In a shop around Dembel City Centre, a man with glasses is deeply engrossed in repairing a camera. Many brands and sizes of camera can be seen, lined up and waiting their turns. The history of cameras in Ethiopia began in the second half of the 19th century when the first photoes were taken by European travellers during the reign of Emperor Tewodros II. Photography became more prevalent during Emperor Menilik II. Photography has played a crucial role in documenting Ethiopian history, providing a visual record of a rapidly changing society.