selassie Prize in 1964. He was later awarded an honorary doctorate degree by the Addis Ababa university. Right around the time he was awarded the H/Selassie prize, this beloved writer and the respected writer mentioned below were involved in a highly publicized heated exchanges in a series of articles published in the Addis Zemen newspaper. Who is this unforgettable Ethiopian author who composed - among many others - this short poem (courtesy of Moges WM)? Send Answers to Spotlight.

Answer: Kibur Ato Kebede Mikael

Abby Lakew, an Ethiopian-American artist from the Houston area, releases a well received album entitled "Hello Ethiopia". The album has proved to be a surprise hit helping the young singer assume the position of the most successful Ethiopian artist of the year so far. In the mean time, Gigi's recent release fails to impress.

Shown left is one of Ethiopia's most prolific writers with more than fifty book titles and eight plays to his name. In his autobiography published in 2004, this remarkable man of letters narrates that he first entered first grade at the age of 15! Unable to complete even high-school due to hardship, this man went on to head several newspapers in Addis ababa and Asmara such as 'Polis Ina Irmijaw', 'hibret', 'yezareytu Etyopia', etc. Who is this outspoken and energetic journalist/writer? Send Answers to Spotlight.

Answer: Ato Mamo Wudneh

A new Ethiopian hero is born! Ato Muluneh Eyuel, secretary of the CUD (Kinijt) has emerged as the new face of resistance to the Fascist regime of Meles.   Currently in prison on fabricated charges, Ato Muluneh is protesting his solitary confinement through hunger strike. This brave Ethiopian joins W/o Birtukan Mideksa, Dr. Berhanu Nega, Professors Mesfin & Yakob, Drs. Befekadu & Hailu, and Ato Hailu Shawel as the enduring symbols of freedom and resistance against a Fascist and his foreign supporters.

An Ethiopian group in Jerusalem calls on Black Christians around the world to help save the last foothold of African Christianity in the compounds of the Holy Sepulcher  where Ethiopian monks have been relegated to live on a roof for many years. Article.

An online exhibition of Ethiopian art influenced by Jesuit missionaries in the 16th-17th century is organized by a Portuguese group. The Jesuit involvement in Ethiopia left some remarkable art and architectural heritages still standing in Gojam and Gondar. Article.

The Ethiopian gentlemen shown here represent two of the pilots who had a distinction of being first in aviation achievemnents in their generations. Shown on the left is the Captain who became the first Ethiopian and Black African jet pilot in December 1956. He is also author of a book (Hiwote Bemidir Ina Bayer) that narrates his humble begninnings in Babile, Harer to his rise to prominence in Ethiopian aviation. Shown on the right is the first Ethiopian pilot who was awarded his pilot license in the presence of Emperor Haile Selassie in October 1930. Asfaw Ali, Seyoum Kebede, Bahru Kaba, Demissie H/Yesus, Demeke T/Wold, W/o Mulumebet Imiru were among the batch-mates to start the first ever pilot training program in the country. Qn: Who are these distinguished pilots? Send Answers to Spotlight.

Answer: Captain Alemayehu Abebe & Mishka Babitchef

Shown on left is W/o Assegedech Assefa who has the distinction of being Ethiopia's first female pilot. However, the first Ethiopian woman to enter pilot training was another lady. Any idea who that lady was? Shown on the right is the legendary Hubert Fountleroy Julian in front of his unforgettable airplane called "Abyssinia". Colonel Julian who was born in Trinidad and Tobago was a very colorful man who impressed Ethiopians with his flying skills and charisma. His parachute jumping in Jan Meda in June 4, 1930 was perhaps the first in the country and earned the Colonel 50 Birr from Abune Sawiros, 30 Birr from Dejach Mekonnen Demissew, gold from Ligaba Wedaje as an appreciation of his feats.  What was the favorite nick name of this colorful pilot? Answers to Spotlight.Source is Captain Mekonnen Beri's Book: Aviation in Ethiopia.

Answer: W/o Mulumebet Imirru

The son of the legendary Armachiho region of Gondar which is located in the Angereb river valley, this Fitawrari and his colleagues  led one of the bravest and most successful resistance against Fascist Italy. He earned the nick name "Amoraw' for his legendary ability to come to the rescue of his fellow patriots besieged by enemy troops. He is shown above as a young patriot and later in life as a very respected veteran. In some circles, this Fitawrari is referred to as "Ras" as well. Who was this hero and what are some of his legendary accomplishments? Send Answers to Spotlight.

