ዘሪቱ ከበደ | Zeritu Kebede
Basic Identity
- Real Name and Stage Name : Her full name is Zeritu Kebede. She is widely recognized by this name as both a singer and actress in Ethiopia.
- Date and Place of Birth : Born on February 19, 1984, in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia.
- Age / Current Age or Age at Death : As of 2025, Zeritu Kebede is 41 years old.
- Parents (Mother and Father) : Her father, Kebede Woldegiorgis, was an architect, and her mother, Engida Mitiku, was a housewife.
- Siblings : Zeritu has two younger siblings and older step-siblings from her father's previous marriage.
- Background and Upbringing : Raised in the Gulele area of Addis Ababa, Zeritu had a strict upbringing. She spent her summers with her liberal maternal grandparents, which provided a contrasting environment.
Career
- Career Start and Early Breakthrough : Zeritu's musical journey began in her youth, performing Michael Jackson's "Will You Be There" in fifth grade. She later joined Express Band, covering artists like Lauryn Hill and Celine Dion. Her debut album, Zeritu (2005), featuring hits like "Endaygelegne" and "Deg Abate Kifu Balua," propelled her to national fame.
- First Song / Breakthrough Hit : "Endaygelegne," the lead single from her debut album, became an instant hit, showcasing her unique blend of Ethiopian melodies with rock and gospel influences.
- Major Milestones and Achievements : In 2006, Zeritu embarked on the groundbreaking "Guzo Zeritu" national tour, performing across major Ethiopian cities. She co-wrote songs for Eyob Mekonnen's debut album and collaborated with international artists like Joss Stone.
- Awards and Recognitions : Zeritu received the Best Actress award at the 5th Gumma Awards for her role in the film Taza (2017).
- International Reach and Diaspora Performances : Beyond Ethiopia, Zeritu has performed in the United States, Europe, and the UAE, expanding her fan base and promoting Ethiopian music globally.
Albums
Tracks
| Yenem Ayen Aytoal | Yehun | Setewegn Tewkut |
| Yehechi Agatami | Leb Yaleh ft Tadele | Endaygelegn |
| Simesh Yekefagnal | Weshetam | Yene Konjo ft Eyob |
Personal Life
- Relationship Status and Children : Zeritu Kebede is married and has one daughter. She has occasionally shared reflections on motherhood and family life in interviews but keeps her personal life largely private.
- Net Worth and Assets : While exact figures are unlisted, Zeritu’s income stems from her music, acting, tours, and endorsement deals. She’s considered among Ethiopia’s top-earning female artists, with a moderate six-figure estimated net worth.
- Current Residence and Lifestyle : Zeritu lives in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, and is known for a balanced, socially conscious lifestyle. She is active in women’s empowerment campaigns and supports youth education initiatives.
Business
- Business & Cultural Investment : Zeritu Kebede has built a strong artistic brand that extends beyond music into film, activism, and cultural entrepreneurship. She co-wrote and starred in the widely acclaimed Ethiopian film "Yewededu Semon", which marked her debut in cinema. Zeritu also engages in projects that promote women's rights and youth education, collaborating with NGOs and advocacy groups. Her involvement in nationwide peace and unity concerts demonstrates her dedication to cultural harmony. Through her influence and public voice, she champions Ethiopian identity, women’s empowerment, and creative independence in the arts.
-SOURCES-
wikipedia.org
youtube.com
facebook.com
instagram.com
open.spotify.com
music.apple.com
yenezema.com
unicef.org
bbc.com
tiktok.com
tidal.com
linkedin.com
ethio360.com
artstv.world
shegerfm.com
addisinsight.com
capitalethiopia.com
zomamagazine.com
telegram.org