Adwa Victory Reflects Ethiopia’s Unyielding Resolve, Says Prime Minister Abiy

Addis Ababa, March 1, 2026 (ENA) — Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed has described the Victory of Adwa as a defining testament to the unbreakable determination and enduring strength of the Ethiopian people.

In a message marking the 130th anniversary of the historic triumph at the Battle of Adwa, the Prime Minister called on citizens to reflect on what he characterized as a pivotal chapter in Ethiopia’s history, a moment when the nation affirmed its resolve to defend freedom and independence at any cost.

According to PM Abiy, the victory stands as enduring proof that Ethiopians rise firmly in defense of their national interests and sovereignty.

He noted that through collective commitment and unwavering resolve, the people have consistently demonstrated their readiness to mobilize all available resources to safeguard their country and secure its future on a strong foundation.

The Prime Minister underscored that while systems and leaders may change and differences may arise on various issues, the shared commitment to defend the nation remains constant.

Reflecting on the patriots who marched to Adwa, he emphasized that unity did not require uniformity.

“They were united by a common purpose, but they were not identical. They shared one nation, yet they came from different cultures and professed different faiths,” he stated.

At that critical moment in history, he recalled, there were also individuals who sided with the enemy, including mercenaries and brokers who placed short-term gains above the long-term interests of their homeland.

“Our heroic mothers and fathers fought not only against the invading army of Italy, but also stood firm against collaborators, bandits, and agents who worked against the interests of their own country. Patriotism meant confronting betrayal in all its forms,” the Prime Minister said.

He added that genuine patriotism required placing the nation above personal benefit and sacrificing individual comfort to preserve the country’s honor.

Commemorating Adwa Victory Day, Abiy said the occasion calls for remembrance of the sacrifices made and stands as a testament to the courage, unity, and resolve that defined a generation and revealed Ethiopia’s determination to the world.

Today, he stressed, that same conviction must be reflected in national development efforts. Strength, he noted, must be visible across agriculture, industry, tourism, mining, and the digital sector.

Ethiopia’s power, he said, must rest on a firm and lasting foundation capable of carrying the spirit of Adwa into every sphere of national life. Only then, he added, can the victory of yesterday be transformed into sustainable progress for tomorrow.

The Prime Minister further emphasized that such comprehensive strength expands national capacity, deepens resilience, reinforces Ethiopia’s global standing, and elevates its voice on the international stage.