Jimma history

Jimma holds a special place in the history of East Africa as the former capital of a powerful kingdom. The modern appearance of the city began to take shape in the 19th century; however, settlements and trade routes existed here long before that, making the region an important centre of civilization in southwestern Ethiopia.

Foundation and Historical Context

The history of the city's foundation is inextricably linked to the Kingdom of Jimma, one of the five kingdoms of the Gibe region that emerged in the 18th century. King Abba Jifar I is considered the de facto creator of the city's greatness, but the capital reached its peak and modern structure during the reign of his grandson, Abba Jifar II, in the second half of the 19th century. It was he who united the scattered lands and strengthened central authority, turning the settlement into a thriving capital.

Key Factors of Development

Several factors combined successfully to transform Jimma into a major regional centre:

• Strategic Geography: Its location in a fertile region with a mild climate and abundant rainfall created ideal conditions for agriculture.
• Trade Crossroads: The city, historically known as Hirmata, lay at the intersection of vital caravan routes connecting the southern regions with the coast and the central highlands.
• Political Foresight: The rulers of the kingdom conducted diplomacy skillfully, allowing the region to maintain autonomy and economic stability during periods of turbulence.

Early Cultural and Economic Features

The coffee trade became the economic foundation of early Jimma. Its proximity to the Kaffa region, considered the birthplace of the coffee tree, allowed the city to become a major export hub for this valuable commodity, as well as for ivory and gold. This led to a significant accumulation of wealth and the development of urban infrastructure even in the pre-colonial era.

Culturally, Jimma stood out as a centre of Islamic education and culture in the region. The architecture of that time, including the preserved Palace of Abba Jifar, demonstrates a unique synthesis of local African traditions with Indo-Arab influence, which was uncharacteristic for other parts of the country during that period.

• Early 19th Century — Unification of the local tribes of the Gibe region and the formation of the foundations of the future Kingdom of Jimma.
• 1830 — King Abba Jifar I officially establishes the dynasty and the state, turning the settlement into an important regional centre.
• 1878 — Abba Jifar II ascends to the throne, under whom the city reaches its highest economic and cultural peak.
• 1884 — The city's ruler concludes a treaty with Emperor Menelik II, preserving internal autonomy within Ethiopia.
• Late 19th Century — The city establishes its status as the largest trade hub of the southwest, controlling the export of coffee and other goods.
• 1932 — The death of King Abba Jifar II leads to the final loss of autonomy and the transfer of the region to the direct administration of central authorities.
• 1936 — During the Second Italo-Ethiopian War, Italian troops occupy the city, planning to make it a key administrative hub.
• 1936–1941 — A period of active construction in the city featuring colonial-style buildings and the development of the road network by the occupying authorities.
• 1941 — Liberation of the city by Ethiopian patriots and allied forces, restoration of the national administration.
• 1942 — Jimma becomes the capital of the Kaffa province, cementing its status as the main city in the southwestern part of the country for many years.
• 1974 — A coup d'état and the rise of the Derg regime lead to the nationalization of land and a change in the city's economic model.
• 1991 — The fall of the military regime opens a new chapter in the city's history, promoting the development of private enterprise and trade.
• 1999 — Foundation of Jimma University, which quickly transformed the city into one of the country's leading educational and scientific centres.

The development of the city of Jimma represents a journey from a wealthy trade crossroads to a modern educational and economic hub. Each historical era has left its unique mark on the architecture, layout, and status of this important settlement in Ethiopia.

• Rise of the Coffee Economy (19th Century). Thanks to its location in the centre of the region where coffee grows historically, the city became the main point for the collection and export of beans. This turned it into a thriving commercial centre and laid the financial foundation for future growth.
• The Golden Age of Abba Jifar II. The reign of the most famous king was marked by the centralization of power and the construction of the famous palace complex. This event secured the city's status as the political and cultural core of the Gibe region.
• Urban Planning Reform of the 1930s. During this period, a regular urban layout was introduced, and stone buildings combining European style with local elements were constructed. The infrastructure created then still shapes the appearance of the historic centre.
• Status as Administrative Capital. In the mid-20th century, the city became the centre of the Kaffa province. Hosting regional government institutions and departments here gave a powerful impulse to the development of the service sector and housing construction.
• Foundation of Jimma University. The opening of a major higher education institution in the late 1990s became a turning point in recent history. The introduction of a community-oriented learning concept turned the city into a nationwide centre for medicine and agricultural sciences.
• Modernization of Transport Infrastructure. The reconstruction of the airport and the improvement of the road network connecting the region with Addis Ababa have strengthened the city's role as the main logistical gateway to the southwest of the country.

