Introducing Yodit Zenebe Mekuria: Oxfam in Ethiopia’s New Country Director

Author: Liban Hailu

We are delighted to officially introduce Yodit Zenebe Mekuria, who joined Oxfam in Ethiopia as our new Country Director on February 11, 2025. Yodit steps into her role with deep respect and admiration for Oxfam's longstanding mission and a passionate commitment to fostering justice and equality.

In a recent interview, Yodit shared personal reflections and outlined her vision for driving transformative change:

Stepping into the Role

"Stepping into the role of Country Director for Oxfam is a profound milestone for me," Yodit remarked. "I have always admired Oxfam’s work from afar, so this appointment is an opportunity and responsibility to significantly impact the lives of vulnerable communities."

With extensive experience in program management, community engagement, and policy advocacy, Yodit is well-prepared to lead initiatives that are culturally sensitive, contextually relevant, and impactful. She emphasized the importance of partnerships, community participation, and local leadership in her approach:

"I see myself as a catalyst for change," Yodit stated, highlighting her enthusiasm for building collaboration among stakeholders, including government bodies, civil society, and the private sector. "I am invigorated by the challenges ahead and deeply dedicated to achieving lasting impact for a just and equitable Ethiopian society."

Excitement for the Mission Ahead

When asked about what excites her most about leading Oxfam’s mission in Ethiopia, Yodit shared a comprehensive vision grounded in equality and innovation:

"Ethiopia faces significant inequalities—in gender, economic status, and access to resources. Contributing directly to reducing these disparities, especially for women and girls, is incredibly motivating," she explained.

She also underscored the strength of Oxfam’s collaborative spirit, emphasizing the organisation's commitment to engaging communities and local organizations effectively:

"Building partnerships that leverage local knowledge ensures our initiatives are both sustainable and effective."

Furthermore, Yodit is driven by the potential for systemic change through advocacy and policy influence.

"Oxfam’s mission transcends immediate relief by tackling the root causes of poverty and injustice. Engaging in advocacy to shape policies affecting the most vulnerable communities truly excites me."

She expressed particular enthusiasm for championing gender equality, stating, "As a female leader, I am passionate about empowering women economically, socially, and politically. Empowering women strengthens entire communities and contributes significantly to broader societal change."

Finally, Yodit noted Ethiopia's dynamic environment as an opportunity for innovation and learning:

"I look forward to exploring new solutions, learning from our experiences, and continually adapting our strategies to better promote equality and drive lasting change."