First female president of Ethiopia, serving since 2018, and a seasoned diplomat with a focus on African and international affairs.
SahleWork Zewde, the President of Ethiopia since 2018, is a trailblazing leader who has shattered glass ceilings throughout her illustrious career. She is the first woman to hold the office, marking a significant milestone in Ethiopian politics.
Born on February 21, 1950, in Addis Ababa, SahleWork is of Amhara and Gurage origin. She is the firstborn of four children and attended primary and secondary school at Lyce GuebreMariam in Addis Ababa. She later pursued natural sciences at the University of Montpellier in France, where she became fluent in Amharic, French, and English.
SahleWork's diplomatic career spans over four decades, with notable postings as Ambassador to Senegal, Djibouti, and France. She has also served as Permanent Representative to the Intergovernmental Authority on Development (IGAD) and the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO).
Her experience in trade issues was honed during her tenure as Ambassador to Djibouti, where she played a crucial role in facilitating Ethiopia's primary route to sea trade. This expertise has been instrumental in shaping her leadership approach, enabling her to navigate complex international relations and drive economic growth.
In 2018, SahleWork was unanimously elected as President of Ethiopia by the Federal Parliamentary Assembly, cementing her position as a pioneering figure in African politics. Her election marked a significant shift in the nation's political landscape, as she became the first woman to hold the office.
Recognized for her leadership and diplomatic prowess, SahleWork has been listed as one of the 100 Most Powerful Women in the World by Forbes magazine, ranking 96th in 2020. She is the highest-ranking African woman on the list, solidifying her position as a global leader.
SahleWork's presidency has been marked by her commitment to promoting peace, unity, and economic growth in Ethiopia. She has worked tirelessly to address the country's pressing issues, including poverty, inequality, and social injustice.
Her leadership has inspired a new generation of Ethiopian women, breaking barriers and challenging traditional gender norms. As a role model, she embodies the values of determination, resilience, and dedication, inspiring others to strive for excellence.
SahleWork Zewde's remarkable journey serves as a testament to her unwavering commitment to public service, diplomacy, and leadership. As a trailblazing figure, she continues to inspire and empower individuals across the African continent and beyond.
71 Years Old
The authoritarian leader who ruled Ethiopia for over two decades, implementing policies that brought rapid economic growth but also suppressed human rights and dissent. He played a key role in regional politics, particularly in Somalia.
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.
