Dr. Aklog Birara stands out as a distinguished Ethiopian scholar, author, and political analyst. His profound knowledge in economics and development has significantly enriched the discussions surrounding socio-economic and political issues in Ethiopia and the broader African context. He has authored numerous books and a diverse range of articles that explore the developmental challenges confronting Ethiopia, governance concerns, and the geopolitical intricacies of the Horn of Africa. Furthermore, Dr. Birara has shared his expertise as an advisor and consultant for various international organizations, including the World Bank and the United Nations.
Celebrated for his analytical capabilities, Dr. Birara’s contributions focus on economic policies and strategies aimed at fostering development within African countries. His writings often highlight the fundamental structural obstacles that hinder advancement and promote the need for sustainable economic growth. Through his comprehensive research and numerous publications, he has positioned himself as a pivotal figure in addressing the intricate challenges facing the region, thereby impacting both academic discourse and policy formulation.
He is known for his deep insights into Ethiopia’s political economy, often engaging in critical analysis of government policies and their implications on the nation’s development. Dr. Birara has also been involved in advocacy, particularly concerning human rights, democracy, and sustainable development in Ethiopia.
His work often emphasizes the importance of national unity, good governance, and economic reform as essential components for Ethiopia’s progress. Dr. Birara is respected in academic and diaspora circles for his articulate and informed perspectives on Ethiopia’s future.
Professional Experience:
- World Bank: Dr. Birara dedicated 30 years of his career to the World Bank, where he retired with the title of Senior Advisor. His work involved advising on and implementing development policies and projects in diverse global regions.
- Academic Roles:
- Dr. Birara has taught political economy at several prestigious institutions, including Addis Ababa University in Ethiopia, Trinity University, and the University of the District of Columbia in the USA.
- Advisory and Leadership Positions:
- Economic Advisor to the National Bank of Ethiopia and later became the Director of Research at the same institution.
- Served as Managing Director of the Commercial Bank of Ethiopia.
- Worked as an Economic Advisor to USAID in Chad and Cameroon.
Dr. Birara has also contributed hundreds of commentaries on the political economy of Ethiopia and the broader African continent, reflecting his deep understanding of the region’s socio-economic and political challenges.
Educational Background and Specialized Training:
- Ph.D. in Economic Development and Regional Studies (1974) – Johns Hopkins University, USA.
- MA in International Law and Relations, African Regional Studies (1972) – SAIS, Johns Hopkins University, USA.
- BA (1970) – Earlham College, Richmond, Indiana, USA.
- Diplomas in Management and Organizational Development:
- Harvard University Business School, Boston.
- Columbia University, New York City.
- Both were financed by the World Bank.
Publications:
Books:
Articles
- Dr. Aklog Birara has made significant contributions to Zehabesha.com and other Ethiopian media outlets by writing extensively on Ethiopia, East Africa, and global issues. His work often focuses on the political economy of the region, offering in-depth analysis and insights into the socio-economic and political challenges facing Ethiopia and its neighbors. With over 45 years of experience in the development field and a background in both academia and international organizations, Dr. Aklog’s commentaries are well-regarded for their thoroughness, scholarly rigor, and practical relevance.His writings have covered topics such as the economic development of Ethiopia, governance, regional stability, and the impact of global economic trends on East Africa. Dr. Aklog’s articles have also addressed issues related to democracy, human rights, and the rule of law, highlighting the complex interplay between political decisions and economic outcomes. Through his contributions, he has provided valuable perspectives to the Ethiopian diaspora and others interested in the region, helping to inform public discourse and influence policy discussions.These contributions have made him a respected voice within the Ethiopian media landscape, particularly on platforms like Zehabesha.com, where his work continues to resonate with readers seeking informed and analytical viewpoints on current affairs.
- Throughout his career, Dr. Birara has been an active contributor to the academic and media landscapes. He has authored hundreds of commentaries on the political economy of Ethiopia and Africa and has been a prolific writer for Zehabesha.com and other Ethiopian media outlets since 2005. His work is widely respected for its depth, analytical rigor, and focus on issues pertinent to Ethiopia, East Africa, and global development. http://zehabesha.com/?s=Aklog+birara+Dr
Dr. Aklog Birara’s career is marked by significant contributions to economic development, policy advising, and academic research, making him a respected figure in both Ethiopian and global development circles.
Key Roles and Contributions:
- Founding Member and President, Ethiopian Waters Advisory Council (EWAC):
- Dr. Birara has been instrumental in advocating for the sustainable management of Ethiopia’s water resources. His work with EWAC involves advising on policies and strategies to ensure the equitable and efficient use of these resources, which are crucial for the country’s development and regional stability.
- Ethiopian Dialogue Forum (EDF):
- As a founding member of EDF, Dr. Birara has been active in fostering dialogue among Ethiopians across different political and ethnic lines. The forum aims to promote understanding, reconciliation, and consensus-building on critical national issues.
- Global Alliance for the Rights of Ethiopians (GARE):
- Serving as a founding and board member, Dr. Birara has contributed to GARE’s mission of advocating for the rights and welfare of Ethiopians worldwide. The organization works to protect human rights and support the Ethiopian diaspora.
- Global Amhara Coalition (GAC):
- Dr. Birara’s involvement in GAC reflects his dedication to addressing the challenges faced by the Amhara ethnic group within Ethiopia. The coalition seeks to ensure the protection of Amhara rights and to advocate for their fair representation and participation in national affairs.
- Gondar Development and Cooperation Organization (GDCO):
- As a founding and board member, Dr. Birara has supported GDCO’s efforts in development initiatives in the Gondar region. This includes funding scholarships for needy students, which helps in promoting education and socio-economic development in the area.
- Secretary General, Ethiopian Borders Affairs Committee (EBAC):
- In this capacity, Dr. Birara has been at the forefront of addressing issues related to Ethiopia’s borders, advocating for the protection of the country’s territorial integrity and sovereignty. EBAC works on border-related issues to ensure that Ethiopia’s interests are safeguarded.
Dr. Aklog Birara’s deep engagement with various organizations underscores his dedication to the advancement of Ethiopia, emphasizing human rights and fostering national unity. His leadership and advocacy efforts have played a crucial role in tackling the pressing issues that the nation confronts.
Now based in Washington, DC, he remains actively involved with the Ethiopian diaspora, participating in dialogues concerning Ethiopia’s developmental and political hurdles. His rich cultural heritage and broad professional background position him as a prominent figure in discussions related to political economy and development, both within Ethiopia and on the global stage.
The Habesha
