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A total of Twelve cultural objects were ceremoniously restored to the Ethiopian nation following being kept by a household from Germany for over 100 years.

The treasures, originally collected in the 1920s by Germany's diplomat to the Ethiopian empire a German envoy and his spouse Hedwig, were transferred on midweek to the Institute of Ethiopian Studies at the capital's university.

The set featured royal crowns, shields and paintings, all considered as historically important in the country.

"The artefacts continue to serve as a emblem of the enduring and friendly connection between Germany and the Ethiopian people," remarked Ferdinand von Weyhe, Germany's representative to Ethiopia.

Professor Ramon Wyss, whose father was delivered during the household's assignment in the nation, delivered the objects at a gathering joined by the Minister of Tourism Selamawit Kassa.

He explained that the family's goal to restore the items was to "showcase their appeal with the people and preserve the culture and past linked to my parent's origin."

These objects were either considered presents or purchases, according to the household.

"We would like to express gratitude to Professor Weiss's family for concretely showing their sincere affection for the nation by carefully maintaining these items and vitally securing their repatriation to their rightful nation," said the tourism minister.

She noted that the items would soon be made accessible to the people for research and educational purposes, calling the move a landmark in safeguarding the nation's national treasures.

"Initiatives persist to bring back historical artifacts that are located in the possession of individuals and entities around the globe," she said.

In the era of colonial rule in the African continent, many of cultural artefacts were taken.

The demand by the continent's states for the repatriation of taken artefacts has been answered with some success in lately - although some objects are merely on temporary return.

Back in two years ago, Germany was the first country to repatriate a selection of the famous Benin Bronzes to the West African nation in an attempt to deal with its "dark past."

Connected Themes

• Historical Return Movements in Africa
• The Significance of Imperial Past on Modern African Heritage
• Global Movements for the Return of Stolen Artefacts