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Board of Directors of the Ethiopian Securities Exchange

In the dynamic landscape of Ethiopia's financial markets, the Ethiopian Securities Exchange (ESE) stands as a beacon of progress and innovation, driving economic growth and fostering investment opportunities. At the heart of this vibrant ecosystem lie the visionary leaders who comprise the board of directors, each contributing their unique expertise and experience towards the advancement of the capital market. In this comprehensive exploration, we delve into the profiles of these distinguished individuals, shedding light on their remarkable journeys, achievements, and the pivotal roles they play in shaping the future of Ethiopia's financial sector.

Mr. Helaway Tadesse - Chairman:

Mr. Helaway Tadesse, a seasoned economist and senior macro-economic advisor to the Governor of the National Bank of Ethiopia, assumes the role of Chairman of the Ethiopian Securities Exchange. With a distinguished career spanning both public and private sectors, Tadesse brings a wealth of experience to the table. His tenure as a Director at Cepheus Growth Capital Partners, a private equity firm, and his previous role as Senior Vice President of Zemen Bank underscore his deep understanding of financial markets and economic dynamics. Tadesse's illustrious career also includes a decade-long tenure at the International Monetary Fund (IMF), where he served as a Senior Economist. Armed with a Master of Public Administration in Economics & Public Policy from Princeton University and a Bachelor of Arts in Economics from Reed College, Tadesse's leadership at the helm of the ESE is poised to propel Ethiopia's capital market to new heights.

Dr. Eleni Gabre-Medhin (Ph.D) - Member:

Dr. Eleni Z. Gabre-Madhin emerges as a pioneering force in Ethiopia's economic landscape, renowned for her groundbreaking work in commodity markets and agricultural development. As the Chief Innovation Officer at UNDP’s Regional Bureau for Africa in New York, Dr. Gabre-Madhin continues to champion innovation and youth empowerment across the continent. However, it was her transformative leadership as the founder and CEO of the Ethiopia Commodity Exchange (ECX) that cemented her status as a visionary trailblazer. Under her guidance, the ECX experienced exponential growth, revolutionizing Ethiopia's agricultural trade and contributing significantly to the country's economic development. Dr. Gabre-Madhin's illustrious career has earned her numerous accolades and recognitions, including being named among the Top 50 Disruptors by The Africa Report and receiving the Yara Prize in 2012. With a BA in Economics from Cornell University, an MSc in Agricultural Economics from Michigan State University, and a Ph.D. in Applied Economics from Stanford University, Dr. Gabre-Madhin's profound insights and visionary leadership continue to shape Ethiopia's economic landscape.

Mr. Fekadu Petros - Member:

As the Managing Partner of Fekadu Petros & Partners Law Office, Mr. Fekadu Petros brings a wealth of legal expertise and insight to the board of the Ethiopian Securities Exchange. Specializing in corporate law, financial law, and dispute resolution, Petros has played a pivotal role in facilitating the establishment and growth of numerous local and international companies in Ethiopia. His extensive experience spans transactional and litigation practices, with a keen focus on navigating the intricate regulatory frameworks of Ethiopia's financial sector. Notably, Petros has contributed significantly to the development of business-related laws in Ethiopia, including the capital market proclamation. His dedication to advancing Ethiopia's legal and regulatory landscape is further exemplified by his role as a teaching faculty member at Addis Ababa University School of Law. With an LL.B degree and a master's degree in Commercial Law from Addis Ababa University, as well as a second master's degree in International Dispute Settlement from Geneva University Graduate Institute, Petros's expertise and commitment to excellence enrich the governance and oversight of the Ethiopian Securities Exchange.

Hinjat Shamil - Member:

Ms. Hinjat Shamil, a Reform Advisor at the Ministry of Finance, brings a wealth of experience in economic policy and development to the board of the Ethiopian Securities Exchange. Leading various economic reforms, including state-owned enterprise reforms and macro-fiscal measures, Shamil plays a crucial role in shaping Ethiopia's economic trajectory. Her previous engagements with the United Nations and the Government of Ethiopia have equipped her with a deep understanding of development finance and sustainable development goals. Armed with a Master of Public Policy in International Development from Johns Hopkins University and a Bachelor of Arts in Economics from Addis Ababa University, Shamil's insights and strategic guidance contribute significantly to the governance and strategic direction of the Ethiopian Securities Exchange.

Dr. Tewodros Mekonen (Ph.D) - Member:

Dr. Tewodros Mekonen, a Senior Country Economist within the International Growth Centre and London School of Economics and Political Science, brings a wealth of research experience and expertise in development economics to the board of the Ethiopian Securities Exchange. With over 15 years of research experience on the Ethiopian economy, Dr. Mekonen's insights into applied micro-econometrics and development economics inform evidence-based policy-making and strategic decision-making. His previous roles at the Ethiopian Economic Policy Research Institute and the National Bank of Ethiopia have afforded him a comprehensive understanding of Ethiopia's economic landscape. With a Ph.D. in Economics Research from the University of Leicester, Dr. Mekonen's research-driven approach and analytical acumen enhance the governance and oversight of the Ethiopian Securities Exchange.

Ms. Yasmin Wohabrebbi - Member:

Ms. Yasmin Wohabrebbi, Deputy CEO of Ethiopian Investment Holdings (EIH), brings a wealth of experience in finance and administration to the board of the Ethiopian Securities Exchange. With previous roles including Head of Housing Development and Administration for Addis Ababa City Administration and State Minister of Finance for External Economic Cooperation, Wohabrebbi possesses a comprehensive understanding of economic dynamics and policy implementation. Her leadership roles within the acclaimed Agricultural Transformation Agency (ATA) and her academic background in Economics further underscore her strategic vision and expertise. With a Bachelor's Degree in Economics from Gondar University and a Master's Degree in International Trade Policy and Trade Law from Lund University, Wohabrebbi's leadership and strategic insights contribute significantly to the governance and oversight of the Ethiopian Securities Exchange.

Mr. Zemedeneh Nigatu - Member:

Mr. Zemedeneh Nigatu, a prominent business leader and Global Chairman of Fairfax Africa Fund, LLC, brings extensive experience in finance and investments to the board of the Ethiopian Securities Exchange. Recognized as one of Africa's top business leaders, Nigatu's transformative leadership at Ernst & Young (EY) and his contributions to Ethiopia's economic development have earned him numerous accolades and recognitions. With a business degree from Howard University and completion of programs at Harvard Business School, Nigatu's global perspective and strategic insights enrich the governance and oversight of the Ethiopian Securities Exchange.

In conclusion, the board members of the Ethiopian Securities Exchange represent a diverse array of expertise and experience, united by their commitment to advancing Ethiopia's capital market and fostering economic growth. Their visionary leadership and strategic guidance play a pivotal role in shaping the future of Ethiopia's financial sector, ensuring a resilient and prosperous economy for generations to come.

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