By Soyome Getachew
Claim
A social media post alleged that schools in Addis Ababa recently changed their uniforms to resemble the Egyptian flag.
Verdict
The claim is false. The circulating image does not support the allegation. No credible evidence confirms any schools uniform change in Addis Ababa.
Investigation and Findings
On November 9, 2025, a social media account named EriLion with over 1,283 followers posted that Addis Ababa schools had adopted uniforms resembling the Egyptian flag (See screenshot below).
In order to place the claim in context, MFC investigated the image using reverse‑image search tools. The photo displayed black, red, and white colors along with a logo identified as Gaachana Sirnaa, which translates to “the system’s safeguard” in Afaan Oromo (See screenshot below).
However, students in Addis Ababa public schools wear the official logo of the Mayor’s Office on their uniforms. The logo in the image does not match (See screenshot below).
MFC noted several inconsistencies in the circulating claim: First, the individuals in the rally appear to be adults, not schoolchildren. Second, the Addis Ababa Education Bureau records show no directive or announcement about new uniforms. Finally, uniform changes in Addis Ababa typically occur during summer breaks, not during active school terms.
Therefore, the claim that schools are switching to uniforms resembling the Egyptian flag is unsubstantiated and false.
Conclusion
The claim that Addis Ababa schools changed their uniforms to resemble the Egyptian flag is a fabrication. The investigation revealed that the image depicts adults, not students, and the logo does not match official school emblems. Moreover, the Addis Ababa Education Bureau has issued no directive about uniform changes.
This case illustrates how disinformation thrives in uncertainty. False claims exploit sensitive contexts to mislead the public. Verified facts, however, provide clarity and protect communities from manipulation. MFC’s evidence confirms that the claim underscores the importance of relying on credible sources when discussing education policy. Accordingly, after re-examining all evidence, MFC rated the claim as false.
Context
A 2023 School Meals Case Study by Solomon Tessema showed that the City Government of Addis Ababa’s Education Bureau provides meals to students. In addition, a 2020 report by Fortune, an Ethiopian business newspaper, confirmed that the Bureau also distributes uniforms, school bags, and shoes. Together, these initiatives improve learning conditions, boost attendance, and support underprivileged communities. Moreover, the Bureau extends this assistance from kindergarten through Grade 12, ensuring that all learners benefit.
Role of Gaachana Sirnaa
According to the Oromia Communication Bureau, Gaachana Sirnaa promotes peace and stability within the Oromo community under the Gada system. It mobilizes communities to raise awareness of rights and responsibilities. It also advocates for legal representation of community interests and strengthens accountability among public organizations. Furthermore, Gaachana Sirnaa encourages collaboration between security forces and communities to safeguard regional stability (See screenshot below).
Ethiopia and Egypt
Ethiopia and Egypt have long experienced tensions over the Nile River. Ethiopia’s construction of the Grand Ethiopian Renaissance Dam (GERD) has heightened disputes, as Egypt fears reduced water flow while Ethiopia views the dam as essential for energy and development.
Although diplomatic talks often stall and regional concerns about water security persist, these geopolitical issues remain unrelated to Ethiopia’s education system. Importantly, no credible evidence suggests that schools in Addis Ababa intend to change their uniforms to resemble the Egyptian flag.
