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A total of 12 ancient artefacts were ceremoniously given back to Ethiopia following staying by a household from Germany for over ten decades.

These artefacts, originally collected in the early twentieth century by Germany's then-envoy to Ethiopia a German envoy and his wife his partner, were delivered on this past Wednesday to the research center at the university in Addis Ababa.

This set contained crowns, armor and canvases, all considered as culturally valuable in Ethiopia.

"The artefacts continue to represent a mark of the long-standing and friendly connection between Germany and the Ethiopian people," stated the German diplomat, Germany's representative to the East African country.

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

He explained that the household's intention to return the items was to "display their splendor with the people and maintain the heritage and past connected to my father's beginning."

The items were either considered gifts or buys, according to the relatives.

"I want to express gratitude to the Weiss family for actively demonstrating their sincere appreciation for the nation by meticulously preserving these items and importantly ensuring their return to their rightful country," stated the tourism minister.

The minister continued that the artefacts would soon be available to the people for study and educational purposes, describing the action a significant step in safeguarding the nation's cultural heritage.

"Actions are ongoing to bring back ancient artifacts that are located in the hands of individuals and organizations throughout the globe," the minister said.

In the era of imperial control in Africa, many of cultural artefacts were looted.

The demand by nations in Africa for the restoration of stolen items has been answered with some success in lately - even if several objects are just on short-term display.

Back in 2022, Germany was the initial country to give back a selection of the renowned historical items to the Nigerian people in an attempt to address its "troubled past."

Connected Themes

• Historical Return Movements in the Continent
• This Significance of Colonial History on Modern African Heritage
• Global Campaigns for the Return of Stolen Artefacts