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A total of Twelve cultural items have been officially given back to Ethiopia after staying by a family in Germany for more than 100 years.

These artefacts, initially gathered in the 1920s by Germany's then-envoy to Ethiopia a German envoy and his wife his partner, were handed over on midweek to the Ethiopian Studies Institute at Addis Ababa University.

This collection featured headpieces, protective shields and paintings, all considered as historically important in the country.

"The treasures still represent a emblem of the lasting and positive connection between the German nation and the Ethiopian people," stated Ferdinand von Weyhe, the envoy to the East African country.

Professor Ramon Wyss, whose father was born during the household's service in the nation, handed over the artefacts at a ceremony attended by Tourism Minister Selamawit Kassa.

He said that the family's aim to return the treasures was to "display their splendor with the public and maintain the culture and history tied to my parent's birth."

These objects were either considered donations or acquisitions, based on the family.

"I would like to thank the Weiss family for practically expressing their profound affection for Ethiopia by carefully maintaining these artifacts and importantly securing their repatriation to their legitimate homeland," stated the official.

She added that the artefacts would soon be opened to the people for research and scholarly work, terming the move a significant step in preserving the nation's cultural heritage.

"Actions will continue to bring back historical items that are held in the custody of individuals and entities around the world," she affirmed.

During colonial rule in Africa, numerous of cultural artefacts were plundered.

This demand by the continent's states for the return of looted artefacts has been responded to by some positive outcomes in recent years - though some items are merely on temporary return.

In two years ago, Germany was the pioneering country to give back some of the well-known Benin Bronzes to the West African nation in a bid to confront its "complex past."

Connected Topics

• Cultural Return Movements in the Continent
• The Significance of Imperial History on Modern Ethiopian Heritage
• International Movements for the Return of Stolen Artefacts