WOLLO PROVINCE Meaning and
Definition
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Wollo Province refers to a geographical and historical region located in the northeastern part of Ethiopia. It is one of the administrative divisions in the country, known as a province, that existed during the time of the Ethiopian Empire.
The term "Wollo" also refers to the ethnic group inhabiting this region, who are predominantly Amhara people. The province covered an extensive area, including a diverse range of landscapes such as highlands, mountains, plateaus, and fertile valleys. It was bordered by other provinces, such as Shewa to the southwest, Tigray to the north, and Afar to the east.
Historically, Wollo played a significant role in Ethiopian history, particularly during the reign of Emperor Menelik II. This region was known as a center of power and influence, contributing to the political and cultural development of the Ethiopian Empire.
The province of Wollo no longer exists as a separate administrative unit under the current governmental structure in Ethiopia. Instead, it has been divided into several smaller administrative zones and woredas (districts). These divisions are primarily based on ethnic and linguistic affiliations, as well as administrative convenience, aiming to promote effective governance and service delivery.
Etymology of WOLLO PROVINCE
The word "Wollo" is derived from the name of the historical region known as Wollo or Wolo, which is located in northeastern Ethiopia. The etymology of "Wollo" is not entirely clear, but it is believed to have originated from the local Agaw language spoken in the area.
The Agaw people, who are an ethnolinguistic group in Ethiopia, had inhabited Wollo for centuries before the area became part of the Ethiopian Empire. Linguists suggest that "Wollo" might have been a variation of the Agaw word "Wolla", which means "land with high mountains" or "land of mountains". This likely refers to the mountainous terrain found in the region.
Today, Wollo is not an administrative province in Ethiopia, but rather a historical and cultural area. It is now divided into parts of the Amhara and Tigray regions, which are administrative divisions in Ethiopia.
