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Cultural Promotion

Alliance éthio-française (A.F.)

What is the background and resource of the Alliance éthio-française?

The French Government subsidizes Alliance Française. A limited budget of EUR 90,000 for cultural promotion and EUR 90,000 for managing the Institute is provided every year. It is called Alliance éthio-française, because “il faut qu’il y ait l’alliance entre l’Ethiopie et de la France ».
It is an independent institution. In Ethiopia the highest authority dealing with the alliance is the Ministry of Youth, Sports and Culture. Although this is a French institution, it is managed under the Ethiopian law. There are 9 Board of Directors, 4 French, 4 Ethiopians and one from a French speaking African Country. This year one Board member is from Djibouti. The President is always an Ethiopian and the Vice-President
is French.

When was A.F. established?

It was established in 1907. In 2007 it will be 100 years old.

What is the main purpose of the Alliance?

The main purpose is to teach French language and to promote Francophone and Ethiopian culture, such as art exhibitions, music, literature, handicraft, etc.

Who are its members?

There are two types of membership. Active members are those who are involved in the activities being organized by alliance. The second group of membership is those who use the library, video-tape, etc. A new membership is being developed and these include those who would like to have access all information about France.

Does the Alliance work with other cultural institutions?

Yes. It works with the British Council, Goethe Institute and Italian Cultural Institute.

Is this the first attempt to bring together Ethiopian and Western musicians?

This is the fourth time and was organized as a tribute to Tilhaune Gesesse who is the most loved and famous Ethiopian singer.

How does this benefit both cultures?

Whenever there is a cultural event, it is to benefit both sides. E.g. the fourth musical festival is being organized together with Mr. Francise Falceto who is responsible for organizing and producing 19 Ethiopian National CDs known by the name of “Ethiopiques”. The CD’s are markated worldwide. Several senior musicians are working with Mr. Falceto.

In what way does this alliance promote young Ethiopian artists?

It is promoting them by organizing their exhibitions, conferences and also giving training in poetry making and music. The trainers come from France and other African countries.

How does it contribute to the development of Ethiopian traditional music?

Once a month there is a traditional music evening (known as Azmari evening) and it is shown to the Ethiopian public and the international community. The traditional musicians are also given the opportunity to perform in Europe and in other African countries.

What other cultural activities do you try to promote?

Ethiopian, French and African literature discussions are organized in Ethiopia at least once a year.

When is the next festival and where will it be ?

Always in Addis Ababa, It will be in mid-January 2006.

Any other idea and/or views you would like to express about the alliance?

There are about 1,200 Alliance Française in 132 countries. Each one of them are trying to promote similar cultural activities.
Every year the African Alliance Française meets subregionally and exchange musicians, artists, etc. to perform and to promote them to other subregions in Africa.
This way annual programmes are exchanged and costs are shared among members.

Merci and Bon courage!