Board & Chief Executive

Former Minister for Ministry of Health Ethiopia, distinguished OB-GYN specialist, medical researcher, and global public health leader with over 29 years of clinical, academic, and executive experience. A recognized figure in global health innovation, leadership, and diplomacy, he has represented national and regional priorities on international stages, forging strategic global partnerships to advance health system resilience, equity, and policy reform across Ethiopia, East Africa and beyond. Currently, he works as a Senior Researcher and Executive Consultant specializing in policy development, program evaluation, and national and regional health surveys, while serving as a Scientific Advisor for the HaSET maternal and child health research program. His leadership background encompasses executive governance roles, including College Head with Vice President rank at both Addis Ababa University and Hawassa University. A prolific scholar and technical advisor, he has led 42 major consultancies and co-authored 116 peer-reviewed publications shaping regional and global health policy.

Public health and development executive with 21+ years of leadership across Ethiopia's health sector. Expertise spans health systems strengthening, governance, public-private partnerships, market systems development and sustainable financing. Has served in senior leadership roles across prominent national and international organizations, from frontline healthcare delivery to executive management. As Deputy Chairperson of VIDO, he provides strategic direction to strengthen governance, foster partnerships, mobilize resources and advance the organization's mission of sustainable, inclusive community development.

Public health executive and development leader with two decades of experience in health systems strengthening, policy and institutional governance. Currently CEO of VIDO; previously Senior Special Advisor to the Ethiopian Minister of Health, Mayor of Gundo Meskel Town, and Director General of the Addis Ababa Food and Medicine Authority. Veteran board leader across 12+ institutions; led national digital-health reforms and major partnerships with WHO, USAID and The Global Fund. M.Sc. Healthcare Management; PhD Research Fellow (UNISA).

A highly respected public health executive and clinical policy advisor with extensive experience in health system design and medical services management. Former Director General of the Medical Services Directorate at the Ethiopian Federal Ministry of Health and Senior Advisor to the Minister of Health. A driving force behind national medical quality standards, pediatric care initiatives and emergency healthcare responses, bridging high-level policy with impactful clinical delivery on the ground.

A prominent educational policymaker and academic, currently Head of the Addis Ababa City Administration Bureau of Education and member of the City Council. Oversees the capital's public, private and international school systems — championing systemic reforms, curriculum modernization and Early Childhood Development. Spearheaded Addis Ababa's acclaimed School Feeding Program, recipient of the Milan Urban Food Policy Pact Award. PhD in Political Science and International Relations, Addis Ababa University.

A highly accomplished public administrator and governance expert with a distinguished career in regional and municipal leadership. Has served in key executive positions within Oromia Regional State and as Head of the Mayor's Office (Cabinet Secretariat) for the Addis Ababa City Administration. Recognized for strategic leadership in streamlining municipal operations, managing cabinet affairs, and driving development initiatives bridging regional and capital-city administrations.

A highly revered traditional medicine expert, conservationist and honored community leader. A 52nd-generation healer who began her training at age five, she carries a profound ancestral lineage of indigenous medical and botanical knowledge. Founder and manager of the Deshet Traditional Medicine and Medicinal Plants Research Centre — a field gene bank preserving 600+ native medicinal plant species. Collaborates with the Federal Ministry of Health on botanical research and is a powerful voice for Ethiopia's ecological heritage and indigenous flora.

A prominent Ethiopian public health executive and medical leader serving as Lead Executive Officer for Health System Innovation and Quality at the Ministry of Health of Ethiopia. Leads national initiatives to enhance healthcare quality, institutionalize the Patient Safety Friendly Hospital Framework and establish facility accreditation systems. Drives national digital-health transformation — integrating artificial intelligence, telehealth and innovative digital frameworks to strengthen healthcare delivery across Ethiopia.

Ethiopian educational expert, psychological advocate and Founder of EREGEB Educational Services. Advocates for modernizing learning systems, prioritizing student psychological well-being and transforming traditional academic practices. Through EREGEB, promotes holistic learning frameworks, student mental-health awareness and constructive parenting approaches across Ethiopia. A prominent thought leader challenging conventional teaching methods and inspiring educators, parents and policymakers to foster resilience, critical thinking and inclusive learning environments.