This is due to the nation's adherence to the Geʽez calendar, which follows older calculations for Christ's birth, placing it several years later than the Gregorian calendar. The Ethiopian calendar features 13 months, with its New Year commencing in September. It’s simply because Ethiopia follows a different calendar altogether.Instead of the globally popular Gregorian calendar, Ethiopia officially uses the Geʽez (or Ethiopian) calendar, a traditional solar calendar that works on its own calculations and rhythm. The Geʽez calendar isn’t an informal tradition; it is used in courts, banks, offices, schools and everyday paperwork.For Ethiopians, this calendar is the official timeline of life.So where does the seven-to-eight-year gap come from? It wraps up with Pagume, the short 13th month, falling in early September.So yes, Ethiopia isn’t “stuck in time”.

Source: Ethiopian News January 07, 2026 12:13 UTC