What's Happening?
Ethiopia has formally received twelve historical artefacts from Germany, which had been held by a German family for over a century. These artefacts, including crowns, shields, and paintings, were originally collected in the 1920s by Germany's then-envoy
to Ethiopia, Franz Weiss, and his wife Hedwig. The items were handed over to the Institute of Ethiopian Studies at Addis Ababa University in a ceremony attended by Ethiopia's Tourism Minister Selamawit Kassa and Germany's envoy to Ethiopia, Ferdinand von Weyhe. The artefacts are considered culturally and historically significant and symbolize the longstanding relationship between Germany and Ethiopia. The Weiss family expressed their intention to return the artefacts to share their beauty with the public and preserve the culture and history connected to their family's diplomatic history in Ethiopia.
Why It's Important?
The return of these artefacts is a significant milestone in Ethiopia's efforts to reclaim its cultural heritage. During colonial rule, many African countries saw their cultural artefacts plundered, and the return of such items has been a longstanding demand. This event highlights the growing trend of countries addressing historical injustices related to colonialism. The artefacts will be made available for public research and academic study, contributing to the preservation and understanding of Ethiopia's rich cultural history. The move also strengthens diplomatic ties between Germany and Ethiopia, showcasing a commitment to cultural restitution and reconciliation.
What's Next?
Ethiopia plans to continue efforts to recover more ancient artefacts from individuals and institutions worldwide. The Tourism Minister emphasized the importance of safeguarding Ethiopia's cultural heritage and expressed gratitude to the Weiss family for their role in this process. The returned artefacts will soon be opened to the public, providing opportunities for research and education. This initiative may encourage other countries to follow suit in returning cultural items, fostering international cooperation in cultural preservation.