Answer: Amoraw Wubneh / Ras Wubneh

A rising star in the Ethiopian political scene, W/t Birtukan Mideksa is now the senior vice president of the leading popular party, Kinijt. W/t Birtukan who was trained as a lawyer was appointed as a high court judge in the early 2000s. She came to national spotlight in 2002 while presiding on PM Meles Vs Mr. Siye case where she set Meles' nemesis, Mr. Siye free shocking the Fascist dictator Meles. W/t Birtukan Mideksa's recent arrest by the Fascist government has only made her among the most admired opposition figures in the country. Where was this remarkable young leader born? Answers to Spotlight.

Answer: Addis Ababa

Tsehayu Inqo Selassie (later Dejazmach) and his brothers gained reputation as fierce resistance fighters during the Italian occupation. Among the brothers, one of them was killed during a battle against the Italian troops in 1937 in a place called Enewari. Who was this young man? Answers to Spotlight.

Answer: Yosef and Benyam Workeneh

Ras Alula Aba Nega (shown left) was perhaps one of the most successful and fearless Ethiopian commanders of the 19th century. His claim to fame include establishing the city of Asmara and winning no less than ten decisive battles against foreign invaders (examples include Gura in 1876 against the Egyptians, Dogali in 1887, Adwa in 1896). Despite his humble beginnings as a son of a farmer, he rose to become what one foreign historian called "the greatest leader that Ethiopia has produced since the death of Emperor Theodros in 1868". What was the name of the father of this memorable Ethiopian figure?

Shown on the left is an old photo of the area around the plateau of Amba Alage, the scene of the battle of December 7th, 1895 where the hero of the day Fitawrari Gebeyehu along with his 1200 troops attacked the Italian army that had camped there in preparation for a war against the army of Menelik. Fitawrari Gebeyehu's attack killed Major Pietro Toselli - the Italian commander and annihilated the 1500 strong Italian army stationed in this strategic location. Three months after his victory at Amba Alage, the Fitawrari participated bravely in the Adwa battle but was sadly killed during action. What was Fitawrari's Gebeyehu's father name?

Dejazmach Gebre Mariam, the hero of the southern Ethiopia front during the Italian invasion waged a successful war of resistance until his death in Yekatit 13, 1929 (EC) (shown here in a rare photo). He operated in Arbe-Gona, Hagere Mariam, Hagere Selam, Wadera, Bonde, Teferi Kela areas (see map below) with other renowned patriots like Ras Desta Damtew, Dejach Beyene Merid, and Shaka Bekele. While one of Addis' premier schools - Lycee Guebre Mariam- was named after him, only a handful of people know the full name of this remarkable arbegna. Any idea what the family/father name of Dejach G/Mariam is? Correct answer will earn you a MediaET T-shirt. We bet even graduates of Lycee G/Mariam wouldn't know the answer. E-mail answer  E-mail Spotlight. or at Mesqel Adebabay Message Board. 

The one and only Dejazmach Guebremariam Gari.

Dawit, Birbirsoo, Taye G/Wold, Melaku Teferra, Arega Tesfaye, Negasi and many more got the right answer. 

Standing well over 6 feet and known by his Horse Name - Aba Bora, this remarkable Ras led a guerilla army of as much as 52,000 men during the Italian occupation of 1928-1933. Among his notable achievements was his liberation of the town of Jimma in 1933 overseeing the surrender of more than 8000 Italians. Who was this unforgettable Ethiopian hero?

Legesse Taye, Melaky Teferram and Askale, and many more got the answers.

Sometimes rising to a height of as much as 12 meters (40 feet) - as high as a 4-story building, the traditional houses shown above on the left last for 50-60 years. The stone and mud masonry houses shown above on the right are common in North Ethiopia. Any idea which people of Ethiopia build these two magnificent structures? [Photo Courtesy: Roberta R and Miguel Menzinsky].

house on right - from the Tigre region in North Ethiopia.

Visible from the main Addis Ababa - Nazreth road for many kilometers, the Zuqwala mountain and its crater lake are one of the most beautiful places in central Ethiopia. What establishment makes a trip to the top of Zuqwala mountain a spiritual journey? Any idea when this establishment was built? 

Few places in Ethiopia inspire music more than the beautiful towns of Dessie, Kombolcha, Bati, Werebabo, Were-ilu and Weldiya. While Were-Ilu is located in the Were-Ilu awraja and Dessie in Dessie Zuria, which awraja is Kombolcha located in? Talking about Kombolcha, there is another town by the same name. Any idea where it is located? Also, any idea what Kombolcha  means? [A reader reminded us there are actually 16 towns with the same name!]

Alexey Vorobyov, Tamrat Gebeyehu and Henock Assefa had the right answer. 

Located in the Kola-Dega Damot region of Gojam, Gishe Abay is a small village with a small church. However, it is also the humble beginning of a great Ethiopian national resource/treasure. Any idea what puts Gishe Abay on the map?

Abiyu Berlie, Teshome, Tamrat Gebeyehu and Yene Belayneh had the right answer. 

