On march 1 2025, I had the distinct honor of meeting Prince Asfa Wesson Asrat during a prestigious event celebrating the historic Battle of Adwa in Stockholm, Sweden.. The celebration brought together a wide range of dignitaries, cultural figures, and members of the Ethiopian diaspora to commemorate this important victory and its ongoing significance.
His speech during the event was deeply insightful and timely. Prince Asfa Wesson Asrat addressed the current situation of the Amhara ethnic group in Ethiopia, a community to which he proudly belongs through his bloodline. With a measured tone, he spoke about the ongoing struggles faced by the Amhara people in the context of regional tensions, ethnic conflict, and the need for justice and reconciliation.
Prince Asfa wossen emphasized the importance of ensuring that the voices of the Amhara people are heard, and their rights respected, in Ethiopia’s political landscape. He highlighted the challenges of discrimination and marginalization faced by the Amhara community, particularly in recent years, and called for greater efforts to address these injustices. The Prince stressed that justice for all ethnic groups, including the Amhara, is essential to achieving long-term peace and unity in Ethiopia.
In reflecting on his Amhara heritage, Prince Asfa Wesson Asrat spoke with deep pride about the historical contributions of the Amhara people to Ethiopia’s development. He pointed out that the Amhara have long been integral to Ethiopia’s leadership, culture, and history, both in the royal family and in other facets of Ethiopian society. The Prince expressed his commitment to advocating for the preservation of the Amhara’s cultural identity and the restoration of justice for those who have been unfairly treated.
The Prince’s comments resonated with many attendees, as they echoed the wider concerns about ensuring equal rights and opportunities for all ethnic groups in Ethiopia. He called on the Ethiopian government and international organizations to engage in meaningful dialogue and take concrete actions to address the current injustices faced by the Amhara people and other marginalized groups.
I am grateful for the opportunity to have met such a distinguished figure in person, especially following his insightful interview with our radio station. It was a privilege to engage with Prince Asfa and other participants about Ethiopia’s past, present, and future, and I look forward to continued collaboration and dialogue in the pursuit of justice and unity.
