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Around Twelve cultural objects were officially given back to Ethiopia after staying by a German family for over a century.

These artefacts, first collected in the 1920's by Germany's diplomat to the Ethiopian empire Franz Weiss and his wife his partner, were transferred on midweek to the Institute of Ethiopian Studies at Addis Ababa University.

This set included headpieces, shields and paintings, all regarded as culturally valuable in Ethiopia.

"These artefacts still represent a emblem of the long-standing and friendly connection between the German nation and the Ethiopian people," stated the German diplomat, the ambassador to the East African country.

Dr. Ramon Wyss, whose father was born during the household's diplomatic posting in the nation, delivered the objects at a ceremony witnessed by Tourism Minister Selamawit Kassa.

He said that the household's intention to return the treasures was to "showcase their beauty with the people and preserve the culture and history connected to my parent's beginning."

These items were either presents or acquisitions, based on the household.

"I want to thank the Weiss household for concretely expressing their deep affection for the nation by diligently maintaining these artifacts and crucially guaranteeing their return to their legitimate nation," commented the tourism minister.

The minister continued that the pieces would in the near future be opened to the general audience for study and educational purposes, calling the move a significant step in preserving the nation's cultural heritage.

"Efforts are ongoing to return old objects that are held in the hands of individuals and organizations around the planet," the minister affirmed.

During imperial control in the African continent, many of historical artefacts were taken.

The request by the continent's states for the restoration of looted objects has been responded to by a degree of positive outcomes in the past few years - though some objects are only on loan.

In two years ago, the German government was the first country to give back some of the well-known Benin artifacts to the Nigerian people as part of an effort to confront its "dark past."

Similar Subjects

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