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Exactly 12 ancient items were ceremoniously given back to Ethiopia following being kept by a family in Germany for over ten decades.

These items, originally gathered in the 1920s by Germany's representative to Ethiopia Franz Weiss and his wife Hedwig, were handed over on midweek to the Ethiopian Studies Institute at the university in Addis Ababa.

This assortment included crowns, armor and canvases, all considered as culturally significant in Ethiopia.

"These artefacts continue to serve as a mark of the long-standing and positive connection between the German nation and Ethiopia," remarked Ferdinand von Weyhe, Germany's ambassador to Ethiopia.

Dr. Ramon Wyss, whose father was born during the household's assignment in the nation, delivered the items at a event witnessed by the Minister of Tourism Selamawit Kassa.

He explained that the household's aim to return the treasures was to "display their beauty with the people and preserve the heritage and history linked to my parent's birth."

These objects were either considered presents or purchases, as stated by the family.

"We want to thank Professor Weiss's relatives for actively showing their deep affection for the nation by diligently preserving these items and importantly securing their return to their legitimate country," commented the official.

The minister noted that the artefacts would shortly be opened to the public for study and academic study, calling the decision a significant step in preserving the nation's cultural heritage.

"Initiatives are ongoing to bring back ancient artifacts that are held in the possession of private persons and organizations all over the globe," the minister said.

During colonial rule in Africa, numerous of cultural items were taken.

The request by nations in Africa for the return of looted items has been met with a degree of success in the past few years - even if several objects are only on short-term display.

In the year 2022, the German government was the initial nation to give back a portion of the renowned historical items to the Nigerian people as part of an effort to deal with its "complex colonial history."

Related Topics

• Cultural Repatriation Initiatives in the Continent
• This Effect of Colonial History on Modern African Heritage
• International Movements for the Restitution of Stolen Items