Minister Aisha Calls Adwa Victory an Eternal Inspiration for Defense Forces, African Unity

Addis Ababa, March 2, 2026 (ENA) —The 130th Anniversary of the Victory of Adwa was marked with a vibrant celebration at the Adwa Victory Memorial, where Minister of Defense Aisha Mohammed hailed the historic triumph as an enduring source of inspiration for Ethiopia’s defense forces and a symbol of African unity.

Speaking under the theme “Glorious Past, Radiant Horizon,” Minister Aisha described the victory as a beacon of freedom for all Black people and a lasting affirmation of human dignity.

She emphasized that Adwa is not only a milestone in Ethiopian history but a global emblem of resistance and a testament to the sacrifices made for liberty and honor.

Aisha further  noted that the victory proved to the world the moral superiority of a united people, demonstrating that even the most modern and well-armed colonial aggressor is not invincible.

The minister  highlighted that the sacrifices made by our ancestors on the rugged mountains of Adwa restored African dignity and laid the groundwork for the continental unity and collective security cooperation witnessed today.

The presence of African Defense Ministers at the anniversary celebrations, she remarked, serves as a powerful confirmation that Adwa is a shared heritage of freedom for the entire continent and the world at large.

The Minister further asserted that today's Ethiopian National Defense Force is the living embodiment of this heroic lineage.

Beyond safeguarding national sovereignty, she noted that the military continues to serve as a vanguard for peace and stability across Africa, paying irreplaceable sacrifices in the line of duty.

 

"Adwa lives on within the discipline and indomitable spirit of our forces; it is the eternal sustenance of our bravery," Aisha stated.

Reflecting on this year's theme, the Minister reminded the current generation of their duty to translate the inherited legacy of freedom into comprehensive national sovereignty and prosperity.

She urged that the psychological strength drawn from the peaks of Adwa must now be channeled into achieving national greatness through hard work and dedication.

Aisha concluded by affirming that the Covenant of Adwa for this era is to pass down this historic responsibility as a source of pride and tangible achievement for the generations to come.