Sidama
The Sidama region is one of the regional states (kililoch) of Ethiopia. It was formed on 18 June 2020 from the Southern Nations, Nationalities, and Peoples Region (SNNPR) and transformation of the Sidama Zone after a referendum vote in favour of increased autonomy in the 2019.
Towns in Sidama include Awasa, the capital of Sidama and SNNPRS, Yirgalem, Wondogenet, Chuko, Hula, Bona, Bursa, Bensa, and Aleta Wendo. Awasa, the capital of Sidama and SNNPRS, is the largest city, with a population of more than 335,000 people. Sidama has a population of around 3.2 million in 2017 who speak the Cushitic languages Sidama (also known as Sidaamu Afoo).
Sidama region is the leading coffee producing region in Ethiopia. It is generally a fertile area, varying from flat land (warm to hot) to highland (warm to cold). Economically, most are subsistence farmers. Cattle especially is a measure of wealth. The false banana or "enset", along with maize, as well as fermented cows' milk and butter, are the major staple foods of the Sidama.
Sidama Region Major Cities and Population
Regional States and Chartered Cities of Ethiopia
| 1 |
Addis Ababa |
Addis Ababa |
City |
527 |
3,434,000 |
| 2 |
Afar |
Asayita |
State |
72,053 |
1,812,002 |
| 3 |
Amhara |
Bahir Dar |
State |
154,709 |
21,134,988 |
| 4 |
Benishangul-Gumuz |
Asosa |
State |
50,699 |
1,066,001 |
| 5 |
Dire Dawa |
Dire Dawa |
City |
1,559 |
466,000 |
| 6 |
Gambela |
Gambela |
State |
29,783 |
435,999 |
| 7 |
Harari |
Harar |
State |
334 |
246,000 |
| 8 |
Oromia |
Addis Ababa |
State |
284,538 |
35,467,001 |
| 9 |
Somali |
Jijiga |
State |
279,252 |
5,748,998 |
| 10 |
Tigray |
Mekele |
State |
84,722 |
5,247,005 |
| 11 |
Southern Nations Nationalities and People (SNNPR) |
Awasa |
State |
54,400 |
9,126,000 |
| 12 |
Sidama |
Awasa |
State |
12,000 |
3,200,000 |
| 13 |
South West Ethiopia People Region (SWEPR) |
Bonga |
State |
39,400 |
2,300,000 |
