Present Generation Must Build on Adwa’s Legacy – Ethiopia Amb. Etsegenet

By Alex Masereka Joel

The Ethiopian Embassy in Uganda hosted a grand celebration to mark the 129th anniversary of the Victory of Adwa, a historic African triumph over colonial forces.

Sunday’s event, held at the residence of Ethiopia’s Ambassador to Uganda, H.E. Etsegenet Yimenu Bezabih, brought together a distinguished gathering of diplomats, government officials, religious leaders, media personnel, and Ethiopians living in Uganda.

With the theme “ADWA – Black People’s Victory,” the celebration honored Ethiopia’s resilience, unity, and the broader Pan-African legacy inspired by the historic victory over Italy in 1896 led by Ethiopian Emperor Menelik II.

“For more than a century in the whole history of Africa, Adwa is the only secular episode celebrated. Tonight, I congratulate all of you who joined Ethiopia and are celebrating your victory through Ethiopia,” Ambassador Etsegent said.

On March 1, 1896, a historic battle took place in which Ethiopia, under Emperor Menelik II, decisively defeated the invading Italian forces. It marked the first time an African nation successfully resisted European colonization during the Scramble for Africa. It also made Ethiopia the only African country that survived colonialism.

Ethiopia’s Ambassador to Uganda, H.E. Etsegenet Yimenu Bezabih

She added, “The Battle of Adwa, 129 years ago, on March 2nd, 1896, is a landmark in the history of the black population worldwide, particularly in Africa. It is the foundation for today’s collective commitment to the continental vision of Pan-Africanism, which Ethiopia, Uganda, and Africa, at large, are striving for.”

The Guest of Honor, Mrs. Julian Naumo, Commissioner for Culture and Family Affairs at Uganda’s Ministry of Gender, Labour and Social Development, praised Ethiopia’s pivotal role in Africa’s anti-colonial struggle and its contribution to Pan-Africanism. She represented Minister Betty Amongi.

Adwa’s Legacy and Its Impact on Africa

In her speech, Ambassador Etsegenet highlighted the significance of the Battle of Adwa as the first victory of an African nation over a European colonial power. She noted that this triumph challenged Western perceptions of African inferiority and laid the groundwork for anti-colonial movements across the continent.

Clad in Ethiopia’s Habesha Kemis, the horn of Africa nation’s traditional dress, she also emphasized Ethiopia’s historical commitment to African liberation, citing how the victory of Adwa became a symbol of hope for black people worldwide. Jamaican nationalist Marcus Garvey famously referenced Adwa’s triumph to mobilize his supporters in the fight against racial oppression.

“Beyond the African continent, the victory of Adwa is historically significant for its fountain of pride for millions of people who value their black ancestry.”

The ambassador further reflected on the Treaty of Wuchale, the primary source of contention between Ethiopia and Italy. Emperor Menelik II’s rejection of this treaty and his decisive military campaign culminated in Ethiopia’s resounding victory at Adwa, echoing the biblical tale of David and Goliath.

Adwa’s Relevance Today

Sunday’s colourful celebration also recognized modern developments in Ethiopia that continue the spirit of Adwa. Ambassador Etsegenet highlighted the recent inauguration of the Adwa Victory Museum in Addis Ababa, a $100 million project dedicated to preserving the legacy of Ethiopia’s resistance.

Ethiopia’s Ambassador to Uganda, H.E. Etsegenet Yimenu Bezabih (C) with some members of the Ethiopian community in Uganda

Additionally, she celebrated Ethiopia’s recent launch of “Tsehay Two,” a locally manufactured aircraft, as a testament to the country’s continued commitment to self-reliance and technological advancement.

Quoting Ugandan President Yoweri Museveni, she stressed that Africa must unite to avoid external domination adding that young Africans must embrace economic and political integration to secure the continent’s future.

Rwanda’s Ambassador to Uganda, H.E Joseph Rutabana (R) and Venezuela’s Fatima Fernandes (L) also graced the occasion

“The youth of Africa need to take an active role in guiding the continent toward the recognition and respect it deserves on the global stage, utilizing homegrown solutions to tackle its diverse challenges. The legacy of the Victory at Adwa provides essential lessons that can significantly benefit our younger generations,” she said.

Ambassador Elly Kamahungye represented Uganda’s State Minister for Foreign Affairs, John Mulimba, who praised Adwa for sparking a wave of resistance against colonialists across the African continent.

Mr. Ogik Carlos, a graduate of China Foreign Affairs University and founder of the Inside Diplomacy platform, delivering the keynote address. His presence, along with students from eight leading universities in Kampala, highlighted the role of youth in shaping Africa’s global engagement.

Emperor Menelik’s exploits in Adwa remain a beacon of African resistance, and its annual commemoration continues to inspire the continent’s journey toward self-determination and unity.

The Head of Political Affairs at the Ethiopian embassy, Mr Robel Admassu, Rwanda and Venezuela’s envoys, Ambassadors Joseph Rutabana and Fatima Fernandes, were also present during the celebrations.