Adwa Victory Reverberates as Africans Called to Reclaim Their Narrative and Safeguard Heritage – President Taye

Addis Ababa, February 28, 2026 (FMC) — Taye Atske Selassie recalled the historic Victory of Adwa as a lasting source of inspiration in the struggle against colonialism during the Annual Council Meeting of the Global Black Centre, held at the Adwa Victory Memorial Museum on Saturday.

Addressing participants, the President said convening at the memorial museum renews a collective commitment to honor Ethiopia and the African forces that decisively defeated invading colonial powers.

He noted that the gathering coincides with the 130th anniversary of the Adwa Victory, describing it as a significant moment to reflect on the enduring relevance of Adwa and the powerful message it conveyed in the fight against colonial domination.

The President reaffirmed the imperative of continuously documenting and narrating African history, safeguarding heritage, and building knowledge systems for future generations.

Adwa elevated the Black spirit to a new height of vitality and dignity, President Taye stated, underscoring the victory’s lasting influence on African pride and identity.

Demeke Mekonnen, Ethiopia’s former Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs, who serves as President of the Council of the Global Black Centre, emphasized that the spirit of Adwa continues to guide nations in shaping their future trajectory.

He recalled that on the eve of the historic triumph 130 years ago, ancestors armed with unity and resolve confronted a formidable colonial force and secured a victory whose impact resonated far beyond Ethiopia.

The establishment of the Global Black Centre’s headquarters at the Adwa Victory Memorial, he noted, symbolizes a profound convergence of history and purpose. President Taye described the Centre as a covenant between generations, bridging past sacrifices with future aspirations.

Over the past year, the Centre has strengthened partnerships across Africa and with diaspora communities in the Caribbean, the Americas, and Europe, affirming that collective strength lies in collaboration.

It has also launched research initiatives aimed at recovering and illuminating overlooked histories to ensure that African contributions are recognized and passed on to younger generations.

Programs have been introduced to enable children to see themselves reflected in the achievements of their ancestors and to recognize their boundless potential.

African Union Commission representative Kalifa Manneh, from the Health and Medical Service Directorate, called on Africans to regard the Global Black Centre as a milestone for shared commitment and coordinated action.

The meeting underscored the enduring legacy of Adwa as a symbol of African resilience, unity, and dignity, reaffirming Ethiopia’s resolve to honor its history while shaping a forward-looking future.