An Ethiopian economist and diplomat who served as Governor of the National Bank of Ethiopia and later as Minister of Finance, known for his efforts to modernize Ethiopia's economy. He played a key role in shaping the country's economic policies during a period of significant transformation.
Berhanu Dinka was a renowned Ethiopian diplomat and international statesman, celebrated for his illustrious career spanning over five decades. As the first Ethiopian ambassador to Djibouti and the permanent representative to the United Nations, Berhanu left an indelible mark on global politics and international relations.
Born on June 4, 1935, in the former Welega Province of the Ethiopian Empire, Berhanu's academic pursuits took him to the United States, where he earned degrees in economics and politics. His academic credentials include a Master of International Studies from American University in Washington, D.C., a certificate in policy analysis from the School of Advanced International Studies at Johns Hopkins University, and participation in the International Visitor Leadership Program of the United States Department of State.
Early Diplomatic Posts: Berhanu served as a diplomat at the Ethiopian embassies in Monrovia, Liberia, Cairo, Egypt, and Washington, D.C. under the government of Haile Selassie.
Rise to Ambassadorship: Following the Ethiopian revolution and installation of the Derg, Berhanu was promoted to the rank of ambassador as the head of the Department of Africa and Middle East Affairs within the Ministry of Foreign Affairs in 1975.
First Ambassador to Djibouti: Berhanu made history as the first ambassador of Ethiopia to Djibouti, a portfolio he held from 1980 to 1984.
Permanent Representative to the United Nations: In 1984, Berhanu became the permanent representative of Ethiopia to the United Nations, based in New York City, where he chaired the Special Committee on Decolonization. He was concurrently accredited as Ethiopian ambassador to Canada.
Berhanu's exemplary service extended to the United Nations, where he held various positions, including:
Under-Secretary-General: Berhanu served as Under-Secretary-General of the United Nations.
Special Envoy for Sierra Leone: He was appointed as the Special Envoy for Sierra Leone, demonstrating his commitment to conflict resolution and peace-building.
Special Representative for the Great Lakes Region and Burundi: Berhanu's diplomatic acumen was further showcased in his role as Special Representative for the Great Lakes Region and Burundi.
Berhanu Dinka's remarkable career has left a lasting impact on international relations, Ethiopian foreign policy, and the United Nations. His dedication to global peace, security, and cooperation serves as an inspiration to future generations of diplomats and international statesmen.
Throughout his life, Berhanu remained committed to his country and the international community, exemplifying the highest standards of diplomatic excellence. His legacy continues to shape the contours of Ethiopian foreign policy and international relations, ensuring his place as one of the most distinguished diplomats of his time.
Born in 1892
The last emperor of Ethiopia, who led the country through a period of modernization and was a symbol of African independence, and is also revered as a deity by the Rastafari movement.
76 Years Old
First female president of Ethiopia, serving since 2018, and a seasoned diplomat with a focus on African and international affairs.
Born in 1924
The first Ethiopian president to be elected by the Ethiopian Parliament, serving from 2001 to 2013, known for his efforts to promote national unity and reconciliation. He played a key role in shaping the country's modern political landscape.
