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A total of Twelve cultural items were formally given back to the Ethiopian nation following staying by a German family for more than 100 years.

The items, first acquired in the early twentieth century by Germany's diplomat to the Ethiopian empire Franz Weiss and his wife Hedwig, were delivered on midweek to the research center at Addis Ababa University.

The collection contained royal crowns, shields and artistic works, all considered as historically valuable in Ethiopia.

"These items continue to serve as a mark of the enduring and friendly relationship between the German nation and Ethiopia," said Germany's envoy, Germany's ambassador to the East African country.

Dr. Ramon Wyss, whose father was born during the household's assignment in Ethiopia, delivered the items at a gathering joined by Tourism Minister Selamawit Kassa.

He stated that the household's aim to restore the items was to "display their appeal with the people and safeguard the culture and history linked to my parent's beginning."

The objects were either gifts or acquisitions, as stated by the family.

"We would like to express gratitude to the Weiss family for practically demonstrating their sincere love for the nation by carefully maintaining these artifacts and vitally guaranteeing their repatriation to their rightful country," said the official.

The minister continued that the items would in the near future be opened to the public for research and educational purposes, describing the move a landmark in preserving the nation's cultural heritage.

"Efforts persist to bring back historical artifacts that are located in the custody of private persons and entities throughout the globe," the minister affirmed.

During colonial rule in Africa, numerous of traditional objects were plundered.

This call by African countries for the repatriation of taken artefacts has been responded to by some success in lately - although a number of artefacts are merely on short-term display.

Back in two years ago, the German government was the initial nation to repatriate a selection of the famous Benin Bronzes to Nigeria as part of an effort to confront its "dark past."

Related Subjects

• Cultural Repatriation Efforts in Africa
• The Significance of Imperial History on Contemporary Ethiopian Culture
• International Movements for the Return of Stolen Treasures