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Exactly Twelve ancient artefacts have been formally given back to the Ethiopian nation following being kept by a family in Germany for in excess of 100 years.

These items, first acquired in the 1920's by the German then-envoy to Ethiopia a German envoy and his spouse Hedwig, were transferred on midweek to the Institute of Ethiopian Studies at Addis Ababa University.

This assortment contained crowns, shields and canvases, all viewed as historically significant in the country.

"The treasures continue to stand as a symbol of the enduring and amicable connection between Germany and Ethiopia," said the German diplomat, Germany's envoy to Ethiopia.

Dr. Ramon Wyss, whose parent was born during the household's service in Ethiopia, handed over the items at a ceremony attended by Tourism Minister the tourism official.

He explained that the family's intention to return the artefacts was to "display their appeal with the audience and maintain the heritage and history linked to my father's birth."

These items were either presents or purchases, according to the household.

"We would like to thank Professor Weiss's household for practically expressing their profound love for Ethiopia by diligently safeguarding these treasures and crucially securing their return to their rightful nation," said the official.

She added that the pieces would shortly be opened to the public for research and educational purposes, describing the decision a significant step in protecting the nation's historical legacy.

"Initiatives will continue to return historical objects that are held in the custody of individuals and organizations around the planet," the minister stated.

In the era of colonial rule in Africa, thousands of traditional objects were taken.

This demand by African countries for the restoration of looted objects has been met with some progress in the past few years - even if several artefacts are merely on temporary return.

Back in the year 2022, Germany was the first country to return some of the renowned Benin Bronzes to the West African nation in an attempt to deal with its "dark colonial history."

Connected Topics

• Historical Return Movements in the Continent
• The Effect of Imperial Past on Modern Ethiopian Heritage
• International Movements for the Restitution of Stolen Items