In a colorful display of cultural heritage, the Ethiopian Embassy in Pretoria celebrated the 130th anniversary of the Victory of Adwa on March 2, under the theme “Glorious Past, Radiant Horizon.”
Diplomats, community leaders, academics, and diaspora members gathered amid traditional setups, including a ceremonial coffee table laden with cups, incense burners, and baskets of popcorn on a lush green mat, evoking Ethiopia’s rich traditions.
Charge d’Affaires Dessie Alebachew Maru emphasized the battle’s lessons in unity, urging a shift from political independence to economic self-reliance through resource mobilization and regional cooperation. She reaffirmed Ethiopia’s commitment to peaceful development and partnerships.
Guest of honour Bulelwa Kiva, acting chief director at South Africa’s Department of International Relations and Cooperation, hailed Adwa as an enduring inspiration for Africa’s liberation movements, including the anti-apartheid struggle. She noted Ethiopia’s pivotal role in supporting freedom fighters with training and logistics.
The event underscored Adwa’s 1896 defeat of Italian colonizers as a beacon for pan-African resilience, fostering stronger Ethiopia-South Africa ties.
