President John Dramani Mahama, Ethiopian Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed Ali and his wife, First Lady Zinash Tayachew, have been pictured wearing traditional Ethiopian imperial attire at the historic Fasil Ghebbi royal complex in Gondar, Ethiopia.

The three were adorned in the traditional kaba, a ceremonial garment associated with Ethiopia’s imperial heritage, during President Mahama’s official visit to the country.

Their appearance offered a glimpse into Ethiopia’s rich cultural traditions and historical legacy, with the attire reflecting the country’s long-standing royal customs.

Fasil Ghebbi, located in Gondar, is one of Ethiopia’s most significant historical landmarks. The fortified royal enclosure served as the residence of Ethiopian emperors and their courts from the 17th century. It features castles, palaces, churches and other historic structures that reflect a blend of Ethiopian, Arab, Indian and European architectural influences.

The site has become an important symbol of Ethiopia’s imperial past and cultural identity and is recognised as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

President Mahama arrived in Gondar on Friday at the invitation of Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed Ali ahead of the 12th Tana High-Level Forum on Security in Africa, scheduled to take place in Bahir Dar.

During the visit, the two leaders also commissioned the Megech Irrigation Development Project, a major infrastructure initiative expected to support agricultural production, strengthen food security and improve access to potable water in the region.

The project is designed to provide irrigation for about 17,000 hectares of farmland and supply drinking water to Gondar and surrounding satellite towns.

Meanwhile, President Mahama is expected to participate in discussions at the Tana Forum, which brings together African leaders, policymakers and security experts to deliberate on peace, governance and security challenges facing the continent.