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Around Twelve ancient items have been ceremoniously given back to Ethiopia after remaining by a German family for more than a century.

The artefacts, originally collected in the 1920's by Germany's diplomat to the Ethiopian empire a German envoy and his spouse his partner, were handed over on midweek to the Institute of Ethiopian Studies at Addis Ababa University.

This assortment included crowns, shields and artistic works, all viewed as historically significant in Ethiopia.

"These items still serve as a symbol of the long-standing and friendly relationship between Germany and the Ethiopian people," remarked Ferdinand von Weyhe, Germany's ambassador to the East African country.

Dr. Ramon Wyss, whose father was born during the household's diplomatic posting in Ethiopia, delivered the items at a ceremony witnessed by Tourism Minister Selamawit Kassa.

He explained that the household's goal to give back the treasures was to "showcase their beauty with the audience and preserve the culture and history connected to my parent's birth."

These items were either gifts or buys, according to the household.

"We would like to thank Professor Weiss's household for practically demonstrating their deep affection for the nation by meticulously safeguarding these items and crucially securing their repatriation to their legitimate country," commented the tourism minister.

She noted that the items would shortly be available to the general audience for study and educational purposes, terming the action a milestone in preserving the nation's historical legacy.

"Initiatives will continue to bring back historical artifacts that are located in the custody of private persons and organizations throughout the globe," the minister stated.

During colonial rule in Africa, many of historical artefacts were plundered.

This call by African countries for the repatriation of looted artefacts has been answered with a degree of positive outcomes in the past few years - although a number of objects are only on temporary return.

Back in 2022, Germany was the first state to return a portion of the famous Benin Bronzes to Nigeria as part of an effort to confront its "dark colonial history."

Similar Topics

• Historical Repatriation Efforts in the Continent
• This Impact of Colonial History on Contemporary African Heritage
• Global Campaigns for the Restitution of Stolen Items