Dejazmach Wube was the original owner.

Abiyu, Henock, Teshome, Tamrat, Yene ha dteh right answer. 

This Dash-8 photographed at Bole forms one of the 3 aircrafts owned by the aviation wing of the country's largest private company that has investments in construction, pharmaceuticals, hotels, beverages, etc.  The company owns 2 Dash-8s and a B-757. What is the name of the company? [Photo by Raimund Stehmann].

The Keffa-Jimma region is perhaps Ethiopia's most fertile and most untouched region. Most of the country's dwindling forests are located in this region that has given the world - its favorite beverage - coffee. Among the region's most valued resources are its 3 rivers; Omo being the more known. Can you name the other two important rivers where huge hydroelectric powers planned since the early 60's might see the light of day in few years?

Mishka Babitchef, shown above seated in the plane, was the first Ethiopian licensed pilot. Who was the other Ethiopian pilot who got his license the same time as Mishka? 

From his capital city of Inderacha near Bonga, Tato Gaki Sherocho, shown above, ruled this southern kingdom until his defeat in 1897 after a huge loss of human lives. Which people was he the king of? 

The photo shows Aba Jiffar II who ruled a kingdom in Southern Ethiopia between 1875-1934. Who was he a ruler of?

Kawa Tona led what was one of the fiercest war against Menelik in 1894. The war that involved notable commanders like Ras Mikael of Wollo, Liqe Mekwas Abate Buwayalew, Dejach Balcha and Aba Jifar II of Jimma resulted in a large-scale loss of human life.  Which people living in Southern Ethiopia was Kawa Tona a king of?

A new addition to the Bole area, this building is owned by Mr. Yichalal himself-Haile G/Selassie. Do you know after whom Haile named this latest addition to his real estate empire?

More on a poem by Ato Getachew Admassu in memory of the legendary actor Wegayehu Negatu.

This Dejazmach better known for his "horse-name" of Aba-Nefso was among the top generals of the Adwa victory in 1896. He was also among the first of Menelik's loyalist to object to H/Selassie's ascend to power. He ruled the Sidama region for many years. Who is he?

Along with the legendary Belai Zeleke of the Gojam area, Ras Imiru, Abuna Petros, Blata Takele W/Hawariat and many others, this Ras was the most enduring symbol of the Ethiopian resistance during the Italian invasion. Who was he?

Captured and summarily executed by Fascist Italy in 1937, this commander of the southern front waged war of resistance against Graziani's troops. Some of his best units consisted of Eritreans who had joined hands with Ethiopian forces. Who is this dignified Ras? Clue: has a hospital in Addis Ababa named after him.

Correct answers provided by: Gediyon H, Mekonnen W, Samuel M. Henock A, Samson K. 

The picture shows part of a building that dates back to the early  20-th century. Its hey-days were during the coronation of Haile Selassie when it welcomed dignitaries invited for the occasion. What building is it?

Fekadu Belay, a mid-fielder from St. George (shown left) is very talented (10 goals in 2000-01) but is yet to reach the star status of the 18 year-old from EEPCO (Mebrat Hail), the league's leading scorer shown on the right. Who is this young fellow already acclaimed as one of Africa's rising stars? Clue: His younger brother Solomon Abay is also a rising star. 

          

Tsegaye G/Medhin directed this unforgettable play - AtSim BeyegeTSu with Nersis Nalbandiyan as the composer and G/Kristos Desta, Tesfaye Gessesse and Haimanot Alemu as co-writers. Emperor Theodros was played by Haimanot Alemu. Can you identify who played the Itege? Also, who is the Itege by the way? Clue: Not Tewabech. Who is the character shown in the other picture played by Samuel Ferenj

The actor on the left is a legendary actor with memorable roles in "Hahu-Besidist wer", "teqotatatriw", etc.  Can you identify his name and the title of the play shown in the picture?

correct answers provided by: Etsegenet, Getachew, Wondwossen, Gediyon, Yigzaw, Eyerusalem, Tewodros, Gessessew, Alehubel, Fasil, Mebratu, and Dagnachew, Tsegay M.. 

Built in the 1930's, this timber and stone masonry building has a rather dubious distinction in Addis Ababa's history. Any idea where it is located and why we would rather forget the era of shouting from the balcony? Answers to:  E-mail Spotlight.

Perhaps the cutest gas station in town, this gas station has been an Addis fixture for decades. But it is the popular business housed on the 2nd floor that has made this building very memorable for many. Send your guesses about the name of the gas station and the business housed on the 2nd floor to  E-mail Spotlight.

View from the newly completed segment of the Addis Ring Road near Gofa Sefer.

Addis Ababa's Historical buildings. Visit buildings that are as old as 100 years and more.