Ethiopian Heritage Authority Steps Up Efforts to Repatriate Looted Artifacts

Addis Ababa, August 24, 2025 (FMC) — Ethiopia is intensifying its efforts to trace, reclaim, and safeguard cultural artifacts that were taken out of the country, the Ethiopian Heritage Authority has announced.

Director General of the Authority, Abebaw Ayalew, told local news agency ENA that a series of initiatives are underway to identify the locations and holders of valuable Ethiopian artifacts, with the aim of securing their return. He explained that documentation of these items has already been submitted to the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) as formal evidence to support restitution claims.

According to Abebaw, significant progress has been made in recent years, with numerous artifacts successfully repatriated through voluntary returns, negotiations, and diplomatic engagement. “In the past five years alone, several cultural treasures have been brought back to Ethiopia, including items previously held by private individuals and foreign institutions,” he said.

He noted that among the most notable successes was the recovery of the armor of Emperor Tewodros II, the mantle of Ras Desta Damtew, and the Ethiopian Order of the Star, all of which had been listed for auction abroad but were halted and returned to Ethiopia during the past Ethiopian year (2017 E.C.).

Abebaw emphasized that the National Heritage Repatriation Committee has played a central role in these efforts, including blocking the sale of Ethiopian artifacts in international auctions and pursuing their rightful restitution through legal and diplomatic channels.

Beyond recovery, the Authority is also working to preserve and promote Ethiopia’s living heritage by registering new cultural and natural sites with UNESCO. Preparations are underway to nominate sites and traditions such as Al-Nejashi Mosque, the Ethiopian coffee ceremony, Waza (locally known as Zumbara), Agew Feresegna, Halaba Sera, and Enset culture, ensuring they are recognized on the world stage as symbols of Ethiopia’s heritage.

Abebaw reaffirmed the Authority’s commitment to safeguarding Ethiopia’s cultural legacy, stressing that the restitution of looted artifacts and the international registration of heritage sites are both integral to protecting national identity and ensuring that future generations inherit the country’s rich history.