On the morning of Sunday January 11 a fire of unknown origin has destroyed part of the most ancient hotel in Ethiopia – the Itegue Taitu Hotel – making away with Jazzamba, the historic ethio-jazz club. Among the landmarks in Addis Ababa’s architectural and cultural heritage, these places are especially dear to me because here started my discovery of Ethiopia. It is in an infinitely sad state of mind that I am writing following note, in the auspice that these places will soon be back to their original splendour. Continue reading »