Addis Ababa: At the invitation of the Finnish Ministry of Foreign Affairs and coordinated by the Embassy of Finland in Addis Ababa, I recently had the extraordinary opportunity to visit Finland. This remarkable journey brought together journalists from across Ethiopia, Kenya, Tanzania, Nigeria, South Africa, Senegal, Mozambique, and Zambia.
According to Ethiopian News Agency, Finland, known as the ‘Land of a Thousand Lakes’, captivated visitors with its natural beauty and remarkable features. With 75 percent of its land covered by pristine forests, Finland is home to approximately five and a half million people and stands as one of Europe’s wealthiest nations. Located in Northern Europe, this Nordic gem has been named the happiest country in the world by the United Nations for eight consecutive years, a distinction that became increasingly clear during the visit.
During Finland’s daylight saving time, which lasts from late March to late October, the country shares the same time zone (UTC+3) with Ethiopia, e
asing the adjustment for visitors. However, the experience of long summer days, where the sun lingers in the sky well into the night, was a novel experience for many African journalists on the trip. The colorful northern lights that grace Finland’s skies during certain times of the year add to the magical quality of this Nordic wonderland.
As a nature lover, the visit to Finland was a revelation of nature preserved in its purest form. The clean air and lush landscapes surrounding Helsinki, the capital, were immediate testaments to the country’s exceptional environmental stewardship. Walking through the city’s beautiful forests, the natural richness of the land was evident.
In Helsinki, prominent landmarks like the Presidential Palace, the University of Helsinki, and the iconic Helsinki Cathedral surrounded the Senate and Kansalaistori Squares, echoing the prominence of squares in Addis Ababa. The city’s open and spacious feel, combined with its architecturally impressive low-rise buildings, added to its cha
rm.
Finland’s natural beauty is reflected in its national symbols, such as the Finnish Silver Birch tree and the brown bear. The country’s forests are home to various edible plants, including wild strawberries and mushrooms. With over 180,000 lakes, Finland’s pristine water bodies are among its most treasured natural resources. The availability of clean, natural spring water, offered straight from the tap, was a refreshing experience.
The Finnish people demonstrate a deep respect for culture and heritage, with myths and legends often associated with trees and animals. A visit to Nuuksio National Park included a traditional Finnish sauna experience, an integral part of Finnish culture. The sauna, originating in Finland, remains an essential aspect of daily life.
Anna Lamila, a diplomat with 35 years of experience, coordinated the visit. Her friendly demeanor and intriguing insights into Finnish culture enriched the experience. Finland’s technological advancements, including innovations from companies like N
okia, were also evident during the visit, showcasing the country’s embrace of modernity.
Ethiopia and Finland share a long-standing bilateral relationship spanning 66 years, with partnerships extending into education, technology, and trade. Finland’s high-quality education system, exemplified by the innovative Oodi Central Library in Helsinki, is globally recognized.
Finnish society’s strong culture of tax compliance and public trust in government institutions reflects the country’s social organization. Finland’s commitment to gender equality is evident in the political representation, with 91 out of 200 parliament members being women.
Before departing Finland, the profound impact of this journey was clear. The experiences and insights gained during the visit offered a deeper understanding of Finland’s natural wonders, cultural richness, and societal values.