The East African nation Takes Back Historic Items Following a Long Residence in German Hands

A total of 12 cultural artefacts have been ceremoniously returned to Ethiopia following staying by a family in Germany for more than ten decades.

These items, originally collected in the 1920's by the German representative to the Ethiopian empire a German envoy and his spouse his partner, were delivered on this past Wednesday to the research center at the university in Addis Ababa.

The collection included headpieces, shields and canvases, each considered as historically important in the nation.

"These treasures continue to represent a symbol of the long-standing and friendly connection between the German nation and the Ethiopian people," remarked the German diplomat, the ambassador to the East African country.

Dr. a professor, whose parent was born during the household's diplomatic posting in Ethiopia, handed over the artefacts at a gathering witnessed by the Minister of Tourism Selamawit Kassa.

He explained that the family's aim to give back the items was to "share their appeal with the people and maintain the heritage and past linked to my parent's birth."

These items were either considered presents or purchases, according to the family.

"We would like to express gratitude to the Weiss household for practically showing their deep love for the nation by diligently maintaining these artifacts and importantly guaranteeing their repatriation to their legitimate nation," stated the minister of tourism.

She continued that the items would in the near future be made accessible to the public for investigation and academic study, describing the decision a significant step in safeguarding Ethiopia's cultural heritage.

"Actions are ongoing to return ancient artifacts that are found in the custody of collectors and entities all over the globe," she affirmed.

In the era of colonialism in the African continent, thousands of traditional items were taken.

This request by African countries for the return of looted objects has been answered with a degree of progress in recent years - even if some objects are only on loan.

In 2022, Germany was the initial country to repatriate a portion of the famous historical items to the West African nation in an attempt to confront its "dark legacy."

Similar Subjects

• Historical Return Efforts in Africa
• This Effect of Imperial Past on Contemporary African Culture
• International Movements for the Return of Stolen Artefacts