Ethiopia is Beacon of Pan-African Freedom and Unity, Former FM of Sierra Leone Says
18:12 15.09.2024 (Updated: 14:50 16.09.2024)
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On March 1, 1896, Emperor Menelik II led the Ethiopian Empire to a decisive triumph over an invading Italian army at the Battle of Adwa. This victory secured Ethiopia's sovereignty and emerged as a powerful emblem of pan-Africanism.
Ethiopia’s historic role in promoting Pan-African values of freedom, unity, and resistance stands unmatched, according to Professor David Francis, former Foreign Minister of Sierra Leone.
As the cradle of humanity and the only African nation to resist colonialism, Ethiopia remains a symbol of hope and empowerment for the continent, he said in an interview to Ethiopian state media outlet ENA.
“Ethiopia is the origin of humanity. So what does simply mean that? It means that Ethiopia is the Center of pan-Africanism for two reasons. Firstly, let me talk about the victory of Adwa. Adwa is a victory for the rest of Africa. Adwa is a symbol of African freedom. We can achieve unity in diversity. [...] Most importantly, it's a symbol of black pride, heritage, freedom, and resistance globally,” the former FM was quoted as saying.
From the inception of the Organization of African Unity to hosting the African Union headquarters, Ethiopia’s commitment to Pan-African ideals has been a constant force in Africa’s fight for independence and solidarity, he added.
