The Embassy of the Federal Democratic Republic of Ethiopia in Uganda has announced a major celebration to mark the 130th anniversary of the Victory of Adwa alongside 65 years of formal diplomatic relations between Ethiopia and Uganda.

The event is set to take place on March 24 at Kololo Independence Grounds, bringing together diplomats, government officials and members of the public in a ceremony that reflects shared history and cooperation, according to Plus News.

The Victory of Adwa in 1896 remains one of the most significant moments in African history. Ethiopian forces defeated the invading Italian army, securing independence and positioning Ethiopia as a symbol of African resistance during the era of European colonization.

Historians often describe Adwa as a defining victory that inspired liberation movements across the continent and reinforced the idea that African nations could defend their sovereignty.

Ethiopia continues to reference this historic victory as a foundation for its modern identity and development vision.

The Embassy highlighted the Grand Ethiopian Renaissance Dam as a continuation of that legacy, describing it as a symbol of economic sovereignty and regional integration through renewable energy.

The project has been presented by Ethiopia as a key driver of development and a source of electricity for the wider East African region.

Ethiopian Ambassador to Uganda Etsegenet Bezabih Yimenu said the commemoration is a reflection of both history and forward looking partnership.

“We are honored to announce this celebration marking the Victory of Adwa and 65 years of diplomatic relations between Ethiopia and Uganda,” Ambassador Etsegenet said.

“This historic occasion reflects our shared struggle for African sovereignty and integrity and the unbreakable bond between our two nations.”

The Embassy also emphasized the long standing relationship between Ethiopia and Uganda, which dates back to historical interactions between Emperor Haile Selassie I and Kabaka Mutesa II. These early engagements helped lay the foundation for formal diplomatic relations and continued cooperation between the two countries.

Over the years, Uganda and Ethiopia have maintained regular high-level exchanges, including visits by President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni in 2021 and by Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed in 2018 and again in 2024 during the 19th Non Aligned Movement Summit.

The two countries have also strengthened collaboration through joint ministerial commissions that have produced agreements in sectors such as defense, trade, politics and social development.

The Embassy noted that both nations share strategic interests, including cooperation on security and counter terrorism efforts.

As regional partners, Ethiopia and Uganda have worked together within the broader framework of Pan African cooperation, promoting stability and development in the region.

The statement also pointed to cultural and people to people ties, highlighting community exchanges such as the participation of the Nyangatom community in Uganda's Ataker Community Festival in Soroti in 2024.

It further acknowledged the contribution of the Ethiopian diaspora to Uganda’s economic growth and the increasing interest in bilateral investment between the two countries.

Ambassador Etsegenet extended appreciation to the Government and people of Uganda for their continued support and friendship.

"We extend our deep appreciation to the people and Government of the Republic of Uganda for their enduring friendship and solidarity," she said.

The celebration at Kololo is expected to serve as both a remembrance of the past and a reaffirmation of the shared future between Ethiopia and Uganda, anchored in the enduring legacy of Adwa and strengthened by decades of diplomatic cooperation.