Ethiopians, African descents and many others are preparing to celebrate the 124th Anniversary of the Victory of Adwa on Monday. Indeed the victory has become one of the most significant events in the life of many people in Africa as well as wherever African descents exist. For sure one can say that the victory is one of the milestones and most inspirational moments in history.
The war actually was fought between Ethiopians and Italians. But viewed in a wider perspective it is a battle between colonialists and victims of their aggression. Hence the victory also belongs to all those who cherished the inspiration.
Indeed many Africans and descents as well as all others who denounce colonialism have paid tribute to the victory in different ways ever since. For example many countries have waged heroic independence struggle that replicates the deeds of Adwa victory. Many have also put in place various memorials in celebration of the victory.
Among the other commitments is the effort by Montgomery County in USA. It has proclaimed the month of March as Adwa History Month this year. This is not the only time the county is committing the month for the Adwa victory. The same has been done in 2016 and 2017. In Ethiopia too, there is an ongoing attempt to establish Adwa pan African University. The successful completion of the University will mark an important step forward in upholding the legacy of the victory.
Africans still needs to capitalize on the gains of victory of Adwa. Just as the victory entitled them to their sovereignty they should also apply the same inspiration to conquer the clear and imminent threat they are facing today. First of all the main gain of victory of Adwa is that it helped unite Ethiopians and form strong national unity.
There is no reason it cannot do the same to unite Africans too. As African Union (AU) has already started to establish continental and regional trade bloc which is instrumental in facilitating the integration of the continent the endeavor should be backed up by the spirit of the victory of Adwa so that it can gain momentum and further lead to all out cooperation and integration among the countries.
Secondly African countries should always work with a mind set of “possible” to respond to the needs of the people for economic development, justice, democracy and security, among others. For this end it is important to institutionalize the efforts of maintaining the legacy of victory of Adwa.
The Ethiopian Herald, February 29/2020
