The second part of the Axum obelisk arrived back in Ethiopia this morning.

The top section of the obelisk arrived earlier today, after the middle piece was returned on Tuesday. The arrival of this second part of the obelisk was welcomed by members of the National Committee for the Return of Axum Obelisk and officials and residents of Axum town.

Ethiopian Prime Minister Meles Zenawi is expected to travel to Axum on Monday to lead national celebrations when the final part of the stele is scheduled to return.

With the return of the bottom section of the monument on Monday – the monument had to be broken into three pieces in preparation for transit - the obelisk will finally be back in Ethiopia after 68 years absence, having been looted by Italian fascist troops in the 1930s.

While the final piece is expected on Monday, the monument is not due to be re-erected until September, after the rainy season.

ENDS