Ethiopia recovers 17 ancient books from US

ADDIS ABABA, Ethiopia: Ethiopia has recovered 17 ancient books that had remained in the United States for an extended period after leaving the country under different circumstances.

The Ethiopian Heritage Authority has handed the historic books and other recovered artefacts to seven institutions in Ethiopia as part of ongoing efforts to return the country’s cultural heritage to its original custodians.

The returned books are regarded as important examples of Ethiopia’s literary and cultural heritage, with their recovery expected to support the preservation and study of the country’s history, culture and spiritual development.

Elias Shikur, Deputy Director General of the Ethiopian Heritage Authority, said the country had recovered more than 67 artefacts that had left Ethiopia for different reasons over the past seven years, excluding those handed over during the latest ceremony.

“protecting our heritage is protecting our history,” Shikur said, adding that authorities were working carefully to ensure Ethiopia’s heritage is preserved and passed on to future generations.

The Heritage Authority said returning the artefacts to their original home was important for safeguarding Ethiopia’s historical and cultural record, while also creating opportunities to share the country’s heritage with the international community.

The recovered materials were handed over to seven Ethiopian institutions with the expectation that specialists would assess and document them, ensure their proper preservation and make them available for research and educational purposes.

The authority also noted that ancient Ethiopian books and other cultural artefacts form part of a wider global heritage. Their preservation, promotion and responsible use can contribute to education, academic research and a deeper understanding of Ethiopia’s historical development.

The latest repatriation forms part of broader efforts to recover Ethiopian heritage that was removed from the country, including artefacts and cultural materials that left Ethiopia through unlawful or questionable circumstances.

Officials said continued restoration and repatriation efforts could strengthen the protection of Ethiopia’s historical heritage and help ensure that important cultural materials remain accessible to future generations.