A new bronze statue of reggae legend Bob Marley has been unveiled in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia. The statue, created by Ethiopian sculptor Bizuneh Tesfa, stands at a roundabout in the Gerji area, now named Bob Marley Square. The unveiling took place on Saturday, April 19, 2015, with city officials and members of the local community in attendance.

Honoring Bob Marley’s Legacy

Bob Marley is celebrated worldwide for his music, message of unity, and deep connection to Africa. His songs often spoke about the African diaspora, justice, and liberation, making Ethiopia a significant place to honor his legacy.

The idea for the statue came from musician Zeleke Gessese, music promoter Addisu Gessese, and businessman Awad Mohamed. Their goal was to commemorate Marley’s 70th birthday and recognize his lasting impact on Ethiopian culture and the world.

Bob Marley’s Connection to Ethiopia

Bob Marley frequently expressed his admiration for Ethiopia, considering it the spiritual home of the Rastafari movement. In 1978, he visited the country and stayed in Shashamane, a community established for repatriated Africans. Many of his songs, including Africa Unite and Exodus, reflect his desire to reconnect with his African roots.

Other Bob Marley Statues Around the World

The statue in Addis Ababa is not the first monument honoring Bob Marley. One of the most famous is in Kingston, Jamaica, outside the National Stadium, sculpted by Alvin Marriott. Similar tributes exist in countries like Serbia and Ghana, showing the global reach of his influence.

A Lasting Tribute

The unveiling of Bob Marley’s statue in Ethiopia marks another chapter in his enduring legacy. The statue serves as a reminder of his powerful message of peace, unity, and African pride.

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