Addis Ababa, March 2, 2026 (FMC) — Mayor Adanech Abiebie urged Ethiopians to channel the lessons of historical valor into contemporary achievements, emphasizing that the current generation must prioritize building a legacy of development and collective progress rather than solely commemorating ancestral heroism.
The Victory of Adwa, marking its 130th anniversary this year, remains a defining milestone in Ethiopian and African history. On March 1, 1896, Ethiopian forces under Emperor Menelik II achieved a decisive victory over the Italian army at the Battle of Adwa, safeguarding national sovereignty and delivering a historic message of resistance against colonial expansion.
The triumph has long symbolized national pride, resilience and independence, continuing to inspire generations within Ethiopia and across the African diaspora. Speaking at the commemoration held under the theme “Glorious Past, Radiant Horizon,” the Mayor described the victory as a beacon of unity and a powerful symbol of dignity for Africans and people of African descent.
She underscored that the anniversary should serve as a commitment to transform the courage of the past into tangible progress for Ethiopia’s future. “The Victory of Adwa represents heroism and pride, a symbol of freedom and unity,” she stated. “As we reflect on this history under the theme ‘Glorious Past, Radiant Horizon,’ we must draw lessons from the past and dedicate ourselves to building a prosperous future.”
Mayor Adanech highlighted that the enduring lesson of Adwa is the necessity of unity. Despite differences in internal affairs, she emphasized that Ethiopians must remain united in defending sovereignty and the dignity of citizenship. “The greatest lesson of Adwa is that while differences may exist, unity is essential when it comes to national sovereignty and the honor of citizenship,” she remarked.
She recalled that the heroes of Adwa set aside divisions to secure Ethiopia’s independence, urging younger generations to resolve disagreements through dialogue and embrace their responsibility to protect national interests. Redefining heroism for the modern era, she noted that patriotism today extends beyond military sacrifice.
“Heroism is not limited to the battlefield,” she explained. “Today, it means overcoming poverty, backwardness and division. Knowledge and hard work are the instruments of modern patriotism.”
Mayor Adanech cited national development initiatives such as the Grand Ethiopian Renaissance Dam, agricultural transformation programs, environmental campaigns and infrastructure projects as contemporary expressions of the Adwa spirit. She described these efforts as “modern victories” that advance Ethiopia’s development and global engagement.
Highlighting the importance of addressing historical and structural challenges, she emphasized that strategic initiatives aimed at economic growth and global connectivity are integral to building a sustainable national legacy. She characterized development as a continuation of Ethiopia’s historical trajectory toward sovereignty and prosperity.
Describing Adwa as a school of patriotism, the Mayor stated that the country’s current achievements demonstrate the potential for monumental progress through collective effort. “Beyond remembering the past, we must act with urgency to create histories of achievement in our own time,” she said.
She concluded by affirming that Ethiopia’s dignity and progress depend on the dedication of its people. The lessons of Adwa, she noted, remain relevant as guiding principles for unity, resilience and national development in a rapidly changing world.