This was stated in a message issued on the occasion of the 89th anniversary of Ethiopian Martyrs’ Day (Yekatit 12), explaining that this memorial day symbolizes the depth of national belonging.

It was pointed out that dedicating oneself to serving a lofty national vision is a well-established tradition in Ethiopia’s history, passed down from generation to generation. The spirit of sacrifice demonstrated by forefathers and ancestors remains alive and deeply rooted in the conscience of the present generation.

It was added that love for the homeland, which is manifested today in the awareness and vitality of the youth, constitutes a renewed driving force for work and construction, and a continuous call to entrench the values of unity and shared responsibility.

Concluding the message, the current generation was urged to continue the path of sacrifice charted by predecessors, and to embrace wisdom and established work ethics, contributing to the elevation of the national vision and the realization of Ethiopia’s greater aspirations.

Ethiopian Martyrs’ Day

Ethiopian Martyrs’ Day, observed annually on February 19, is a national day of remembrance for those who suffered and died under the Derg communist regime (1974-1991). It honors the memory of the countless victims of the Red Terror and other political persecutions during that era, serving as a solemn occasion for national reflection and a commitment to peace.

Yekatit 12

“Yekatit 12” is a monument and public square in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, commemorating the victims of a 1937 massacre by Italian occupation forces. The name refers to the date in the Ethiopian calendar (corresponding to February 19) when the fascist reprisals began following an attempted assassination on the Italian viceroy. It stands as a solemn memorial to Ethiopian resistance and patriotism during the brutal period of occupation.