ADDIS ABABA, Ethiopia (Horn Post) — International delegates attending the Parliamentary Intelligence-Security Forum (PI-SF) in Addis Ababa visited Ethiopia’s National Palace and the Adwa Victory Memorial, gaining firsthand insight into the country’s rich historical legacy, diplomatic heritage, and ongoing institutional transformation.
The visits formed part of the forum’s official post-conference program, designed to provide participants with a deeper understanding of Ethiopia’s statehood, governance, and historical development while reinforcing discussions on democratic oversight, intelligence cooperation, and Africa’s evolving security architecture.
At the National Palace, delegates explored exhibitions showcasing Ethiopia’s ancient civilization, centuries-old diplomatic traditions, and the palace’s role in the nation’s political and institutional evolution from the imperial era to the present day.
Participants described the palace as a powerful symbol of Ethiopia’s enduring civilization and Africa’s longstanding diplomatic heritage. They noted that the experience provided valuable historical context for understanding Ethiopia’s contributions to regional peace, state-building, and continental cooperation.
The delegation also toured the Adwa Victory Memorial, where they viewed historical artifacts, archival documents, photographs, and interactive digital exhibitions commemorating the 1896 Battle of Adwa, one of Africa’s most significant victories against colonialism.
Museum officials briefed visitors on Ethiopia’s successful defense of its sovereignty during the historic battle and explained its lasting influence on anti-colonial movements and independence struggles across Africa and beyond.
Delegates described the Victory of Adwa as an enduring symbol of African courage, resilience, unity, and resistance against colonial rule, emphasizing that Ethiopia’s triumph continues to inspire generations seeking freedom, dignity, and self-determination.
They also praised the Adwa Victory Memorial as a leading center for preserving Ethiopia’s history, culture, and national memory. Visitors highlighted the memorial’s modern architecture and extensive use of digital technology, saying innovative exhibitions help make Ethiopia’s historical heritage more accessible to younger generations and international audiences.
During the visit, delegates further acknowledged Ethiopia’s ongoing institutional modernization, particularly its increasing adoption of artificial intelligence and digital technologies. They said these efforts align with broader African initiatives aimed at strengthening governance, innovation, collective security, and regional integration.
According to participants, the cultural visits offered practical insights into Ethiopia’s commitment to peace, institutional resilience, technological advancement, and continental cooperation—priorities that closely align with the objectives of the Parliamentary Intelligence-Security Forum.
The Parliamentary Intelligence-Security Forum (PI-SF) was held in Addis Ababa from July 10–11, 2026, under the theme “Strengthening Democratic Oversight and Security Cooperation for Africa’s Security Architecture.” The high-level gathering brought together parliamentarians, intelligence and security officials, cybersecurity experts, policymakers, and international stakeholders to discuss democratic accountability, intelligence governance, cybersecurity collaboration, and coordinated responses to emerging regional and global security challenges.
Hosted by Ethiopia’s House of People’s Representatives, the forum reinforced the country’s growing diplomatic role in advancing Africa’s peace and security agenda while highlighting its expanding leadership in digital transformation, technology governance, and regional cooperation.
By hosting the event, Ethiopia became only the second African nation after Kenya to host the Parliamentary Intelligence-Security Forum, underscoring its increasing influence in shaping continental dialogue on governance, security, innovation, and sustainable development.
Prepared By:
Horn Post Staff
ADDIS ABABA, Ethiopia
