BY BETELHEM BEDLU
It was the time that European powers sought expansion, aspired to conquer and colonize Africa to expand their empires and amass the valuable natural resources of the continent and slave its people.
However, their wish could not come true when it came to Ethiopia. While most of African countries fell under the brutal hands of European rulers during the so-called scramble for Africa, Ethiopia remained a sovereign nation with a formidable army and a strong monarchy.
As source indicate, a decade before the Battle of Adwa, European powers had decided the fate of Ethiopia. At the Berlin Conference of 1884-5, 14 European countries divided Africa among themselves.
Before the conference, only about 10 percent of Africa was controlled by Europeans; the remaining 90 percent was ruled by indigenous and traditional rulers.
Italy had a colonial possession over Assab port since 1882. And at the Berlin Conference, European colonial powers agreed that Italy could take over Ethiopia as its future colony.
Then after, Italy expanded its presence in the Red Sea, an area that had become important since the opening of the Suez Canal in 1869. With British support, it took control of the port city of Massawa in 1885. From Massawa, Italy moved slowly inland, leading to a number of clashes with locals, which culminated in the battle of Adwa.
At the Battle of Adwa, Ethiopians made a history that embarrassed and humiliated colonialist and gratified Africans and all black people globally. Ethiopians, by beating the Italian Army that were equipped well with modern artilleries made a history that surprised the whole world.
On the first day of March, 124 years ago, traditional warriors, farmers and pastoralists as well as women defeated a well-armed Italian army in the northern town of Adwa in Ethiopia.
The outcome of this battle ensured Ethiopia’s independence, making it the only African country never to be colonized. Adwa turned Ethiopia into a symbol of freedom for black people globally, stated an article.
“In March, 1896, Ethiopian forces under the leadership of Emperor Menelik II surprised the world by defeating an Italian Army sent to conquer the Empire,” Ray Jonas wrote in an article entitled ‘BATTLE OF ADWA (ADOWA), 1986 and posted in BlackPast webpage.
True, the Victory of Adwa is not only a success that Ethiopians confirmed their independence; but it is also a symbol of freedom and a victory that Africans who were oppressed by the white supremacists and of all black around the world cherish it. That is why Ethiopians celebrate it every year.
Ministry of Culture and Tourism has also launched a month-long various programs (since 8 February 2021-march 9, 2021 ) to commemorate the historic achievements of the Battle of Adwa- the 125th anniversary of the Victory of Adwa, under the theme “Tuba Weg”, The symbol of Adwa Victory.
As part of this program, recently forum in which historians and experts that represent the community was held. On the occasion, scholars forwarded their views on the topic tabled for discussion: “What should be the symbol of the victory of Adwa in our generation?” and gave brief explanation relating to of the struggle in Adwa and similar issues.
Thanking the Ministry for organizing such program and paying special attention to the commemoration of Adwa throughout the month February, Ass. Prof. Abebaw Ayalew, Deputy Director of Authority for Research and Conservation of Cultural Heritage – MOCT and, researcher of History said that Adwa is one of the most important historical events in the history of Ethiopia.
However, it is not appropriate to commemorate or talk of the day once in a year. Many activities should be carried out to honor the victory. The due attention the Ministry has given to commemorate the Victory of Adwa throughout the month of February with various activities is commendable.
Mentioning that the Battle of Adwa is one of the historical incidents that have been recited, commemorated and passed on from generation to generation he said the Victory especially in the modern history of Ethiopia, tributes the nation for its heroic deeds and heralds its people intrepidness regionally and internationally. It is also unparalleled source of pride for all Africans, he added.
While talking the lesson this generation can draw from the symbol of Adwa, Abebaw prioritized the central importance of unity and togetherness. The victory was gained through unity and togetherness. These two elements had crucial role to mobilize the people
As to him the call by Emperor Menelik II extended to the general public to be ready for Adwa Battle can be translated in three ways. The first plea was a request from the people to forgive him if there is any grudge and to stand by the side of him, and the other one was a statement that warned those hesitating to take part in the campaign.
The last one requested older people and vulnerable groups to pray for their homeland. This has successively created a sense of belongingness and unity among the people.
The other point that had shown communities unity; and the new generation can learn from is the deceit and conspiracy of Italians. Even though Emperor Menelik cancelled the Treaty of Wuchale, both countries were preparing themselves for the war.
During the time Italians, though they did not succeed, they had been plotting to trap those Ethiopians who had grudge with the Emperor and to make them stand by their side.
The challenges that Ethiopia encounters these days is that the quarrel or disagreement came to happen domestically is opening the door for foreign enemies.
As a country like Ethiopia which is always intimidated by foreigners, strengthening internal unity is crucial, he remarked.
Pro. Getachew Kassa, African Studies Graduate Program Coordinator at Addis Ababa University and Head of African Desk on his part highlighted the need to make the Victory of Adwa one of the nation’s tourist destinations and make it a source of income.
Through compiling legends as well as the indigenous literatures and wisdom by historians, the nation could generate income from it.
Stating that a committee was formed and several activities have been undertaken to establish Adwa Pan Africa University five years ago, he said the establishment of the University, besides magnifying the historical victory, it will be helpful in being a tourist destination.
The Ethiopian Herald February 19/2021
