About us
About The Foundation
A Women-Led, Youth-Focused National Foundation
Dr. Ambachew Mekonnen Foundation (AMF) is a women-led, youth-focused national Civil Society Organization (CSO) registered with the FDRE Agency for Civil Society Organizations (ACSO). Established in 2020 and headquartered in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, AMF is dedicated to advancing inclusive development, peacebuilding, gender equality, and youth empowerment. The Foundation works with vulnerable and underserved communities—particularly women, girls, and young people—to promote social justice, expand economic opportunities, and strengthen community resilience
Its primary objective is to fulfill the goals that Dr. Ambachew Mekonnen started but was unable to complete.
Dr. Ambachew Mekonnen
1971 — 2019 | Economist · Leader · Visionary
Tach Gayint, 1971 — Addis Ababa, 2019
Early Life and Education
Born in Tach Gayint to a farming family, Dr. Ambachew Mekonnen rose through determination and education to become one of Ethiopia’s most respected public servants.
He earned a BA in Economics from Ethiopian Civil Service University and a Master of Public Policy from KDI School in South Korea before completing his PhD in Economics at the University of Kent.
- BA Economics — Ethiopian Civil Service University
- MPP — KDI School, South Korea
- MSc & PhD — University of Kent, UK
“We want the people to get their country back in their hands. Political appointments must serve the people, not the appointee.”
— Dr. Ambachew Mekonnen, Capital Newspaper, January 2019Dr. Ambachew Mekonnen's life journey in his own words (2019)
His Legacy Lives On
Established in July 2020, the Dr. Ambachew Mekonnen Foundation continues his vision of inclusive development, youth empowerment, and community resilience across Ethiopia.
Our Vision and Mission
Guided by the legacy of Dr. Ambachew Mekonnen, the foundation advances inclusive development, leadership, and opportunity for communities across Ethiopia.
Our Vision
A just and resilient society where Ethiopia is at the center of everything!
Our Mission
Work with people and communities together with the natural environment to contribute to the creation of enduring solution to existing challenges for peaceful co-existence and just society by advancing education, research, livelihood resilience and natural balance.
Our Core Values
The principles that guide our commitment to Ethiopia
PATRIOTISM
A deep commitment to Ethiopia’s prosperity, inspiring others through dedicated national service
INTEGRITY
We uphold transparency, accountability, and ethical leadership in all our actions
EMPOWERMENT
Creating opportunities for women and youth to realize their full potential and lead change
EXCELLENCE
Striving for the highest standards in education, research, and community development
INCLUSIVENESS
Valuing every voice and ensuring equal participation for a stronger shared future
PARTNERSHIP
Expanding impact through collaboration with communities, institutions, and development partners
Strategic Goal and Objectives
Guiding the foundation’s work from 2026–2030 to empower youth and women and strengthen inclusive development across communities.
Overall Strategic Goal
To empower women and youth as agents of change for inclusive development, peace, and economic justice at community and national levels.
Strategic Priority Program Areas
The foundation focuses on five strategic program areas that empower communities, expand opportunity, and strengthen inclusive development across Ethiopia.
Women’s Economic Empowerment
- Support women’s livelihoods and entrepreneurship
- Expand access to financial services and savings groups
- Promote economic and labor rights awareness
Youth Empowerment and Leadership
- Leadership development and mentorship
- Youth-led community initiatives
- Sports, arts, and innovation for social change
Girls’ Education and Empowerment
- Improve school attendance and retention
- Address barriers affecting girls’ education
- School and community-based learning clubs
Peacebuilding and Social Cohesion
- Community dialogue and conflict prevention
- Promote tolerance and inclusion
- Engage youth and women in peace processes
Community and Institutional Capacity
- Strengthen community organizations
- Build capacity for local leaders
- Support institutional development of partners
Join Us in Empowering Communities
AMF is committed to empowering women and youth, promoting education, and strengthening peaceful communities. Together we can create lasting change and inclusive development