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Exactly 12 historical artefacts were formally returned to the Ethiopian nation following being kept by a household from Germany for over ten decades.

These treasures, originally collected in the early twentieth century by Germany's then-envoy to the Ethiopian empire Franz Weiss and his spouse his partner, were transferred on midweek to the Institute of Ethiopian Studies at the capital's university.

This assortment featured headpieces, protective shields and canvases, each viewed as historically significant in the country.

"The artefacts still represent a symbol of the long-standing and positive connection between Germany and Ethiopia," remarked the German diplomat, Germany's ambassador to Ethiopia.

Dr. a professor, whose parent was born during the household's assignment in Ethiopia, delivered the items at a gathering attended by Tourism Minister the tourism official.

He explained that the household's intention to return the items was to "display their appeal with the people and preserve the culture and history tied to my father's birth."

The artefacts were either considered gifts or purchases, according to the relatives.

"I would like to thank the Weiss relatives for actively expressing their deep affection for Ethiopia by carefully maintaining these items and vitally guaranteeing their return to their legitimate country," stated the minister of tourism.

The minister added that the artefacts would shortly be available to the public for research and academic study, describing the move a significant step in preserving the nation's cultural heritage.

"Initiatives are ongoing to return old objects that are located in the hands of collectors and institutions around the world," the minister stated.

In the era of colonial rule in Africa, many of historical artefacts were plundered.

This request by African countries for the return of stolen artefacts has been met with some success in the past few years - although several artefacts are merely on short-term display.

Back in two years ago, the German government was the first nation to return a selection of the well-known Benin artifacts to Nigeria as part of an effort to confront its "complex past."

Connected Themes

• Cultural Repatriation Initiatives in Africa
• This Impact of Imperial History on Modern Ethiopian Culture
• International Movements for the Restitution of Stolen Items