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A total of 12 historical objects were officially restored to the Ethiopian nation after staying by a family in Germany for in excess of a century.

The items, first gathered in the 1920's by the German then-envoy to Ethiopia a German envoy and his spouse his partner, were handed over on Wednesday to the Institute of Ethiopian Studies at the capital's university.

The collection included headpieces, protective shields and artistic works, each regarded as historically important in the nation.

"The items continue to represent a symbol of the lasting and amicable connection between Germany and the Ethiopian people," said Ferdinand von Weyhe, the envoy to Ethiopia.

Dr. a professor, whose parent was delivered during the household's service in Ethiopia, presented the artefacts at a ceremony joined by Tourism Minister Selamawit Kassa.

He said that the household's intention to return the artefacts was to "share their beauty with the audience and maintain the heritage and history tied to my parent's beginning."

These objects were either considered donations or buys, according to the household.

"We want to thank Professor Weiss's household for actively demonstrating their deep love for Ethiopia by meticulously safeguarding these treasures and vitally securing their homecoming to their rightful nation," said the tourism minister.

She added that the items would in the near future be available to the general audience for study and academic study, terming the move a significant step in safeguarding Ethiopia's historical legacy.

"Efforts persist to bring back ancient items that are held in the possession of private persons and entities around the planet," the minister stated.

In the era of colonial rule in the African continent, many of historical items were taken.

The demand by African countries for the return of stolen items has been met with some positive outcomes in recent years - though several items are merely on short-term display.

In the year 2022, the German government was the first nation to repatriate a selection of the famous Benin Bronzes to the Nigerian people in an attempt to address its "complex legacy."

Connected Themes

• Cultural Return Initiatives in the Continent
• The Impact of Imperial History on Modern African Culture
• Global Campaigns for the Restitution of Stolen Items