In Memory of Those Swedes Who Helped Ethiopia and Ethiopians
Ethiopia and Sweden may be separated by thousands of miles, but their histories are intertwined. In the 1930s, Italy invaded Ethiopia, and the Ethiopian people found themselves fighting for their very existence. In that dark hour, Swedish heroes stepped forward to help.
These brave men and women, who risked their lives to support Ethiopia, are often overlooked in the pages of history. But their actions made a real difference, and we owe them a debt of gratitude.
One of these heroes was Sven Hedin, a Swedish explorer who had traveled extensively in Ethiopia. When the Italian military began their invasion, Hedin used his connections with the Swedish government to lobby for Ethiopia’s cause. His efforts paid off, and Sweden became one of the few countries to recognize Ethiopia’s sovereignty during the war.
Hedin also played a critical role in raising awareness about the impact of the war on Ethiopian civilians. He published articles, gave speeches, and wrote letters to influential people in Sweden and around the world. His message was clear: the Ethiopian people were suffering, and the international community needed to step up and provide aid.
‘The British military expedition of 1867–68 found five or six schools at Adwa, where children learned to read. Among the students were several blind boys who were instructed in learning by heart.’ — R. Pankhurst
Another hero was Count Carl Gustaf von Rosen, a Swedish air force officer who flew in Ethiopia during the war. Von Rosen volunteered his services to the Ethiopian government and helped to create the Ethiopian Air Force. His courage and dedication saved countless Ethiopian lives and helped turn the tide of the war.
Von Rosen’s involvement in Ethiopia did not end with the war. He continued to support the country and its people for many years, helping to establish schools, clinics, and other vital infrastructure. He believed deeply in Ethiopia’s potential and worked tirelessly to help the country realize it.
‘As a foreigner you are a guest — but on their terms. Onni lined up on the Ethiopian conditions — but was not considered a guest. He and Carl-Gustav von Rosen, another legend, belong to the Ethiopian nation. Everyone knows who they are and they are proud of them.’ — Pia Bergman
These are just two examples of the many Swedish heroes who stood with Ethiopia in its darkest hour. Their bravery, compassion, and selflessness will never be forgotten. Today, we honor their memory and the sacrifices they made for the people of Ethiopia.
It’s important to remember that the struggles faced by Ethiopia during the 1930s continue today. Poverty, political instability, and conflict continue to plague the country. However, the memory of these Swedish heroes inspires us to keep fighting for a better future.
Karl Cederqvist, the first SEM missionary, 1904
Dr. Harald Nyström, a physician at the Imperial Guard, 1927
Dr. Knut Hanner, head of a government hospital in Addis Abeba and later appointed as honorary consul, 1930
Johannes Kolmodin, son of a former Mission Director, Foreign Affairs Adviser to Haile Sellasie I, 1931
Frank Hammar, technical director of the new radio station at Akaki, 1932
Dr. Johan Gunnar Agge, medical officer for the Ogaden, 1932
General Erik Virgin, the former commander of the Swedish Air Force, Political and Military Adviser, 1934
General Viking Tamm, a Military Policy Adviser to the Emperor, one of the few Swedes who worked in Ethiopia before the Italian invasion and who were actively recruiting Swedes for the reconstruction work, 1934
Onni Niskanen, sports instructor for the Imperial bodyguard, 1946
We can all learn from the example set by these heroes. By standing up for what is right, even in the face of adversity, we can make a real difference in the world. Let us honor their memory by continuing to fight for justice, freedom, and equality for all people, everywhere.
I conclude with the words of Laura Golakeh:
“My personal icons are those who fought and continue to fight against violence, poverty, corruption, illiteracy, and diseases in Africa. Our past, present, and future are owed to them. Naming them wouldn’t do justice to all of them.”
