APA-Addis Ababa (Ethiopia) Ethiopia on Sunday inaugurated the Adwa victory memorial museum at the heart of Addis Ababa, the capital, in commemoration of the country’s victory against the Italian invaders of 1896.
The inauguration came days before the 37th African Union Ordinary Session of the Assembly of Heads of State and Government of the African Union and 128th anniversary of Adwa.
The victory memorial commemorates the historic Battle of Adwa, which took place on March 1, 1896.
The battle marked Ethiopia’s victory over Italian forces and ensured the country’s independence and sovereignty during the scramble for Africa, setting a historic example for the independence movement of African countries in the 1960s.
In his remarks at the inauguration of the Adwa victory memorial, prime minister Abiy Ahmed called on all Ethiopians to maintain values of the and wisdom of their forefathers to preserve national unity and prosperity of the country.
He urged the current generation to inherit the wisdom of forebears they applied to deal with differences, preserve unity and defend the sovereignty of the nation.
“Being sons and daughters of heroes and heroines who bravely fought the battle of Adwa is a reward uniquely bestowed upon Ethiopians,” the prime minister said.
The museum also houses a collection of artifacts, documents, and photographs among other things that depict the historical events of the battle of Adwa, Ethiopian history, and the struggle against colonialism.
The drum by which the war was heralded, armaments and costumes patriots used during the war, “Tshai”, an aircraft which has recently been brought home from Italy, among others, are showcased on the premises of the memorial building.
Located at the heart of the city, the museum adds beauty to Addis Ababa.
African heads of state and government are expected to visit the ultra-modern museum which is also dedicated to Pan Africanism.
MG/as/APA