On 7 November 2024, the British Embassy in Addis Ababa hosted a grand celebration for the King’s Birthday Party (KBP), welcoming over 1,000 esteemed guests.
Attendees included heads of international institutions, diplomatic missions, high-ranking government officials, and private sector partners, all gathering to honor the enduring cultural ties between Ethiopia and the four nations of the UK.
The attendance of policy influencers from both the public and private sectors emphasized the multidimensional partnerships between the two nations at regional and global levels.
H.E. Mr. Darren Welch, UK Ambassador to Ethiopia and Permanent Representative to the Africa Union welcomed guests, saying that it was an honor to host the King’s Birthday Party at the British Embassy in Ethiopia.
The event featured a captivating performance by the Katim Disability Dance Group and traditional Scottish dances, exemplifying the rich cultural exchange between the UK and Ethiopia. Guests also enjoyed a variety of exciting activities, including:
An exhibition of photographs from the 60th Wildlife Photographer of the Year competition.
* Circus performances: Stunning acts that mesmerized the audience.
* UK-themed photo booths for opportunities to capture memorable moments.
* 360 Rotating Selfie Booth: An innovative twist to selfie-taking.
* DJ Sessions: Lively music that kept guests dancing well into the night.
* A Games Lawn.
* Delicious food and drinks including fish and chips, a British favourite, and wines from a renowned British vineyard.
Guests were encouraged to share their experiences on social media, making this occasion not only a celebration of culture and partnership but also a memorable event for all involved.
King’s Birthday Parties are celebrated by Heads of Missions worldwide, allowing for flexibility in marking His Majesty the King’s birthday, which actually falls on 14 November. These celebratory events often combine cultural and commercial activities, strengthening collaborations with partners globally.
Source: British Embassy Media Note, 7 November 2024