Nation accords warm welcome to national team

Addis Ababa, February 3, 2012 (WIC) - Ethiopia has accorded a warm welcome to the National Football Team who participated in the 29th African Cup of Nations at the Addis Ababa Stadium yesterday.

At the welcoming ceremony, House of Peoples' Representatives Speaker Abbadulla Gemeda said that though the team could not qualify for quarter final, the Walias were able to show marvelous game to the world.

“Ethiopians are proud of this team who changed the football history of the country after 31 year absence from international tournaments. The team again needs to work hard to qualify for FIFA World Cup to be held in Brazil,” said Abbadulla.

Federal Sports Commission Commissioner Abdissa Yadeta on his part said that citizens' support and encouragement greatly helps the team to further strengthen their effort to register commendable achievement in the tournament. He also appreciated nationals residing in South Africa for the love and determination they showed in support of their national team.

“Our stay in South Africa was so good as we were able to get good experience from the game that helps us a lot to our future matches mainly to qualify for World Cup,” said Sewnet Bishaw, the Team Manager.

Upon arrival at the Bole International Airport Friday night, the team was welcomed by Foreign Minister Dr. Tedros Adhanom.
In a related story, the Federal Police Commission held a fund raising event at the Addis Ababa Stadium yesterday aimed at strengthening the Omedla Sport Club and Police Music Orchestra.

Federal Police Commission Commissioner General Workineh Gebeyehu said that the Omedla Sport Club and Music Orchestra have the lion's share in Ethiopia's sport and music industry. The Federal Police was able to produce famous sportsmen and women as well as renowned musicians.

“For certain reasons, however, both at present remain behind. So, it is now a critical time to seek support from the public at large to reorganize and revive them to better serve the country in these well loved fields,” said Workineh.

“I was a member of the Police Music Orchestra 30 years back. I always feel that it lags behind and fail to stand on its own feet. So, I have decided to support the orchestra to my level best, that's why I am here today,” said Artist Alemayehu Eshete.
Women athletes and artists played impressive football match while well known musicians presented their song.