Baidoa, Somalia – The Ethiopian National Defense Force (ENDF) of AUSSOM Sector 3, stationed in Baidoa, held a grand ceremony today to mark the 129th anniversary of the Battle of Adwa. This historic battle, fought on March 2, 1896, saw Ethiopia successfully resist Italian colonization, securing its place as the only African nation to defeat a European colonial power in the 19th century.
The event was attended by high-ranking officials, including the President of Southwest State, Abdiaziz Hassan Laftagaren, who had been invited by the Deputy Ambassador of Ethiopia in Somalia. In his remarks, President Laftagaren praised Ethiopia’s victory at Adwa, calling it an African triumph that resonated beyond Ethiopian borders. He also acknowledged the critical role Ethiopian AUSSOM forces play in maintaining peace and stability across Southwest State.
The Ethiopian AUSSOM forces are actively deployed in various parts of Southwest State as part of a broader peacekeeping mission. Their presence has been instrumental in ensuring security in the region, fostering cooperation between Ethiopia and Somalia.
The ceremony comes just days after Ethiopian Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed’s visit to Mogadishu, which, while shrouded in some mystery, was reportedly linked to discussions on the Ankara Agreement and efforts to normalize relations between Ethiopia and Somalia. Against this backdrop, President Laftagaren emphasized his willingness to strengthen ties with Ethiopia while aligning with the directives of Villa Somalia, reflecting a careful diplomatic stance.
As Ethiopia continues to commemorate the Battle of Adwa each year, the event in Baidoa highlights the enduring historical significance of the victory and its impact on contemporary regional relations.
