The Agew Peoples of Ethiopia: An Interdisciplinary Study of Their Historical Legacy, Linguistic Heritage, Cultural Identity, and Contemporary Challenges

The Agew (Agaw) peoples of Ethiopia constitute one of the country’s oldest ethnolinguistic communities, yet their historical and cultural contributions have often been overshadowed in mainstream Ethiopian historiography. This study undertakes an interdisciplinary literature review to explore their historical legacy, linguistic heritage, cultural identity, and contemporary challenges. Drawing on scholarship from history, linguistics, and anthropology, as well as policy documents, government reports, and recent journalistic accounts, the review provides a holistic understanding of the Agew experience. The findings reveal that while the Agew played a foundational role in Ethiopian state formation and religious development, they have experienced gradual marginalization under successive regimes. Linguistically, the endangerment of Awi Agew, Qimant and Xamtanga reflects broader dynamics of language shift, as younger generations increasingly adopt dominant regional languages such as Amharic and Tigrinya. Culturally, traditional practices, religious pluralism, and social structures remain vital markers of identity but are under strain from assimilation pressures and limited institutional support. By synthesizing diverse sources, this review highlights the urgency of language revitalization, cultural preservation, and equitable governance. It further argues that the survival of the Agew peoples as a distinct ethnolinguistic community depends on both grassroots initiatives and inclusive national policies.