Oromo Studies Association (OSA) Statement on the passing of Dr. Ali Birra
It was with profound sorrow that members of the Oromo Studies Association (OSA) learned of the passing of…
It was with profound sorrow that members of the Oromo Studies Association (OSA) learned of the passing of Ali Birra on November 6, 2022 in the city of Adama, located in Ethiopia’s Oromia state. On behalf of its members, the OSA Executive Committee and Board of Directors extend
profound condolences to Dr. Ali Birra’s wife, Lily Birra, his life- long friends and all of those who have enjoyed Ali Birra’s music for over five decades. Dr. Ali Birra was a famous wellknown and well-loved Oromo singer whose popularity was sustained for nearly six decades. As scholar Greg Gow remarked, he was “the voice of the Oromo yearning for freedom…an Oromo institution as well as their heritage.” 2