Architectural Appearance and Urban Environment

The architecture of Jimma presents a unique mosaic where African traditions, European rationalism, and modern functionalism are intertwined. Unlike many other cities in the region, layers of history are clearly traceable here, captured in stone and wood. Urban development progressed from the chaotic construction of a trade hub to a regular plan introduced in the mid-20th century.

The Kingdom Era (19th Century): Traditional Architecture

The earliest and most distinctive layer of architecture is associated with the heyday of the independent Kingdom of Jimma. The style of this era can be characterized as a synthesis of local tradition and Indo-Arab influence.

• Characteristic Features: The use of wood as the main material, intricate carving, high roofs, and the absence of metal nails in original constructions.
• Landmark Object: The Palace of Abba Jifar in Jiren (on the outskirts of the city). This is the oldest wooden structure of such scale in the southwestern part of Ethiopia. The complex combines defensive functions with residential ones and demonstrates the skill of local carpenters.

Colonial Modernism and Rationalism (1930s)

The short but architecturally significant period of Italian presence radically changed the city centre. European architects attempted to turn Jimma into a model garden city by introducing principles of rationalism and colonial eclecticism.

• Urban Planning: The appearance of a regular street grid, sidewalks, and stone bridges. Buildings were constructed taking the local climate into account—with high ceilings and galleries protecting against the sun and rain.
• Landmark Buildings: Single-story and two-story stone structures from that time have been preserved in the city centre, including the old cinema building, the post office, and administrative offices. They are distinguished by strict geometric forms, arched windows, and pastel plaster.

Modern Stage: Functionalism and Development

From the second half of the 20th century to the present day, the city has been developing in the vein of modern functionalism. Architecture has become more utilitarian, focused on rapid population growth and educational needs.

• Educational Cluster: The campuses of Jimma University have become new architectural landmarks. These are large-scale concrete complexes surrounded by green zones, setting the tone for the modern district of the city.
• Commercial Development: Along the main avenues, multi-story buildings made of glass and concrete are rising, typical of developing African metropolises, gradually replacing the old low-rise buildings.

Distinguished Figures of Jimma

The history of Jimma is inextricably linked with the names of wise rulers, talented artists, and sports figures who have brought fame to this region of Ethiopia around the world. Below are key figures who have left a noticeable mark on the chronicles of the city and the country.

• Abba Jifar I
  Role: Founder of the Kingdom of Jimma and its first king (reigned 1830–1855).
  Significance: United the scattered tribes of the Gibe region, creating a centralized state. He laid the political and economic foundation upon which the dynasty's power was subsequently built.
• Abba Jifar II
  Role: King of Jimma (reigned 1878–1932).
  Significance: The most famous ruler in the city's history. Thanks to his diplomatic talent, the region maintained autonomy for a long time and prospered through the coffee trade. It was he who built the famous palace in Jiren, which is the main historical attraction.
• Mulatu Astatke
  Role: Musician, composer, and arranger (born 1943).
  Significance: A native of Jimma who became a global music legend. Considered the "father of Ethio-jazz"—a unique genre that combined Ethiopian traditions, jazz, and Latin American rhythms. His work has had a huge impact on popularizing the country's culture abroad.
• Yidnekachew Tessema
  Role: Sports administrator and footballer (1921–1987).
  Significance: Born in Jimma and went down in history as the "father of African football." He led the Confederation of African Football (CAF) for many years and played a key role in the development of sports on the continent, as well as in the fight against racial discrimination in sports.
• Abba Magal
  Role: Ruler of the Kingdom (reigned 1862–1878).
  Significance: Father of Abba Jifar II. His reign was an important transitional stage when state borders were strengthened and trade relations established, paving the way for the "Golden Age" of Jimma under his son.