Ethiopia is celebrating a remarkable victory that shaped not only its own history but that of the entire African continent - that is the defeat of Italians who unsuccessfully attempted to colonise Ethiopia in an intense struggle called the Battle of Adwa.
Ethiopia achieved victory and became the African country that was never colonised, with recent celebrations held in honour of the 130th anniversary of that triumph.
A commemorative event was held on 2 March 2026, with Ethiopian officials laying a wreath at the Adwa Victory Memorial and at Emperor Menelik II Square, to honour fallen heroes, celebrate the win, and reflect on the country’s journey.
Ethiopian President Taye Atske Selassie used the occasion to highlight the country’s development drive, stressing its quest to have direct access to the sea, saying, ‘’the Battle of Adwa was a major military victory. Today its full meaning lies in sustainable development.’’
In his message, Ethiopian Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed said Ethiopians of today ‘’must sustain the country our ancestors died to build by living in unity and love.’’
Pan-Africanism inspiration
So, what was the Battle of Adwa?
The battle broke out when the Italian army, seeking to expand its colonial empire, invaded Ethiopia in 1895 under the command of General Oreste Baratieri.
But the Italian forces faced strong resistance from the Ethiopian army led by Emperor Menelik II.
The battle, which took place in northern Ethiopia, was fierce, particularly in the town of Adwa, with both sides suffering heavy losses. Some estimates put the combined death toll at between 10,000 and 15,000.
But the Ethiopians emerged victorious on 1 March 1896, marking the first time an African country had defeated a European power, with Ethiopia ensuring it was never colonised, protecting its territorial independence and sovereignty.
The victory sent shockwaves across Africa, inspired other African countries to fight for independence, led to increased Pan-Africanism, and made Ethiopia a symbol of resistance against colonialism.
Today, Ethiopia's triumph against Italy in the Battle of Adwa remains one of the most celebrated moments in African history and a testament to the continent’s shared heritage of courage, resilience, and unity.
