Ethiopia Steps Up Drive to Reclaim Stolen Heritage Artifacts, Authority Says

Addis Ababa, March 28, 2026 (ENA) —The Ethiopian Heritage Authority (EHA) emphasized that it has vowed to intensify efforts to bring back cultural artifacts taken abroad.

Speaking at a handover ceremony today, Abebaw Ayalew, Director General of EHA, said that the country has been reclaiming its stolen heritage artifacts.

Addis Ababa, March 27, 2026 (ENA) —The director general received a historic gold hair ornament known as “Woleba,” which belonged to Empress Tiruwork Wube, the wife of Emperor Tewodros II.

The ceremony was attended by members of the Ethiopian Patriots Association and other dignitaries.

The artifact was looted from Mekdela during the Battle of Maqdala more than 150 years ago.

Abebaw noted that Ethiopia has made notable progress in recent years in reclaiming its heritage.

More than 72 artifacts have been returned through voluntary repatriation, cooperation, and diplomatic negotiations, making them accessible to both local and international visitors.

He added that preparations for a dedicated exhibition space to display repatriated artifacts will be completed by June 2018.

Highlighting the scale of the task ahead, Abebaw said many Ethiopian artifacts remain overseas, stressing the need for stronger collaboration with international partners.

He further explained that ongoing efforts will focus on systematic cataloging, registration, and digitization to facilitate their return.

Alula Pankhurst, a board member of the Ethiopian Heritage Trust Committee, said the gold ornament was looted in 1868 and later appeared at an auction in Rome, where the sale was halted.

He praised the close cooperation between the EHA, the Ethiopian Heritage Trust, and other partners, noting that the historic piece has now been successfully repatriated.

President of the Ethiopian Patriots Association, Lij Daniel Jote, on his part called for collective efforts to return the country’s heritage.

“We must work together, and work harder, to repatriate Ethiopia’s heritage,” he said.

He added that preserving cultural heritage plays a crucial role in educating future generations about the nation’s history.