The U.S. Embassy in Addis Ababa, in collaboration with the Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MFA) of the Federal Democratic Republic of Ethiopia, hosted a vibrant musical concert to commemorate the 120th anniversary of diplomatic relations between Ethiopia and the United States. The FDRE State Minister of Foreign Affairs Mesganu Arga, U.S. Ambassador Massinga, U.S. National Medal of Science Award winner Dr. Gebisa Ejeta, government officials, diplomats, ambassadors, representatives from cultural and arts organizations, and students, enjoyed the grand finale of a yearlong celebration. 

The concert featured a live performance by renowned international pianist and composer Girma Yifrashewa, alongside students from the Yared Music School. The evening celebrated the U.S. Embassy’s deep-rooted relationship with Ethiopia and its continued support for cultural and youth initiatives. 

Also as part of the 120th-anniversary celebrations, the U.S. Embassy and the Ministry of Tourism jointly organized a photo exhibition titled “A Visual Journey of 120 Years of Bilateral Relations.” This exhibition was displayed at the National Museum, Addis Ababa University, and the Hyatt Regency Hotel from May to July 2024. The curated photographs showcased the rich history of collaboration between the two nations in various sectors, including health, education, agriculture, and economic development. 

The U.S. Embassy, in further celebration of 120 years of bilateral relations, marked Jazz Appreciation Month in April with a panel discussion featuring prominent Ethiopian jazz musicians who studied in the United States followed by a live performance. This event brought together Ethiopian and Ethiopian-American musicians to share their experiences in jazz education and performance, both in the United States and Ethiopia. 

Ethiopia and the United States enjoy a robust relationship built on shared goals of promoting economic growth, peace, and stability. The latest musical concert served as the grand finale, capping off a series of events that highlighted the strong, enduring partnership between Ethiopia and the U.S. over the past 120 years. 

The Royal Ethiopian Trust (RET) announced The shield, one of numerous artifacts seized by British troops following the battle of Magdala in 1868, holds immense cultural value, and was acquired through negotiations with the UK-based Anderson & Garland auction house.  The shield had been slated for public auction in February, but was withdrawn following pressure from the Ethiopian government.  Under Prince Ermias’ direction, the RET took proactive steps to negotiate the shield’s return to Ethiopia, in keeping with the organization’s mission to protect and celebrate the nation’s cultural treasures.

“This shield is not just a historical artifact; it is a symbol of Ethiopia’s history and resilience,” said Prince Ermias. “Our efforts and success in regaining this treasure is a testament to our commitment to preserve our heritage and honor our ancestors who fought for our nation’s sovereignty.”

The Battle of Magdala, fought in 1868, was a significant event in Ethiopian and British history. Following the capture of Magdala, the mountain fortress of Emperor Tewodros II, British forces looted hundreds of artifacts, including the Emperor’s crown, ceremonial crosses, chalices and weapons.

To secure the return of the shield, the RET collaborated with Alula Pankhurst, a renowned British scholar with an expertise in Ethiopian history. Pankhurst is the grandson of Sylvia Pankhurst, an English activist who became devoted to Ethiopia following its invasion by Italy in 1936. 

“It has been an honor to work with Prince Ermias and the Royal Ethiopian Trust to return this significant piece of history to its people,” said Pankhurst. “Our families have long been dedicated to safeguarding Ethiopia’s heritage, and ensuring that this shield returns to the Ethiopian people is a proud continuation of that legacy.”

Before it returns to Ethiopia, the shield will travel to Toledo, Ohio, where it will be on display at the Toledo Museum of Art, October 4^th– 27^th, concurrently with the “Ethiopia at a Crossroads” exhibit.  The Magdala Shield will make its final journey home in November and will be housed in the National Museum of Ethiopia, where it will be on display for the Ethiopian people and visitors from around the world.

that it has successfully negotiated the repatriation of a 19^th century ornamented shield seized by British Troops following the Battle of Magdala.

The RET is a non-profit organization established by His Imperial Highness Prince Ermias Sahle-Selassie Haile-Selassie, grandson of Emperor Haile-Selassie I, to preserve and promote the cultural, educational, and economic well-being of all Ethiopian people.