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Around 12 historical items were ceremoniously restored to Ethiopia following being kept by a German family for more than ten decades.

These items, originally gathered in the 1920's by the German then-envoy to the Ethiopian empire a German envoy and his spouse Hedwig, were delivered on this past Wednesday to the Ethiopian Studies Institute at Addis Ababa University.

This assortment featured headpieces, protective shields and canvases, all viewed as historically valuable in the nation.

"The treasures still serve as a emblem of the lasting and friendly ties between Germany and Ethiopia," remarked the German diplomat, Germany's ambassador to the East African country.

Dr. Ramon Wyss, whose parent was born during the household's diplomatic posting in the nation, delivered the objects at a event attended by the Minister of Tourism the tourism official.

He stated that the family's intention to restore the treasures was to "share their appeal with the audience and maintain the heritage and past linked to my parent's birth."

These items were either donations or buys, based on the relatives.

"I would like to express gratitude to Professor Weiss's household for actively expressing their sincere affection for the nation by meticulously safeguarding these artifacts and vitally ensuring their return to their rightful nation," said the minister of tourism.

She noted that the artefacts would in the near future be opened to the public for research and scholarly work, describing the decision a significant step in protecting Ethiopia's cultural heritage.

"Actions are ongoing to repatriate ancient objects that are held in the hands of private persons and institutions all over the planet," she affirmed.

During colonialism in the African continent, numerous of historical objects were plundered.

The demand by nations in Africa for the repatriation of stolen items has been answered with some progress in recent years - although some artefacts are merely on short-term display.

Back in the year 2022, the German government was the first state to repatriate a portion of the well-known Benin artifacts to Nigeria as part of an effort to address its "complex past."

Connected Subjects

• Cultural Restoration Efforts in Africa
• The Significance of Colonial History on Contemporary African Culture
• International Movements for the Return of Stolen Artefacts