The capture of Gaki Sherocho, the last king of the Kaffa people, by the forces of Menelik II represented a significant achievement in the expansion of the Ethiopian Empire. Following the initial conflicts in the region, Menelik II, who had aspirations to unify and enlarge his empire, dispatched his generals to subdue the recalcitrant regions of Ethiopia. Gaki Sherocho had resisted these efforts, holding out against the Ethiopian troops for an extended period. The military engagement was characterized by strategic maneuvering and a determination to reassert central authority over the fast-moving and fractious local powers.

The context of this event can be traced back to the growing centralization of power in Ethiopia under Menelik II, who sought to extend the frontiers of his empire and counter foreign ambitions, especially from European powers. His forces faced various challenges, including the difficult terrain and the resilience of local leaders like Gaki Sherocho. Over months, the generals managed to corner the king, leading to his capture. This act not only reaffirmed Menelik's power but also highlighted his military capabilities and determination to unify Ethiopia.

The capture of Gaki Sherocho also served to pacify the Kaffa region, integrating it more firmly into the Ethiopian Empire. Following his capture, Gaki Sherocho's rule was dissolved, and the region was administered directly by Menelik's government. The events leading up to and including this victory played a vital role in shaping the political landscape of Ethiopia in the late 19th century, laying the groundwork for a more centralized state.