President Sahle-Work Zewde is a pioneering Ethiopian diplomat and politician who has made history as the first female president of Ethiopia. Born on February 21, 1950, in Addis Ababa, Sahle-Work has had a distinguished career in diplomacy, public service, and international relations.
Education and Early Career
Sahle-Work Zewde completed her secondary education at Lycée Guebre-Mariam in Addis Ababa. She then pursued higher education in natural sciences at the University of Montpellier in France. Her educational background laid a strong foundation for her future endeavors in diplomacy and international service.
Diplomatic Career
Sahle-Work’s diplomatic career is marked by several high-profile positions. She began her journey in the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Ethiopia, where she held various important roles. She served as Ethiopia’s ambassador to Senegal, with accreditation to Mali, Cape Verde, Guinea-Bissau, Gambia, and Guinea. Her extensive experience in these roles earned her recognition and respect in diplomatic circles.
In 2002, Sahle-Work was appointed as Ethiopia’s Permanent Representative to the African Union and the United Nations Economic Commission for Africa (UNECA), with the rank of Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary. Her role in these organizations showcased her commitment to promoting African unity and development.
United Nations Service
Sahle-Work Zewde’s contributions extended beyond Ethiopia’s borders when she joined the United Nations. She served as the Special Representative of the United Nations Secretary-General and Head of the United Nations Integrated Peacebuilding Office in the Central African Republic (BINUCA). Her leadership in this role was instrumental in addressing the complex challenges faced by the Central African Republic.
In June 2011, she was appointed Director-General of the United Nations Office at Nairobi (UNON), becoming the first African woman to head a United Nations office. Her tenure at UNON was marked by significant achievements in advancing the UN’s mission in Africa.
Presidency
On October 25, 2018, Sahle-Work Zewde was elected as the President of Ethiopia by the Federal Parliamentary Assembly. Her election marked a historic milestone as she became the first woman to hold the office in the country’s history. As President, she has focused on key issues such as gender equality, women’s empowerment, and social justice.
Advocacy for Women’s Empowerment
Throughout her career, President Sahle-Work has been a staunch advocate for women’s rights and gender equality. Her efforts to promote women’s leadership culminated in the initiation of the Presidential Mentorship Program, designed to empower female university students through mentorship and support. This program reflects her commitment to creating opportunities for women to excel in leadership roles and contribute to society’s progress.
Legacy and Impact
President Sahle-Work Zewde’s legacy is defined by her dedication to diplomacy, her trailblazing role as a female leader, and her unwavering commitment to gender equality. Her life’s work continues to inspire countless women and girls in Ethiopia and beyond, proving that with determination and vision, barriers can be broken, and new paths forged.
Her presidency and initiatives, such as the Presidential Mentorship Program, leave an indelible mark on Ethiopia’s journey towards a more inclusive and equitable society. President Sahle-Work’s story is one of resilience, leadership, and the enduring power of advocacy for the betterment of humanity.
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