Addis Ababa, December 6, 2025 (FMC) — Descendants of Africa’s 20th-century liberation and Pan-Africanist leaders said Ethiopia’s history and modern development provide invaluable lessons for the continent’s next generation, during a visit to Addis Ababa this week.
The delegation, representing the families of Patrice Lumumba, Nelson Mandela, Kwame Nkrumah, Julius Nyerere, Kenneth Kaunda, Steve Biko, Oliver Tambo, and others, toured key historical sites and development projects across the capital. Moussa Ibrahim Gaddafi, nephew of Muammar Gaddafi and Executive Secretary of the African Legacy Foundation, also joined the visit.
During their time in Addis Ababa yesterday, the delegates visited the Adwa Victory Memorial, National Palace, riverside and corridor development initiatives, and the Science Museum. Their reflections on these visits were shared during an exclusive Fana Media Corporation interview in Addis Ababa, highlighting Ethiopia’s role in Pan-Africanism and as a model for development.
Hlumelo Biko, son of anti-apartheid activist Steve Biko, described Ethiopia as a beacon of self-reliance, reflecting his father’s Black Consciousness philosophy. “Ethiopia has always been a symbol of self-reliance. At the monument of the battle between the Ethiopians and the Italians, they relied on nobody to beat the Italians. And as a result, they were never colonized,” he said.
Biko highlighted how Ethiopia’s preservation of its language, culture, and national confidence mirrors the ideals his father championed. He added that the visit inspired him to foster stronger ties between Ethiopia and South Africa, emphasizing the historical and cultural importance of both nations to the continent’s future.
Commenting on Ethiopia’s present development, Biko observed that the economy is booming, with visible urban growth and bustling markets. He noted that the government’s development strategy appears inclusive, aiming to reduce social inequality and increase employment. Biko also praised the GERD as a vital project expected to address rural drought and resource challenges.
Comparing Ethiopia with South Africa, he remarked that while South Africa possesses advanced infrastructure, wealth remains concentrated, creating inequality and social instability. He emphasized the need for leadership that empowers the poorest and unlocks opportunities for all citizens. On a message to African youth, he said: “Never have fear, fight for what is right. The Ethiopians have shown that violence can be expressed when necessary but followed by peace and nation-building.”
Melega Kwame Thomas, grandson of Ghana’s first President Kwame Nkrumah, described his experience in Addis Ababa as inspiring. “I love the city, the Ethiopian people, the culture, the food, and the coffee,” he said.
Highlighting the Adwa Victory Memorial Museum, he noted its historic significance in Pan-Africanism. “With the victory at Adwa, Ethiopians proved they could stand up to imperialism and colonialism. That’s why my grandfather often referenced Adwa in his speeches and Pan-African vision,” he said.
Melega urged African youth to study the blueprint of past leaders, emphasizing unity, political sovereignty, and economic emancipation as pathways to making Africa a strong global voice.
Moussa Ibrahim Gaddafi, representing the African Legacy Foundation, praised Ethiopia’s historical and cultural leadership. “The Museum of Adwa is not just about artifacts; it embodies the spirit of Ethiopia and Africa. It connects our generation with the sacrifices of our forefathers and inspires the youth to link their personal struggles with their countries and the continent,” he said. Moussa called on African youth to embrace their culture, language, and intellectual independence while resisting Eurocentric ideologies.
Samia Yaba Christina Nkrumah, daughter of Kwame Nkrumah, highlighted Ethiopia’s focus on science, technology, and sustainable development as essential for Africa’s future. Visiting the Science Museum, she praised the country for encouraging youth participation in innovation and environmental stewardship, citing Ethiopia’s achievements in sustainable agriculture and climate initiatives. “Our future, food, well-being, and intellectual growth depend on how we leverage technology and human resources,” she said. She also lauded Ethiopian Airlines as a model for connecting Africa and fostering continental cooperation.
On Saturday, the delegation traveled to the Grand Ethiopian Renaissance Dam (GERD), a project they hailed as a modern-day symbol of African self-reliance, unity, and progress. Their reflections during the interview in Addis yesterday emphasize how Ethiopia’s history, development, and Pan-African legacy continue to inspire Africa’s youth and leaders.