Ethiopians Celebrate Adwa Victory Day

ADDIS ABABA – Ethiopians have celebrated the 126th anniversary of the Victory of Adwa today.

The day marks Ethiopia’s victory over the colonial Italian army at the Battle of Adwa on March 1, 1896.

Historians say the victory turned Ethiopia into an icon of liberty for black people worldwide while inspiring Africans and beyond to fight for independence.

In his congratulatory message for the celebration of the victory, Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed said Adwa has also inspired Africans, Asians and South Americans to break the yoke of slavery and the burden of colonialism.

Above all, the Victory of Adwa is a bright monument that has taught the harsh consequences of trying to pose threats on Ethiopia, the PM said.

“We are fortunate to be able to celebrate the Victory of Adwa where our brave mothers and fathers have registered great triumph by rejecting colonialism and slavery as well as inferiority and humiliation.”

The celebration in Addis Ababa took place at Emperor Menelik II square with thousands of city residents in attendance on Wednesday morning.

Officials believe the current generation must draw inspiration from historic victory, and now join forces to fight poverty and backwardness in their nation.

Addressing the 126th Adwa Victory Day commemoration, President Sahle-Work Zewde said Adwa is a result of unity, coming together, and listening to one another.

“We must not forget that we are standing on the shoulders of our heroes who have chosen death over colonialism and sacrificed their lives for the cause,” said President Sahle-work.

The value of freedom can be measured by examining the history of countries that have been deprived of independence, the president noted.

“We can only grow a country and create a prosperous economy by strengthening our foundations, building consensus on our history, and not using history for expediency,” she said.

Sahle-work underlined that everyone should work hard to ensure that the victory of Adwa is not a source of controversy.

She said that the solution to our country’s current problems is through understanding one another, solidarity, and synergy but above all, when we act based on the spirit and heritage of Adwa and go beyond slogans.

Patriots, religious leaders, high level government officials, and members of the diplomatic community attended the commemoration of the Victory of Adwa at the Square.