The East African nation Welcomes Valuable Items Following a Long Residence in a German Family

Around 12 cultural artefacts have been ceremoniously restored to the Ethiopian nation after remaining by a family in Germany for more than a century.

These artefacts, initially acquired in the 1920's by the German diplomat to Ethiopia Franz Weiss and his spouse his partner, were delivered on midweek to the research center at Addis Ababa University.

The assortment featured royal crowns, protective shields and paintings, each viewed as historically valuable in the nation.

"These items still represent a symbol of the lasting and friendly ties between Germany and Ethiopia," said the German diplomat, the envoy to Ethiopia.

Professor Ramon Wyss, whose father was delivered during the household's assignment in Ethiopia, delivered the objects at a ceremony joined by the Minister of Tourism Selamawit Kassa.

He stated that the family's aim to return the items was to "share their appeal with the people and safeguard the heritage and past tied to my father's origin."

The artefacts were either considered gifts or acquisitions, based on the relatives.

"We would like to thank the Weiss family for practically expressing their deep love for the nation by carefully preserving these artifacts and vitally securing their return to their rightful country," commented the official.

The minister noted that the items would shortly be made accessible to the general audience for research and scholarly work, terming the action a significant step in protecting Ethiopia's cultural heritage.

"Initiatives are ongoing to return historical items that are found in the custody of collectors and institutions around the globe," she affirmed.

During imperial control in the African continent, thousands of cultural artefacts were taken.

This call by African countries for the return of stolen objects has been met with a degree of success in the past few years - although several objects are merely on loan.

In two years ago, the German government was the initial nation to give back some of the well-known historical items to Nigeria in an attempt to confront its "dark past."

Related Topics

• Historical Return Movements in Africa
• The Significance of Colonial Past on Contemporary Ethiopian Culture
• Global Campaigns for the Restitution of Stolen Items