By Chol D Johnson
The Embassy of Ethiopia in South Sudan on Friday commemorated the 130th anniversary of the historic Battle of Adwa at a ceremony held in Juba, underscoring the enduring significance of the landmark victory in African history.
The Battle of Adwa, fought on March 1, 1896, marked a decisive triumph of the Ethiopian Empire over an invading colonial force and remains a defining moment for Ethiopia, Africa, and the global African diaspora.
This year’s commemoration was held under the theme “130 Years of Adwa: A Glorious Past, Radiant Horizon.”
Addressing the gathering, Martin Elia Lomuro, South Sudan’s National Minister of Cabinet Affairs, said the legacy of Adwa continues to inspire African nations to uphold unity, safeguard sovereignty, and renew their commitment to peace and sustainable development.
“As we commemorate 130 years since Adwa, may its spirit continue to inspire Africa to stand united, protect its sovereignty, and reaffirm its commitment to development and peace,” he said.
The minister emphasized the importance of strengthening strategic relations between South Sudan and Ethiopia, noting the shared history, geography, and aspirations of the two nations.
“Our two countries are bound not only by geography, but also by history, sacrifice, and a common vision for a stable and prosperous region,” he stated, describing Adwa as a victory that resonated far beyond Ethiopia’s borders and symbolized hope for the entire continent.
Lomuro further disclosed that President Salva Kiir Mayardit had signed an agreement with Ethiopia for the transmission of electricity from Addis Ababa to South Sudan, a move expected to enhance access to power in parts of the country, including the northern and Upper Nile regions.
He also noted ongoing cooperation between the two governments in the aviation sector, including plans related to the establishment and operationalization of South Sudan Airlines, reflecting deepening bilateral ties.
In his remarks, Ethiopia’s Ambassador to South Sudan, Delil Kedir Bushra, described the anniversary as a moment that reshaped the course of Ethiopian and African history.
“On March 1, 1896, Ethiopia decisively defeated an invading colonial force, demonstrating that the unity and resolve of a people can prevail over external aggression,” he said.
The ambassador highlighted Ethiopia’s ongoing national reforms, including efforts to promote social cohesion through transitional justice initiatives and the National Dialogue Commission. He noted that visitors to Addis Ababa could observe the rapid modernization and infrastructure development underway in the Ethiopian capital.
Kedir underscored that Ethiopia and South Sudan share a common destiny anchored in mutual respect, good neighbourliness, and regional cooperation. He pointed to infrastructure development, human capital investment, and expanding economic collaboration as key pillars of the partnership.
He also referenced continental frameworks such as the African Union Agenda 2063 and the African Continental Free Trade Area as guiding visions for deeper integration and economic transformation across Africa.
According to the ambassador, Ethiopia continues to support South Sudan through scholarship programs, with hundreds of South Sudanese students benefiting annually from higher education opportunities in fields including medicine, engineering, and technical disciplines.
On regional peace and stability, Kedir reaffirmed Ethiopia’s commitment to supporting South Sudan’s peace process in a neutral and constructive manner, expressing confidence in the country’s roadmap toward inclusive, free, and transparent elections scheduled for December 2026.
The commemoration concluded with renewed calls for unity, cooperation, and a shared commitment to building a peaceful and prosperous future for both nations and the African continent at large.