Princess Seble Desta: A Life of Royal Heritage and Resilience
Princess Seble Desta (September 1, 1931 – January 3, 2023) was a distinguished member of the Solomonic dynasty, a lineage that held the Ethiopian throne until 1974. Born in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, her life journey was rich with royal heritage, educational achievements, and unwavering resilience.
Early Life and Royal Roots
Princess Seble Desta was born to Princess Tenagnework Haile Selassie and Ras Desta Damtew. She was the granddaughter of Emperor Haile Selassie of Ethiopia and Empress Menen Asfaw. Her paternal grandfather, Fitawrari Damtew Ketema, played a heroic role in Ethiopia's victory against the Italians at the Battle of Adwa.
She grew up with her siblings: Princess Aida Desta, Lij Amaha Desta, Princess Ruth Desta, Princess Sophia Desta, Iskinder Desta, Princess Mary Retta, and Woizerit Mentewab Andargatchew.
During Mussolini's invasion of Ethiopia, Emperor Haile Selassie, Empress Menen, and many family members were exiled in Bath, England. In stark contrast, Princess Seble's father, Ras Desta, remained in Ethiopia to confront the Italian invaders. Unfortunately, in 1937, he was captured and defied the norms of prisoner treatment, resulting in his tragic death.
Educational Pursuits and Philanthropy
Princess Seble Desta pursued her education in England, attending Clarendon School for Girls and later Lady Margaret Hall College at Oxford University. Her commitment to education became a defining characteristic of her life.
Throughout her illustrious journey, she accompanied Emperor Haile Selassie on numerous state visits, effectively representing Ethiopia on the international stage. Engaging with heads of state, royalty, and the public, she fostered diplomatic relations and proudly promoted her homeland.
In line with her mother and grandmother's legacy, Princess Seble served as the President of the Ethiopian Women's Welfare Association. During her tenure, the association constructed a modern high-rise building in Addis Ababa, providing a secure haven for young women and generating revenue to sustain the organization's vital work.
Marriage, Family, and Turbulent Times
In 1959, Princess Seble Desta married Dejazmach Kassa Wolde Mariam, heir to the Welega kingdom of Leqa Qallam. Their wedding was a momentous occasion, shared with her sister, Princess Sophia Desta. They were blessed with five children: YeJote Worq Kassa, Yeshimebet Kassa, Laly (Debritu) Kassa, Kokeb Kassa, and Amaha Kassa.
1974 marked a pivotal moment in Princess Seble's life. A military junta overthrew Emperor Haile Selassie, leading to the imprisonment of the Imperial Family, including Princess Tenagne Worq and her daughters. Princess Seble, though temporarily spared, tirelessly sought assistance for her imprisoned family members, albeit with limited success.
Legacy and Family
Princess Seble Desta embraced her role as a matriarch, cherishing her position as a loving mother and grandmother to six grandchildren: Adey Sara Kejela, Amman Samuel Kejela, Yonas Amha, Anna Amha, Kaleb Abeye, and Aden Abeye.
On January 3, 2023, at the age of 91, Princess Seble Desta passed away. Her legacy, characterized by royal grace, unwavering resilience, and a profound commitment to her homeland and family, will endure through the annals of history. Her life story remains an inspiration, a testament to the strength of character that defined her remarkable journey.
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