Adwa Victory Emblem of Unity, Pioneer of Women Leadership, Says Minister

Addis Ababa March 05/2019 The victory of Adwa against the Italian colonizers 123 years back is the genuine emblem of unity and pioneers in bringing women leadership to light, Culture and Tourism Minister Hirut Kassaw said.

The victory of Adwa, which has significant and unique place at the national, continental and international historiography, was commemorated for 123 time under the theme “Adwa the Seal of Ethiopian Unity” on March 2, 2019.

In an exclusive interview with ENA, Culture and Tourism Minister Hirut said the theme, besides recalling the very core values of the victory, is timely as the country needs unity than ever.

“We [Ethiopians] have many things in printed inside us that signify our unity, but the victory of Adwa has far greater value of freedom including to the entire Africans” she elaborated.

Unprecedented Unity

The minister pointed out that the victory of Adwa is not only remembered for its exemplary role of the fight against European colonizers, but also the unique solidarity of all Ethiopians regardless of age, sex, religion, language, and ethnicity.

“Every black knows that the Victory of Adwa is the emblem of freedom and undoubtedly are revered wherever they go with the deeds of their patriotic ancestors,” Hirut emphasized.

Furthermore, she said that though the victory has plenty essences to learn about, the spirit of wining and unity weighs paramount significance.

“As a result, it has left the stamp of unity within the hearts of all Ethiopians. There is this mentality of unity and collaboration when the issue of Adwa is raised,” she stated.

Pioneering Women Leadership  

Due to the slowing down of historical ties over the years, many people refer women from overseas to justify gender equality and women role models, the minister said, adding that “but I believe that gender equality was ascertained in Adwa.”

Hirut explained that 123 year ago, Empress Taitu Betul had not only decision making power but also changed the decisions made by Emperor Menelik.

“She [Empress Taitu] was alert and steadfast to take corrective measures. Her history also tells us that she was always standing by the side of her husband [Emperor Menelik],” she added.

Besides her significant contribution in annulations of the Treaty of Wuchale, Empress Taitu Betul bravely led a contingent of 5,000 Ethiopian troops during the battle.

Moreover, Hirut articulated that the Empress has shown the capability and personality of women in a leadership role, particularly being, cautious, skeptical, strategic, tactful and most importantly farsightedness.

“She is among the forefront exemplary women, not only in Ethiopia but also in the entire world,” she described her.

Slot Adwa in Curriculum 

As the sporadically occasions organized to commemorate Adwa are not adequate to transcend the bravery and patriotism, the history has to be compiled and published as text book, the Minister noted.

The victory of Adwa is adequately incorporated in the current educational curriculum, Hirut said, and pointed out “we have discussed with the Ministry of Education and agreed to include the Ethiopian history in the educational system.”

“We have provided organized document on how to scrutinize not only the Adwa victory but also the entire history as well as traditions in the country’s education system,” she pointed out.

Hirut urged scholars to take their share of responsibility in carefully organizing the joint history, write it based on genuine evidences, and make it accessible to all.

The Lure of Tourists

Speaking of the paramount significance in earning large sum of income in the future, Hirut noted “others will not have the curiosity to know deeper unless we stop distorting our history and start felling enormous pride about it.”

“As studies indicate that a single tourist can encourage 7 others, we are creating awareness about Adwa among tourists that come to visit historical places like Axum and Ankober,” she elaborated.

The Battle of Adwa, which was fought on March 1, 1896 between Ethiopia and the Italian invading army, had been and still is an exemplary triumph to the rest of Africans.   

History has it that in the immediate aftermath of the Adwa victory, about 6,000 Italian invaders were killed and 1,500 wounded in the battle and subsequent retreated back into Eritrea, with 3,000 taken prisoner. Brigadiers Dabormida and Arimondi of the Italian force commanders were amongst those killed in the battle.