The East African nation Receives Valuable Treasures After a Century Holding in German Hands
A total of Twelve historical items have been officially given back to Ethiopia following staying by a family in Germany for in excess of ten decades.
The items, initially collected in the early twentieth century by Germany's diplomat to Ethiopia Franz Weiss and his spouse Hedwig, were handed over on Wednesday to the research center at Addis Ababa University.
This assortment featured headpieces, protective shields and canvases, each regarded as culturally valuable in the country.
"The items still represent a symbol of the lasting and friendly connection between Germany and Ethiopia," stated Ferdinand von Weyhe, Germany's representative to the East African country.
Dr. a professor, whose parent was delivered during the household's service in Ethiopia, presented the objects at a ceremony attended by the Minister of Tourism Selamawit Kassa.
He stated that the household's aim to return the artefacts was to "share their appeal with the public and safeguard the heritage and history linked to my parent's beginning."
These objects were either presents or buys, as stated by the relatives.
"We want to thank the Weiss household for practically showing their sincere affection for Ethiopia by meticulously preserving these treasures and vitally ensuring their return to their legitimate nation," commented the minister of tourism.
The minister continued that the items would soon be opened to the people for study and scholarly work, terming the move a milestone in protecting Ethiopia's national treasures.
"Actions are ongoing to bring back historical artifacts that are held in the hands of individuals and institutions throughout the world," she affirmed.
In the era of colonialism in Africa, many of cultural objects were taken.
The demand by African countries for the repatriation of stolen items has been responded to by certain positive outcomes in recent years - though some artefacts are merely on loan.
In two years ago, Germany was the first nation to repatriate some of the well-known Benin artifacts to Nigeria in a bid to confront its "dark colonial history."
Related Topics
- Historical Repatriation Initiatives in the Continent
- The Effect of Imperial History on Modern Ethiopian Culture
- Global Campaigns for the Return of Stolen Artefacts
