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Exactly 12 cultural objects were formally restored to Ethiopia after staying by a family in Germany for over 100 years.

These items, initially collected in the early twentieth century by Germany's representative to Ethiopia Franz Weiss and his wife his partner, were transferred on midweek to the Ethiopian Studies Institute at the capital's university.

This collection contained headpieces, shields and artistic works, all viewed as historically significant in Ethiopia.

"The treasures still stand as a mark of the long-standing and positive connection between the German nation and Ethiopia," remarked Ferdinand von Weyhe, Germany's representative to the East African country.

Professor Ramon Wyss, whose father was delivered during the family's diplomatic posting in Ethiopia, delivered the artefacts at a event joined by Tourism Minister Selamawit Kassa.

He stated that the family's aim to return the artefacts was to "share their beauty with the audience and preserve the culture and past linked to my parent's beginning."

These items were either donations or buys, as stated by the family.

"I want to express gratitude to Professor Weiss's relatives for practically expressing their deep love for Ethiopia by diligently safeguarding these treasures and importantly guaranteeing their repatriation to their rightful nation," stated the minister of tourism.

The minister noted that the pieces would in the near future be available to the public for research and scholarly work, terming the decision a milestone in safeguarding Ethiopia's national treasures.

"Actions persist to return old items that are held in the hands of individuals and entities around the world," she said.

During colonial rule in Africa, numerous of traditional objects were taken.

This demand by nations in Africa for the return of looted artefacts has been answered with certain progress in recent years - though several artefacts are merely on temporary return.

Back in the year 2022, Germany was the pioneering nation to repatriate a selection of the famous Benin artifacts to the West African nation in a bid to deal with its "complex colonial history."

Similar Themes

• Cultural Return Movements in Africa
• The Effect of Colonial History on Contemporary Ethiopian Culture
• International Campaigns for the Return of Stolen Items